The Signature, December 18, 2015

Deployments:

Holiday Party:

Fil-Am:

Keeping the bonds strong!

Celebrating the season!

Sharing the holiday spirit!

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PAGEs 12-13

N A S SIG O N E L L A

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December 18, 2015

Vol. 32 No. 48

Due to the holiday period in December, The Signature will be on a two - week break after our Dec. 18 issue.

Don't miss our next issue available on Jan. 8. Stay up-to-date by visiting us on the NAS Sigonella Facebook page.

A year in review: Sigonella’s top 10 of 2015

By Nicole Ybarra NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – For the civilians and service members (representing all military branches) supporting the missions of the 24 commands stationed aboard NAS Sigonella, there is much to reflect upon and be proud of in 2015. The base hosted several DVs including the Secretary of Defense, Chief of Naval Personnel, and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy, to name a few. Several installation improvements were completed, and Sigonella’s best were recognized for their hard work. The year ended on a high note, literally, with a visit from the USO Holiday Tour and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. As we look toward an even greater 2016, The Signature recaps our top 10 stories from 2015. It has been an absolute privilege to report on and share all of the significant achievements that make Sigonella the special community it is.

1. Maintaining readiness with Exercise Neptune Arrow - 15: A simulated outbound Boeing 767 aircraft carrying 132 passengers and eight crewmembers takes flight from the tarmac, moments later, the pilot reports a sudden loss of power of all engines.

The simulated aircraft crashes hard near the end of the runway at NAS Sigonella. The training scenario begins and all emergency responders correspond and execute emergency operating procedures. So began Exercise Neptune Arrow - 15. The Italian Air Force also took part in the exercise to strengthen unity by working together and helping out one another. About 30 volunteers arrived at the flight clinic hours prior to the exercise for “moulage,” an art of applying mock injuries for the purpose of training emergency response

teams and other medical and military personnel. Each volunteer also received a detailed injury prescription and acted according to their symptoms. Approximately four months went into planning the two-day exercise.

NAS Sigonella and its tenant commands keep their families and nearby communities safe through continued preparation and training for different types of emergency response scenarios.

2. Sigonella’s own recognized as region’s best: Assistant Fire Chief Mike Bowling, and Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 1st Class Ali Razi were selected as the region's civilian fire officer of the year and military fire officer of the year, respectively.

The awards recognize superior job performance by individuals and their outstanding contributions to the fire service based on a set of criteria that includes technical competence, initiative, and leadership ability.

“Although it's an individual award, you can't obtain this award by yourself,” said Bowling. The hard work and dedication of the department were vital to the success of Bowling and Razi, and did not go unnoticed. As a team, they were selected as the 2014 Regional Medium Fire Department of the Year, an award that recognizes fire departments with between four and eight fully staffed fire trucks, that have achieved the highest degree of excellence in mission support and fire-protection management. As regional winners, Bowling, Razi, and the fire department advanced to the next round where they will be judged by Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) in Washington, D.C., next to the Navy’s best in fire and emergency services. Should they be selected for the Navy-wide award, they will advance to the “world series” of fire protection and go head-tohead with the entire Department of Defense.

3. A season of giving – Sigonella “most generous” during 2015 ADFD: Sigonella and its citizens distinguished themselves amongst every other installation, command, or other entity, garnering the title of “most generous” during the 2015 Active Duty Fund Drive (ADFD). Based on per capita donations, approximately 1,600 of the active duty Sailors and Marines attached to Sigonella participating commands averaged $61.72 given per person for a grand total of $110,073. "We are exceptionally grateful to the men and women assigned to NAS Sigonella who contributed to the 2015 Active Duty Fund Drive,” said Adm. (Ret.) Steve Abbot, President and CEO of NMCRS. “Their combined support resulted in the highest average donation per person, when compared to 42 other Active Duty Fund Drives conducted throughout the Navy and Marine Corps. These generous Sailors and Marines have embraced the true meaning of ‘for our own, by our own.’” The money was raised through the efforts of more than 190 volunteers, contributing more than 1,700 volunteer hours to 55 different fund raising events throughout March and early April. Events included food and bake sales, car washes, and Spring Fest, the ADFD’s grand finale.

4. Sigonella Run Series: Sigonella’s MWR hosted nine runs this year as part of its Sigonella Run Series: Back to School Dash; POW/MIA Remembrance Run; Breast Cancer Awareness Run; Run 4 Your Life; Harvest Run in the Orange Grove; Santa Dash; Overcome Your Obstacles; Love em’ or Leave ‘em and the finale of the season, the Base 2 Base race and half marathon. The event began at the NAS 2 fitness center and finished in Midtown. Along the course volunteers provided water

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Sigonella’s best recognized as Navy Pay and Personnel Support Center Blue Jacket of the Year By mc1 cody boyd NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Winning an award may seem next to impossible for some, but for Personnel Specialist 3rd Class Kendra Velazquez, it’s just another day on the job. Her dedication and hard work recently garnered her the award of Navy Pay and Personnel Support Center Blue Jacket of the Year. PS3 Velazquez, who works at Personnel Support Detachment (PSD) on Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, said she didn’t fully understand what the award meant initially. “At first I didn’t realize Personnel Specialist 3rd Class Kendra Velazquez truly what the award meant until my stands for a photo after an interview, Dec. 15. chief sat me down and said this means (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication you are the best of the best. Although I Specialist 1st Class Cody Boyd/Released) don’t come to work for an award, it felt

good to be recognized for the work I have put in. Ultimately, I come to work and perform my duties to the best of my ability, without the expectation of getting praised for it,” says Velazquez.

Velazquez, who works in the Education Services Offices, says she couldn’t have accomplished this much without support from her command.

“My command has always had very high expectations for me which I have been happy to meet. If they hadn’t pushed me to go above and beyond, I probably would not have accomplished as much as I have thus far,” stated Velazquez. When asked about her secrets to success, she advises to always do the right thing and go beyond what is expected of you. “If you can pick up collaterals, pick up collaterals. If you can go to school, go to school. If you

can volunteer, volunteer. Don’t do it for the recognition, do it because it’s the right thing to do and in the end your reward feels a lot better knowing that you earned it,” she explains.

Looking to the future, Velazquez hopes to earn a commission in either the medical or supply corps. “My main focus right now is to better my career.

I’m just trying to figure out exactly what it is that I want. I want to do 20 years in the military. Now it’s just a matter of settling myself in a good position where I can be successful,” says Velazquez. When it comes to the future and what you want, Velazquez believes we should all be hungry for success, but for the right reasons.

