The Signature, February 5, 2016

VP-9:

Dubai:

CT3:

Snail COMREL

Emirate of extremes!

Do what you love

PAGE 4

PAGEs 8-9

N A S SIG O N E L L A

PAGE 14

February 5, 2016

Vol. 33 No. 5

Before and after photos of the Bldg. 170 renovation that began in December 2014. A new, non-corrosive water piping system and modernized HVAC system were some of the major upgrades to the building. (Photo courtesy of Ralph Jackson)

Barracks 170 renovations completed ahead of schedule

By Nicole Ybarra NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Residents of Bldg.

170 are now benefiting from quality of life enhancements recently completed in the barracks.

Work to completely change out the water piping system – which hadn’t been upgraded since the building’s original construction in 1999 – as well as modernizations to the HVAC system, are to be completed February 2016.

Construction began on Bldg. 170 in December 2014 and was completed in five phases at a total contract cost of nearly $2.3 million. Bldg. 170 is a four-story Bachelor Enlisted Quarters (BEQ)building located on NAS 1. It consists of approximately 240-berthing units. Each unit has a single bedroom, a kitchenette, a full bathroom and receives

air conditioning via individual fan coil units. On the main floor are administrative spaces, common areas including restrooms, a laundry room, as well as service/linen rooms within each corridor.

In order to complete the renovations while residents still occupied the building, residents were shifted around as the work progressed. Some were given the option to move out in town while others were temporarily relocated to Bldg. 623 on NAS 2.

“We did our best to ensure that residents were not asked to move more than once, in order to minimize inconvenience,” stated Ralph Jackson, Unaccompanied Housing Director.

Bldg. 170 enhancements include new noncorrosive, high quality plastic piping to ensure clear and safe drinking water. The building's outdated Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) and plumbing systems were upgraded

to provide more reliable comfort for building occupants, and were optimized for energy efficiency utilizing the newly installed Direct Digital Control (DDC)system. While the systems are in operation, real-time information is transmitted via sensors to the main DDC energy management computer system. This information can be viewed, monitored and adjusted by the energy management team to meet energy efficiency goals and to assure comfort to building occupants.

More visible improvements include new bike racks, lounge furniture and recreational equipment such as Ping-Pong and pool tables, new TVs and Blu-ray players.

“We serve a very diverse group of residents from all of the services except the Coast Guard. These recent renovations will further enhance the quality of life for the residents of Bldg. 170,” said Jackson.

NAS Sigonella presents "CO, XO and CMC for the day" NASSIG CO

CO for the day

Capt. Christopher Dennis

AC2 Amy Colak

NASSIG XO

XO for the day

Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II

HN Thomas Digiovanna

NASSIG CMC CMDCM Mike Kaszubowski

CMC for the day AO3 Sandrine Rogers

Three Sailors were selected to be the CO, XO and CMC for the day, Jan. 26. "I enjoyed the experience given to me all in one day," said Aviation Ordnance 3rd Class Sandrine Rogers, attached with Naval Munitions Command Detachment Sigonella and CMC for the day. "There are many preconceived notions about what a CMC does but you don’t get the full picture until you shadow him for the entire day. We attended a retirement ceremony and it’s very rewarding for people to know that the leadership is paying attention to them. We also sat down for a department head meeting, where important information is shared and communicated." From left to right: Hospital Corpsman Thomas Digiovanna, XO for the day; Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II, NASSIG XO; Air-Traffic Controller 2nd Class Amy Colak, CO for the day; Capt. Christopher Dennis, NASSIG CO; Command Master Chief Mike Kaszubowski, NASSIG CMC; and Aviation Ordnance 3rd Class Sandrine Rogers, CMC for the day. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ramon Go/Released)

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 2

February 5, 2016

Direct Line

"NOTICE" continued from Page 2

Executive Officer Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II Buongiorno Sigonella, The tenets of Sig’ Citizenship – health and welfare, security, and resource conservation – only succeed as a result of a commitment from the entire community. They require planning in risk reduction, dedication from each of you every day, and good decision making.

Unfortunately, over the course of three days this past week, three "avoidable" vehicle collisions occurred. Two incidents happened off-base, one involving alcohol, and three (3) Sailors were taken to local hospitals to receive emergency medical treatment. The third incident involved a driver ILLEGALLY PASSING A STOPPED SCHOOL BUS IN MARINAI HOUSING, striking a pedestrian.

Fortunately, there were no injuries reported by the pedestrian.

To date, these incidents bring our 2016 statistics to 14 traffic accidents, four with injuries (See Page 10 for details). We are better than this, Sigonella. I know because I see a lot to contradict these isolated incidents of poor decision making every day. We are amazing ambassadors, devoting countless hours of service to our host country through community relations events each month.

We are successful masters at our craft, promoting many highly qualified Sailors and ensuring strategic goals are met as a routine, vice a fluke. So, why do we let poor decisions time and again cre-

February 5, 2016

ate potentially deadly consequences while operating motor vehicles? Anyone surviving a vehicle crash under the influence of drugs or alcohol, without also injuring or killing someone else is only “off the hook” from hurting someone. The consequences are permanent. Please reflect on this. Our greatest measure of success is everyone completing their time here as healthy as when they began, if not more so.

