December 7, 2012 The Signature

THE

SIGNATURE SIGONELLA, SICILY

VOL. 29 NO. 46

DECEMBER 7, 2012

cnic.navy.mil/sigonella

Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella Commanding Officer Capt. Scott Butler (right) presents William (Bill) Bray, director Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) with the Meritorious Civilian Service award during a Tenant Command Meeting at NAS I on December 4. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Tim Page/Released)

Sigonella farewells a legend

BY LT. TIM PAGE NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

N

aval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella said farewell to William (Bill) Bray, director Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) during a Tenant Command Meeting at NAS I on December 4.

Bray was presented with the Meritorious Civilian Service award for outstanding contributions and leadership provided to the Sigonella community.

Each month, commands and departments in the Sigonella community come together to share information with members of other organizations. This ensures that the flow of communication remains fluid within the community. This also provides the venue to recognize members of leadership

who have made significant contributions to the base.

“The meeting this morning is very special,” said Capt.

Scott Butler, commanding officer. “Today, we say ‘ci vediamo’ to a Sigonella legend. His contributions and support to the Sigonella community has been nothing short of exceptional!”

Bray spearheaded multi-million dollar projects such as renovations to the NAS II swimming pool, the softball complex, and updates to the current MWR facilities on NAS I. “The direction he [Bray] took MWR here was absolutely in the right direction,” said Butler. “He leaves big shoes to fill as he departs one island enroute to another.”

QUOTE

Bray will be departing Sigonella after five years of dedicated service to the community and transferring to Pacific Missile Range Facility, Kauai, Hawaii. “Gracias and mahalo,” said Bray. “It has been a pleasure to serve the Sigonella community. Although shorthanded, the folks at MWR stepped up and continued to provide a high level of service. I was hoping to invite you to a ribbon cutting for the pool and softball field, but we’ll have to settle for a ground breaking.”

During his last Tenant Command Meeting, he expressed his thanks and appreciation to all the service members. “I want to say thank you to all the uniformed service members here. Thank you for what you do for our country,” said Bray.

OF THE WEEK

“The two most important days of your life are the day you are born, and the day you find out why.”

- Mark Twain

VP-9 hosts special guest

Festivals around Sicily

Holiday Happenings

Find out who visited the VP-9 Golden Eagles.

Learn about festivals honoring Santa Lucia.

Read how Sigonella is celebrating.

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Scan for direct links to NAS Sigonella

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THE SIGNATURE U.S. Naval Air Station Sigonella Capt. Scott Butler, Commanding Officer Cmdr. Eric Vosler, Executive Officer CMDCM David Graham, Command Master Chief

EDITORIAL Lt. Tim Page, Public Affairs Officer timothy.page@eu.navy.mil

Dott. Alberto Lunetta, Community Relations Officer alberto.lunetta.it@eu.navy.mil

Jackie Trembath, Editor jackie.trembath@eu.navy.mil

STAFF Writer/Photographer MC3 Cameron Bramham cameron.bramham@eu.navy.mil MR1 Gary Spence gary.spence@eu.navy.mil

CONTRIBUTING Writers/Photographers Mauro Cacia AM2 Costich Coco Faber ET3 Angela Hannan Lt. j.g. Nicholas Henderson Justin Lancaster Maryjane Russo Michelle Vosler

CONTACT US Naval Air Station Sigonella, Sicily thesig@eu.navy.mil

DECEMBER 7, 2012

NAS Sigonella Commanding Officer, Capt. Scott Butler I would like to start by thanking all of the folks at MWR for arranging a great start to the holiday season this past weekend. I trust that many of you had the chance to come out and enjoy some of the events, including the tree lighting, a Winter Wonderland, and an incredible Christmas concert by the U.S. Naval Forces Europe Band. I’m grateful to everyone at MWR, whose hard work provides the entire Sigonella community with ways to feel closer to home, even while serving so far away. I also look forward to seeing many of you tonight at the NASSIG Christmas party at Midtown. This is the first time in a number of years that so many of the commands that make up our community will come together to celebrate and it promises to be a great event, full of great food, prizes and friendship.

