Club Beyond:
Newly-Frocked:
Holiday Shipping:
Sigonella Youth has fun in Mocta Paintball!
Check to see who advanced!
What's not allowed!
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December 4, 2015
Vol. 32 No. 46
Sigonella welcomes 50 newly-frocked Sailors By Nicole Ybarra NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily - Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella held a frocking ceremony Dec. 1 for 50 Sailors selected for advancement to E4, E5, and E6. During the ceremony, NAS Sigonella Commanding Officer, Capt. Christopher Dennis, presented each Sailor with a frocking designation letter authorizing wear of the next pay grade. Dennis congratulated the newly frocked Sailors and underscored the increased responsibilities associated with the new rank. “The rank that we wear on our shoulders is not ours to keep, but to earn every day,” stated Dennis. For many Sailors, the key to advancement this cycle was preparation. “I studied my bibliographies and went to Aviation Support Division for in-rate training outside of work hours,” explained Logistics Specialist 3rd Class Bailey Oostenryk. Command Master Chief Mike Kaszubowski said he strongly believes in his three guidelines for success: lead by example, create opportunities for others to succeed, and have a positive attitude. “It was an amazing day to see 50 awesome Sailors advance to the pay grade of E4, E5 and E6. Hands down, the best part of being a CMC is watching Sailors earn their next pay grade. BZ, Shipmates," said Kaszubowski. While acknowledging the hard work of the Sailors, many expressed their gratitude to the positive mentors and role models who were key to their advancement. “I wouldn’t be here today if it weren’t for the support of my family, and my mentors, namely Senior Chief Master-at-Arms John Richardson,” said Master-at-Arms 1st Class Shelby Smith.
Gunners Mate 1st Class Clare Calvery salutes NAS Sigonella's Commanding Officer Capt. Christopher Dennis during a frocking ceremony held at NAS 2, Dec. 1. Fifty Sailors received the title and wear the uniform of their next paygrade of E-6, E-5 or E-4. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ramon Go/Released)
December marks10-year anniversary of 2005 flood by Nicole Ybarra NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – For many of us, last month’s flooding and subsequent cancellation of non-essential base activities was an unprecedented event. Unfortunately, NAS Sigonella and the surrounding area is prone to flooding. December 2015 marks the 10-year anniversary of the great Sigonella flood. Continuous rainfall over several days beginning Dec. 13, 2005, resulted in flooding and power outages aboard NASSIG and the surrounding areas where six inches to three feet of standing water were reported. The
flooding trapped around 475 families overnight without power or running water. Those confined to their houses and needing supplies signaled with flashlights and base officials distributed bottled water, MREs (meals ready to eat), and other supplies. Entrance of emergency personnel, wearing snorkel gear, was possible only by Humvee. Floodwaters rendered the surrounding roads impassable and swept away vehicles. Sailors from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 8 rescued another Sailor and two Italians stranded and hanging on a pile of debris. The commanding officer of the base declared a state of emergency
and ordered a mandatory evacuation of the Marinai Housing complex. The base worked around the clock with its host nation counterparts to successfully orchestrate the evacuation of Marinai residents. On Dec. 19, Italian police escorted approximately 20 buses transporting residents to a camp established by the CO at the bowling alley on NAS 1 where a temporary Red Cross and housing processing area had been established. About 500 families were placed in temporary lodging at various hotels in the local area. Despite widespread damage, no one was injured during the flooding and evacuation. And in the aftermath of the natural disaster, the community
pulled together in the cleanup efforts. Dynamic and creative solutions were instituted to meet the needs of the community and ranged from the base galley serving more than 2,700 meals to residents cleaning out their homes, to the commissary donating supplies directly through their store in Sigonella. Residents were given the option of temporary lodging until their housing was once again habitable, or moving onto the economy permanently. Due to the collaborative spirit of the entire NASSIG community, operations were restored as quickly as possible, relocation was facilitated smoothly, and no injuries were reported.
Six inches to three feet of standing water were reported to have accumulated overnight, temporarily isolating about 475 families in Marinai, Dec. 13, 2005. (Photo archived)
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December 4, 2015
Direct Line
December 4, 2015
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Comment regarding "BZ for CDC":
During our son's time with the School Aged Care (SAC) program he has shown great improvement in both his interpersonal skills and eagerness to excel in academics. He wakes up excited each day and always seems disappointed when we pick him up. We want to express our sincere gratitude to the entire SAC staff and offer a heartfelt "Thank You" for your ever-present smiles and helping our son grow day by day into a better young man. We love having our child in their program! Sincerely, CDRs John and Kim Broom
Command Master Chief Mike Kaszubowski Saluti Sigonella,
Response:
Dear CDR and CDR Broom, thank you for writing such a thoughtful tribute to our SAC program and team. I am very pleased to hear about your son's positive experience. Our Child and Youth Programs (CYP) team strives to consistently provide high-quality, innovative, accessible, and affordable child care that supports school readiness and recreational programs for children and youth. Your feedback has been shared with a grateful SAC staff. Thank you again for writing, CJD
I hope everyone enjoyed their Thanksgiving break and spent time with family and friends. I spent the holiday with my family in London and I am sure there are many others around base who took the opportunity to travel during the four-day weekend. Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. I love frying a turkey, having friends and family over and just relaxing while we all eat, eat, eat. It’s truly a time to be thankful for what we have, where we live and those who we have in our life. There is just something special about this holiday! It’s hard to believe that Christmas is right around the corner. As the XO touched upon last week, we are proud to announce an upcoming holiday visit by the USO for our troops here at NAS SIG. The USO is an outstanding organization and they are bringing a bunch of awesome actors, comedians and artists here to the base on Dec. 5. I hope everyone gets a chance to see the live show. Lastly, on Dec. 1 I had the honor to frock some Sailors and shake some hands. The best part about being a CMC is watching Sailors advance through the ranks and I would like to congratulate the following on their advancement to Petty Officer 1st, 2nd and 3rd class!
