The Signature, December 23, 2016

Italian Sweets: Pandoro, Panettone and Cedrata, Oh My!

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Aeolian Islands:

Marinai News:

Only a Ferry Away

Let There Be Light!

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N A S SIG O N E L L A

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December 23, 2016

Vol. 33 No. 48

Due to the holiday period in December, The Signature will be on a two week break after our Dec. 23 issue.

Don't miss our next issue available on Jan. 13. Stay up-to-date by visiting us on the NAS Sigonella Facebook page.

Year in Review: Sigonella’s Top 10 of 2016

By Nicole Ybarra NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – For the service members (representing all military branches) and civilians supporting the missions of NAS Sigonella, there is much to reflect upon and be proud of in 2016. The base hosted a number of DVs, several installation improvements were completed, and Sigonella opened its very own USO. As we look toward an even greater 2017, The Signature recaps our top 10 stories from 2016. It has been an absolute privilege to report on and share all of the significant achievements that represent the great community of Sigonella.

was extinguished, a suicide bomber strapped with a personal-borne IED was reported near the NAS 2 Galley. Security forces were alerted and a shelter in place notice was issued, instructing all personnel throughout the three bases to remain inside. The exercise was the culmination of nearly five months of planning by the Installation Training Team (ITT) which met weekly. “This year's Reliant Giant exercise introduced a number of variables that we don't have a chance to normally exercise concurrently, and it wouldn't have been nearly the success it was without the significant role that our Italian counterparts with the Italian Air Force played this year,” said Niki McBain, Emergency Management Officer. “Working together with our colleagues from across the base as well as with our first responders in town on exercises, provides us the confidence that during a real event the entire Sigonella community will be ready to respond when the time comes.”

Commander, U.S. Sixth Fleet Covers the Bases at NAS Sigonella: Vice Adm. James Foggo, III, commander U.S. 6th Fleet visited with Sailors and hosted an All Hands CAll during a scheduled trip to Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily, March 31. Foggo expressed his gratitude to the Sailors, speaking to the many achievements in the region such as the collective defense support provided by NAS Sigonella Sailors. "You are permanently ensconced on the map and your relevance will only increase in the years to come." In addition to the All Hands Call, Foggo dined with Sailors at the Galley, met with Sailors from Commander, Task Force 67, held quarters with Patrol Squadron 4, toured Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Department, and spoke with Marines from Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force – Crisis Response – Africa (SP-MAGTF-CR-AF).

Renovations Complete at Navy Exchange: The Navy Exchange (NEX) held a ribbon cutting ceremony April 7 to celebrate the completion of nearly a year of renovations to the facility, the most notable being the removal of the concrete blast wall in front of the store. The $6.1 million renovations included relocating customer service from the back to the front of the store, as well as moving the flower shop, laundry and dry cleaning vendors to their own storefronts at the front of the NEX. The jewelry, fragrance and cosmetics and pet departments were expanded and a GNC store was added in addition to a new family restroom. During the renovation, NEX staff tirelessly moved inventory among the three locations (NEX main store, NEX Depot and NEX Mini Mart) in order to accommodate the phased construction. Due to efficient inventory management, a dedicated staff and sound understanding of customer needs the NAS Sigonella Navy Exchange turned a profit for the first time since 2011.

Capt. Brent Trickel Assumes Command of Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella: Sailors, civilians, local nationals, family and friends gathered May 10 for a change of command ceremony aboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, Sicily during which Capt. Brent Trickel relieved Capt. Christopher Dennis as commanding officer of NAS Sigonella. After receiving his end of tour award, Dennis thanked the Sigonella community and his family in both English and Italian. “You truly are the ‘Hub of the Med.’ You keep the base secure, the water running, the planes flying… In a word, you do everything and you are awesome,” Dennis told the audience. After assuming command, Trickel addressed the audience in both Italian and English. "I look forward to taking the reins of Sigonella from Capt. Dennis and will continue to

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CNE, 6th Fleet Master Chief visit NAS Sigonella: Adm. Mark Ferguson, Commander, Allied Joint Force Command Naples, and FLTCM, Steven Giordano and their spouses paid a visit to NAS Sigonella and held an All Hands Call with Sailors, Jan. 21.

During the visit, Mrs. Ferguson and Mrs. Giordano toured Housing, the Fleet and Family Support Center, the Hospital, the DoDDS school and met with the NASSIG ombudsman to learn about quality of life issues aboard NAS Sigonella. During the All Hands Call, Ferguson remarked on the increased tempo of operations in the European theater and spoke to the growing strategic importance of NAS Sigonella as a central hub against a backdrop of Navy growth in Europe after years of decline.

Coordination and Communication Key in Reliant Giant 2016: On March 16-17, departments from across NAS Sigonella came together as an integrated force to respond to several simulated emergencies during Reliant Giant 2016. The exercise began with a simulated fire at the Naval Munitions Compound (NMC) followed by an explosion at the Galley on NAS 2. NAS Sigonella Fire, their Italian counterparts, and Fire and Emergency Services (FES) promptly responded to the fire. Shortly after the fire

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foster the wonderful sense of community and teamwork he has instilled and will take on board his tenets of Security, Resource Conservation and Health and Welfare. I will continue the outstanding relationship with our Italian hosts, joint partners, and allies and I look forward to making Sigonella an even better place in conjunction with Col. Fedele."

NAS Sigonella Hosts Red White and Boom: Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) brought a little bit of home to service members and their families this Fourth of July with its annual Independence Day celebration Red, White and Boom held July 2. The event featured a day filled with fun activities which began on a colorful note with the Firecracker 4K Color Run on Marinai. The next event took place at the NAS 1 Gymnasium with the Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force – Crisis Response – Africa (SP-MAGTF-CR-AF) in combat gear versus the avengers in a NERF battle.

Children ages six through 18-years-old took on the Marines and both teams shed a few battle cries as the competition grew more intense. "Being overseas, you get homesick, especially during the holidays. Having events like these help to ease that," said Oostenyrk.

"Normally back at home, we would have a BBQ, music and fireworks, and so MWR made it feel like home."

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NAS Sigonella Hosts Celebrity Chef Robert Irvine: As host of several Food Network shows, Chef Robert Irvine may be better known for his show Restaurant: Impossible, but according to Irvine, his passion for food comes second to his passion for the military.

On July 28, Irvine spent the day with service members aboard NAS Sigonella as part of a two-day USO tour in the region. He started the day with an early morning PT session led by Marines with Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force – Crisis Response – Africa (SP-MAGTF-CR-AF) where he completed a circuit course comprised of upper and lower body workouts, Marine Corps Martial Arts Program techniques and laps around the baseball field. After dining at the base galley, touring the facilities and meeting with Sailors, Irvine hosted an interactive cooking show for service members and their families. “My best experience in Sigonella started from the time that I touched down, up until the moment I leave and everything else in between,” stated Irvine.