Today, of course, also marks an important day in our Nation’s history: it’s not just Lt. Cmdr. Tor Berg’s retirement (Fair Winds and Following Seas!), it is also the 71st anniversary of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. During those early hours of December 7, 1941: 2,403 American service members and 68 civilians lost their lives, eight battleships and nine warships were attacked – with the USS Arizona being damaged beyond repair and sunk – and 188 aircraft were destroyed. It remains a day that has lived, “in infamy.”

I think that taking time to remember important dates in our history is more vital now than ever – service members are deployed around the world, making history each and every day, and serving

far from home and family. As I mentioned at the tree lighting ceremony, I hope that each of you will take some time to remember those that are deployed and cannot be home with their families during this holiday season.

We’re also coming up on the beginning of our extended holiday leave periods. Many of you have made some ambitious travel plans and I ask that you take the time – before you leave – to ensure that you’ve made all of the appropriate travel and safety arrangements. I want to ensure that each and every one of you returns safely to Sigonella to start off the new year.

Finally, last night marked the final edition of Feedback Live this year. Due to the holiday leave periods; our next edition will be on February 7, 2013. If I didn’t get to your question last night, I will try to answer those in this column over the coming weeks. I can’t promise that we’ll be able to solve every issue, but it’s certainly true that I can’t even begin to address an issue if I don’t know about it. Please keep sending your questions.

Sexual Assault Victim Advocate Hotlines Sigonella SAPR VA Hotline: 335-642-8312. DoD Safe Helpline: 001-877-995-5247 (From cell phones and off-base telephones) Or: 19020 (toll-free access code) 1-877-995-5247 (From DSN lines)

DSN 624-5440; 095-86-5440 PSC 812 Box 3020, FPO, AE 09627

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 factor of the purchaser, user or patron.

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

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

E-mail: stampagenerale@tin.it.

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

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

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DRIVE SAFELY

PUBLISHER

THE SIGNATURE

DECEMBER 7, 2012

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Around NAS Sigonella ...

Share your talents!

Attention actors, singers, dancers and musicians!

Find out how YOU can be a part of Sigonella S c h o o l - Co m m u n i t y Theatre’s March musical.

See the Il Mercato section on page 14 under Notice for details.

Patrol Squadron NINE (VP-9) Golden Eagles hosted the Mayor of Nissoria, Armando Glorioso, along with 18 of his guests for a tour of Hangar 104. (Photo by AM2 Costich)

Mayor of Nissoria visits VP-9

BY LT. J.G. NICHOLAS HENDERSON Patrol Squadron NINE

Chaplain Corps celebrates 237th anniversary at NAS II Chapel The NAS Sigonella Religious Ministries Department celebrated the anniversary of the Navy Chaplain Corps with a celebratory cake at its NAS II Chapel, bldg 742. Besides a sanctuary and office spaces, the newly renovated "Cappella Café" offers a comfortable space for reading, enjoying a hot cup of coffee, or a warm conversation. The community is invited to drop by for a visit.(U.S. Navy photo by MC3 Cameron Bramham)

On November 24, Patrol Squadron NINE (VP-9) Golden Eagles hosted the Mayor of Nissoria, Armando Glorioso, along with 18 of his guests for a tour of Hangar 104. The group included the Commander of Police, a city council representative and friends and family members.

The tour started in the briefing room with a quick history lesson on VP-9, defining the accomplishments of the squadron over the past 50 years. Some of the children were able to don the flight gear that aircrew wear on missions. After the brief, the group was given a tour of the spaces, providing a closer look at the everyday life of the Golden Eagle Sailors. Finally, they had the opportunity to go aboard one of the P3-C Orion aircraft and explore each of the crew stations. The most popular seat was in the flight station, where everyone pretended to fly.