Another example of poor decision making is the recent incidents of shoplifting. If you want to ruin your career over an item you can always plan to save up to buy, then shoplifting from the NEX is a guaranteed way to begin.

Coincidentally, February is Military Saves Month. Your Fleet and Family Support Center has put together a schedule of community events that includes information tables, events and classes. Be sure to stop by Ristorante Bella Etna (NAS 2 Galley) for lunch and take part in the Proclamation Signing Feb. 9 at 12:00 p.m.

February is also a time of local festivities. If you haven’t noticed already, the St. Agata Festival has been going full steam this week, and wraps up tonight. This festival, honoring the Patron Saint of Catania, is the third largest religious festival in the world! Carnevale is also going on during this

time, most notably in Aci Reale, and peaks this Tuesday (also known as “Fat Tuesday” or “Mardi Gras”) before the season of Lent begins with Ash Wednesday, Feb. 10.

Please be safe out there, Sigonella! Keep your wits about you, plan well and make smart decisions to experience the best possible during your time in Sicily!

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!

What happened?

This sampling event is a continuation of an investigative study into the root cause of bromate in the drinking water at Bldg. 157. Samples were collected at multiple locations within the building to investigate if there is a relationship between the amount of bromate in the water and the amount of chlorides, chlorites, and chlorates. The test results did not indicate a relationship between the presence of bromate and the other analytes. In addition to these sampling events, a cross-connection and piping material survey was completed by the Cross Connection Program Manager from NAVFAC Region EURAFSWA. The survey indicated no identifiable issues with the pipe material and no cross-connections present in Bldg. 157. As a precaution, the Program Manager recommended that a backflow prevention device near the swimming pool on NAS I be replaced. This device was replaced over Veteran’s Day. The Sigonella community was previously notified of sampling results from the first round of samples where the bromate MCL was exceeded on Jan. 27, 2015, on Facebook and in the Jan. 30, 2015, issue of The Signature. During this first quarterly sampling event, the sample taken at Bldg.

157 tested at 34 ppb. In March samples were collected for NAS I, NAS II, Marinai, and Niscemi. Test results received April 2, 2014 showed bromate at 25 ppb for Bldg. 157, which again exceeded the MCL. Test results received June 11, 2015, showed bromate at 43.9 ppb. Test results received August 21, 2015 showed bromate at a maximum concentration of 40.5 ppb in Bldg. 157. Consistently, no other sample across NAS 1 or any other NASSIG location has exceeded the MCL for bromate during this period of observation.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT DRINKING WATER SAMPLE RESULTS FOR NAS I, BLDG. 157, HAVE LEVELS OF BROMATE ABOVE DRINKING WATER STANDARDS Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella routinely monitors its water systems for the presence of contaminants. Recently, samples were taken from the NAS I, NAS II, Marinai, and Niscemi water systems. Results from the NAS I "Connections" building (Bldg. 157) indicated bromate levels above 10 micrograms per liter or parts per billion (ppb), which is the maximum contaminant level (MCL) allowed by Italian legislation and the DoD Final Governing Standards (FGS) for Italy. No other locations on any NAS Sigonella site exceeded these standards.

100% transparency and accountability to our public remains our commitment to you. As such, we keep the NAS Sigonella community informed of our water system status and actions to be taken to correct problems when they occur.

Investigative sampling conducted in December returned a result of 32 µg/L at one location within Bldg. 157. The quarterly compliance test results taken within Bldg. 157 received on January 22nd indicate a bromate level in the building of 7.85 µg/L, which is below the MCL. It is common

replace the piping within the building. This work will be conducted in the spring. Replacing the existing piping is expected to remove the source of the bromate and return the water to levels of bromate below the MCL. At present, bromate exceedances are limited to Bldg. 157 where they are expected to continue until the precise problem can be located. Signs have been posted in Bldg. 157 as a continuing reminder of this ongoing issue. The community will continue to be notified with compliance sampling results that exceed maximum contaminant levels. Moreover, we will keep the community informed about the latest developments in our efforts to identify and correct our Bldg.

157 bromate issue. For those interested in learning more about this ongoing issue, NAS Sigonella has a detailed water webpage, which can be found at: http://www.cnic.navy. mil/regions/cnreurafswa/installations/nas_sigonella/om/environmental_support/bromate.html.

What does this mean?

Some who drink water containing bromate in excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased risk of getting cancer. Bromate at the levels measured in the drinking water does not cause acute symptoms (i.e., stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea). However, bromate is classified by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a probable human carcinogen.

What is being done?

Base leadership and water-quality engineers continue to seek the root cause for the presence of bromate in the water and are taking the following steps to further investigate the issue: - Performing additional testing to identify bromate cause and, once identified, ensure corrections achieve bromate level reductions below the MCL. - Conduct an additional analysis of the sample results to ensure the method used by the lab is returning accurate results.

At this time, the Commanding Officer and the Installation Water Quality Board have determined that the best way to protect the health of occupants of Bldg. 157 is to

What should I do?