“Do something not because you want something out of it but because that’s what we’re here to do.”

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December 18, 2015

Direct Line

December 18, 2015

"TOP 10" continued from Page 1 and support – and even Lucky Charms – to runners from every age group and fitness level.

Installation Housing Director, Peter C. Faulk Happy Holidays Sigonella, First of all I want to introduce myself. I am the new installation Housing Director for NAS Sigonella and my area of responsibility is Unaccompanied Housing and Military Family Housing. You will find me at NAS 1 in the Housing Service Center. I want to sincerely thank everyone for the warm welcome that my family and I have received so far – I am really excited to be here. I have a great team here at the Housing Service Center with many years’ experience. I believe in customer service, being responsive and being proactive in all housing issues whether military or civilian. I like to get out into the community, whether that means tagging along on housing inspections, routine service calls, housing assignment process, or any other service that housing provides. This allows me to see firsthand how we can improve overall customer service and processes to ensure a smooth transition whether leaving or coming to NAS Sigonella or for those currently living in housing or on the economy. I am very approachable so if you see me out and about, say hi!!

I am originally from Levittown, New York. I joined the Navy in 1981 and was stationed at Midway Island and later transferred to NMCB-40 in Port Hueneme, Calif. After leaving the Navy in 1985 I was hired in Public Works at NAS Point Mugu, Calif. which later merged with Port Hueneme to create Naval Base Ventura County. I supervised many shops in Public Works which included Plumbing, Preventive Maintenance, Fire Protection, Barracks Maintenance, Machine Shop and Asbestos Removal Shop for over 15 years. In 2001 I was hired as Housing Manager Supervisor for Point Mugu and Camarillo housing, where I managed over 900 housing units and then later, 1,781 housing units with Port Hueneme. In 2007, 1,221 units were turned over to Public Private Venture (PPV) contactor Lincoln Properties.

In 2007 and on I managed 300 leased units and 226 Government owned units. In 2012 and 2013 I was the installation Housing Director for NBVC which I was responsible for Unaccompanied Housing, Navy Gateway Inns & Suites and Family Housing.

I arrived here with my wife and two boys. I left behind three daughters, one son and my granddaughter. I really enjoy talking to people and finding out where they are from and their different backgrounds. But my true

passion is helping people. Whether you are an E-1, 0-8 or a civilian, you are going to get the same great service across the board. I greatly appreciate the opportunity to be part of this community and look forward to making it even better!

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!

5. “Hub of the Med” popular stop for DVs: NAS Sigonella, the “Hub of the Med” was truly a hub of activity this year as we hosted several high-level DVs. In March, Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Mike Stevens held an all hands call with Sailors and Marines and fielded questions regarding uniform changes, sequestration, retirement benefits, and beyond. MCPON wrapped up his time by expressing his appreciation and love for his fellow service members. In October, Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter and Mrs. Carter visited NAS Sigonella as part of a five-day trip to Europe. Secretary Carter hosted a town hall in the Global Hawk Hangar with approximately 250 Sailors, Airmen and Marines. Rounding out a fast-paced month, the following week NAS Sigonella hosted Chief of Naval Personnel Vice Adm. Bill Moran and Fleet Master Chief April Beldo during which time he reenlisted 10 Sailors and hosted two All Hands Calls. “History has a way of resembling itself if you give it enough time, which is why we should never leave this place. We should always be part of Sicily and Sigonella, and I would argue you guys are in the transformation phase of what this base is going to be like for the next 30 years,” Moran told service members.

6. Base improvements enhance quality of life for Sig’ Citizens: Renovations to the Minimart, and Memorial Park on NAS 1 were unveiled in 2015. Memorial Park upgrades began in June 2014 to renovate the park’s existing structures while adding new ADA-compliant playground equipment. With more than $640,000 in upgrades, the new park features pathways built to meet the federal ADA requirements, thus making the playground accessible to all. Additionally, new and improved landscaping and the installation of water fountains and lighted gazebos with power outlets completed the park’s new layout and improved aesthetic.

The gazebos, ideal for parties and command functions, are available free of cost for patrons to reserve through the ITT office.

A shade structure and fall protection surfaces were also placed in the park to provide added comfort. Equipped with new park benches, picnic tables, and recycling bins, Memorial Park’s facelift was well received by the community.

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".

7. NASSIG’s own recognized: Christine Coumbe was selected as the Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) 2015 Mrs. Sybil Stockdale Shore Ombudsman of the Year – a fitting distinction that appropriately sums up what the Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella ombudsman has meant to this community. In

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competition against 71 CNIC installation commands for the shore accolade, the tenacity is in large part why Coumbe was chosen one of the Navy’s very best ombudsman; and all while balancing life at home as a wife and mother to Jacob, 7, Lexi, 6, and 8-monthold Eleanor. While her value is now being trumpeted throughout the fleet, her husband, Navy Counselor 1st Class Gary Coumbe, has long been a front-row fan of his wife’s rare abilities. “What makes my wife unique is her brutal honesty combined with her in-depth knowledge of the base inner workings and the Navy community as a whole,” Gary said. The trust Coumbe has earned by the community follows a simple formula: Take the time to listen whenever someone has an issue, no matter how big or small.

8. Sigonella’s rainy day: After constant rains pelted Sigonella and surrounding areas throughout Sunday into early Monday, Sig' Citizens had Sicily's version of a snow day. Following a weather warning from local agencies on Sunday evening and heavy rains that persisted throughout the day, NAS Sigonella Commanding Officer Capt. Chris Dennis notified the community of a delayed 10 a.m. start for all non-essential base employees. Not long after morning dawned Monday reports of impassable roads to include the closure of SP-105/106 by local law enforcement and between six and eight inches of water accumulation in front of Marinai led Dennis to completely cancel Monday's non-essential base activities. By keeping tight control over Marinai's main gate Security members also limited the high waters from spilling into the base. By Tuesday the worst was over and after a 10 a.m. delayed start, the community returned to their normal activities under sunny skies.