“We are very happy to have the chance to visit the VP-9 Golden Eagles," said Glorioso. "We appreciate the hard work VP-9 and the United States Navy puts forth for our community."

2012 MILITARY MAIL HOLIDAY MAILING DATES To help you prepare for winter holidays, the United States Postal Service and Military Postal Service Agency published recommended mail-by dates for best chance delivery prior to December 25.

Pass this information to your friends and families stateside.

The post office provides boxes free of charge for Priority Mail ®. If you choose to use another box, you must remove or cover any previous markings; such markings could cause delays or prevent delivery altogether. Outgoing mail requires a customs declaration form. View prohibited items at www.usps.com. Check with your local post office for details on size and weight restrictions and applicable rates.

2012 Military Mail Holiday Mailing Dates

Express Mail Military Service (EMMS)

From the U.S.A Friends & Family

Dec. 20 - 22

Dec. 3 - 10

Dec. 17

Dec. 10

From Sigonella

First-Class Priority Mail Mail Letters/Cards

Space Available Mail (SAM)

Parcel Post/ Parcel Air Lift

Dec. 3 - 10

Nov. 26

Nov. 13

Dec. 10

Nov. 26

Dec. 3

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DECEMBER 7, 2012

THE SIGNATURE

COMMUNITY CALENDAR FRIDAY

December

7

8

TUESDAY 11

10

Library Story Time 11 a.m.

Commissary

Youth Sports Basketball & Cheerleading Registration begins NAS I Gym Walleyball Tournament Begins: NAS I Gym 5:30 p.m.

AA Meeting NAS I Chapel 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Youth Complex Digital Arts Club 4 - 4:30 p.m.

Take 5 Where’s Frosty?

11 a.m.

NAS I Gym Street Hockey Tryouts 5:30 p.m.

AA Meeting NAS I Chapel 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Library Story Time 11 a.m.

Commissary Youth Complex Digital Arts Club 4 - 4:30 p.m.

Youth Complex Image Makers 2-3 p.m.

THURSDAY 13 Fitness Zumba Party NAS I Gym 5:30 - 7 p.m.

Tobacco Cessation Class 2-3 p.m.

Midtown Classroom

Take 5 Make Your Own Ornament

Connections Bingo 6 p.m

19

20

Tobacco Cessation Class 2-3 p.m.

Midtown Classroom

ITT Mineo Nativity Scene & Lunch at Borgo Antico

Take 5 Holiday Shopping Trips/ Navy vs. Army Football Game Live

ITT Caleca Pottery Factory

Outdoor REC Introduction to Mountain Biking Clinic 4:30 p.m.

18

17

WEDNESDAY 12

SUNDAY 9

ITT Palermo

ITT “La Traviata” by Giuseppe Verdi

2012

MONDAY

SATURDAY

14

15

16

ITT Cooking Class Sicilian Christmas Menu

“Jingle Bell Rock” 5 Mile Run/Walk NAS II Gym

Connections Holiday Movie Marathon

ITT Taormina Day Spa

Outdoor Rec Go-Kart Racing & Dinner

Take 5 Holiday Shopping Trips

Walleyball Tournament Ends: NAS I Gym 5:30 p.m.

Outdoor REC Family Hike of the Month Monti Sartorius

21 Bowling Flashback to the 80’s

ITT Enna, Piazza Armerina Imperial Villa & Agriturismo

23

22 ITT Naro Tour & Wine Tasting

ITT Agrigento: Valley of the Temples & Bagliesi Winery

Connections Bingo 6 p.m.

Connections Cookie Decorating

Liberty/Connections/Take 5: x4246, x5602 Outdoor Rec: x4777, x4396

Fitness: x4483, x5243 Midtown 2 Theaters: x4248

FFSC: x4291 American Red Cross: x4900

Does your command or organization have an event you’d like to see on the Community Calendar? Email us at thesig@eu.navy.mil and let us know!