The levels of bromate found at Bldg. 157 do not pose an immediate health risk. At this time, you can continue to drink the water. If the situation changes, you will be notified. Of note, filtration systems will not remove bromate from the water. If you have specific health concerns, consult your doctor or the U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella Medical Home Port at 095564622.

For more information, please contact: Rachel Methvin, P.E. NAS Sigonella Drinking Water Program Manager NAVFAC PWD Sigonella, Environmental Division DSN 624-7220 Commercial: 095867220 rachel.methvin@eu.navy.mil Violation Awareness Date: 22 January 2016 Date Notice Distributed: 1 February 2016 Public Notification Certification: This public notification has been provided to our community in accordance with all delivery, content, format, and deadline requirements per DoD FGS for Italy and OPNAVINST 5090.1D.

Last week a NASSIG service member was involved in a traffic accident (POV/POV) without injuries on the SS-417. The service member stated while traveling east on the SS-417 going towards Catania, a motorist made a sudden stop in front of him to make a left turn. The

service member slammed on the brakes and swerved right in an attempt to avoid colliding with the motorist's vehicle. The service member was unable to stop his vehicle in time which resulted in his left front bumper colliding with the other driver's right rear bumper. Service member said the damage done to the other driver's vehicle was very minimal, and there was no damage done to his own vehicle. Remember to allow yourself plenty of time to react to situations like this. The three-second rule is a simple way to double check that you are driving at a safe distance. Choose a fixed point that is even with the car in front of you, such as a road sign or a building. If you reach that point before you can count to three, then you are following too close and you need to back off a bit. If the roads are wet, icy, or curvy you need to increase your distance. It's best to get to your destination a little late then to spend several hours doing paperwork with police or end up in the hospital. Be a good ambassador and be part of the solution and not the problem.

Signed, Safety Sam

Safety Advisement on SS-417, Sicily

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".

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC

THE SIGNATURE

for the levels of bromate to have a small fluctuation over time. Results also received on January 22nd show bromate levels were below the MCL at the six other sample locations on NAS I; all seven sample locations on NAS II; both sample locations on Marinai; and the single sample location at Niscemi.

"NOTICE" continued on Page 3

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 Assistant Public Affairs Officer Lt. Jake Barreiro jake.barreiro@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 096270001 PUBLISHER Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity Capodichino (Naples), Italy stampagenerale@tin.it Tel. 081-568-7884 Fax 081-568-7887 This civilian enterprise (CE) newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services overseas. Contents of The Signature are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense (DoD), or the U.S. Navy. The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD or Stampa Generale S.r.l., of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factorof the purchaser, user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected.

The Signature is published weekly by Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity, Capodichino (Naples), Italy. Tel. 081-568-7884. Fax 081-568-7887.

E-mail: stampagenerale@tin.it.

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

The Signature will not publish anyanonymous articles. All advertisements in this publication are the property of Stampa Generale S.r.l.

Any reproduction of advertisements in The Signature is unauthorized without the written consent of the publisher. cnic.navy.mil/sigonella

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 4

February 5, 2016

Patrol Squadron Nine participates in snail COMREL

February 5, 2016

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 5

Photos of "COMREL" continued from Page 4

By MC3(NAC) Amber Porter Patrol Squadron Nine Public Affairs

CATANIA, Sicily – Sailors assigned to the “Golden Eagles” of Patrol Squadron (VP) 9 participated in a Community Relations (COMREL) event at “Regina Pacis” in Catania, Sicily, Jan. 25. The 19 volunteers spent the day constructing fence lines and building mesh enclosures for the safeguarding of a medicinal snail farm in support of the local “Regina Pacis” charity in Catania.

“I’m an advocate of alternative medicine and learning about the restorative and cosmetic benefits of snails was interesting,” said Naval Aircrewman (Operator) 2nd Class Brittany Gilbert, one of the volunteers at the event. “The snail secretion is an emerging raw material with regenerative and healing properties. It also helps in reducing wrinkles and other skin afflictions. The farm doesn’t make any money off of their labor either; everything they supply goes toward the Regina Pacis charity.”

Golden Eagles started the day by unloading posts to be used for the fence line and snail confine. They crafted two large fires and burned the ends to conserve the integrity of the wood and stop it from splitting. They then moved the posts into position and and pounded the large stakes into the ground, one at a time. After inserting the supports, volunteers hand twisted wires to secure a special net meant to collect the snail slime.

“I enjoy the camaraderie of working with different shops throughout the command during COMRELs,” said Information Technician 1st Class Robert Leviker, the organizer of the event. “Even though you might not be from the same department, everyone out here is working together as a team toward a common goal and it’s amazing what we can do in a short period of time.”

After a few hours of moving poles, twisting and stapling wires, burning stakes, measuring plots and pounding down barriers, the Sailors met their goal of creating two large enclosures and had almost finished constructing the fence around the entire perimeter.

“You could just tell it was a huge help in the amount of work they would have had to do,” said Aviation Machinist’s Mate First Class Erik Swanson. “We accomplished in a day what might have taken them two or three weeks to construct. Seeing their visible appreciation for our work was extremely rewarding.”

Gilbert also said that COMRELs are more than just a single day of labor; they help provide a lasting positive impression of Americans in the host country.