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THE SIGNATURE U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA Commanding Officer Capt. Chris Dennis Executive Officer Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II Command Master Chief CMDCM Mike Kaszubowski EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Paul Newell paul.newell@eu.navy.mil Editor Nicole Ybarra nicole.ybarra@eu.navy.mil Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil PAO Staff Writers \ Photographers MC1 Tony D. Curtis anthony.curtis@eu.navy.mil MC2 Ramon Go ramon.go@eu.navy.mil CONTACT US Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily thesig@eu.navy.mil DSN 624-5440; 095-86-5440 PSC 812 Box 7, FPO, AE 09627-0001 PUBLISHER Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity Capodichino (Naples), Italy stampagenerale@tin.it Tel. 081-568-7884 Fax 081-568-7887

9. 2015 USO Holiday Tour kicks off in Sigonella: Active duty service members, civilians and their families were treated to a special performance by the 2015 USO Entertainment Troupe at the NAS 2 Hangar as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Marine Corps Gen. Joseph F. Dunford, Jr., launched the 2015 USO Holiday Tour from NAS Sigonella, the first of six stops planned on three continents during the seven-day tour. Singer/songwriters Kyle Jacobs, Chris Daughtry, Billy Montana and Brett James performed live in front of an enthusiastic audience, while comedian Sydney Castillo had the crowd laughing. Rounding out the traveling group of celebrities was actor/director Elizabeth Banks of “Pitch Perfect” and “Hunger Games” fame, writer/director/ actor David Wain of “Wet Hot American Summer,” and Boston Red Sox relief pitchers Heath Hembree and Steven Wright. “NASSIG clearly has a lot of fans, but nothing displays gratitude like grabbing a dozen talented Americans, flying 5,000 miles, and braving volcanic ash to spend a night together. Gen. “Fighting” Joe Dunford, our 19th Chairman, is truly our #1 fan,” said Capt. Christopher Dennis, base Commanding Officer.

10. A year of COMRELs: Two-Thousand Fifteen was a banner year for NAS Sigonella’s voluntary Community Relations (COMREL) Program. Established to maximize good-will with our Sicilian neighbors and friends through multiple, sustained area COMRELs, the all-of-base effort distinguished itself by winning the Project Good Neighbor award given to those select commands promoting outreach activities that establish and restore hope to the community. NAS Sigonella's COMREL program was also noted as runner-up for the Environmental Stewardship award.

During the year more than 200 COMRELs energized by over 4,000 volunteers were planned and executed -- more than 20,000 hours of commitment given by the Sigonella community to its gracious Sicilian hosts.

This civilian enterprise (CE) newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services overseas. Contents of The Signature are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense (DoD), or the U.S. Navy. The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD or Stampa Generale S.r.l., of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factorof the purchaser, user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected.

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

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

E-mail: stampagenerale@tin.it.

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

All articles submitted by non-staff members will be considered contributing writers.

The Signature will not publish anyanonymous articles. All advertisements in this publication are the property of Stampa Generale S.r.l. Any reproduction of advertisements in The Signature is unauthorized without the written consent of the publisher. cnic.navy.mil/sigonella

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December 18, 2015

FCPOA shares Christmas spirit with Belpasso School

By MC1 Tony D. Curtis NAS Sigonella Public Affairs Office

December 18, 2015

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Military medicine has transitioned from a provider-centered to a patientcentered approach to healthcare over the past several years. With the focus shifting to the patient, a new paradigm of patient care has emerged in which patients are encouraged to become empowered members of their healthcare team. After all, who is the most important person on the healthcare team - the patient!

Surrounding the patient are other members of the healthcare team. The physician, nurses, and Hospital Corpsmen may be the team members with whom the patient has the most contact. It is important that the patient and these members function in a collaborative manner to ensure the highest possible care and to foster the participation of the patient. Additional members of the team may include Pharmacy, Laboratory, Radiology, Surgical, and other ancillary staff.

More and more, patients are realizing they can improve their own medical outcomes by getting involved in the process and becoming an “empowered patient.”

An empowered patient is one that partners with their provider and is an active participant on their healthcare team. Empowered patients take more responsibility for their health, are involved in their healthcare decisions, and are educated on available treatments and treatment plans. They actively seek answers and solutions to their healthcare needs in collaboration with other members of their healthcare team. Until recently, the thought that a patient would participate so fully was unheard of, but today patients and healthcare providers appreciate that a high level of patient participation. This team approach is vital to maintaining health and facing medical challenges.

Becoming an empowered patient takes action and commitment. The first steps to empowerment are taking responsibility, collaborating, and getting informed.

You know your body better than anyone else; an empowered patient realizes that if something is “not right” they need to seek information and medical care.

Responsible patients also prepare for appointments by

Sigonella's First Class Petty Officer Association (FCPOA) visited Scuola Madre Teresa Di Calcutta in Belpasso to spread holiday cheer, Dec. 10. Eighteen Sailors with the Sigonella's FCPOA sang, brought gifts and painted. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Tony D. Curtis/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)

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TEAM UP program: Empower your health

By LCDR Teresa Devitt-Lynch U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Eighteen volunteers with the Sigonella First Class Petty Officer Association visited Scuola Madre Teresa Di Calcutta in Belpasso to help out the school and spread some holiday cheer.

The volunteers came to work and help out the school however they were needed. This is not the first COMREL the Sigonella FCPOA has completed with the school. However, during this visit, the volunteers helped to paint radiators that keep the school warm throughout the winter.

“Being at the school and seeing how happy the kids were just to see us was awesome,” said Yeoman 1st Class Pricilla Taft, Sigonella FCPOA president. “Knowing that we are doing something good for the community and for the kids is what I enjoy most about being stationed overseas.”

The students, ranging in age between three and ten, sang traditional Christmas songs in English and Italian as a symbol of gratitude. Such tunes as “Deck the Halls,” “I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas,” and “Jingle Bells” filled the hallways with holiday cheer. The volunteers also brought along some toys and school supplies for the students to use in the classroom. The FCPOA plans to go back to the school in the spring to help paint over graffiti on the school.

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knowing what medications they are currently taking and preparing a list of concerns or questions before the appointment. A collaborative relationship with other members of the healthcare team leads to informed, mutually agreed upon decisions regarding healthcare treatments, laboratory tests, radiological studies, and other aspects of the healthcare process. When the patient teams up with the healthcare team in shared decision-making, they feel more comfortable with the plan and are more likely to comply. Finally, get informed.

This includes using trusted and reliable internet and library resources to research conditions, diseases, and treatments. It also includes tracking and reporting symptoms, gathering family health history information, and asking questions during healthcare visits.

There are a variety of resources available to patients to communicate with their primary care provider, refill medications, and obtain health-related information: Relay Health, TriCare Online, and The Nurse Advice Line. Links to Relay Health and TriCare Online along with other information can be accessed through the USNH Sigonella app and on the USNH Sigonella website: http://www.med.navy.mil/sites/sigonella/Pages/ default.aspx.

Relay Health is an excellent source of information and communication tool between the patient and healthcare team. Patients can access health-related information, email their provider, refill medications, and review laboratory results. Relay health facilitates an active patient healthcare team and allows the patient access to their healthcare team members through convenient and secure online access. To register, visit www.relayhealth.com.