Comment regarding "BZ for CDC":
I would like to share about the wonderful full-time care the CDC provides my daughter. Autumn, Alyssa & Courtney are wonderful teachers who have helped us smoothly transition our 18-month old daughter into a learning environment. She looks forward to going to the CDC each morning! I appreciate the wonderful care provided as well as the constant, thorough communication from the staff. Keep up the great work! Sincerely, Ashley Smith
Response:
Dear Ms. Smith, I am so happy knowing our community children look forward to attending our Child and Youth Programs each day! So thank you as well for your specific positive feedback about Autumn, Alyssa, and Courtney. MWR Director Paul Lopez has shared your comments with the CDC management and staff. Thank you and we look forward to continuing to serve you and your family.
Comment regarding "Policy Change for Motorcycle Riders":
A few weeks back you made an All Hands Call with the Seabees during which a question arose about changing the motorcycle riders' policy inside the NAS Triangle to allow riders the same advantage as those who use four wheels during their work commute. If you've had a chance to do so would you please inform us of your decision?
***Petty Officer 1st Class*** ALLEN MICHAIL EVAN - (ABH1) BOOKER TABATHA NECOLE - (NC1) CALVERY CLARE NAOMI - (GM1) KIMMELL BARRY ALLEN - (MA1) MATHER BRYAN SCOTT - (MA1) SMITH SHELBY ALLEN - (MA1) VARGAS GARY THEODORE - (MA1) WHITE BUDDEE JOEL - (LS1) ***Petty Officer 2nd Class***
BINCE REGINALD - (MA2) BRANDENBURG ZACHARY W. - (MA2) CASTILLO CRISTIAN ENRIQUE - (MA2) DRIESSEN ADAM JOHN - (MA2) FORREST JACKIE ROOSEVELT II - (MA2) HEMBREE TRAVIS LEE II - (MA2) HOLMES LAFITTE JERMAINE JR - (MA2) JAHARIAS KRISTEN TYLER - (MA2) JOINER KEAIRRA MICHELLE - (MA2) MCANERNY SHEANA MARIE - (MA2) MICKLER SEAN MYKEL - (MA2) MOORE DWAYNE KEITH JR - (MA2) MILLSAP CASSANDRA YVONNE - (YN2) PERRAULT KIRK LAWRENCE - (GM2) REINERT PARKER SCOTT - (ET2) URIARTE MARA ELENA - (MA2) WEISS ABIGAIL KATHRYN - (MA2) WILSON DEONTAY - (LS2) WRIGHT JONATHAN LAKAI JR - (ET2)
Response:
Dear Petty Officer Hilfer, thank you for the follow up. At present the answer is "no" due to current EUCOM directives. Even prior to recent changes motorcycle riding in uniform in Europe had been suspended. While this prohibition does add time to our days it is to protect all of us from what have been troubling events here in Europe. ***Petty Officer 3rd Class***
BURTON JOSHUA PAUL - (MA3) CALDWELL KHALIB AMEN - (LS3) CASTRO VICTORIA MARIE - (LS3) CRAWFORD JENNA LEE - (MA3) DESS ZACHARY STEPHEN - (MA3) DICKERT BRITTANY NICOLE - (MA3) DOUGLASS ZACHERY TYLER - (MA3) GODFREY WADE DAVIS - (MA3) HERNANDEZ NATHANIEL RAY - (MA3) HILGENDORF SHANE D. - (MA3) KIFF MORGAN HAILEY - (MA3) LEWIS KRISTIE LEE - (MA3) LOVELL CIERRA DAWN - (LS3) MCDANIEL SIERRA RAE - (AC3) MURDOCH SAGE ADAM - (MA3) ODISIO CASEY JOHN - (MA3) OOSTENRYK BAILEY ANN - (LS3) PRYOR GARRETT MICHAEL - (MA3) SESSOMS LAURA MAE - (MA3) STIGALL JONATHAN MANN. - (MA3) TEMPLE CAMERON PHILLIP - (ABH3) WILLIAMS EVAN CHARLES - (MA3) WOSTENBERG GIOVANNA T. - (MA3)
As always Sigonella, lead yourself exceptionally well, create opportunities for others to succeed and have a positive attitude. See you around the base.