“I think that Sailors are portrayed a certain way in the media and these COMRELs help give our Navy a good name and we leave a better impact wherever we go,” said Gilbert. “We’re portraying that positive image and showing a presence.”

VP-9 is forward deployed to the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility and is currently assigned to CTF 67, responsible for tactical control of deployed maritime patrol and reconnaissance squadrons throughout the European and African areas of responsibility. For more information, visit www.vp9.navy.mil

Photos of "COMREL" continued on Page 5

Sailors assigned to the “Golden Eagles” of Patrol Squadron (VP) 9 contribute their time and labor during a Community Relations (COMREL) event at “Regina Pacis” in Catania, Sicily. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Amber Porter/Released) Logistics Specialist 2nd Class Alex Porter and Airman Roy Duran, both assigned to the “Golden Eagles” of Patrol Squadron (VP) 9, burn the ends of fence posts to maintain the integrity of the wood during a Community Relations (COMREL) event at “Regina Pacis” in Catania, Sicily. VP-9 is forward deployed to the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility and is assigned to CTF 67, responsible for tactical control of deployed maritime patrol and reconnaissance squadrons throughout the European and African areas of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Amber Porter/Released)

Information Technician 1st Class Robert Leviker and Airman Roy Duran, both assigned to the “Golden Eagles” of Patrol Squadron (VP) 9, build a fence during a Community Relations (COMREL) event at “Regina Pacis” in Catania, Sicily. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Amber Porter/Released)

Sailors assigned to the “Golden Eagles” of Patrol Squadron (VP) 9 contribute their time and labor during a Community Relations (COMREL) event at “Regina Pacis” in Catania, Sicily. (U.S. Navy photo

by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Amber Porter/Released)

Aviation Structural Mechanic 3rd Class Sabrina Rios, assigned to the “Golden Eagles” of Patrol Squadron (VP) 9, burns the end of a fence post to maintain the integrity of the wood during a Community Relations (COMREL) event at “Regina Pacis” in Catania, Sicily. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Amber Porter/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)

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 6

February 5, 2016

U.S. NAVY HEADLINES February 5, 2016

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 7

Navy grants birthday wish of child battling sarcoma Carnevale festivities kick off in Sciacca this weekend Story by Dr. Alberto Lunetta

Among the breathtaking must-go Carnival traditions in Italy, the dazzling “Carnevale di Sciacca” (Sciacca Carnival) is definitely one of the most spectacular ones. An ancient festival whose origin dates back to the last century, the annual edition of Carnevale will begin (Feb. 6) in this picturesque ancient coastal town in the Agrigento province located near the world-renowned Greek Temples of Agrigento.

Sciacca Mayor Fabrizio Di Paola announced during a press conference that this year’s celebrations will follow a different schedule. The parades which feature five majestic and multicolored floats will continue after Martedì Grasso (Fat Tuesday), a day which marks the end of Carnevale, with an additional weekend of fun (Feb.13/14) to increase the flow of tourists who come from all over Sicily and the mainland to see this breathtaking show.

Sciacca is well known for its thermal baths, but also for its anchovy and sardine industry and ceramic and coral craftsmanship.

Sicilian clergyman Mario Ciaccio was the first historian to describe the Carnevale of Sciacca in 1890. However, historic sources tell us that the Carnevale has actually been celebrated since the 17th century. In the beginning, Sciacca’s Carnevale was mainly a celebration of country life with food and wine. Peasants, fishermen and herdsmen with painted faces and funny hats, played pranks and made political satire. This was called “lu gabbu” (the mockery). Nobody was offended because that was what carnevale was all about. The grand finale of the celebrations was the burning of lu Nannu, (today named Peppi ‘Nnappa) a straw dummy who represented the manifested spirit of carnevale. In doing so, bad luck and sins were burned away, leaving the town pure and filled with hope for good things to come.

Today, the allegorical carri (floats) are the highlights of the celebrations. Associations including amateur musicians, ceramists, costume designers, poets, craftsmen and decorators begin creating these majestic parading papiermâché floats after the summer. At the end of every working day around midnight, those involved in building a float gather for the schiticchio (dinner among friends). This is an important social moment as it enhances group cohesion. The carri allegorici (allegorical floats) depict political and social satire. Ballets and performances are held during the parades.

In Sciacca food is always a big deal and especially at carnevale. Traditional foods and dolci (sweets) associated with carnevale include cucchitelle (cookies made with pumpkin and covered with frosting) and the traditional cannoli, chiacchere, (irregularly shaped pieces of dough, fried and dusted with powdered sugar) Maccaruna di zitu (maccheroni pasta with pork ragu sauce) and pasta con le sarde (pasta with sardines) among others. During the festival, stands selling typical carnevale food are open all day long in the historic center.

On Sunday, Feb. 7 at 11 a.m., there will be a children’s

"CARNEVALE" continued on Pages 15

By MC3 Chelsea Troy Milburn Navy Public Affairs Support Element Headquarters

SAN DIEGO, Calif. – The U.S. Navy and Make-A-Wish Foundation joined hands Jan. 14 to transform dreams into reality for a child battling a lifethreatening illness.