NAS Sigonella Security Hosts National Night Out: On Aug. 2, the Sigonella community came together for an evening of fun and education hosted by the NAS Sigonella Security Department as part of the 33rd annual National Night Out, a worldwide initiative aimed at crime and drug prevention. The festivities kicked off with a parade around Marinai

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"TOP 10" continued on Page 3

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December 23, 2016

Direct Line

Command Master Chief Mike Kaszubowski Saluti Sigonella,

I hope everyone here in Sigonella and your families around the world have a joyous and happy holiday period. As I walk around the base and talk to Sailors and families, it is awesome to hear about where everyone is going to travel. Living in Europe has its perks and one of them is definitely the travel.

In addition to getting off the island, the holiday season is also a good time to reflect and think about the past year’s accomplishments. It is also a good time to think about the year ahead. Have you thought about your goals, resolutions and what you would like to accomplish? Personally, I am not big into resolutions but I do believe in setting goals. What is the difference you ask? A resolution is a vow or promise. A goal is a target. I have my goals written down not only for myself but for the base as well. I will strive to make sure all my goals are met and I will continue to refine them based on what is going on.

As we move into 2017, take a look at your own goals and see if they are realistic and achievable. Setting goals gives you long-term vision and shortterm motivation. It focuses your acquisition of knowledge, and helps you to organize your time and your resources so that you can make the very most of your life. By setting sharp, clearly defined goals, you can meas-

ure and take pride in the achievement of those goals, and you'll see forward progress in what might previously have seemed a long pointless grind.

You will also raise your self-confidence as you recognize your own ability and competence in achieving the goals that you've set. Good luck on your own goals!

As we are about to reach January, the CPO exam is right around the corner along with the E-4, E-5 and E-6 exams in March. Are you ready?

Have you given yourself enough time to study for the upcoming exams and have you made sure your record is accurate? In December we promoted 40 AWESOME Sailors who worked hard, studied and set a goal. As we approach this next wave of exams, please make sure you are doing everything you can to be competitive for the exam.

Let’s make Naval Air Station Sigonella better, cleaner and more enjoyable in 2017. As a team, and a community, we must all do our part and every lit bit helps. Whether it is picking up a piece of trash, recycling batteries, driving safely, following the rules or just being a great citizen of this wonderful community, we can ALL achieve superior success as I know we will. 2017 is going to be a great year and I look forward to seeing everything it has to offer. I wish you all continued success and nothing but health and happiness as we move forward. It is truly a privilege to be

stationed here and to be a part of this wonderful base. As always Sigonella, Lead yourself exceptionally well, Cre-

ate opportunities for others to succeed and Have a positive attitude. See you around the base.

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December 23, 2016

"TOP 10" continued from Page 1 Housing involving NASSIG Security forces, local carabinieri and first responders. The event continued with a free cookout, demonstrations and activities for children. MAC Joshua Raper, who helped organize this year’s event stated, "This is important for us, not only as representatives of the US, but for our communities to see and understand that we stand as one with our host nation law enforcement entities."

NAS Sigonella Celebrates 241 Years of Naval History: Sailors aboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella reflected on the history of their service during an observance of the Navy's 241st birthday, held at the Hilton Giardini Naxos, Sicily Oct. 14. Commanding Officer, Capt. Brent Trickel introduced the evening’s guest speaker, Rear Admiral Rick Williamson, Commander, Navy Region Europe, Africa, Southwest Asia. Williams recounted watershed moments in U.S. Naval history, remarking, “It is important to reflect on these stories to remember that we are part of a long line of patriots and warriors, and a noble calling, a calling that is greater than oneself,” said Williamson.

The Navy Ball Committee kept the action going by holding raffles throughout the evening and even promoting a dance competition where an Airman in attendance challenged Sailors to show their dance skills. The evening concluded and the dance floor opened up, with attendees celebrating until it was time to go home.

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New USO Center Opens at Naval Air Station Sigonella: It’s official, USO Sigonella is now open and providing much needed support to service members and their families at its brand new home within the Air Passenger Terminal on Naval Air Station Sigonella (NAS Sigonella). The USO’s newest location will increase offerings to U.S. service members, civilian personnel and family members assigned to the military community in Sicily, Italy, provide the comforts of home to those transiting through this key southern European military air hub, and expand outreach to forces deployed to the region. As the doors opened and community members flooded the center, you could hear the excitement and amazement in everyone’s voices. "I'm proud to see this terrific organization come to Sigonella where they can provide so much comfort and hope for our military and families of this community," said one of USO Sigonella’s first customers, Air Force Major Aaron Krizek.

This new “compact” USO center is equipped with a high tech two station internet café, four free voice over internet phones to call friends and loved ones back home, and five smart TVs distributed throughout the air terminal. These will connect folks with their favorite TV programs, news and sports streamed directly from the United States using easyTV provided by our USO strategic partner TKS. The center will offer complimentary coffee, soft drinks and snacks to bring that important touch of home to our military and family travelers.

Name: Petty Officer 3rd Class Jordan Orr Dept: Fire and Emergency Services Hometown: St. Louis, Mo. Petty Officer Orr is no stranger to hard work in the physically demanding job of a firefightger stationed at NAS Sigonella. From the moment a fireman walks through the door, there are responsibilities from routine truck maintenance to keeping current with training for any and all types of emergencies.

“We are trained to always be ready and know how to act and react in any scenario.” Orr explained that in a changing world, “staying trained and up-to-date can be the difference between life and death with no more than a moment’s notice.”

Orr said the Emergency Services community is a very tightly knit group who pride themselves on helping one another.

A shellback who is very familiar with WestPac deployments and a shipboard life, Orr is very thankful he's had opportunities to travel in the Navy.

In his over seven years in the Navy, he's traveled to the Philippines, Singapore and even Hong Kong. However, Perth, Australia is the farthest he's ever been away from home.

When asked what he likes most about Sigonella, Orr said, “That’s an easy one. I love the way everyone

here goes out of their way to help you, and that’s awesome! Everyone does all they can to make Sigonella feel like home.”

Some of Petty Officer Orr’s goals are to stay educated and make Second Class Petty Officer soon. He said his plans over the holidays include, “Work, work, work! I will be in here

helping my crew and I am glad to do it!”

Orr appreciates the faith that his shipmates all have in each other to get their jobs done. “We depend on the blessings we get in the event that should something go awry, we can get through it together and make it home without casualties.”

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THE SIGNATURE U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA Commanding Officer Capt. Brent Trickel Executive Officer Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II Command Master Chief CMDCM Mike Kaszubowski EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Andriana Genualdi andriana.genualdi@eu.navy.mil Assistant Public Affairs Officer Nicole Ybarra nicole.ybarra@eu.navy.mil Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil PAO Staff Writers \ Photographers MC2 Michelle Sabangan michelle.sabangan@eu.navy.mil MC3 Bryan Tomforde bryan.tomforde@eu.navy.mil CONTACT US Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily thesig@eu.navy.mil DSN 624-5440; 095-86-5440 PSC 812 Box 7, FPO, AE 09627-0001 PUBLISHER Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity Capodichino (Naples), Italy stampagenerale@tin.it Tel. 081-568-7884 Fax 081-568-7887 This civilian enterprise (CE) newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services overseas. Contents of The Signature are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense (DoD), or the U.S. Navy. The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD or Stampa Generale S.r.l., of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factorof the purchaser, user or patron.