Need an appointment at the hospital? Call DSN 624CARE (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, a holiday or after office hours, please call 335578-8077 if you are normally seen at the hospital or 335578-8150 if you are normally seen at the Flight Line Clinic.

DECEMBER 7, 2012

THE SIGNATURE

Change in status

BY MARYJANE RUSSO NAS Sigonella Housing Office

Life or work changes frequently require you to change your status to accommodate your new situation.

It is your responsibility and in your best interest to keep the Housing Office informed of any changes in rank (including the date of rank), pay grade, projected rotation date (PRD), military status, marital status (i.e. getting married or divorced), or number of additional dependents, work and home telephone numbers, changes in email addresses, or people other than dependents living or visiting in your quarters.

This information must be provided as soon as possible. Some changes can affect the amount of benefits you are entitled to, but may also determine your eligibility and priorities in housing issues. Anytime you have a change in dependency status, (i.e. marriage, childbirth, and divorce etc.) you will need to provide us an updated “Page 2.”

Commands and PSDs do not notify the Housing Office of changes of status of military members nor provide copies of required documentation.

It is your responsibility.

The Housing staff would like to take this opportunity to wish you and your family the happiest of holiday season!

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Recyling on NASSIG

BY MAURO CACIA & JUSTIN LANCASTER NAS Sigonella Public Works, Environmental Program

Many types of materials can be recycled here at Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella, and we are working to increase the amount of recycling we perform. To assist in this, please remember the following recycling guidelines: Household and office recyclables should be placed in the recycling bins which are located throughout NAS I, NAS II, and Marinai. The bins are color coded to assist in proper segregation of wastes: Green: Glass & Metal Yellow: Plastic White: Paper & Cardboard Brown (Marinai only): Organics All government purchased materials, including bulky waste (mattresses and cushions, large metal or plastic or cardboard pieces/boxes, metal wire, electronic & electrical devices, scrap furniture and pallets, GOVs to include bicycles) must be taken to DRMO at NAS II. Government purchased batteries (all types) can be taken to the HazMin Center at NAS II.

Fleet and Family Support Center Administration Building Bldg. 319 (NAS I)

The Gemmo contractor's recycling center, located across the street from the Base Communication Office (Bldg 465), is open Monday Friday from 11 a.m. to noon and 3 4 p.m. They can accept anything that DRMO won't take, including private materials in bulk, and government purchased materials they deem not sellable or re-usable. They will accept large quantities and bulky items in their dumpsters for cardboard, paper, scrap metal, plastic, and wood. Please call Victor Gasso at 624-2707 (during working hours only) to set up an appointment if you need the contractor to open their facility outside their regular opening hours.

In addition, we are working on placing battery and fluorescent light recycling points on base as well. As these are established, we will let you know where they are, and what types of items you can take there.

Thanks for your attention to these efforts in being good environmental stewards!

Monday–Friday 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

DSN 624-4291 Commercial 095-56-4291

Do you need assistance writing your resume for private sector or federal employment? Call the FFSC today to schedule a one-on-one appointment with Sarah Conlan to get started on a resume that works: 624-4291 or email sarah.conlan@eu.navy.mil.

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DECEMBER 7, 2012

Belpasso and Siracusa honor Santa Lucia

The beloved statue depicting Santa Lucia is carried throughout the streets of Siracusa's historic center during the annual December 13 festival which features processions, entertainment, fireworks and arts and crafts. (Photo by www.criluge.it)

On Thursday December 13, the communities of Siracusa and Belpasso will pay homage to Santa Lucia, their patron saint, with two spectacular festivals taking place in the historic centers.

Life of Saint Lucia: According to tradition, Lucia, whose name means “light,” was born in Siracusa in a rich and noble family in 283 AD, and was raised a Christian. Her father died while she was a child.