Twelve-year-old David Gibson was diagnosed with undifferentiated embryonal sarcoma of the liver about 11 months prior to his arrival to San Diego from his hometown of Bromall, Penn. several days earlier. His love of Navy explosive ordinance disposal (EOD) teams, however, was something he'd been carrying much longer.

"It started with a demonstration at a Navy vs. Air Force game we took him to when he was in the 3rd grade," said Kim Gibson, David's mother. "Since then, he's been all about anything bomb-squad related. Even under his 5th grade yearbook photo, it said 'future bomb squad member.'"

When the Make-A-Wish Foundation contacted the Gibson family and sat down with David to learn about his "wish," he told them all he wanted was to meet real Navy EOD personnel. What he received was far beyond his expectations.

"I thought I was going to meet them and hang around on their base," said David. "I was surprised to get to do so much with them! We did training missions, went through an underground tunnel with a bunch of secret passages, and cut wires to diffuse fake bombs -- that was my favorite part. Everything we did was really fun!"

By the end of the day, David received his own EOD uniform, complete with body armor, unit patches, and a signed baseball cap, been at the controls of two types EOD robots, seen several demonstrations, and competed in two

practice EOD missions of his own. The day ended with a pizza party that filled half a pizza parlor with EOD personnel as an early celebration of David's 13th birthday, which was the following day.

For Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician 2nd Class (select) Christopher Malak and Lt. j.g. Kevin Sheffler both assigned to EOD Mobile Unit 11, being a part of David's wish was something very close to home.

"My cousin had leukemia, and Make-A-Wish took him to meet his favorite baseball team," said Malak. "Being on the other side of that experience and being able to do this for someone else really means a lot to me."

"Make-A-Wish brought us to Nashville, Tenn. from Colorado so my brother could meet his favorite band," said Sheffler. "When I heard that David was coming, and I'd get a chance to be a part of it, there was no hesitation. Being able to give back to an organization that did so much for my family, as well as meet a kid who even knows what EOD is, let alone has a passion for it, that's incredible."

According to Ashley Irving, David's wish assist coordinator of Make-AWish Foundation San Diego, in addition to the events put on by the Navy, David and his family received their weeklong trip, stay at the Hotel Del Coronado, and visits to the San Diego Zoo, Universal Studios and Sea World at no cost.

"The whole experience has been great," said David's father, Steve Gibson.

"Make-A-Wish is something that really brings out the best in people.

Everywhere we've been the generosity has been overwhelming. On top of that, the things David got to do with the Navy have been more than he ever could have expected. He smiles all the time, but today he's been ear to ear – the biggest smile I've ever seen."

For more news from Navy Public Affairs Support Element, visit www.navy. mil/local/npasehq/

Billet Based Distribution is here: What you need to know Carnevale fun continues in Sicily! Mark your calendar for the prestigious Carnevale events that are yearly held in Sciacca, in Agrigento province. This year’s celebrations kick off (Feb. 7) and will continue through Feb. 14. (Photo by http://ettoremannino.altervista.org/)

From Navy Personnel Command Public Affairs

MILLINGTON, Tenn. – The Navy announced Jan. 28 that Billet Based Distribution (BBD) will be implemented February 2016 in NAVADMIN 016/16.

BBD will enable the Navy to more efficiently assign personnel in support of warfighting readiness and match Sailors to specific billets based on rate, rating and Navy Enlisted Classification (NEC).

The new functionality is being added into the Career Management System - Interactive Detailing (CMS-ID), but Sailors will continue to apply for jobs the same way they do now.

"Although the process behind the scenes will change, Sailors will not have to learn a new system to negotiate for PCS orders. To fleet Sailors, the upgrades will be transparent and seamless," said Rear Adm. Ken Whitesell, assistant commander for Career Progression, Navy Personnel Command (NPC). "Ultimately, BBD will help drive improved personnel readiness across the Fleet."

BBD will allow command personnel managers, detailers and placement coordinators to more reliably assess a vacant position's impact on readiness.

Specific goals include: * The alignment of every enlisted Sailor, who is available for assignment, to a Navy position. * A system that has the tools and accurate demand signal needed to maximize rating and Critical Navy Enlistment Classification (NEC) "Fit" * The capability to better use available Permanent Change of Station (PCS) and Temporary Duty under Instruction (TDI) funds. * The capability to forecast future fleet vacancies which will lead to better Sailor and fleet customer service.

Capt. Bruce Deshotel, head enlisted community manager, speaks to Sailors during a Navy Personnel Command's Fleet Engagement Team (FET) visit. The FET spoke about career management system-interactive detailing, limited directed detailing, chief petty officer early return to sea, voluntary sea duty program, billet-based distribution, and other topics related to a Sailor's career. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Seth Coulter/Released)

* The foundation for an improved assignment process.

The first BBD enlisted requisition will run Feb. 5.

Additionally, the February cycle of CMS-ID, which will use the new BBD capability, will be open for fleet applications Feb. 12.

To ensure they are placed in the right job, Sailors should review their records often for accuracy - especially for the NECs they hold to ensure accurate information for the detailing process.