Tricare Online is another outstanding source of information. Much like Relay Health, patients can communicate with their primary care provider, obtain laboratory results, review their medical record, refill medications, make and change appointments, and obtain information on the Tricare health insurance plans. To get started, visit www.tricareonline.com.

For non-emergent medical questions that arise over the weekend, holidays, or after hours, patients can call the Nurse Advice Line at 800-877-660 (lo-

cal/Italy only). The nurses have access to the most up to date medical information and will provide sound advice for non-emergent medical issues and help the patient determine if the issue is urgent and requires immediate evaluation in the Emergency Department.

U.S. Naval Hospital is dedicated to enhancing healthcare experiences and fostering patient involvement in their healthcare through the TEAM UP! program. The TEAM UP! program empowers patients by supporting the patient in: • Teaming Together: Becoming an active member of your healthcare team through collaboration with your primary care provider and all other healthcare team members.

• Educating Yourself: Researching diseases, symptoms, and treatment course utilizing reputable sources.

• Asking Questions: Asking questions about health conditions, medications, tests, and available treatments to get an understanding of the current situation and the plan forward.

• Managing your Medications: Understanding what each medication is and what it is prescribed for, as well as any possible side effects are key to receiving the full benefit of medication use.

• Understanding the Game Plan: Understanding the recommended treatment plan and what you need to do to stick to the plan, fosters greater treatment compliance and promotes better healthcare outcomes.

• Providing your Perspective: Speaking up when something doesn’t feel right or when you have an issue or questions, enables you to advocate for yourself and resolve issues collaboratively.

The goal of the TEAM UP! initiative is to build and support highly effective patient and healthcare staff teams focused on optimizing health through patientcentered care. To enable patients in further developing their sense of patient empowerment, the U.S. Naval Hospital will be publishing the TEAM UP! Tip of the Month in the NASSIG Signature and on the U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella facebook page.

Take responsibility, collaborate, get informed, and TEAM UP! Sigonella!

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December 18, 2015

Custonaci Nativity scene: a fascinating blend of Christmas spirit and Sicilian rural traditions By dr alberto lunetta

Travel back in time to Bethlehem, 2,000 years ago and discover a beautiful corner of Sicily where the island’s rural experience is brought to life.

Scurati is a little village where time seems to have stopped. It is located a mile from Custonaci, a town near Trapani nestled on the slopes of Monte Còfano. Every year, this picturesque town hosts one of the most beautiful living Nativity scenes in Italy. One hundred thirty-six active quarries from which the valuable Perlato di Sicilia marble is extracted, surround this enchanting “villaggio.”

The “Mangiapane Cave,” a majestic rocky quarry from the Paleolithic period is the backdrop for the Presepe Vivente (Living Nativity Scene) itself. The cave is named after the household that lived in it from the 19th century to the end of World War II. Through the years, small houses, stables and an oven to bake bread were built around the cave making it similar to the Bethlehem scenery.

The surrounding quarries host the other Nativity scenes’ characters featuring about 160 local re-enactors performing 65 different craftsman and vendor activities.

Most of them demonstrate their actual working skills, since they are professional craftsmen. The living Nativity scene tradition, which dates back to 1983, derives from the celebrations in honor of the Virgin Mary of Custonaci. During these celebrations, religious dramas had been staged at a sanctuary located nearby since 1971.

Traditionally, on the night of Dec. 24, a torchlight procession from the sanctuary to the cave and a brief religious drama is staged. The Virgin Mary riding a donkey knocks at the door of an inn asking for hospitality. But she is told that there is no room available, therefore she will have to stay at the cave.

Custonaci is fairly easy to reach from the Castellammare del Golfo exit on the Palermo-Trapani highway (A29). Follow directions toward San Vito Lo Capo and drive for about ten miles along the Trapani coast until you get to the Custonaci exit.

The Living Nativity Scene will be open Dec. 25-27, 2015 and Jan. 2-6, 2016. here is also a shuttle bus service that will take you from the village of Cornino to the caves in a few minutes. For more information and detailed schedules, visit: http://www. presepeviventedicustonaci.it/ Italian Christmas Sweets If you want to satisfy your sweet tooth and truly experience Italian Christmas traditions, make sure you taste two of the most popular Italian Christmas sweets: Panettone (cake filled with candied fruit) and Torrone (nougat).

Panettone is a kind of oven-baked, naturally leavened bread that has been baked by bakeries in northern Italy (Milan) since the 15th century. There are various stories about its origin.

The most romantic legend about the invention of Panettone is the story of Ughetto, a young Milanese nobleman who fell desperately in love with Adalgisa, the daughter of a poor baker named Toni. To win her hand, the nobleman disguised himself as a baker, worked restlessly burning the midnight oil, and invented a rich bread in which he added to the flour and yeast, butter, eggs, dried raisins and candied lemon and orange peel. When the word spread, customers flooded the bakery to buy this delicious treat.

Ughetto gave Toni credit for the invention. Soon, everybody in Milan was asking for “Pan di Toni” (Tony’s bread) from which derived the word Panettone. So Ughetto eventually “crowned” his love dream and married Adalgisa.

According to another tale, Panettone was first baked “accidentally” by a lazy Milanese baker called Antonio or Toni. Since he wasn’t excited about his job, Toni did not pay much attention while he was making bread. One day, he accidentally spilt a jar of sugar, candied fruits and raisins into the bread dough. Since he was in a hurry to complete the task, he put the dough into the oven anyway.

The day after, his customers, upon cutting the loaves, discovered the “variations” he made. Sweet candies and sultanas were definitely a change. However, they very much liked the “new” product and named it “Tony’s bread.”

Historians say that Panettone was already baked in the 10th century. It is believed that it was an “evolved” version of the tra-

The 34th edition of the Custonaci’s Presepe Vivente or Living Nativity Scene set in the breathtaking Grotta di Mangiapane, a majestic ancient Paleolithic cave named after the household that lived in it from the 19th century to the end of World War II, returns from Dec. 24, 2015 to Jan. 6, 2016 featuring a unique and original representation of the birth of Jesus staged by about 160 re-enactors performing 65 different craftsman, domestic life and vendor activities recalling the lifestyles and cultures of pre-industrial Sicily. (Photo by http://blog.prestiaecomande.it/)

ditional “Pan Grande” (big bread). Pan Grande was a popular food that was consumed in Italy during Christmas time. Sometimes it was enriched with raisins and candied fruits. Christmas bread remained a Milanese specialty until the turn of the century. Later on, the tradition spread from Milan throughout Italy arriving also in Sicily and America as Sicilian immigrants brought their food traditions with them.