A confirmed violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected.

The Signature is published weekly by Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity, Capodichino (Naples), Italy.

Tel. 081-568-7884. Fax 081-568-7887.

E-mail: stampagenerale@tin.it.

Editorial submissions are welcomed from all Naval Air Station Sigonella departments, divisions and tenant commands.

Editorial submissions should be sent to the Public Affairs Office via thesig@eu.navy. mil, guard mail stop #68 or hand-delivered to our office no later than the close of business on the Friday proceeding the expected publication date. All articles submitted by non-staff members will be considered contributing writers.

The Signature will not publish any anonymous articles. All advertisements in this publication are the property of Stampa Generale S.r.l. Any reproduction of advertisements in The Signature is unauthorized without the written consent of the publisher.

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THE SIGNATURE

December 23, 2016

American Red Cross Sigonella December Appreciation By madison kim American Red Cross Sigonella

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – The holiday season is a time for families and friends but also it is a great time to be reminded to give back to others. To that end, American Red Cross Sigonella organized

a Snack Food Replenishment Drive at the commissary requesting cookies, granola bars, crackers, and popcorn and in just three weeks received nearly 1,000 packages. The snacks will be delivered to service members deployed in Kuwait, Iraq, and Afghanistan throughout the holiday season.

Also this month, over 40 volunteers donated

their time to help children in the Sigonella community during the Winter Wonderland event, Dec. 10 at the NAS 1 gym. Sharing your time and talents without any compensation is a true inspiration and the American Red Cross would like to express its appreciation to the volunteers who help us help those in need.

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)

December 23, 2016

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NEXCOM to Distribute Free Phone Cards to Sailors and Marines Deployed During the Holidays

By Kristine M. Sturkie Navy Exchange Service Command Public Affairs

This holiday season, the Navy Exchange Service Command (NEXCOM) is again giving away free $10 phone cards to Sailors and Marines away from their homeports and those forward deployed to overseas ports during the holiday season.

“NEXCOM is honored to be giving free phone cards to Sailors and Marines deployed and away from home this holiday season,” said Thomas Harris, Program Manager in NEXCOM’s Telecommunications Program Office.

“NEXCOM has been giving away free phone cards over the holidays for many, many years. This is our way of thanking our service members and their families for the sacrifices they make while in service to our country.”

The $10 AT&T prepaid phone cards can be used via the Afloat Personal Telecommunications Service system, the ship’s Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS) system or ashore in the United States or any foreign port where AT&T has a presence. NEXCOM will distribute 32,500 free phone cards this holiday season.

The 62 ships and submarines that will receive the free phone cards are: USS EISENHOWER (CVN-69); USS Lance Cpl. Roberto Sandoval, from El Monte, Calif., WASP (LHD-1); USS SAN ANTONIO makes a phone call home aboard the amphibious (LPD-17); USS WHIDBEY ISLAND assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4). (U.S. Navy Photo by (LSD-41); USS SAN JACINTO (CG- Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Mayra A. 56); USS MONTEREY (CG-61); USS Knight/Released) STOUT (DDG-55); USS ROOSEVELT (DDG-80); USS MASON (DDG-87); USS (DDG-85); USS SAMPSON (DDG-102); NITZE (DDG-94); USS MAKIN ISLAND USS WAYNE E MEYER (DDG-108); USS (LHD-8); USS SOMERSET (LPD-25); USS MICHAEL MURPHY (DDG-112); USS COMSTOCK (LSD-45); USS PITTSBURG TOPEKA (SSN-754); USS CHICAGO (SSN(SSN-720); USS HELENA (SSN-725); 721); USS OKLAHOMA CITY (SSN-723); USS NEW MEXICO (SSN-779); USS USS KEY WEST (SSN-722); USS SANTA FE CALIFORNIA (SSN-781); USS MOUNT (SSN-763); USS CHEYENNE (SSN-773); USS WHITNEY (LCC-20); USS DONALD COLUMBUS (SSN-762); USS LOUISVILE COOK (DDG-75); USS CARNEY (DDG- (SSN-724); USS JACKSONVILLE (SSN64); USS ROSS (DDG-71); USS PORTER 699); USS ASHLAND (LSD-48); USS (DDG-78); USS TEMPEST (PC-2); USS BONHOMME RICHARD (LHD-6); USS HURRICANE (PC-3); USS MONSOON GERMANTOWN (LSD-42); USS GREEN (PC-4); USS TYPHOON (PC-5); USS BAY (LPD-20); USS ANTIETAM (CG-54); SIROCCO (PC-6); USS SQUALL (PC-7); USS CHANCELLORSVILLE (CG-62); USS USS CHINOOK (PC-9); USS FIREBOLD SHILOH (CG-67); USS RONALD REAGAN (PC-10); USS WHIRLWIND (PC-11); USS (CVN-76); USS CURTIS WILBUR (DDGTHUNDERBOLT (PC-12); USS LAKE 54); USS JOHN S MCCAIN (DDG-56); USS CHAMPLAIN (CG-57); USS PORT ROYAL FITZGERALD (DDG-62); USS STETHEM (CG-73); USS BARRY (DDG-52); USS (DDG-63); USS BENFOLD (DDG-65); HOPPER (DDG-70); USS MCCAMPBELL AND USS MUSTIN (DDG-89).

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THE SIGNATURE

December 23, 2016

Italian Christmas Treats to Tempt the Palate By dr alberto lunetta

If you want to satisfy your sweet tooth and live Italian Christmas traditions to the fullest, make sure you taste the most popular Italian and Sicilian Christmas sweets.

“Buccellato” (from the Latin word Buccellatum that means bread in morsels) or “Cucciddatu” (as it is called in Sicilian), is among the most popular cakes that are prepared during this holiday season. It is a short crust ring shaped cake filled with dried fruits, orange peels, plain chocolate, honey and spices and sprinkled with pistachio.

Buccellato also includes a mignon version called “Buccellatino” that is sprinkled with sugar and covered with a white frosting. Other traditional cakes include “Mustazzoli” (sweets made from majorca flour and filled with cooked wine mixed with almonds, pine-seeds and nuts), “Ravioli” (fritters filled with sweetened ricotta) and “Crispelle” (rice fritters covered with honey).

Other traditional Sicilian sweets include “Cedrata” and “Aranciata,” two mouthwatering specialties made with orange or cedar peel cooked with honey, vanilla and cinnamon.