Commanding Officer's Suggestion Box The ICE/CO Suggestion Box is for our community and Commanding Officer to discuss, with an eye toward constant improvement, how we are excelling* and how we can improve**. The Signature and NASSIG Facebook Page typically publish comments and responses for the benefit of the Sigonella community. Comments/suggestions are useful when objective, constructive, and specific. ICE/CO Suggestion Box is NOT a forum for mean-spirited attacks. * If you submit a "BZ" about a specific person or department, PLEASE PROVIDE YOUR NAME in order to ensure comment authenticity and therefore publically recognize employees or organizations. ** The Commanding Officer will ensure a response to all signed comments/suggestions and the vast majority of anonymous ones but reserves the right to disregard those comments/ suggestions disinterested in the spirit of the program! There are two ways to submit; go to: 1) Interactive Customer Evaluation (ICE) home page on a One-Net computer at: http://ice.disa.mil, All Sigonella services are found under the Navy Europe Listing in the scroll-down menu. – or – 2) NAS Sigonella's website www.cnic.navy.mil/Sigonella, go to the "About" drop down menu and click on "CO Suggestion Box".
Comment regarding "BZ for SW2 Hatchett":
Public Works' SW2 Hatchett went above and beyond to assist the Occupational Health staff by fixing several locks within minutes of us submitting the request after he'd already worked very hard on a different job. Thanks to Petty Officer Hatchett and all Sig' Citizens like him, dedicated to their profession and the customers they serve! Very Respectfully, HM1 Hartsfield
Response:
Petty Officer Hartsfield, thanks for the shout-out. I've really enjoyed reading all the atta-boys for Public Works lately. I am always glad to hear our service providers are meeting our high standard of CO Customer Service! And of course, BZ and thank you to Petty Officer Hatchett!
Comment regarding "Bus Drop-off near NATO AGS":
As NAS 2's NATO AGS command continues to grow, can we consider adding a bus stop near Bldg. 177?
Response:
Thank you for the recommendation! At present we are conducting a transportation study and Public Works is looking into what would be required to make a new stop as part of the established route and whether we can make a nocost modification to the current bus contract. We will keep you and the entire community up to date!
THE SIGNATURE U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION SIGONELLA Commanding Officer Capt. Chris Dennis Executive Officer Cmdr. Charles G. McKinney II Command Master Chief CMDCM Mike Kaszubowski EDITORIAL Public Affairs Officer Lt. Paul Newell paul.newell@eu.navy.mil Editor Nicole Ybarra nicole.ybarra@eu.navy.mil Community Relations Officer Dott. Alberto Lunetta alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil PAO Staff Writers \ Photographers MC1 Tony D. Curtis anthony.curtis@eu.navy.mil MC2 Ramon Go ramon.go@eu.navy.mil CONTACT US Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily thesig@eu.navy.mil DSN 624-5440; 095-86-5440 PSC 812 Box 7, FPO, AE 09627-0001 PUBLISHER Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity Capodichino (Naples), Italy stampagenerale@tin.it Tel. 081-568-7884 Fax 081-568-7887 This civilian enterprise (CE) newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the military services overseas. Contents of The Signature are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense (DoD), or the U.S. Navy. The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the DoD or Stampa Generale S.r.l., of the products or services advertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factorof the purchaser, user or patron. A confirmed violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser will result in the refusal to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. The Signature is published weekly by Stampa Generale S.r.l., Sig. Bruno Brandi, Publisher, Naval Support Activity, Capodichino (Naples), Italy. Tel. 081-568-7884. Fax 081-568-7887. E-mail: stampagenerale@tin.it. Editorial submissions are welcomed from all Naval Air Station Sigonella departments, divisions and tenant commands. Editorial submissions should be sent to the Public Affairs Office via thesig@eu.navy.mil, guard mail stop #68 or hand-delivered to our office no later than the close of business on the Friday proceeding the expected publication date. All articles submitted by non-staff members will be considered contributing writers. The Signature will not publish anyanonymous articles. All advertisements in this publication are the property of Stampa Generale S.r.l. Any reproduction of advertisements in The Signature is unauthorized without the written consent of the publisher. cnic.navy.mil/sigonella
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Navy in Hawaii readies to ‘Remember Pearl Harbor’ and honor the humble heroes of World War II By Rear Adm. John Fuller Commander, Navy Region Hawaii and Naval Surface Group Middle Pacific
Pearl Harbor Survivors and other World War II veterans are beginning to arrive at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickamfor observances beginning the first week in December. We will conduct this year’s formal remembrance event at Kilo Pier across the harbor from Ford Island and Battleship Row – within view of the USS Arizona Memorial and Battleship Missouri Memorial. The ceremony begins just before 8 a.m., timed to match the attack 74 years ago. Pearl Harbor Survivors and other World War II veterans are honored guests at each year’s ceremony. They come to show their respect to their shipmates and comrades who never came home. Many of them wear their own special uniform: hat, jacket and Aloha shirt. They come to teach us – and the world – the lessons of their war. When we talk to the veterans of the War in the Pacific they tell us they were just doing their jobs, serving their country, answering the call. Their gentle humility belies the strength of their character. Pearl Harbor Survivors and other WWII warfighters faced down aggression, demonstrated great resolve, and brought our nation onto the pathway to reconciliation. The result: over the past seven decades, former enemies became friends, and most Pacific Ocean nations saw greater freedom, democracy, peace and prosperity. Today, our installations, ships and submarines, and land and air forces in Hawaii are at the center of the nation’s rebalance to Asia-Pacific. From here, we help protect our homeland and ensure we do everything we can to support Adm. Harris and U.S. Pacific Command and Adm. Swift and U.S. Pacific Fleet.