Because of the high cost of bakery-produced cakes, many families used to make it

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U.S. NAVY HEADLINES Honor and Balsam: Wreaths Across America THE SIGNATURE

December 18, 2015

by mc2 Charlotte Oliver

Defense Media Activity

The impressive spread of vibrant green coniferous trees make the quintessential Christmas trees and wreaths. It is home to Worcester Wreath Company and is also home to the nonprofit organization "Wreaths Across America".

The idea for Wreaths Across America (WAA) started in 1992 when Morrill Worcester, owner of Worcester Wreath Company, found his company with a large

surplus of wreaths near the end of the holiday season. Worcester looked back on a childhood memory as a 12-year-old boy working a paper route for the Bangor Daily News. He had won a trip to Washington, D.C. It would be his first visit to our nation's capital and it would leave a profound impact on Worcester decades later.

"I didn't want to throw them away. They were nice and fresh so I thought about Arlington, because of the impact it had on me as a boy," said Morrill as he

looked out onto an impressive spread of trees that make hundreds of thousands of wreaths each year.

With help of then Maine Senator Olympia Snowe, Worcester was able to make arrangements to have the surplus wreaths placed at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C. They were placed in an older section of the cemetery, one that received less and less visitors every year.

A local trucking company provided transportation of the

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wreaths to Arlington and volunteers from a local American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars Posts paired with community members to decorate the wreaths with a traditional red, hand-tied bow. Members of the Maine State Society of Washington, D.C. helped to organize the wreath-laying, which included a special ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

This became an annual tribute that went on quietly for over decade, when in 2005, a photo was published of the wreaths adorning the headstones covered in snow. Suddenly Worcester found his act of kindness receiving national attention and thousands volunteer requests pouring in from all over the country.

"We didn't really know what had happened. That was the 14th year actually, and we placed our 5,000 wreaths," reflected Morrill on that moment. "But then I started getting mail from people and they were sending me checks, and they were thanking me for what we did and all this stuff and I really didn't understand what this was all about."

"All of a sudden what we'd been doing since 1992, the cat was outta the bag and people wanted to get involved," said Karen Worcester, Morrill's wife, and Executive Director of WAA. Worcester was unable to donate thousands of wreaths to each state; Worcester began sending seven wreaths, representing each branch of the military and POW/ MIA service members to every veteran cemetery that wanted to participate in WAA day.

In 2007, Worcester, his family, veterans, and others who had helped with the annual Arlington wreath ceremony formed WAA to help continue and expand this event and support other groups around the country who wanted to hold the same type of ceremony.

"So in 2006, we decided that we were going to have to do something to answer the call

and I think what I love about Wreaths Across America is, it wasn't something that the family said 'oh let's have a 501-C3', we were almost led by the call of what the people wanted," Karen said of the near decade old family run non-profit. "It's not coming from some brainstorm that the Worcester family had, it's from listening to the families and listening to the gold star families and the veterans as to what they think is important to put out there for Wreaths Across America and how we can help with our mission."

WAA has a simple, but powerful mission: Remember. Honor. Teach.

In 2008, over 100,000 wreaths were placed on veteran's graves at over 300 locations around the U.S. including Puerto Rico and 24 cemeteries overseas with the help of over 60,000 volunteers.

That same year, Congress unanimously voted December 13 as "Wreaths Across America Day".

In 2014, WAA and volunteers worldwide laid over 700,000 wreaths at 1,000 locations. WAA was also able to include wreath laying ceremonies at the Pearl Harbor Memorial, Bunker Hill, Valley Forge and the sites of the September 11 tragedies. WAA was also able to accomplish covering Arlington National Cemetery, placing 226,525 wreaths.

To make this possible WAA has had help from over 2,000 fundraising groups, corporate contributions and donations of trucking, shipping and countless volunteers.

The wreath laying is held annually on the second or third Saturday of December. WAA's pilgrimage from Harrington, Maine to the nation's capital is the world's largest veterans' parade.

They stop at schools, monuments, veterans' homes and communities along the way reminding people how important it is to 'Remember, Honor, Teach.'

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December 18, 2015

Helpful ideas for facing the pre- mid- and post-deployment stages as a couple From Fleet and Family Support Center

Hopelessness in the face of deployment or TDY (especially when it involves danger or a lengthy period of time) is a common feeling. It's also a feeling you can "do something about." Following are several helpful hints for facing the pre- mid- and post- deployment stages as a couple.

Pre-Deployment

• Embrace the tension. When preparing for war, it's common for men to become emotionally detached. It's a mission-essential battlefield coping mechanism that allows them to operate and endure under extreme pressure and loss. On the other hand, it's common for wives of deploying military men to become emotionally needy as they prepare to face a long, lonely period of time without their husbands. Mutually and verbally realize your opposite tendencies as you see them manifest themselves. Laugh about them if you can. Compromise and understanding are key.

• Be present in the moment. It's all too easy to succumb to the grief of your upcoming separation, to lose yourself in the fears and tears. As important as it is to acknowledge and experience these negative feelings, it's equally important to acknowledge the positive feelings and moments. Take in the beautiful scenery while the two of you drive to the store for milk. Chuckle together when the spaghetti boils over. Tell your spouse how head-over-heels you are for him or her.

• Make time for "couple" time. This is especially key as deployment nears.

Depending on your schedules and the advance notice you are given, this may mean devoting as much as a week of evenings or as little as the last evening together. Say goodbyes to family, friends and coworkers in advance. You may find that making love the second-to-the-last evening together allows for a more-memorable, less-hurried/stressed experience. Allow the final evening together and the final goodbye to be something sacred between the two of you, void of outside interference. Remind your partner of important promises you've made to one another. Reaffirm your love and commitment. Set personal and mutual goals for the time apart.

Discuss expectations for the final goodbye.

Mid-Deployment

• Envelop yourself in community. After the initial goodbye, you may feel as if you've been socked in the stomach. You'll find yourself grieving the loss of time together and possibly fearing you'll never see your spouse again. Allow yourself important moments alone to collect yourself, but be sure to find and spend time with others who understand and support you. This isn't the time to become "super-spouse" and go it alone!

• Communicate lovingly. Take advantage of every opportunity and avenue to communicate, be it phone, Internet or postal mail. Never end a conversation, email or letter angrily.