Besides the traditional Buccellato, the classic Italian Christmas cakes such as “Panettone,” “Pandoro” and “Torrone” are also very popular in Sicily.

As many stories say, the “Panettone” was first prepared in Milan in the 15th century at the bakery of Tony, a grumpy man who used to boss both his workers and his beautiful daughter Adalgisa. Since Tony had such a bad temper, Ughetto, one of his assistants, was afraid to ask him the permission to marry his daughter with whom he was in love. Thus, he decided to impress Tony by baking a special cake. Ughetto worked round the clock until he created special bread containing flour, sugar, candied fruits and raisins. Soon this cake became very popular and Tony made a lot of good bargains as everybody in Milan asked for “Pan di Tony” (in Italian, Tony’s bread) that was later named as “Panettone.”

In the wake of this popularity, Tony decided to reward his employee by giving him permission to marry Adalgisa. Another tradition says that Panettone was served for the first time at the table of Ludovico Sforza, called “The Moor,” the Duke of Milan (1494–99) during a lavish banquet as a replacement of a cake baked by the Leading Chef. Since that cake unfortunately wilted, Tony, a bold scullery boy, prepared another one by hastily mixing flour, eggs, butter, sugar and candied fruits to save the chef ’s reputation. As the fellow guests tasted this new cake, they found it delicious. Thus, the duke of Milan decided to name it after Tony.

Today, in addition to the traditional candied fruits and raisin fillings, Panettone is enriched with chocolate drops, frosting, almonds and fruit creams.

According to legend, “Pandoro,” (in Italian, “bread of gold”) was named so because of the delicate yellow color of the dough as eggs are also mixed with the other ingredients. It seems to be originated in Verona, an elegant Renaissance city located in the north of Italy that was also chosen as a setting by Shakespeare for his masterpiece “Romeo and Juliet.”

Yet another tale says Pandoro was first prepared in Venice in the 16th century, when this maritime republic was wealthy and powerful. Chronicles of the time tell that Pandoro was presented at the tables of the Venetian aristocrats all covered with gold leaves.

According to other historians, Pandoro was baked for the first time by the Austrian Empire’s pastry chefs of the Royal House of Vienna who named it "The Bread of Vienna.” Today, Pandoro is enriched with fruit cream filling and frosting such as lemon or orange and chocolate.

“Torrone” or nougat is made with sugar, honey, egg whites, almonds and hazelnuts. It was first prepared for the wedding banquet of Bianca Maria Visconti and the duke of Milan, Francesco Sforza that took place in Cremona in 1441. The chefs shaped the Torrone as the 13th century tower, which still flanks Cremona’s cathedral, because it was included in bride’s dowry. The tower was named “Torrione” (in Italian, big tower), so the dessert was given the name “Torrone.” Historic sources say the guests of the wedding banquet, who came from every part of Italy and Europe, were so impressed by the savory taste of Torrone that they praised its delicacy as they went back home earning the Torrone a worldwide reputation.

Pandoro, one of the most popular and delicious Italian Christmas sweets, is baked in a tall, ridged and star-shaped pan. The name Pandoro, which means golden bread, comes from its pleasing yellow color. (Photo by http://www.made-in-italy.com/)

Why do Italians celebrate La Befana?

When I was a kid I remember I was very excited during the night of Jan 5th because I knew the next morning I would have some special gifts from her. Before I actually went to sleep, I used to place empty stockings under the Christmas tree. Then I fell asleep and dreamed of her flying on her broom across the blue night sky. Sometimes I could even “hear” her sneaking into houses carrying a bag full of gifts for the good kids and “coal” for kids who didn’t behave!

Who is she? She is “La Befana,” the Italian version of Santa Claus, a personage both so mysterious and arcane. A little old lady with a hooked nose, so dear to children that she continues to fascinate them throughout the centuries. They still await her arrival on the night of her holiday.

Her name comes from the word “Epifania or Epiphany,” the holiday celebrated on Jan 6th. She is personified by a good witch, who comes during the night of Jan 5th bringing gifts for the kids according to what they requested the weeks before by writing her little letters and sweet edible coal for the ones who don’t behave.

The Feast of the Epiphany commemorates the visit of the Magi (or Three Wise Men) to the infant Jesus, with their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The Magi were named Balthazar, Melchior, and Gaspar.

According to the legend on their journey to Bethlehem, they stopped an old woman with a broom, who was sweeping and washing, asking her for directions. As she asked where they were going, they told her that they were following a star that would lead them to a newborn baby. They asked her if she would like to come along with them at which she replied that she was too busy cleaning up to go along with such nonsense. As you can imagine when she realized that the newborn was actually Jesus, the Redeemer, it was impossible to reach the caravan, her regret for not having gone along with the wise men was so great that she is spending eternity taking gifts to good children on Christmas finding Christ child in all children.

The tradition also says that La Befana knows how kids behave so they have to watch their manners as the festival nears otherwise instead of finding toys and candy they may find “sweet coal.” Sometimes, when parents want to play a joke on their misbehaving kids, they fill up their stocking with “sugar coal” and right after give them the gifts.

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December 23, 2016

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The Impact of a Continuing Resolution on PCS Orders Timelines From Chief of Naval Personnel Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Navy announced today that Sailors should expect to receive orders with approximately two months lead time for permanent change of station (PCS) moves following passage of a second Continuing Resolution (CR) for Fiscal Year 17 that will

fund the government through April 28, of next year.

"The Navy fully realizes that these shortened lead times limit Sailors' time to prepare for moves, and burdens them and their families," said Chief of Naval Personnel, Vice Adm. Robert Burke.

"Going forward, we remain committed to providing Sailors with as much infor-

Navy family members relax on their front lawn while movers deliver household goods to their new home on Ford Island. (U. S. Navy photo by Photographers Mate 1st Class William R Goodwin/Released)

mation and lead time as we can. Our goal remains to mitigate the CR's impact on Sailors and their families, to the best of our ability. We ask for your patience as we work through the funding challenges."

Due to the way resources are phased and allocated under a CR, the Navy currently does not have sufficient funds in our manpower accounts to allow for normal three to four month lead times for Sailors' PCS orders.

While the Navy will make every effort to ensure that PCS orders are released in a timely manner, these fiscal challenges will result in compressed PCS timelines for Sailors. To date, NPC has received less funding than planned and the average lead time for PCS orders has decreased to approximately two months.

Sailors who have not yet received orders will likely have less than two months lead time when the orders are released.

The Navy has utilized a prioritization strategy in previous PCS fundingconstrained periods with the intent to minimize impact to Fleet readiness, career timing, and families. Emphasis will remain on global support assignment rotations, career milestone billets, critical readiness fills, minimizing gaps at sea

for deployed units and those working up to deploy, and keeping the training pipelines moving. Those Sailors who are going to operational units about to deploy, numbered fleet staffs, overseas billets, individual augmentees or must-moves (safety, early return of dependents, humanitarian) will be issued their orders first.