Although Lucia consecrated herself forever to Jesus, her mother Eutychia, pressed her to marry a pagan nobleman. As Eutychia had been suffering from a hemorrhage for several years, Lucia took her on a pilgrimage to the tomb of St. Agata in Catania where she prayed for her healing. That evening, Lucia had a vision of St. Agata who assured her that because of her strong faith, her mother had been cured.

As a result of this miraculous cure, Lucia told her mother of her desire to give their properties to the poor and the sick. Eutychia allowed Lucia to pursue her desires, but the decision angered the man to whom she was betrothed and he denounced Lucia as a Christian. She was brought before Paschasius, a pagan governor, but she refused to give up her faith.

The cruel governor ordered that Lucia be severely punished. Soldiers tried to set her on fire but she did not burn. Paschasius then planned to force her into prostitution, but when guards went to drag her away, they could not move her. According to legend, Lucia’s eyes were plucked out during her torture and God miraculously restored her sight. This is why she is represented as a maiden

!

T I Y Ar Italian S T JUraSctice you P

with her eyes in a dish, on a book, or in 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 infections, hemorrhages and sore throats.

Eventually, Lucia was beheaded on the 13th of December in the year 304 AD. Saint Lucia body remained in Siracusa for many years, but in 1039, Byzantine general Maniace moved it first to Constantinople (Istanbul) and then to Venice where it is still preserved in a glass-enclosed sarcophagus behind the altar of SS. Geremia e Lucia Church. Some relics are scattered in churches throughout Europe. A portion of her arm is kept inside the cathedrals in Siracusa and Belpasso.

Celebrations in Siracusa On Thursday, December 13, the festival begins at 10:15 a.m. with a solemn Holy Mass celebrated at the cathedral. During the mass, religious chants will be performed.

Starting at 3:30 p.m., the carriage containing the saint’s holy relics is carried in procession for seven hours from the cathedral to the church of Santa Lucia al Sepolcro.

Three groups of 48 men wearing green berets alternate in carrying the 14 ton carriage. Many devotees, who also come from the neighboring cities, follow the procession barefoot.

During the festival, the blessing and the free distribution of the “cuccìa” (cooked wheat) takes place in several houses and churches. Cuccìa is a typical food that is prepared for the Saint Lucia celebrations. Tradition says it was first cooked in Sira-

Have fun practicing your Italian!

Buona Fortuna

English: Monday Italian: lunedì English: Tuesday Italian: martedì English: Wednesday Italian: mercoledì English: Thursday Italian: giovedì

cusa in the 17th century as Santa Lucia worked a miracle during a terrible famine on the night between December 12 and 13, 1646. 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. At the same time, a ship loaded with wheat sailed into the harbor. Right after, the wheat was boiled and eaten by the Siracusa people. Today, the cuccìa is served as a delicious porridge enriched with ricotta cheese, chocolate and candied fruits.

Eye-shaped crunchy anise-flavored cookies, called “the eyes of Saint Lucy,” are also a specialty of this spectacular festival. For more information and detailed festival schedule visit: http://www.comune.siracusa.it/ Home.htm Celebrations in Belpasso On December13, Belpasso’s celebrations begin at 11 a.m. at the cathedral with a procession during which the 18th century silver statue depicting Saint Lucia and her relics will tour the historic center. Fireworks will be performed while devotees dressed in a white tunic named Cappa will accompany the holy carriage.

After the fireworks, religious chants will be performed in piazza Duomo. At 3:30 p.m., another religious procession begins and proceeds throughout Belpasso. One hour later, some devotees perform the spectacular “Corsa della vara” (running while carrying the Santa Lucia statue up to a slope) in via Terza Retta di Levante.