A small amount of anger combined with an immense distance and time span can eat the two of you up inside. Don't be afraid to be open about your day-to-day struggles and fears. Don't try to resolve a large problem over long distance in a limited amount of time if you don't absolutely have to. When sending letters and packages, consider your spouse's nature. If he isn't a big fan of reading but is looking forward to buying a house, send him letters with pictures cut out of a home-decorating catalog, along with real estate magazines. If he's easily embarrassed, don't decorate the outside of a care package with cutesy heart stickers and mortifying personal nicknames.

• Continue building your life together. Some days will be tougher than others to persevere. Despite what others tell you,

you don't need to "move on without him" and you aren't "temporarily single."

There is much you can do to continue building and bettering your life together while your spouse is away. If the two of you are in debt, look for ways to earn and save to rid yourselves of the financial burden. Learn to bake his favorite childhood foods. Read up on being a mom if you plan to have kids some day.

Do something that makes you happy and let him know you did so. (You deserve it, and he'll be glad to know you're taking care of yourself.) Similarly, maintain your health by exercising regularly, taking a daily vitamin, getting enough sleep and eating well.

Post-Deployment

• Accept the change. When the two of you first married, it probably took awhile to merge your belongings, past experiences and ideals. You were coming from two different perspectives and worlds. Prepare to be newlyweds all over again — in both exciting and frustrating ways. War changes the lives and values of those it touches, including spouses and children of service members. Experts recommend one day of reintegration for each day of deployment.

• Look to the future. Pat yourselves on the back! You've made it through an amazing hurdle that many couples will never experience. In an effort to bring closure, sit down with your spouse and pinpoint a couple of positive things in your individual lives and marriage that happened as a result of the deployment: You single-handedly held down the fort while he was away; he, with your loving support, helped bring democracy to a country in turmoil; the communication in your marriage bettered ten-fold. Compile a scrapbook of letters and mementos from the deployment, or frame a homecoming picture. While the two of you will never fully be able to put this experience in the past, you can do your best to view it in a positive light.

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NASSIG to start radon testing on Jan. 5 From U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - Naval Air Station Sigonella (NASSIG) will begin a scheduled one-year test of indoor radon levels on Jan. 5, as part of an on-going Navy wide program. Personnel from NAVFAC Atlantic and the U.S. Department of Energy Oak Ridge National Laboratory will install the radon detectors in all ground contact family housing quarters and within enclosed, occupied nonresidential buildings, schools, childcares, lodges and barracks at the installation. They will be placed in basements and ground-level indoor spaces that are occupied for at least 4 hours per day. The detectors, about the size of a half US dollar, will be attached to the wall 6 to 8 ft from the floor and only take a few minutes to install. Detector placement is expected to be completed by Jan. 27.

Radon is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas that is produced by the breakdown (radioactive decay) of naturally occurring uranium which is found in small amounts in soils and rocks throughout the world. Outdoors, radon is harmlessly diluted by the atmosphere. However, in enclosed places like buildings, radon can accumulate to unacceptable levels. The US EPA has estimated that 14% of all homes in the United States have elevated levels of radon. Elevated radon has also been found in almost every country in the world as well and no area in the world is considered radon free. Many years of exposure to elevated radon levels can lead to an increased risk of lung cancer. Lifetime exposure risks to elevated radon rank 2nd only behind smoking in lung cancer deaths in the United States.

The health of its military personnel, their dependents, and employees is a primary concern of the Navy. When various medical studies showed that radon could be a potential health risk, the Navy developed a program called the Navy Radon Assessment and Mitigation Program (NAVRAMP) to identify and manage radon at all Naval installations worldwide.

Although radon testing performed at NASSIG in the late 1980s did not identify any problems (all results were well below the US EPA 4 pCi/L action level), retesting was deemed prudent because of all the new construction and renovations (tight buildings can be prone to having elevated radon) performed since the last testing was performed. If elevated radon is found, it is easily correctable by providing additional ventilation to the space or by other accepted means. Results from this study are not expected before early spring 2017. If you have any question on radon, please contact the NASSIG Environmental Program Director, Kristen Bass at 624-2725 or kristen.bass@eu.navy.mil, or visit the US EPA publication website at http://www.epa.gov/radon/pubs/index.html.

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"NATIVITY" continued from Page 6 at home. In addition to the traditional candied fruit and raisin fillings, modern Panettone can be mixed with chocolate drops, chocolate frosting, dates, almonds, ice cream and even champagne cream.

Torrone or nougat consists of a mixture of sugar, honey, egg whites, almonds and hazelnuts. It is also a very ancient dessert, probably because honey, its main ingredient, was the first truly healthy sweetener. In Ancient Rome, its presence has been documented by historical accounts reported in a cookbook written by the famous Roman gourmet Apicius. This recipe included whole eggs pepper and milk.

According to tradition, Torrone was prepared the first time in 1441 at the court of the Visconti, the Italian family that ruled Milan from the 13th century until 1447, during the wedding banquet for Bianca Maria Visconti and Francesco Sforza, the duke of Milan. Some authors believe that court confectioners shaped

December 18, 2015 the sweet like the tower of Cremona, a city that was included in the bride’s dowry. The main ingredients of this tasty dessert were: honey, almonds and beaten egg whites. The 13th-century tower, which still flanks Cremona’s main church, was then known as Torrione (big tower) therefore the dessert was given the name Torrone. The guests at the wedding banquet, who came from all over Italy and Europe, were extremely impressed by this unusual delicacy and “sang its praises” in their countries upon their return home. Cremona was then flooded with requests for shipments of Torrone that eventually became a local landmark earning a worldwide reputation.

Available in many different flavors, Torrone ranges from the traditional hard white type filled with almonds or hazelnuts to chocolate and to the soft white one. Torrone also includes different kinds of liqueurs (Rum, Gran Marnier and Strega) among its ingredients. In Sicily, pastry chefs cover Torrone with lemon, orange or pistachio frosting.

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December 18, 2015

By MC1 Tony D. Curtis NAS Sigonella Public Affairs Office

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Christmas lights décor, a wideselection of catered dishes, live deejay and festive ambiance surrounded the Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella community in the heart of NAS 1, Midtown, for the 2015 holiday party, Dec. 11.

Four hundred service members, families, and friends gathered to celebrate the winter-time holiday festivities with one another while dancing, eating, and enjoying entertainment that included opportunities to win a prize.

“This year, we started planning early for the holiday party.

We started planning in February and fundraising in April,” said Logistics Specialist 1st Class E.J. Orencia, “We were able to raise more than $16,000 to go toward food, prizes and coins.”

Throughout the night, they were able to give away 63 prizes, while every attendee also received a custom-made challenge coin.