Additionally, Navy Personnel Command will continue to issue letters of intent for overseas moves. That way, while orders may not be in hand, individuals can start the process of doing overseas and medical screenings, dependent entry approval, passport applications and security clearance requests.

We encourage all Sailors with projected rotation dates during this fiscal year to contact their detailers with questions and concerns with the understanding that there may be a delay as we work through Sailors' issues.

For more news from Chief of Naval Personnel, visit http://www.navy.mil/local/cnp/.

For more information, visit http:// www.navy.mil, http://www.facebook. com/usnavy, or http://www.twitter.com/ usnavy.

Secretary of the Navy Announces Need for 355-ship Navy From The Office of the Secretary of the Navy

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Secretary of the Navy announced the results of the 2016 Force Structure Assessment (FSA), a year-long effort which began in January that was conducted to evaluate long-term defense security requirements for future naval forces today at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia.

The 2016 FSA recommends a 355-ship fleet including 12 carriers, 104 large surface combatants, 52 small surface combatants, 38 amphibious ships, and 66 submarines. The assessment will be one input to the Navy's FY-2018 30-year shipbuilding plan. The current proposed Navy budget is seen as a bridge to this larger Navy, with shipbuilding on an upward glide slope towards 308 ships.

Navy leadership is confident that, if funded, this plan is executable, as each ship class called for in the FSA has an active shipbuilding line already up and running.

"To continue to protect America and defend our strategic interests around the world, all while continuing the counter terrorism fight and appropriately competing with a growing China and resurgent Russia, our Navy must continue to grow," said Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus. "All of the analysis done to date, inside and outside of the Navy, recognizes, as we have for nearly the last eight years, the need for a larger Fleet. That is why, working with Congress and our partners in industry, we have successfully reversed the decline in shipbuilding that occurred from 2001-2009, putting 86 ships under contract over the last seven years. Maintaining this momentum, and the cost-saving business practices we have established, will be critical to ensuring the Navy is able to achieve the FSA-recommended fleet size and

is positioned to maintain the global presence the Navy and Marine Corps uniquely provide our nation."

The update reflects changes in the strategic environment since the last update in 2014. Future

updates will continue to take into account changes in the environment, defense guidance and technology.

The 2016 FSA was not constrained by budget control act funding levels.

The Navy's only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), steams in formation with ships from Carrier Strike Group Five (CSG 5) and Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN) during Exercise Invincible Spirit. (U.S. Navy photo by Seaman Jamaal Liddell/Released)

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December 23, 2016

Thriving During Family Holidays

BY MARY FOSTON-ENGLISH

Stanford University Holidays can sometimes strain family relationships. Pre-established rules about who we're supposed to be and how we're supposed to act (based on gender, birth order, family rules, family rituals and so on) don't always give us the space to be who we are. Expectations are also elevated during the holidays because of family rituals and assumptions about “how the holidays are supposed to be.” Some of the assumptions we have about the holidays include:

• Holidays are supposed to be joyous and happy • Holidays are times when families come together • If you don’t have family, then there’s no reason to celebrate • There’s no place like home for the holidays • Everything has to be perfect

Military families often encounter stress when they return after having been away in service. They've probably changed significantly since their last visit and their values and expectations about the holidays are now different. On one hand, they don’t want to rock the boat, but on the other, pretending nothing has changed may not be a comfortable option either. People want to belong and feel connected during the holidays. This desire can be so strong that we overextend ourselves emotionally, physically and financially.

Here are some tips to help you move from surviving to thriving during family holidays. Choosing any one of these can make for a more enjoyable holiday season: • If something about the holidays “gets you down,” identify it and deal with it directly.

• If doing the “same old thing” gets you down, don’t do the same old thing. Don’t expect miracles; keep your expectations of others self-realistic.

• Don’t “overdo.” Plan ahead of time, prioritize what needs to be done and try to involve others with the preparation.

• Don’t worry about how things should be or what you should do but do what you can do and more importantly what you want to do.

• If the holidays make you feel out of control, “take control” over the holidays by taking time-outs for yourself. Have more self-compassion and accept your limitations.

• Use humor; try to see the lighter side of life and not take yourself so seriously.

• Stick to a budget for gift giving and food shopping, or even consider alternatives to gift giving. Minimize over-indulging in food and alcohol as way to cope with stress.

In a 12-step recovery program, the acronym “HALT” stands for hungry, angry, lonely, and tired. If any one of these describes your demeanor, you are at risk for relapse. I think this self-assessment can be used by anyone at any time, especially during the holidays. When you feel hungry, angry, lonely or tired, HALT. Stop, breathe, and take care of yourself — and the holidays will be much more enjoyable and manageable!

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NEX Gives Back to Sailors with its A-OK Student Reward Program NEXCOM Public Affairs

The Navy Exchange Service Command (NEXCOM) has been offering students a chance to help pay for college through its A-OK Student Reward Program since 1997. The A-OK Student Reward Program offers all qualified students to participate in a quarterly drawing for monetary awards of $2,500, $1,500, $1,000 or $500 for a total of $5,500 per quarter. The next drawing will be at the end of December 2016.

Any eligible full-time student that has a B grade point average equivalent or better, as determined by their school system, may enter the drawing. Homeschooled students can also qualify with acknowledgement that the student has a “B” average or equivalent record of accomplishment. Eligible students include dependent children of active duty military members, reservists and military retirees enrolled in 1st through 12th grade. Dependent children without an individual Dependent Identification Card must be accompanied by their sponsor to submit their entry. Each student may enter only once each grading period and must re-enter with each qualifying report card.

To enter the drawing, stop by any NEX with a current report card or progress report and have a NEX associate verify the eligibility. Then fill out an entry card and obtain an A-OK ID which entitles the student to19 discount coupons for NEX products and services. Along with the award, each winner will receive a lapel pin, certificate and medallion ribbon “In Honor of Academic Excellence.”

Since the program’s inception, NEXCOM has awarded $611,000.00 in savings bonds and

$110,000 in monetary awards to students with the help of its generous vendor partners.

The Navy Exchange Service Command (NEXCOM) oversees 100 Navy Exchange (NEX) facilities and nearly 300 stores worldwide, 39 Navy Lodges, the Ships Store Program, the Uniform Program Management Office, the Navy Clothing and Textile Research Facility and the Telecommunications Program Office.

NEXCOM's parent command is the Naval Supply Systems Command. NEXCOM’s mission is to provide authorized customers quality goods and services at a savings and to support Navy quality of life programs for active duty military, retirees, reservists and their families.

NEXs and Navy Lodges operate primarily as a non-appropriated fund (NAF) business instrumentality. NEX revenues generated are used to support Navy Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) programs. In FY15, $2.5 billion in sales were generated with $22.3 million in dividends provided to Navy MWR programs.

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Santa Claus is Coming to Town…But Not without His Sojourner’s Permit!