In the evening on Tuesday, December 11 and Wednesday, December 12 at 9 p.m., 50-foot tall Carri (mechanized floats) featuring scenes telling of the life of Santa Lucia will be displayed in the historic center. The tradition of building floats originated in the 19th century as the local Mastri (craftsmen), wanted to express their special devotion to the saint.

On December 14, a Holy Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. and at 10 p.m. fireworks and music shows will be performed.

During the festival a St. Lucia Market featuring arts and crafts and food will be held in the historic center.

For more information and detailed festival schedule visit: http:// www.comune.belpasso.ct-egov.it/

English: Friday Italian: venerdì English: Saturday Italian: sabato English: Sunday Italian: domenica

Etna cheapest ski spot in Europe, Sicilian volcano edges Bulgarian, Spanish resorts (ANSA) Catania - Mt Etna in Sicily is the cheapest ski resort in Europe, Tripadvisor said last Wednesday. Europe's tallest active volcano edged out Bansko in Bulgaria and Astun in Spain for lowest daily costs of skiing plus a meal with a beer followed by a night in a hotel.

The dearest spots were French, Meribel and Courcheval, almost four times more expensive than Etna.

Italians marrying less and later in life Average age for tying knot 34 for men, 31 for women (ANSA) Rome - Italians are marrying less and when they do tie the knot, they do so later in life, Istat said last Wednesday. The national statistics agency said 204,830 weddings were celebrated in Italy last year, 12,870 less than in 2010.

It said these figures continued a long trend of falling numbers of wedding that has accelerated over the last four years.

Istat noted that the number of weddings in which people were marrying for a second time had fallen, going from 34,137 in 2008 to 31,048 in 2011.

Nevertheless, second marriages increased as a proportion of the overall total in this period, from 13.8% in 2008 to 15.2% last year, because the number of people getting wed for the first time has fallen at an even faster rate. Istat said the average age of men who got married for the first time last year was up to 34 and the average age for women was 31. Experts have said the difficult economic climate and high housing costs have contributed to these trends.

Over a third of people aged between 15 and 24 are out of work and many young Italians are forced to live with their parents until their 30s and 40s because they cannot afford to leave home.

Italians Invent Spreadable Beer (Story by Italy magazine)Beer lovers can now enjoy their favorite tipple on toast thanks to a beer pâté launched by Italian food makers. The invention is the result of joint venture between two companies from Lazio, the Rieti chocolate-maker Napoleone and Cittareale brewery Alta Quota. They say the spread is great on toast, as a cake filling, and with cheese or appetizers. The makers debuted the pâté at the Salone del Gusto food fair in Turin, where chocolate maker Pietro Napoleone described his creation as “like a sweet, beer- scented jelly.”

There are two kinds of beer spread: one is delicate, while the other has a more intense aroma and stronger taste. The pâté is made using two beer varieties from Alta Quota, Omid dark ale and Greta blond ale.

Alta Quota’s Claudio Lorenzini said: “This is not the first time in Italy and in Europe that someone has tried to make a non-liquid beer, but the experiments carried out have not been successful because the combination of ingredients was not a winner. We believe that we have found the right formula with the use of high-quality products. For us this is the future.”

DECEMBER 7, 2012

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THE SIGNATURE

BY JACKIE TREMBATH NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

N

aval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella kicked off the holiday season with a series of events hosted by Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) from November 30 - December 2. For NAS Sigonella service members and their families, it brought a little bit of home to Sicily.

The events began with the annual tree lighting ceremony at Midtown Plaza on NAS I where event goers were able to enjoy hot cocoa and listen to carolers. To make the night even more magical "snow" fell over the crowd who was then delighted by a special appearance from Santa.

The Winter Wonderland event on Saturday, December 1 transformed the NAS I gymnasium into holiday central with a variety of entertainment including a bouncy house, face painting, cookie decorating and more. Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society hosted the annual "Santa's Helper Sale" giving NAS Sigonella children a chance to do their holiday shopping, selecting presents for their family from the Nearly New Shop with the help of volunteers. Children were able to talk with Santa and have their photos taken. There was a craft fair for the kids and for the adults sponsored by the Sigonella Community Spouse Club. Sigonellans were also able to send cards to the troops through the Red Cross' Holiday for Heroes.