Different organizations assisted with the fundraising, set up and execution of the holiday party. “We want to give a huge thanks to the Junior Enlisted Association, Coalition of Sailors against Destructive Decisions, Filipino-American association, Sigonella First Class Petty Officer Association, Navy Federal, Community Bank, MWR, and the Commissary,” said Orencia. “Without their help, we couldn’t have made this party happen.”

NAS Sigonella

Holiday Party 2015

photos by Ed Lucio

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December 18, 2015

Club Beyond: teaching students the importance of preparation By michael king Club Beyond Sigonella

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily -- Club Beyond is a faith-based program contracted through the Chapel, organized to help middle school and high school students tackle important life lessons.

This month, the Marines stormed in to help!

For both the middle school and the high school meetings, Chaplain Horne and his RP brought in Marines from the Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force (SPMAGTF) to show their gear and discuss what it takes to prepare for missions at the request of the local Club Beyond Community Director, Michael King. Students also had the opportunity to try on the gear for a “hands on” approach. These individuals also told stories about deployed life, the scariest situations they’ve been in and what got them through. Mark Amio had this to say about the special visit; “It was amazing to learn their experience during Afghanistan. Then they let me try on their armor and it was so cool. It helped me to prepare for life and get ready to live like an adult in a couple of years.”

Learning the importance of preparation is important in life. Without preparation, and taking responsibility for that preparation, we won’t be ready when it counts. Spiritual preparation follows the same principle. Horne said, “If someone doesn’t ground themselves spiritually before a storm, then that storm could take them out. But if that same person prepared themselves through prayer and by surrounding themself with like-minded believers at a Chapel service, they might come through the same storm only rattled.”

Helping teens learn how to take ownership of preparing themselves for the future – whether it is taking care of body armor, staying active, studying for a math test, talking about your feelings or active participation in your faith – is one of many things that Club Beyond strives to do at Sigonella.

Club Beyond’s next big event is a Star Wars marathon on Dec. 18, the day of this publication.

After school, middle school and high school students will gather at the NAS 1 Chapel to watch the entire original Star Wars trilogy, hang out and play Star Wars-themed games. Then, they walk to Midtown Theater to see the same-day premiere of Star Wars Episode 7: The Force Awakens. When asked about the anticipation, Andrew Taylor said, “I can’t wait, and I’m so excited. I haven’t watched any of the trailers so that I don’t see any spoilers.”

Club Beyond is taking a break for the holiday season, and will restart weekly meetings on January 5th at the normal times and locations. Club and Small Groups for middle school students meets on Tuesday from 1445-1645 at the NAS I Chapel. High school students meet on Wednesday from 1800-2000 at 2013A Bella Vista, in Marinai. For any questions, please contact the Club Beyond Sigonella Community Director, Michael King, at mking@clubbeyond.org.

Special thanks to: Ch Horne, Capt Phillips, 1Lt Rickman, SSgt Nikzad, RP2 Bulloch and LCpl Carrasco for their time and desire to help teens at Sigonella.

Kody Dean, a Club Beyond member, right, wears 70 pounds of gear provided help by Staff Sgt. Nikzad, from SPMAGTF. SPMAGTF brought their gear and discussed what it takes to prepare for missions to middle and high school students who are part of Club Beyond.

(Photo courtesy of Michael King)

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December 18, 2015

USNH Sigonella under construction

Please pardon our dust, but big changes are happening at U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella!

From U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella

Over the course of the next year, USNH Sigonella's main facility, Building 273, will be undergoing major renovations to increase the functionality, quality, and safety of the building for our patients, staff, and the community. You may have already noticed some minor renovations to administrative areas currently underway. Major construction will begin in January 2016 and continue until February 2017. The hospital will receive new flooring in all spaces, an upgraded domestic water piping system, and new public and patient restrooms.

Our goal is to limit disruptions to patient care and inconvenience to our patients. All departments will remain operational for the entire period of construction. Please visit the Command's website and Facebook page for specific details on relocation of services during this time. We apologize in advance for any inconvenience this construction may cause.

If you have any concerns regarding safety or have questions about the construction in general, please contact our Customer Service Officer via an ICE comment under "Hospital Staff / Customer Relations." We are excited to provide these facility improvements to the community.

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December 18, 2015

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

An E-4 with less than two years of service was suspected of using drugs and was given a urinalysis test. Results indicated positive use of a schedule 2 controlled substance. Member went to Captain's Mast where punishment was awarded: 45 days restriction, 45 days extra duty, forfeiture of half-month's pay for two months, and reduction in rate. The now, E - 3 Sailor will be facing mandatory administrative processing where member may be separated with an Other Than Honorable characterization of service discharge.

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

NAS Sigonella Chapel Holiday Services: CATHOLIC SERVICES

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

Knights of Columbus • First Wednesday of the month - 5 p.m. at NAS 2 Chapel

NIGHT STUDY • AA Meetings - Monday - 5:30 p.m., 2nd Floor at NAS 1 Chapel; Thursday - 7 p.m. at NAS 2 Chapel • AA Family Group - Tuesday - 7 p.m. at NAS 2 Chapel • Tuesday - Italian Class - 7 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel Classroom • Tuesday - Awana Club - 4:45 p.m at NAS 1 Chapel PROTESTANT SERVICES Dec. 20 - Nativity Play 11 a.m. worship at NAS 1 Chapel Dec. 20 - Christmas Service and dinner 6 p.m. NAS 2 Chapel Dec. 24 - Christmas Eve Service and Communion 11 a.m. at USNH Dec. 24 - Christmas Eve Candlelight Service 7 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel CHRISTMAS EVE CONCERT

6:30 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel

Weekly Traffic Reports: Dec. 7 - 14, 2015

Ristorante Bella Etna Friday, Dec. 19 Breakfast: Griddle Fried Eggs (Eggs to Order), Grilled Sausage Patties, Chicken Tocino Lunch: Fresh Assorted Pizza, Grilled Pork Chops, Baked Fish Dinner: Cantonese Spareribs, Baked Tuna & Noodles Saturday, Dec. 20 Breakfast: Griddle Fried Eggs (Eggs to Order), Oven Fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash Brunch: Griddle Fried Eggs (Eggs to Order), Oven Fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash, Roast Beef Dinner: Pasta Al Forno Baked Chicken Fillet Sandwich

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

Weekend / Holiday: 7-9 a.m.