The implementation of BBD requires all fleet

users to resubmit paperwork for access. Enlisted Sailors who are negotiating for orders don't need to take any action. Leaders, personnel managers and others who require access for any other reason can send their requests now. Guidance on filling out and submitting paperwork can be found on the NPC BBD web page at www.public.navy.mil/bupers-npc/ enlisted/billet_based/Pages/default2.aspx.

For more information, visit the NPC BBD web page or contact your command's placement coordinator.

PAGE 8

THE SIGNATURE

February 5, 2016

Dreaming of Dubai: An emirate of extremes

By Nicole Ybarra NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

Dubai is a city known for excess. A desert oasis, and the most populous emirate of the United Arab Emirates, Dubai is home to the world’s tallest building (Burj Khalifa), the world’s largest artificial island (Palm Islands), and can be described with an endless number of superlatives.

While many of the stereotypes of over-the-top opulence are true – the police drive Maseratis and you can ski inside of a shopping mall – I was surprised at how international, safe, and comfortable the city felt.

Desert Safari at Sunset We stayed in the Marina District which was the perfect base for our excursions in Dubai and day trip to Abu Dhabi. We signed up for the Sundowner Dune Safari with Arabian Adventures, which I highly recommend. They picked us up from the hotel, and whisked us off into the desert. From there we boarded a 4 X 4 jeep and went bashing through the sand dunes. You can even sand board – the desert’s equivalent to snow boarding – down the dunes as the sun sets over the desert.

After we got back to the base camp we had the chance to ride camels while dinner was prepared. From there we were served a selection of Middle Eastern grilled meats, fresh salads, dates and sweets under a traditional Bedouin-style tent. Belly dancers performed while diners relaxed on large pillows and enjoyed shisha which is flavored tobacco smoked out of a hookah and is very common in the Middle East.

Tea Time Afternoon tea might be a quintessentially British pastime, but Dubai has a host of options rivaling anything the UK has to offer. Be sure to book ahead, and prepare by skipping breakfast the morning of. For overthe-top luxury and pure decadence, few places compare to the Burj Al Arab, which proudly proclaims itself as Dubai's only seven-star hotel.

Take the lift to the top floor of this iconic sailboat-shaped hotel and you will be treated to breathtaking views, and a seemingly endless parade of tea sandwiches, pastries, cakes, jams, clotted cream, and of course, tea.

Tea time or a room reservation are the only way to see the inside of this seven-star hotel, and with nightly rates average $1,500 - $2,500, tea is a more affordable option.

Grand Mosque The next day we joined a tour of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. It is the largest mosque in the UAE, and covers approximately 30 acres, excluding exterior landscaping. It is open to non-Muslims although a strict dress code is enforced and public displays of affection are discouraged. The mosque is breathtaking in its size and its grandeur and boasts many unique elements: The carpet in the main prayer hall is considered to be the world's largest carpet. The carpet measures 5,627 m2 (60,570 sq. ft.), weighs 35 tons, and was made by around 1,200-1,300 carpet knotters. There are 2,268,000,000 knots within the carpet and it took approximately two years to complete.

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque has seven imported chandeliers that incorporate millions of Swarovski crystals. The largest of the seven chandeliers is the third largest in the world and has a 10 m (33 ft.) diameter and a 15 m (49 ft.) height.

The pools along the arcades reflect the mosque's spectacular columns.

The unique lighting system was designed to reflect the phases of the moon. Beautiful bluish gray clouds are projected in lights onto the external walls and get brighter and darker according to the phase of the moon.

Getting There While Dubai is not as close as some other European destinations, it is still relatively accessible in eight hours, depending on the flight and connections. It offers a diverse range of activities, a safe, international environment, and warm Emirati hospitality. And where else can you snowboard in 120-degree heat and play with penguins?

February 5, 2016

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 9

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 10

All Hands News Bulletin: VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: Youth Sports is looking for dedicated volunteers to help coach during the upcoming MWR Youth Basketball season for ages 5-18. If you are interested in coaching by yourself or with a group of friends, please contact Youth Sports at eric.barge@eu.navy.mil or 624-1750. The season runs from the first week of February and ends the last weekend in March.

February 5, 2016

academic advisor appointments: University of Maryland University College is taking appointments to meet with a UMUC Academic Advisor. You do not have to be a UMUC student in order to make an appointment. Have your military transcripts and any previous college evaluated on-the-spot to see how close you are to a college degree with UMUC. For an appointment, contact UMUC Sigonella at: DSN 624-4492, civ 095564492 or email Sigonella-Europe@umuc.edu

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

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 Catholic Religious Education • September - June - 10:30 a.m. at DoDDS 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: Jan. 25 - Feb. 1, 2016

Ristorante Bella Etna

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

Weekend / Holiday: 7-9 a.m.