Sigonella DoDDS middle and high school students play paintball during an outing with Club Beyond Nov. 21. Club Beyond organizes a fun event for the students every month. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Gregory White/Released)
Club Beyond’s colorful combat MC2 Gregory White AFN Sigonella
Pearl Harbor Survivors gather in front-row seats for the start of the 72nd anniversary commemoration of the Dec. 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nardel Gervacio/Released) The World War II veterans’ sacrifices earned our freedom. We must remain vigilant while “standing the watch” that protects what our veterans earned – we should remember that it is an honor and privilege to carry on their legacy. There will be many observances throughout the week and during the day on the 7th in and around Pearl Harbor. Of note, this year we will welcome Olympic, collegiate and national athletes and allstars, as well as top TV sports commentators from Fox Sports. They will come to
Hawaii to help commemorate the “greatest generation’s” accomplishment and to show their appreciation for our current service members’ commitment to defending the nation. They know, as we do, that the Survivors and other World War II veterans are in the military’s Hall of Famers, and – along with our veterans on active duty –are the nation’s unsung heroes and superstars. Those of you who volunteered to serve, please accept the honor to stand apart from the crowd and show your pride in the cloth of our nation – your uniform. Please help
us thank the heroes who fought for our freedom; remember the lessons and sacrifices from December 7, 1941; demonstrate our pride in the Force we support today; and always show our firm resolve to those who wish to do us harm. We will always remember Pearl Harbor because we know that history forgotten and not honored is destined to be repeated. Thank you to all the military veterans and current service members, civilian teammates and families here in Hawaii. I hope to see you at one or more of the observances in the days ahead.
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)
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Their faces were beat red from the sting of the autumn air as they sat with black masks lifted atop their heads. Moments before their hearts were racing and the colors of ammunition-fire flew through the air. “Take cover,” one screamed as nearby trees and a shelter to his right were riveted by enemy fire. “I’m out,” shouted another when her vest suffered an onslaught of pink paint. Club Beyond caters to Sigonella DoDDS Middle/High School students. On Saturday, Nov. 21, they gathered at Mocta Paintball, near Motta Sant’Anastasia, to have a blast, literally. “We meet once a week with the middle school students and once a week with the high school students,” said Michael King, director of Club Beyond Sigonella. “But every month we try to get everyone together and do some kind of special event.” Club Beyond organized and paid for the whole event and there was no shortage of participants. The youth – ranging in age and skill level – geared up, ready to face off in a series of team battles and games like capture the flag. “I used to go play paintball with my dad and some other people back in the States but this is the first time I’m doing it here,” said Reginald Mays II, a 15-year-old sophomore at the DoDDS school. The kids were in agreement that events like paintball are extra special, and that the faith-based
organization Club Beyond is more than a Chapel youth group. “At first, since it’s a Christian thing, I thought I wasn’t allowed to do it because I don’t typically believe in God,” said Nicole Jacobs, a seventh grade student. “But when I first went they made me feel really welcomed and they don’t necessarily care what you believe. It doesn’t change their perspective of you. They just want to have fun and they’re really supportive.” Before Club Beyond’s Colorful Combat began on the paintball field, Isaac Griswold, an eighth grader made his prediction on how the games would unfold. “I feel like the newbies, the new girls are going to get wrecked and start crying and it’s really going to boil down to a battle between the older kids,” said Griswold. The games began at noon on Saturday and ended at 3:00 p.m. No one cried. In fact the air was full of laughter and cheers at the end as everyone enjoyed fresh oranges from a local grove. Club Beyond promised and delivered a splash of fun, and they’re already looking forward to their next big outing. Club Beyond is an ecumenical, chapel based and community focused contracted youth program. For more information about Club Beyond, or to find out how you or your middle or high school student can be involved, contact the NAS I Chapel at 624-3975 or ask Michael King directly at mking@ clubbeyond.org.