Sunday, Dec. 21 Breakfast: Griddle Fried Eggs (Eggs to Order), Oven Fried Bacon, Grilled Minute Steak Brunch: Griddle Fried Eggs (Eggs to Order), Oven Fried Bacon, Grilled Minute Steak, Baked Chicken Dinner: Penne w/ Shrimp Alfredo Sauce, Chicken Parmesan Monday, Dec. 22 Breakfast: Griddle Fried Eggs (Eggs to Order), Minced Beef W/ Toast, Oven Fried Bacon Lunch: Fresh Assorted Pizza Roast Turkey, Beef & Broccoli Dinner: Meat Loaf, Fiesta Chicken

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

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

Tuesday, Dec. 23 Breakfast: Griddle Fried Eggs (Eggs to Order), Grilled Sausage Patties, Grilled Minute Steak Lunch: Fish Taco, Ground Beef Tacos, Barbecued Spareribs, Fried Chicken Dinner: Lemon Baked Fish, Chicken Fried Steak Wednesday, Dec. 24 Breakfast: Griddle Fried Eggs (Eggs to Order), Oven Fried Bacon, Creamed Ground Beef w/ Toast Lunch: Grilled Hamburger, Grilled Cheeseburger, French Fried Potatoes, Baked Fish w/ Cherry Tomatoes, Lasagna Dinner: Salisbury Steak, Baked Chicken Fillet Sandwich, Oven Browned Potatoes

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

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

Thursday, Dec. 25 Breakfast: Griddle Fried Eggs (Eggs to Order), Oven Fried Bacon, Grilled Minute Steak Lunch: Pasta Bar, Roast Beef, Turkey Pot Pie Dinner: Grilled Pork Chops, Chicken Alfredo w/ Penne Pasta Friday, Dec. 26 Breakfast: Griddle Fried Eggs (Eggs to Order), Grilled Sausage Patties, Chicken Tocino Lunch: Fresh Assorted Pizza Roast Pork, Grilled Fish Salmon Dinner: Italian Sausage W/ Peppers & Onions, Savory Baked Chicken

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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December 18, 2015

GAME ZONE Christmas

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

The remaining letters spell a secret message.

ANGEL BELLS BETHLEHEM CANDLES CANDY CANE CAROLS DECORATIONS EGGNOG FAMILY FRANKINCENSE FRIENDS spacer FRUITCAKE GABRIEL GIFTS

GOLD GREETING CARDS HOLLY ICICLES JESUS JOSEPH LIGHTS MANGER MARY MISTLETOE MYRRH ORNAMENTS POINSETTIA SANTA

SHEPHERDS SKATES SLEIGH SNOWFLAKES SNOWMAN STABLE STAR STOCKING THREE WISE MEN TOBOGGAN TOYS TREE WREATH

DIFFICULT

December 18, 2015

MEDIUM

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EASY

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December 18, 2015

Filipino American Association: Sharing holiday spirit By ps2 ralph ablian Fil-Am Public Affairs

NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily Sigonella's Filipino-Americans (Fil-Am) Association gave Christmas gifts to 25 children with special needs at Casa Famiglia De Luca located at Monterosso a small town of Sant’ Antonio with the help of Dr.Lunetta who coordinate the event.

Casa Famiglia De luca was founded in 1970 by an Italian Catholic priest named Don Oreste Benzi. This orphanage is part of the Pope John XXIII community. Father Benzi believed that everybody is equal in the eyes of God especially those with special needs.

Francesca De Luca the person who oversees the house stated that “We must be where these people are.” She explained that this orphanage is special in that they care for the kids 365 days a year and there’s always a mother and a father figure that will be there for them. She also added that they lived as ordinary people and treat everybody as their biological family.

Francesca concluded by saying, “Noi Condividiamo la nustra vita con gli ultimi”, which means “Everybody is welcome here.”

Fil-Am President, Mr. Rolly Bandola said, “The best part of this community relations event was when the members started calling the kids' names and seeing the smile of every

Sigonella's Fil-Am Association shared the Christmas holiday cheer at the Casa Famiglia De Luca at Monterosso. Casa Famiglia De Luca is an orphanage home for special needs children. (Photo courtesy of Filipino-American Association)

child while they trying to open up their gifts gave me a sense of satisfaction”. Also, the Fil-Am association decided to adopt this community to be a part of

their family in the years to come.

Christmas is about giving from the heart and the spirit of sharing what we have with those people who are most

in need. This is also a good way of showing our kids the importance of giving not only during the Christimas season, but every day.

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Lead in Priority Area (LIPA) water sampling results

By Installation Water Quality Board From: NAS Sigonella Commanding Officer Dear Sigonella Citizens, I am pleased to announce that the PWD Team has completed the Lead in Priority Area (LIPA) water sampling and mitigation as required by OPNAV and EPA guidance. The water at NASSIG continues to be safe to drink, and the Installation Water Quality Board is committed to full transparency.

The safety and wellness of your children is of the utmost concern to all of us here at NAS Sigonella, and I want to assure you that we will always make providing a healthy environment for our children at base facilities priority #1.

Children are particularly vulnerable to lead contamination in drinking water.

In 2014 the Navy funded a program to test base drinking water worldwide in Priority Areas to ensure our children are protected from any harmful effects drinking water containing unacceptable levels of lead would pose. The Priority Areas sampled include: • Sigonella Middle/High School • Sigonella Elementary School • NEX Food Court • Child Development Center • Marinai Teen Center • Midtown • School Age Care Center • Library A notice of the sampling was released in the 19 September 2014 The Signature. The PWD Environmental Team has worked over the past year to sample each source of drinking water where children are regularly present at NAS Sigonella. In total 396 water fixtures were sampled.

Of the 396 fixtures sampled, 16 were initially above the screening level established by Navy policy and the EPA for priority areas. The fixtures were immediately removed from service and remained secured until remedial actions were completed and the fixtures tested below the screening levels. You were notified by All Hands e-mail message and in the 23 January 2015 The Signature of the results that exceeded the screening level.

The PWD Team has rectified all of the exceedances, and every fixture in priority areas has tested below the screening level. The root causes of the exceedances have been addressed and processes put into place to minimize the future risk. Sampling in priority areas is required every five years.

If you are interested in more information, a sampling report is available and posted to the NAS Sigonella CNIC website at the link below or you may contact Rachel Methvin, P.E., NAS Sigonella Drinking Water Program Manager: 6247220; rachel.methvin@eu.navy.mil. http://www.cnic.navy.mil/content/dam/cnic/cnreurafswa/pdfs/NASSIG/ Bromate/Lead_in_Priority_Areas_Testing_Report_NASSIG_FINAL.pdf As always, we, your entire drinking water team, are 100% committed to keeping your drinking water safe and you well-informed.

Captain CJ Dennis

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December 18, 2015