Friday, Feb. 5 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash, O’Brien Potatoes Lunch: Hamburger Yakisoba, Chipper Fish Speed Line: Fresh Assorted Pizza Dinner: Pasta Alfredo, Fishwich, Italian Roasted Potatoes

Sunday, Feb. 7 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Grilled Minute Steak, Home Fried Potatoes Brunch: Eggs to Order, Grilled Minute Steak, Oven Fried Bacon, Pork Roast, Home Fried Potatoes Dinner: Spaghetti w/ Meat Sauce, Fried Fish Portions, Rice Pilaf

Saturday, Feb. 6 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Grilled Ham Steak, Cream Beef w/ Toast, Hash Brown Patty Brunch: Eggs to Order, Grilled Ham Steak, Cream Beef w/ Toast, Roast Turkey, Hash Brown Patty Dinner: Pasta Carbonara, Chicken Parmesan, Steamed Rice

Monday, Feb. 8 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Grilled Sausage Patties, Minced Beef w/ Toast, O’Brien Potatoes Lunch: BBQ Chicken, Oven Baked Catfish, Franconia Potatoes, Steamed Rice Speed Line: Assorted Pizza Dinner: Baked Stuffed Pork Chops, Beef Ravioli, Mashed Potatoes

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

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

Tuesday, Feb. 9 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash, Home Fried Potatoes Lunch: Roast Pork, Chicken Fried Steak Speed Line: Chicken Fajitas, Beef & Bean Burritos, Mexican Rice, Refried Beans Dinner: Salisbury Steak, Italian Sausage w/ Onions & Peppers, Steamed Rice Wednesday, Feb. 10 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Creamed Ground Beef w/ Toast, Hash Brown Patty Lunch: White Fish, Chicken Breast w/ Orange Sauce, Parsley Buttered Potatoes Speed Line: Grilled Burgers Dinner: Creole Fish, Beef Balls Stroganoff, Browned Potatoes

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

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

Thursday, Feb. 11 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Sausage Gravy w/ Biscuit, Minute Steak, Fried Potatoes Lunch: Meat Loaf, Roast Turkey, Steamed Rice, Mashed Potatoes Speed Line: Pasta Bar w/ Choice of Sauce Dinner: Beef Sukiyaki, Penne Alfredo, Steamed Rice Friday, Feb. 12 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash, O’Brien Potatoes Lunch: BBQ Ribs, Baked Fish, Red Beans w/ Rice, Macaroni & Cheese Speed Line: Fresh Assorted Pizza Dinner: Chili Macaroni, Baked Fish w/ Cherry Tomatoes, Steamed Rice

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.

February 5, 2016

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 11

THE SIGNATURE

February 5, 2016

NAVSUP FLC Sigonella supports Navy expeditionary activities

By Shannon Haney NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center Sigonella

GAMEZONE

USA Presidents Word Search

SIGONELLA, Sicily (Dec. 9, 2015) NAVSUP FLC Sigonella personnel participate in a ribbon cutting ceremony marking the establishment of the Expeditionary Contracting Support (ECS) Branch.

The ECS Branch is responsible for contractually supporting Navy expeditionary activities within Europe and Africa (EURAF) area of responsibility for supplies and services under NAVSUP contracting authority. From left to right, Dustin Gilroy, contract specialist; Keely Pool, supervisory contract specialist; Capt. Chris Parker, commanding officer; Howard Girvin, contract specialist; Donita Workman, contract specialist; and Gerry Harms, executive director. (U.S. Navy photo by Shannon Haney/Released)

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.

For more news from Naval Supply Systems Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/navsup/.

WASHINGTON J ADAMS JEFFERSON MADISON MONROE J Q ADAMS JACKSON VAN BUREN W HARRISON TYLER POLK TAYLOR FILLMORE PIERCE

BUCHANAN LINCOLN A JOHNSON GRANT HAYES GARFIELD ARTHUR CLEVELAND B HARRISON MCKINLEY T ROOSEVELT TAFT WILSON HARDING COOLIDGE

HOOVER F D ROOSEVELT TRUMAN EISENHOWER KENNEDY L JOHNSON NIXON FORD CARTER REAGAN G H W BUSH CLINTON G W BUSH OBAMA

DIFFICULT

Find and circle all of the United States Presidents that are hidden in the grid.

The remaining letters spell an Abraham Lincoln quotation.

MEDIUM

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Fleet Logistics Center (FLC) Sigonella celebrated the establishment of the Expeditionary Contracting Support (ECS) Branch with a ribbon cutting ceremony onboard Naval Air Station Sigonella Dec. 9.

The ECS Branch consists of contracting specialists, some of whom are deployable to provide assistance in forward-deployed operations.

The primary responsibility of the ECS Branch is to contractually support Navy expeditionary activities within the Europe and Africa (EURAF) area of responsibility (AOR) for supplies and services under NAVSUP contracting authority.

The supplies and services consist of land transportation, heavy equipment, electrical power, communication services, petroleum, lodging, meal service, waste collection, pest control, bottled water, showers, latrine, and laundry.

The ECS Branch closely liaises with planners, attends pre-deployment briefs, and engages in routine communications with Naval Special Warfare Units (NSWU), U.S. Special Operations Command Europe (SOCEUR), and U.S. Special Operations Command Africa (SOCAF) to ensure full support within the bounds of NAVSUP delegated procurement authority for all Navy exercises and deployments associated with nonestablished operations. The ECS Branch will also participate in post deployment debriefs to identify any concerns and address lessons learned to ensure increased success in future expeditionary requirements.