By PO2 Ebonee Hawkins Region Legal Service Office

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Old Kris Kringle is gearing up for his busiest day of the year. He’s making a list and he’s checking it twice. He’s

carefully packing his sleigh for his around the world flight. Toothbrush? Check. Reindeer snacks?

Check. Sojourner’s Permit? Oh no! Where is Santa’s Sojourner’s Permit?! How will Santa be able to travel around the world and return to Italy without it?

Earlier this year, Santa was assigned a very

special, top-secret mission with orders to Sigonella.

Since Santa is a civilian and not an active duty/ NATO member or a European Union citizen, he had to apply for a Sojourner’s Permit, or Permesso di Soggiorno. He remembers the wonderful Language Specialists from the Region Legal Service Office (RLSO) giving him the application to apply during Base Indoc. So, what exactly is a Sojourner’s Permit?

A Sojourner’s Permit is an Italian resident permit allowing non-European citizens to legally reside in Italy for a fixed period of time. It is required for all dependents and civilian employees. The Permit must be applied for as soon as possible after arriving to the island because it can take up to one year to process. In the meantime, the mission visa may be used for re-entering Italy when traveling.

The mission visa is generally good for one year.

By the time your visa expires, you should have received your Sojourner’s Permit. So what happens if you have travel plans, but your visa or current Sojourner’s Permit is expired or will expire soon?

Don’t panic. The RLSO can expedite your Sojourner’s Permit but only with a minimum of one month’s notice. Because of the high volume of Permits processed per year at the sole immigration office in Catania, the Language Specialists need at least 30 days prior to your date of travel to submit the request. Of course, the sooner you request an expedited Permit, the better. You certainly don’t want to risk being denied re-entry back into Italy because you don’t have the proper documentation.

What’s that under Santa’s plate of cookies? His Sojourner’s Permit with an expiration date two years from now! Phew, that was a close one. Just to be sure he doesn’t misplace it again, Santa will make sure it’s kept inside his passport at all times. So remember, if you are not an active duty/NATO member you are required to have a Sojourner’s Permit to stay in Italy. You may request an expedited Permit with at least 30 days’ notice to the RLSO. If you have any questions about Sojourner’s Permits, please call Letizia Guglielmino at 624-5247 or Serena Vigo at 624-5056. Safe travels and happy holidays!

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A Weekend Away on the Aeolian Islands

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By LT Nick Cannella

When you think of traveling Europe, climbing volcanoes generally isn't usually the first thing on your mind, but here in Sicily, that prospect gets quite a bit more attention. While Mt. Etna garners most of the spotlight, I recommend you check out another unique trip option: the volcanic archipelago of the Aeolian Islands and its main star, Stromboli.

Getting There: To get there, our group took a short, onehour ferry from the city of Milazzo to the island of Lipari and spent the night in the picturesque Aeolian town of the same name. We dined on a variety of freshly caught seafood and strolled the quiet labyrinth of streets in a vacation town half-asleep in the mid-October off-season.

Go Hike a Volcano: For our volcano expedition, we chose to go with a day tour departing from Lipari that saw us taking a leisurely afternoon cruise with a stop on the island of Panarea for lunch on the way. After setting foot on Stromboli, we made our way to the guide service (Magmatre Vulcanology Guides) that would lead on the actual hike.

Now outfitted with a helmet, we began the three-hour trek up 900 meters. We meandered up the side of the volcano with occasional breaks for the guide to go over different aspects of the area geology and wildlife. The hike was fairly brisk and we definitely took advantage of those breaks to catch our breath, but it's a suitable excursion for the whole family.

Another World: As we climbed higher and higher, the views correspondingly kept getting more majestic. At first as we climbed, we were stunned by our views over the Med and the village below. As we continued, this gradually transitioned into a volcanic landscape. Climbing into the realm high above the island, you start to feel like you're entering an other-worldly environment as you pass drifting mist and hear the constantly growing rumble from the depths of the earth as Stromboli shows it's very much alive.

Reaching the top of our hike, we looked into the active crater from prime viewing spots along a ridge several hundred feet above. We took an hour and watched the show.

Between the fantastic panorama of the sunset over the Med and the orange eruptions lighting up the crater through the fog, it made for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Sliding Down: The two hours back down was a unique adventure in itself. Beginning as the last light of day disappeared over the horizon, we set our headlamps on and followed after the guide. The first half was across volcanic silt at a steep angle resembling a ski slope. We had to carefully watch our steps as it felt very much like walking downhill in soft snow. Every once in a while, you could turn around and see the lines of headlamps from other groups coming down in the darkness. After a stargazing stop, we finally made it down and back to the boat back to Lipari.

A couple interesting notes before you go: You can find this hike offered from March 15 through Oct. 31 and a guide is required once the trail enters the volcanic area.

Although the risk of getting hit by stray rock fragments is extremely low from our vantage point at the top, the Italian government has actually mandated that trekkers only remain at the top for an hour to reduce that probability even further. Also, be sure to bring a headlamp, high-topped hiking shoes/boots, light jacket, change of shirt (you will earn that view), sweater, snacks, at least 1.5 liters of water per person. Last piece of advice: don't miss this trip!

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December 23, 2016

NAS Sigonella Sailors Join Forces to Help Local Community By michael king Club Beyond Sigonella

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Approximately 30 Sailors from Patrol Squadron 45 (VP-45), Commander, Task Force 67 (CTF 67) and Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Department (AIMD) took part in a community relations (COMREL) project Dec. 5 at the Istituto Comprensivo Statale Campanella-Sturzo school in Catania.

Many of the students who attend Istituto Comprensivo Statale Campanella-Sturzo live in the apartments surrounding the school on all sides. This short commute means most students walk to and from school each day. In the past, there was a path leading the students from their homes to the school. However, recently this path became overrun with weeds and vegetation.

Sailors who participated in the COMREL helped rebuild this pathway for the students by removing trees, pulling weeds, mowing tall grasses and disposing of trash covering the walkway.

Before beginning work on the pathway, the Sailors were treated to a special presentation of the American and Italian National Anthems as well as hand written thank you letters from children who attend the school.

Laura Amseli, an English teacher at Istituto Comprensivo Statale Campanella-Sturzo said this COMREL will have a huge impact on the lives of the children.

“We are very happy the U.S. Navy has come to help improve the lives of the children who attend this school,” said Amseli. “Projects like these are very useful because they can teach children

to understand the value of solidarity and for that we say thank you from our hearts.”

After the cleaning was done, the Sailors were presented with homemade treats made by the parents of children who attend the school.

(Right) Students from Istituto Comprensivo Statale Campanella-Sturzo, a school in Catania, Sicily, greet Sailors from Patrol Squadron 45, Commander, Task Force 67 and Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Department before a community relations (COMREL) project at the school.