Following the Winter Wonderland event, kids were able to bowl for free at Spare Time Bowling and Midtown 2 Theatres provided a free showing of The Polar Express.

More exciting events are yet to come this holiday season. ITT is offering a variety of Christmas themed tours around Sicily. MWR is holding the Jingle Bell Rock 5-Mile Run/Walk on Saturday, December 15 as part of the Base 2 Base Run series. Liberty is offering holiday shopping trips on December 8 and 15, a Where's Frosty clue hunt on December 17 and a special free Christmas feast on December 25. Take 5 is providing single Sailors with a plethora of events to help make the holidays bright. Connections is hosting a Holiday Movie Marathon on December 14 and on Christmas Day they will offer free ham sandwiches while supplies last.

For more information on what holiday events are happening in the local area visit the MWR facebook page or call ITT at 624-4777.

{U.S. Navy photos by MC3 Cameron Bramham/Released)

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There will be no newspaper on December 28 and January 4. Have a safe and happy holiday!

- The Signature staff

DECEMBER 7, 2012

DECEMBER 7, 2012

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Festival of Lights

BY ET3 ANGELA HANNAN NAS Sigonella NCTS

In the aftermath of Thanksgiving, as Christmas approaches, there’s a tradition of hanging lights on houses for Christmas, which originally came from hanging lit candles in wreaths and on trees. In the Jewish religion, there’s also a wintertime celebration that involves the glow of candles. Hanukkah (or one of its many alternate transliterations, such as Chanukkah, Hanukka or even Chanuka), one of the three festival holidays in the Jewish religion, is known as the Festival of Lights. This eight-day celebration marks two miracles that occurred in the 2nd century BCE in what is now Jerusalem.

The king at that time was Antiochus IV Epiphanes, son of Antiochus III the Great of Syria.

While Antiochus III had allowed the Jewish people to practice their religion, his son was much stricter and banned the teaching of the Tanakh (the Five Books of Moses, the Prophets and Writings). A Jewish priest, Mattityahu, and his five sons led a revolt against the Syrian rulers. The youngest son of Mattityahu, Judah, was particularly revered as a leader, earning the title of “Judah the Hammer”—Judah Macabee in Hebrew. His men were known as Macabees in his honor.

That the Jewish rebels were able to defeat the Syrian army is the first miracle of Hanukkah. The second one occurred when the tired warriors returned to the Temple in Jerusalem to find the statues of pagan gods had been placed there and all the clay vessels for holy oil had been smashed.

This was a tragedy, because the oil was needed to light the ner tamid, the eternal light, on the altar. Enough oil for one day was found, but it would take eight days of work to make more oil and holy vessels. However, the oil in that one small jug lasted for those eight days, and the ner tamid in the Temple never went out.

Traditionally, Hanukkah is not a holiday where presents are given out, like Christmas. It is observed with the lighting of a nine-branched candelabrum called a hanukkiah (sometimes called a menorah, but that term also applies to seven-branched candelabra used as eternal lights in certain synagogues). Other Hanukkah traditions include eating foods fried in oil, like jelly doughnuts and potato pancakes called latkes, and singing songs about hope and triumph over adversity.

As Jewish comedian and singer Adam Sandler pointed out, Hanukkah consists of “eight crazy nights”, and during the festival, many families throw and attend festive Hanukkah parties. It can be observed with Christmas and Kwanzaa for multicultural celebrations, but due to the Jewish holidays coming on a lunar calendar, it doesn’t always fall at the end of December. This year, it begins on the 8th of December, at sundown.