Michael King, director of Sigonella's Club Beyond gives a student two thumbs up approving proper wear of his protective gear during a paintball outing Nov. 21. Club Beyond organizes a fun event for the DoDDS middle and high school students every month. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Gregory White/Released)
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December 4, 2015
U.S. NAVY HEADLINES December 4, 2015
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CNO, MCPON spend Thanksgiving with Truman Strike Group
Belpasso and Siracusa to honor Saint Lucia on Dec. 13
By MC3 J. R. Pacheco USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) Public Affairs
By dr alberto lunetta
"Sarausana è!" (She is definitely from Siracusa!). This is what devotees shout during the Santa Lucia (Saint Lucy) Festival to show how proud they are of the fact that this popular saint is "one of them." Just as it happens in Belpasso where Santa Lucia is also invoked for protection from natural calamities posed by Mt. Etna, this beloved patroness is still regarded as the savior of Siracusa from the terrible tsunami wave that struck Messina on Dec. 28, 1908. According to legend, the deadly wave stopped right before the outskirts of the city. Today in Siracusa, there is still an "edicola votiva," a votive shrine in piazza delle Poste that commemorates the miracle that according to pilgrims, was the work of Santa Lucia on that occasion. On Dec. 13, the communities of these cities remember her through annual spectacular and heartfelt feste religiose (religious festivals). Belpasso's townspeople have been venerating Santa Lucia since the second half of the 17th century, when the Carmelite monks began spreading the devotion towards her by organizing a religious festival in 1636, during which a Santa Lucia painting was carried in procession. Life of Saint Lucia Lucia, whose name means, "light" was born in Siracusa to a rich and noble family in 283 AD, and raised as a Christian. Although Lucia consecrated herself forever to Jesus, her mother Eutychia pressed her to marry a pagan nobleman. Since Eutychia had been suffering from hemorrhage for several years, Lucia took her on a pilgrimage to the tomb of St. Agata in Catania where she prayed for her healing. While in Catania, Lucy had a vision of St. Agata who assured her that Eutychia was healed because of her strong faith. As a result of this miracle, Lucia asked her mother to give all their properties to the poor and the sick. Eutychia agreed. But this radical decision angered the man to whom she was betrothed who denounced her as a Christian. Lucia was then brought before Paschasius, a pagan governor to whom she opposed giving up her faith. The cruel governor then ordered her to be severely punished. According to tradition, several miracles occurred during her torture. Soldiers tried to set her on fire but she did not burn. Paschasius then planned to force her into prostitution, but when the guards went to drag her away, they could not move her. Legend has it that Lucia's eyes were plucked out during her torture but God miraculously restored her sight. This explains why she is often represented as a maiden with her eyes on a plate, a book, or a shell and also why she is invoked against blindness and eye diseases. Saint Lucia is also protector against fire, and the patron of people suffering from infection, hemorrhage and sore throat. Eventually, Lucia was beheaded on Dec. 13, 304 AD. Saint Lucia’s body remained in Siracusa for many years. In 1039, Byzantine General Maniace took her human remains to Constantinople (Istanbul). Several years later, Venetian crusaders took the relics to Venice where they are still preserved inside a glass enclosed sarcophagus placed behind the altar of SS. Geremia and Lucia Church. Some relics are scattered in churches throughout Europe. Portions of her arms are kept inside the cathedral of Siracusa and in Belpasso's main church. Saint Lucia is also celebrated on Dec. 13 in Sweden. Scandinavian Christians celebrate Luciadagen (Saint Lucia's Day). It is a festival of "light" symbolizing the end of darkness. According to tradition, on the morning of Dec. 13, the oldest daughter in each family wears a white robe and puts on a wreath of greens adorned with lit candles on her head. Then she awakens the other members of the family serving coffee and goodies. During the festival, a contest to elect "Lucia Bride" is also held. Contrary to popular belief, Lucia Bride is not chosen from among the most beautiful girls but among the ones most committed to volunteering. On the day of the festival, a torchlight procession of children walks through farms, houses, and schools, singing the Lucia song. " Lucia" leads the procession followed by her "assistants" including young girls clad in white with glitter in their hair, "star-boys" (wearing white shirts and tall cone-shaped hats decorated with stars) and other children dressed as trolls, demons and old
"LUCIA" continued on Page 15
Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy Mike Stevens greets Sailors during a frocking ceremony in the hangar bay aboard aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). Stevens visited Harry S. Truman for the Thanksgiving holiday with the Chief of Naval Operations Adm. John M. Richardson. Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is deployed to support maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operation. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class K. H. Anderson/Released)
The breathtaking 50-foot tall Baroque-styled Carri (mechanized floats) depicting the life of Santa Lucia is among the highlights of the annual Belpasso Santa Lucia festival taking place on Dec. 12. Just as it happens in Siracusa, the Santa Lucia statues and her relics are processed through the narrow, crowded and decorated streets of the town centers on Dec. 13. Devotees participate with faith and devotion in this unique festival featuring religious processions, town and band performances, arts and crafts, food booths and spectacular fireworks. (Photo by Giuseppe Vitaliti)
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Atlantic Ocean (NNS) -- Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. John Richardson and Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON) Mike Stevens spent Thanksgiving with Sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) and the destroyer USS Bulkeley (DDG 84). CNO and MCPON conducted an all-hands call over the shipboard information, training, and information television (SITE TV), frocked the crew's newly advanced Sailors and served Thanksgiving dinner on the mess decks. Richardson said Thanksgiving is an important time to think of those who are spending the holidays deployed, separated from family and friends, to support the operations that keep America safe. "We've all been there and know those mixed feelings of pride at accomplishing the mission, but also missing our loved ones while deployed during this time," said Richardson in his Thanksgiving message. "For those at home, please keep these shipmates in your thoughts and prayers. If you're forward, reach out, be good company for each other, and wish your shipmate a Happy Thanksgiving." The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group (HSTCSG) deployed, Nov. 16, to support maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th and 5th Fleet areas of operation. Maritime security operations set the conditions for security and stability in the maritime environment and complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations. The operations also deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to illegally transport personnel, weapons or other material. Richardson and Stevens expressed their appreciation for the Sailors embarked with the HSTCSG and stressed the importance of the mission ahead. "As you go forward into a complex, complicated environment, I have complete faith that the Harry S. Truman Strike Group is ready in every aspect," said Richardson. "You proved during COMPTUEX that you are well trained. You're well equipped, and I know you will return stronger than when you left." CNO and MCPON also frocked Truman's 352 newly advanced Sailors and reenlisted several Sailors aboard Bulkeley. "I was always taught that Thanksgiving is a time to count your blessings," said Electrician's Mate 1st Class M. Reiner, who was frocked in the event aboard Truman. "Having your hard work and diligence pay off through advancement is definitely a blessing, but having the CNO and MCPON participate in the ceremony was icing on the cake. Today has definitely been one of those once-in-a-lifetime days in my Navy career that I won't forget." Following the ceremony, Richardson and Stevens helped Truman's Supply department carve and serve more than 3,500 pounds of Thanksgiving turkey before eating dinner with the crew. "This is my sixth consecutive Thanksgiving spent at sea," said Stevens. "It can be difficult being away from family, but there is nowhere I'd rather be for the holiday than with my shipmates. My wife and I agree, as long as I'm active duty, I belong here with the Sailors."