(U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Tyler R. Fraser/Released)

Sailors assigned to Patrol Squadron (VP) 45 sweep stairs during a community relations (COMREL) project at Istituto Comprensivo Statale Campanella-Sturzo, a school in Catania, Sicily. (U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Tyler R. Fraser/Released)

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www.vinigambino.it

moviwork.com

MERRY CHRISTMAS

a nd best wishes for a happy n ew year

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Nine Holiday Travel Safety Tips for Your Next Getaway From NAS Sigonella Safety Department

1. Prepare your home for optimum safety while you’re away If you have a security system installed in your home, ensure that it is working properly, including all alarms, motion detectors, cameras, and other monitoring equipment. Check with your alarm monitoring company for any last-minute safety tips for your security system. Have someone check on your home periodically while you are away, especially if you are leaving on a long trip.

2. Have your car inspected and/or serviced before you leave, and keep an emergency kit in it.

One of the most common issues that travelers experience during the holidays is car trouble. Being stuck on the side of the road in cold weather is the last thing you want to do on your vacation, but it can also be dangerous, especially if you happen to blow a tire while driving on a highway at high speeds. To help deter some of these incidents, bring your car in for an inspection and any necessary maintenance, particularly on your tires, which need to be winter-ready and properly inflated for the long drive. Prepare an emergency kit with necessary tools, such as a spare tire, carjack, and jumper cables, for car troubles you could experience on the road.

Also, be prepared for first aid and other types of emergencies. Keep the emergency kit in your car as well.

3. Know how to drive safely on icy roads.

You should study up to ensure you know how to maneuver your vehicle on icy roads, which could potentially be dangerous. Tips include not driving until snow plows and sanding trucks have done their job, allowing yourself extra time to get to your destination to prevent rushing on the road, decreasing your speed, and leaving yourself plenty of room to stop.

4. Plan the drive ahead of time, and know alternate routes.

As with travel at any other time of year, extensive planning ensures that you are prepared for whatever might happen during your trip. If you’re driving down a highway and hit construction, a road closure, or severe traffic, it’s important to not only know your route but to also know alternate routes so you feel confident in where you’re going at all times.

Also, if you want to avoid traffic, plan to leave at a specific time when you might be able to drive through that area before or after peak traffic times.

5. Make frequent rest stops.

Driving in the winter can tire you out much more than in the summer. Making frequent stops to rest or just stretch your legs is important for keeping your energy level high enough to be alert on the road. Even just stopping for a few minutes every few hours can do wonders for your energy level.

6. Carry a cell phone and charger.

You never know when you might experience car troubles or where you might be when that happens, so having a mobile phone is important. Having a cell phone means having the ability to call for help with your car or for a taxi or other type of ride to get you to a warm location. Along with your cell phone, you also need to carry a phone charger to be able to keep the battery topped up. A wall charger is good when you’re making a stop, but a car charger is better for being on the road. If you have a smartphone, you may also be able to download certain apps that can help you in an emergency, such as when your car breaks down in the middle of nowhere. Also, be sure to have contact information for roadside assistance on hand.

7. Stay hydrated.

While you may not think of dehydration as a holiday travel safety hazard, not having enough water during a long drive could mean fatigue or decreased alertness, which can be dangerous on the road. Keep a few bottles of water handy, and sip often to keep yourself hydrated throughout the trip.

8. Wash your hands frequently with soap or hand sanitizer.

This is especially important if you are flying or riding a train or bus. Everything you touch has been touched by someone else, including armrests and door handles. In addition to typical germs that can be on someone’s hands, it is also flu season, which can be very contagious. Clean your hands frequently with either soap and water or antibacterial gel or wipes, particularly before touching your face.

9. Give someone close to you a copy of your trip itinerary and photocopies of important documents.

Before you leave, give a copy of your itinerary and all necessary contact information to a relative or friend. This way, in case something happens, this person will have a way to find you. Also, leave photocopies of your passports, credit cards, and any other types of identification with this person in case something happens to your real copies and you need a photocopy sent to you right away. Keep a separate set of photocopies in your own luggage as well.

For more information please call the safety office at 6245630 or 624-6261

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Let There Be Light

By PO3 bryan Tomforde NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – The Marinai Housing Group, Pizzarotti held its annual tree lighting ceremony at the Marinai housing complex Friday night. Organizers, composed of a crew of nearly 100 volunteers, set up for hours and the theme of the event was all about family and giving back to the community. Even though there was wind and a light touch of rain, when the sun headed down, the people came out. Lines formed down the main street as food vendors fired up their grills, cooking up traditional Mediterranean food from pizza to a barbecue feast of hamburgers, followed by mouth-watering desserts and fruit bowls.

After a small introduction of the evening’s festivities Marina Falsaperna, an active contributor to AIL (Italian Socially Active Non-Profit against Leukemia, Lymphoma and Myeloma), officially kicked off the event with the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Falsaperla is an active contributor to AIL, an organization whose main goal is to find a cure for Leukemia and rare cancers from blood illnesses.

Falsaperna partially sponsored the tree lighting event with Pizzarotti as a way to raise awareness for AIL. As a non-profit, AIL is about improving the quality of life for patients and their families suffering from these terrible diseases.

Organizers carried in poinsettias, enough for every family in attendance that wanted one.

Poinsettias, a well-established Christmas decoration, have also become a real symbol of AIL. “Giving, not receiving, is the true reason for the season,” exclaimed head organizer and Pizzarotti manager, Fabrizio Rubino. “And, this is the central goal tonight. It’s all about charity; helping people with serious illnesses.”

Rubino goes on to say, “We are all parents, and while tonight is about fun, our focus is that we simply want a world without diseases such as these. Everything we raise from this event supports medical research to a cause that is near and dear to our hearts” The much anticipated lighting of the Christmas tree really captured the spirit of the holidays.

Children dressed as angels sang two American Christmas carols and one traditional Italian carol, as hundreds of lights and ornaments one the tree shone with beauty and lit up the Marinai night. Rubino graciously thanked Sigonella’s Commanding Officer, Capt. Brent Trickle, who was on hand for the entire event, as well as thanking the community for all their support. Afterwards, guests hung out with family and friends until well after eight p.m.

Other highlights of the evening included face painting and a creative lab for kids while all party-goers enjoyed free food and drinks. Even princess Elsa and her sidekick, Olaf (from Disney Pixar’s Frozen), made cameo appearances and greeted children while guests had dinner. Magicians and entertainers dazzled children with a bubble show, dancing and pyrotechnical entertainment, followed by a surprise visit from Santa Claus (Papa Natale) himself. Santa spoke of the original Italian tradition of Papa Natale and then remained on hand to receive nearly 100 letters from children as each got photos taken with him.

Rubino and the Pizzarotti team facilitate all central activities in regards to Marinai housing and are tasked with keeping operations running smoothly for the daily quality of life of all residents of Marinai. At the end of the night, it was all smiles for a successful evening! The Pizzarotti Family wish to thank everyone at Marinai for another wonderful year and hope its Armed Forces citizens enjoy this holiday season!