"The investment in advanced planning and continuous communication with senior leaders will grow and improve support over time," said ECS Division Director Keely Pool.

The planning phase of the Saharan Express, Cutlass Express, and Obangame Express 2016 exercises are underway and the ECS Branch is actively engaged with Navy expeditionary activities that will facilitate and execute the exercises.

The ultimate goal of the ECS Branch is to build consistent relationships with Navy expeditionary activities to allow them to operate seamlessly and with confidence within the EURAF AOR. 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

THE SIGNATURE

February 5, 2016

EASY

PAGE 12

PAGE 13

PAGE 14

Do what you love, love what you do From Fleet and Family Support Center

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – It’s time! Do you enjoy what you do? Or do you feel stuck in a job that holds no passion for you? Now’s your chance to change that! Choose to do something that you love! Choose to do what you love and love what you do!

Feb. 18-19, FFSC will hold a Career Technical Training Track (CT3) Workshop. This two-day workshop, conducted by Veterans Affairs (VA), is from 0800-1600 and offers new and exciting opportunities for professional and personal growth.

During this workshop, participants will define and identify their personal technical career goals, necessary credentials and investigate how to pursue and acquire needed qualifications. CT3 specializes in skilled trades, applied sciences, career preparation and modern technologies. Career and technical training programs usually offer both academic and career-oriented courses resulting in a wide-range of learning experiences.

These advantages provide various opportunities to gain work experience through on-thejob training, shadowing and internships. A few types of career choices in this category are from automotive technology, construction, plumbing or electrical contracting to fields as diverse as agriculture, architecture, culinary arts, fashion design, filmmaking, forestry, engineering, healthcare, personal training, robotics, or veterinary medicine.

For an optimal experience in this workshop, it is recommended that participants bring their VMET, JST and personal budget.

In addition, if participants have been through TGPS, bring the Gap Analysis and Individual Transition Plans (ITPs).

If you’re interested in the CT3 Workshop, call FFSC at 624-4291 or email mackenzie. smith@eu.navy.mil and start “loving what you do and doing what you love”!

THE SIGNATURE

February 5, 2016

February 5, 2016

THE SIGNATURE

PAGE 15

"CARNEVALE" continued from Page 6 carnevale show in piazza Scandagliato. Later at 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. float parades will be held along the following roads: Viale della Vittoria, Corso Vittorio Emanuele, Via Pietro Gerardi, Via Incisa and Piazza Mariano Rossi.

A spectacular live music show will be held in piazza Scandagliato at 9:30 p.m.

On Monday, Feb. 8, Tuesday Feb.9, and Feb. 13/14, float parades will be held throughout the day. Music shows, parades and entertainment will be held every night at 9 p.m. On the last day of the celebrations, Sunday, Feb. 14, celebrations come to a spectacular and symbolic end around 2 a.m.

(Feb. 15) with the burning of the traditional Peppi ‘Nnappa puppet in the historic center.

Sciacca is about two hours and half from Catania. It is fairly easy to reach. Exit Caltanissetta on the Catania-Palermo highway.

Take the Agrigento-Caltanissetta national road. Once you get to Agrigento. Take the Agrigento-Sciacca and follow directions for Sciacca. For more information and detailed schedules, visit http://www.sciaccarnevale.it

Traditional Carnevale food Don’t forget to taste the scrumptious Carnevale food that is sure to please your palate!

As reported by http://blog.italian-connection.co/, in Renaissance times, the week preceding Ash Wednesday (and the beginning of Lent) got the name of grasso (fat) from the festive banquets organized during this period.

These banquets were known for rich dishes as well as their abundance of fried sweets (more fat!) This may be seen as simply gorging before the traditionally low-fat diet of the Lenten period, but it is also true that celebrations involving lots of people made it necessary to prepare desserts that would be quick, cheap and delicious, so frying was a good way to cook lots of sweets for large crowds. And so the culmination of carnival came to be known as Martedi Grasso, Fat Tuesday.

A popular traditional carnevale salty specialty includes: maccarruni setti puttusa co' ragù ri sasizza (tubular pasta with seven holes dressed with a savory pork ragù), a specialty that everyone loves to sample.

If you want to indulge in some typical Sicilian treats, Carnevale is the best time for doing so. Sicilian ethnographer, Giuseppe Pitrè, an expert in Sicilian popular traditions wrote that cannolo (fried pastry filled with creamy fillings) is the “crown of the carnival lunch.” Pastry shops and bakeries will sell frittelle, the delicious Carnevale fritters which are also sure to whet your appetite.

Tempt your taste buds with the chiacchere (gossip) also known as nastrini (ribbons) or bugie (lies) and cenci (rags).

They are a delicious stripe-shaped, deep-fried in lard fritters and covered with powdered sugar whose origin dates back to the Roman times when they were called frictilia, These sweets are named lies or gossip to remember the carnevale motto says i.e. during carnival, pranks and jokes are acceptable.

Pignolata or Pignoccata is another traditional must-eat carnevale dessert from Messina that you should try. It is light egg dough fried and half covered in a chocolate glaze and half in a lemon glaze that is served in mounds.

PAGE 16

THE SIGNATURE

February 5, 2016