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Congratulations To NASSIG's Newly-Frocked Petty Officers
ABH1(AW/SW) Michail Allen
MA2 Reginald Bince
YN2(SW) Cassandra Millsap
MA3 Zachery Douglass
GM2 Kirk Perrault
MA3 Wade Godfrey
MA2 Zachary Brandenburg
ET2(SW) Parker Reinert
MA3 Nathaniel Hernandez
NC1(SW) Tabatha Booker
MA2 Cristian Castillo
MA2 Abigail Weiss
LS3 Cierra Lovell
GM1(SW) Clare Calvery
MA2 Adam Driessen
MA1 Barry Kimmell
MA2(EXW) Travis Hembree
MA1(EXW) Bryan Mather
MA2 Lafitte Holmes Jr
MA2 Kristen Jaharias
MC3 Luke Askew
LS2(AW) Deontay Wilson
AC3 Sierra McDaniel
MA1(AW) Shelby Smith
MA3 Casey Odisio
LS3 Bailey Oostenryk
MA3 Garrett Pryor
MA1 Gary Vargas
MA2 Keairra Joiner
MA3 Joshua Burton
MA3 Laura Sessoms
LS1(SS) Buddee White
MA2 Sheana McAnerny
MA3 Jenna Crawford
MA3 Jonathan Stigall
MA2 Sean Mickler
MA3 Brittany Dickert
MA3 Giovanna Wostenberg
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December 4, 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. On the heels of the November attack in Paris, a service member reported an unidentified male asking suspicious questions about Americans in the area. A local national working at a nearby club reported an unknown male entering the establishment seeking information about popular American hangouts. The local national then told an active duty service member about the incident, who then properly reported it to security. NCIS investigated the incident.
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 WOMEN OF THE CHAPEL • Tuesdays - 9 a.m. at NAS 1 Fellowship Hall; Thursdays 5 p.m. @ NAS 1 Fellowship Hall
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
LATTER-DAY SAINTS • Sunday - 1:30 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel Contact: sigonellalds@gmail.com or 6249049
PROTESTANT MEN OF THE CHAPEL • Wednesdays 6 a.m. @ NAS 1 Fellowship Hall
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
NAS Sigonella Chapel Holiday Services:
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
PROTESTANT SERVICES
CATHOLIC SERVICES
Dec. 20 - Nativity Play and Fellowship 5 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel Dec. 24 - Christmas Eve Mass 5 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel Dec. 24 - Midnight Mass and Carols 11:30 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel Dec. 25 - Christmas Day Mass 11 a.m. at NAS 2 Chapel
Dec. 20 - Nativity Play 11 a.m. worship at NAS 1 Chapel Dec. 20 - Christmas Service and dinner 6 p.m. NAS 2 Chapel Dec. 24 - Christmas Eve Service and Communion 11 a.m. at USNH Dec. 24 - Christmas Eve Candlelight Service 7 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel CHRISTMAS EVE CONCERT
6:30 p.m. at NAS 1 Chapel
Weekly Traffic Reports: Nov. 23 - 30, 2015
Ristorante Bella Etna Friday, Dec. 4 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Grilled Sausage Patties, Chicken Tocino Lunch: BBQ Ribs, Fried Chicken Speed Line: Fresh Assorted Pizza Dinner: Chili Macaroni, Grilled Ham and Cheese Sandwiches Saturday, Dec. 5 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash Brunch: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Corned Beef Hash, Corn Dogs Dinner: Savory Baked Chicken, Pasta Carbonara
Breakfast: $3.45 Mon - Fri: 6:30 - 8:30 a.m. Weekend / Holiday: 7-9 a.m.