Families enjoy the annual tree lighting ceremony at the Marinai housing complex. The event helped raise awareness for the organization Italian Socially Active Non-Profit against Leukemia, Lymphoma and Myeloma. (U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Bryan Tomforde/Released)

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December 23, 2016

All Hands News Bulletin:

LIBERTY / TAKE 5 HOSTING TWO CHRISTMAS DAY EVENTS! Command, Department or Organization: MWR Date of Event: 25 DEC Time of Event: 1800 - 2100 Location of Event: NAS 1 Chartroom and Midtown 2 Theater / TAKE 5 Point of Contact Name: Ivory Harris Point of Contact Phone Number: 624-5602 Point of Contact Email Address: Ivory.harris@eu.navy.mil

Additional Information: Take 5 will be hosting TWO FREE Christmas Day Events for Single and Unaccompanied Service Members at Take 5 on NAS 1 and Connections on NAS 2.

Sunday, DEC 25 2016 | 1800-2100 NAS 1 - Dinner & A Movie Single and unaccompanied service members can enjoy a free holiday meal from Liberty at the Chart Room. Afterwards, visit Midtown 2 Movie Theaters for a free showing of Bad Santa at 1900.

Sunday DEC 25, 2016 | 1800-2100 NAS 2- Christmas Dinner & Casino Night Single and unaccompanied service members can play casino style, Texas Hold'em, 21 Black Jack and Roulette. Earn tickets as you win, and enter into a drawing for prizes. Enjoy Turkey, Ham, and holiday sides as part of the celebration. ***Volunteers are always needed! If you are interested in volunteering to help with being a dealer, serving food, set up/break down, please email ivory.harris@eu.navy.mil or Karlie.Galias@eu.navy.mil

Sigonella Religious Ministries Department Worship Services Phone Numbers: NAS I 095-56-3975, NAS II 095-86-9049, Chaplain Duty: 335-831-4493, RP Duty: 335-786-1950.

Facebook page: www.facebook.com/Naval Air Station Sigonella Chapel

NAS 1 Mondays AA Meeting: 1800-1900 Tuesdays Protestant Women of the Chapel......0900-1100 Daily Mass: ..........................................1130-1230 AWANA: ..............................................1645-1900 Youth for Christ (YFC) Youth Meeting: .....................................................1200-1430 Wednesdays Protestant Men of the Chapel: ..........0600-0700 Daily Mass: ..........................................1130-1230 Catholic Ladies' Guild (3rd Wednesday): .....................................................1600-1800

Thursdays Daily Mass: ..........................................1130-1230 Youth for Christ (YFC) Youth Meeting: .....................................................1200-1530 Choir Practice: 1630-1800 The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA): .........................1800-2030

Catholic Religious Education (DoDDS): .....................................................1045-1200 Protestant Service: ..............................1100-1200 Latter-Day Saints Service: .................1330-1600

NAS 2

Fridays Daily Mass: ..........................................1130-1230 First Friday Mass and Holy Hour: ....1700-1830

Wednesdays Knights of Columbus (1st Wednesdays): .....................................................1700-1800 Protestant Women of the Chapel (PWOC): ....................................................1800-2100

Saturdays First Saturday Rosary and Mass:.......1100-1200

Thursdays AA Meeting: ........................................1800-1900

Sundays Catholic Mass: .....................................0900-1000

Sundays Protestant Service and Fellowship:....1800-2000

Weekly Traffic Report: Dec. 12 -19, 2016

Ristorante Bella Etna

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

Weekend / Holiday: 7-9 a.m.

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

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

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

Weekend / Holiday: 4-6 p.m.

As a reminder to everyone: There are no PTUs allowed at the Galley. Appropriate athletic gear is authorized at the discretion of the Galley staff. Please remember that for sanitation purposes and for the consideration of other customers, if you have been out for PT, been working out at the gym, or have just been engaged in any physical activity where you and or your clothing has become soiled or sweaty you will be asked to turn around.

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GAME ZONE HEEDLESS HOLLY JOIN JOLLY JOYOUS LADS LASSES MEASURE MERRY NEW NOW OLD OUR PASSES

SEASON SING STRIKE TELL TIDE TIS TOGETHER TREASURE TROLL WEATHER WHILE WIND WITH YEAR YULE

MEDIUM

ALL ANCIENT APPAREL AWAY BEFORE BLAZING BOUGHS CAROL CHORUS DON FAST FOLLOW GAY HAIL HARP

EASY

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

The remaining letters spell a secret message.

DIFFICULT

Christmas Carols

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December 23, 2016

USO Kicks Off the Holidays with Burgers and S'mores

By PO3 bryan Tomforde NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – The NAS II airport terminal was host to the USO Holiday Troop Luncheon this past Tuesday. USO Center Manager James Hodges and his crew of volunteers organized the event , leaving out no detail. “Our main inspiration is showing our appreciation for the uniformed service men and women here at Naval Air Station Sigonella,” said Hodges.

Hodges began his tenure as center manager in September of this year. He describes how important communication can be when organizing everything.

“This large grill for example”, said Hodges, “in the beginning stages our Fuels Department was quick to let us know they own a charcoal grill big enough to

cook for everyone that wanted to eat.”

Brand new Security Department Sailor Petty Officer 3rd Class Reynard Perrin, who has never been to a USO event before, took a break from his quarter pounder to smile and say, “I was excited to see people grilling and a tent full of food when I came in to work today. Grilled hamburgers and baked beans. It’s perfect! I mean, what more can you ask for?”

It’s a big morale booster just before the holidays, for sure," added Perrin. "I just played bean bag toss with a lieutenant commander and I’m about to make s’mores with the CMC. That means a lot!”

Command Master Chief Mike Kaszubowski, armed with cooking gloves and a spatula humbly stated, “Mr. Hodges and his USO volunteers did all the hard work today. Without them, none of this

Sigonella USO volunteers serve food to servicemembers for a free holiday luncheon outside of the Naval Air Station (NAS) II airport terminal. NAS Sigonella's commissary donated fresh fruits and vegetables for the event. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Michelle Sabangan/Released)

would’ve come together. I’m simply here to help out however I can and give back to this community!”

When the new USO center manager was asked how the event came together so easily, he simply replied, “The community members are the key and AFN (Armed Forces Network) was the driving force behind advertising for us. When you add that to the basic contributions from people all over the world who appreciate our troops, then we just needed to know how to schedule the equipment and supplies.

And when the day arrived, we just followed the plan.”

When asked about the menu, Mr. Hodges said that the base commissary provided the delicious fruit and vegetable trays, while the USO team purchased the burgers and beans, but admitted that s’mores were his idea, adding, “I grew up with s’mores. What’s a cookout without s’mores?”

Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella's USO featured homemade holiday cupcakes at a free luncheon for Sailors at the NAS II airport terminal.

(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Michelle Sabangan/Released)

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