Lunch: $5.55 Mon - Fri: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Weekend / Holiday: 11 a.m. -1 p.m.
Dinner: $4.85 Mon - Fri: 4:30 - 6 p.m. Weekend / Holiday: 4:30 -6 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 6 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Grilled Minute Steak, Oven Fried Bacon Brunch: Eggs to Order, Grilled Minute Steak, Oven Fried Bacon, Sauerbraten Dinner: Spaghetti with Meat Sauce, Oven Fried Chicken Fillet
Tuesday, Dec. 8 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Biscuits and Gravy, Oven Fried Bacon Lunch: Taco Tuesday Speed Line: Pasta Bar with Choice of Freshly Made Pasta Sauce Dinner: Baked Italian Sausage, Meatloaf
Thursday, Dec. 10 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Creamed Ground Beef on Toast, Oven Fried Bacon Lunch: Lasagna, Grilled Pork Chops Speed Line: Panini Bar and Cold Cuts Dinner: Veal Steaks, Chicken Tetrazzini
Monday, Dec. 7 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Minced Beef, Oven Fried Bacon Lunch: Roast Turkey, Hamburger Yakisoba Speed Line: Fresh Assorted Pizza Dinner: Roast Pork, Chicken Alfredo w/ Penne Pasta
Wednesday, Dec. 9 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Chicken Tocino on Garlic Fried Rice, Oven Fried Bacon Lunch: Beef Stew, Fried Catfish Speed Line: Hamburgers Dinner: Fried Chicken, Pasta al Forno
Friday, Dec. 11 Breakfast: Eggs to Order, Oven Fried Bacon, Chicken Tocino on Garlic Fried Rice Lunch: Turkey a la King, Baked Fish Speed Line: Fresh Assorted Pizza Dinner: Salisbury Steak, Penne Alfredo
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.
December 4, 2015
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GAME ZONE Real Estate 1
Saint Lucy by Domenico Beccafumi, 1521, a High Renaissance recasting of a Gothic iconic image (Pinacoteca Nazionale, Siena)
DEPRECIATION DUPLEX EXTERIOR FLIPPING FOR SALE HOUSE INSPECTOR INSURANCE INTERIOR LAND LAWYER LENDER LIEN LOAN LOFT MARKET VALUE
OFFER PAYMENT PLOT PROPERTY REALTOR SELL SKYSCRAPER SOLD SQUARE FOOTAGE TAXES TIMESHARE TOUR TRIPLEX VACANCY VALUATION ZONE
MEDIUM
AGENT AMORTIZATION APPRAISAL ASSESSMENT ASSET BUILDING BUNGALOW BUYING CLOSER COLLATERAL CONDEMNED CONDO CONTRACT CREDITOR DEED DEPOSIT
DIFFICULT
Find and circle all of the words that are hidden in the grid. The remaining 22 letters spell a common Real Estate phrase.
"LUCIA" continued from Page 6
Celebrations in Siracusa On Dec. 13, the festival begins at 10:30 a.m. with a solemn Holy Mass celebrated at the cathedral by the archbishop of Siracusa. During the Mass, religious chants are also performed. In the afternoon at 3:30 p.m., the carriage, weighing 14 tons and the holy relics, on top of which a silver statue of Saint Lucia is placed, are carried in procession, accompanied by the city band, for seven hours from the cathedral to the Basilica of Santa Lucia al Sepolcro. Fireworks are performed around 6:30 p.m. Three groups of 48 men wearing green berets alternate in carrying it. Many devotees, who also come from the neighboring cities, follow the procession barefoot holding torches. During the festival, the blessing and the free distribution of the cuccìa (cooked wheat) takes place in several houses and churches on Dec. 12 after the Holy Mass which begins at 7 p.m. Cuccìa is a typical food that is prepared for the Saint Lucia celebrations. Tradition says it was first cooked in Siracusa in the 17th century as Santa Lucia worked a miracle during a terrible famine that had hit the city. One story says that Siracusa’s bishop gathered the starving people in the cathedral to pray and implore St. Lucia for a miracle. Suddenly, a dove flew down from the sky and roosted on the bishop’s shoulders. Right after, a ship loaded with wheat docked at the port. The wheat was then boiled and eaten by the Siracusa people. Today, the cuccìa is served as a delicious porridge enriched with ricotta cheese, chocolate and candied fruits. On Dec. 20 at 4 p.m., the “ottava” (the eighth day after a feast day) is celebrated with a procession of the relics leaving from Santa Lucia to the cathedral. For more information and full schedule visit: http://www.arcidiocesi.siracusa.it/ Celebrations in Belpasso On the festival’s eve (Dec. 12) in the afternoon at 6 p.m., the solemn procession of the holy relics in performed along via Roma. Later in the evening, ancient chants are sung in piazza Duomo at 8:30 p.m. The highlight of the evening is undoubtedly the spectacular unveiling of amazing 50-foot tall Baroque-styled Carri (mechanized floats) featuring scenes telling of the life of Santa Lucia that are built by the craftsmen of the Matrice, S. Antonio and Purgatorio neighborhoods. The floats will be on display in the historic center starting around 9 p.m. Local mastri (craftsmen) began building these mesmerizing floats in the 19th century to express their devotion to the saint. On the actual festival’s day, after the unveiling of the statue which is held at 7:45 a.m. and the Holy Mass at 9 a.m., Dec. 13, the big celebrations begin at 11 a.m. at the main church with a procession during which the 18th century silver statue depicting Saint Lucia and her relics tour the historic center and a thirty-minute-firework show that is performed while devotees dressed in a white tunic named Cappa accompany the holy carriage. In the afternoon, the morning religious procession is repeated at 3:30 p.m. throughout the town. About one hour later, some devotees perform the spectacular Corsa della vara (running while carrying the Santa Lucia statue up a slope) in via Terza Retta di Levante. On Dec. 14, after the solemn Holy Mass celebrated by the Catania Archbishop at 10:30 a.m., a low-key procession is held in the historic center at 6 p.m. and it is opened by a repetition of the Corsa della vara. In the evening, starting at 11 p.m. fireworks and music shows are performed. For more information and detailed schedule visit the Town of Belpasso website: http://www.comune.belpasso.ct.it/.
EASY
men. The "Swedish Lucia" is sometimes invited to Sicily to take part in the celebrations held in Siracusa.
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December 4, 2015
Customs shopping guide for the holidays By Robert Szostek US Army Customs Agency Public Affairs
WIESBADEN, Germany - Some people are just not good at buying the right gifts. While this is often a matter of taste, people new to Europe should note that many items available in Europe may seem like good Christmas presents but violate U.S. customs rules. Some products are banned from the United States and others may only be carried in baggage, but not mailed. Violations of customs, agriculture or postal regulations can lead to hefty fines and confiscation of the goods. Meat and meat products are the biggest problem, said Julie AliagaMilos, U.S. Department of Agriculture adviser at the U.S. European Command Customs and Border Clearance Agency (CBCA). “European delicacies like French pâté, German wurst, Spanish chorizo and Italian Parma ham are here for the buying and much sought-after in the States," she said. “Unfortunately, they can also carry viruses and other animal disease agents that are not present in the U.S. and which may cause new outbreaks, such as the Foot and Mouth Disease, a virulent livestock ailment eradicated in the United States." These products are therefore banned, as are canned meats, sausages, some types of cheese, and even soup mixes or pasta containing meat. Fresh fruits and vegetables are also prohibited because they could harbor plant pests like the Mediterranean fruit fly. The threat to U.S. agriculture is so great that Customs and Border Protection (CBP) fine people who mail or take banned foods to the States a minimum of $100 as a deterrent. Criminal action for deliberate cases of smuggling can result in a $5,000 fine and a year in jail. Many European countries also make traditional nativity scenes that Americans love to buy. However, the natural products used to make them are sometimes banned from import to the U.S. because of the agricultural pests and diseases that could be on them, Aliaga-Milos noted. Shoppers
A customs border clearance agent keeps record of each inspection. Customs Border Clearance Agents are tasked with inspecting items such as personal baggage, vehicles and military equipment returning to the United States. This ensures that pests, foreign plants or contraband items do not enter the United States. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kitt Amaritnant (RELEASED)
should realize that they should not mail scenes that contain moss, bark, wood, pinecones, untreated straw or other materials that may harbor insects. However, agriculture officials say nativity scenes that are produced using finished wood, plastic, or commercially cleaned and lacquered straw (except rice straw) are fine to mail. Europe boasts many fine wines, spirits and liquor-filled candies that make original Christmas gifts. Unfortunately the U.S. Postal Service bans all liquor from being mailed, even if it is inside a piece of candy. However, customs allows travelers over 21 years of age to import one liter of duty-free liquor. “The federal taxes and duties are currently low enough to make it worthwhile to take more than one liter of beer or wine stateside as gifts,” said Mike Dean, director of the CBCA. However, state laws must also be met which can add to the cost. Taxes on distilled spirits like Scotch whiskey are generally
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considered high, he noted. Cuban rum and cigars are also often available in Europe but prohibited from import stateside by economic sanctions. And don’t be surprised if you get a letter from CBP saying they removed Kinder Surprise eggs from the package you mailed stateside. The reason is that the chocolate eggs are banned in the U.S. While many people think the eggs are innocuous, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission believes the toy surprise hidden inside can pose a choking hazard to children younger than three years of age. Other Kinder products, such as the Kinder Joy eggs, are not banned because the candy and toy are contained in separate halves of the egg. Wildlife products also present problems. Buying ivory as a gift is a
bad idea, according to customs officials. “Only ivory pieces previously registered with Customs and Border Protection generally may be imported," Dean continued. Whale teeth carvings, known as netsuke or scrimshaw, are also prohibited from import. When buying furs, shoppers should insist on a certificate of origin stating the animal’s scientific name to avoid buying prohibited endangered species products. The movement of caviar is also restricted. Military customs offices can provide more advice on these and other holiday mail questions. There are many informative pamphlets available from Customs and Border Protection and the Department of Agriculture to ensure holiday gifts don’t present problems stateside. Information is also available online at www.cbp.gov/travel/internationalvisitors/kbyg/sending-us.
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December 4, 2015