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THE SIGNATURE

DECEMBER 7, 2012

Prepare life-long learners, leaders, and global citizens

The Sigonella Jaguars celebrate their 25-20, 25-23, 22-25, 23-25, 15-13 Division III semifinal win over Alconbury at the DODDS-Europe volleyball championships. (Photo by Michael Abrams/Stars and Stripes)

BY MICHELLE VOSLER Jaguar Booster Club

Stimulating learning environment for all students.

Inspiring independent critical thinking.

Committing to excellence.

Iteracting with respect, kindness, and joy.

Leading with ethics and integrity.

Young adults prepared to be productive members of society.

This is the Sigonella Middle and High School vision statement. This vision is realized every day in our DoDDS-Europe School. It is never more evident than when our students are recognized for their athleticism and academic achievements. There are about 100 students in the high school in Sigonella. More than 90 percent of these students participate in high school sports programs.

This year the football team came back from a dismal 2011 season that was forfeited after injuries decimated the team to a solid fourth place finish in Division III and a berth in the playoffs. The successful season included winning the last three regular games. During the Division III semifinal where Baumholder beat Sigonella 42-14, a Baumholder player was overheard to say, “Sigonella didn’t give up, even when there was less than four minutes left in the fourth,” he said. “They played hard, they hit hard. It was just a great game.” Baumholder went on to win the Division III championship.

In volleyball, the Lady Jaguars ended the season tied for fourth in Region IV where they were the lone Division III representative in a Division II dominated field. Unfortunately, Division III officials determined Sigonella should be ranked only eighth in a division of 10 teams for the 2012 European Volleyball Championship Tournament.

Undaunted, the Lady Jaguars clawed their way up the bracket ladder and easily reached the quarterfinals where they defeated Ankara in two sets; 2520, 25-12. In the semifinals with Alconbury, who was ranked second in Division III, the Lady Jags fought hard and won after a grueling five sets to meet Rota, the reigning, two-time Division Champs. The win against Alconbury was called “the longest, most competitive match of the 2012 DoDDS European Girls Volleyball Championships” and sports headlines included Sigonella as the “Upstart” among other teams to play for the championships. Sigonella lost to Rota in the championship game.

In recognition of these teams as well as the cross country and cheer teams, Matt McKown, Theresa Urquilla, Gene Rinaldi and Shawn McCarthy, the football, cheer, cross country and volleyball coaches respectively, along with Athletic Director Michelle Chandler and Alice Berard, the high school principal, conducted the annual Fall Sports Banquet. The following student athletes were recognized by Sigonella: Cross Country - Most Valuable Players (MVPs): Samantha McManus and Able Araso; Coach's Award: Alex Meares; Most Improved: Gabriel Adriano. Fall Cheer - MVP: Selei’ Chappell; Coach's Award: Dontay Graham; Most Improved: Amanda Rivera. Football - MVP: Antonia Garcia; Coach's Award: Collin Gantt; Most Improved: Chris Miller. Volleyball - MVP: Rachel Vosler; Coach's Award: Deeanna Brown; Most Improved: Leilani Wojtal.

Additionally, the following students received recognition from DoDDS-Europe; selected from 80 schools within five districts throughout Eu-

Friday, 07 DEC 12 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Grilled Sausage Patties, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Waffles, Asstd Doughnuts, Cinnamon Rolls. *Lunch: Chicken Corn Chowder, Baked Fish, Meat Loaf, Paprika Buttered Potatoes, Glazed Carrots, Fried Okra, Spiced Cake w/ Frosting, Crisp Drop Cookies. *Speed Line: Grilled Cheese/Hamburger, Baked Beans, French Fried Potatoes. *Dinner: Chicken Noodle Soup, Baked Chicken, Spaghetti Alfredo, Tossed Green Rice, Corn O’Brien, Lima Beans, Spiced Cake w/ Frosting, Crisp Drop Cookies.

Saturday, 08 DEC 12 *Breakfast: Farina, Grilled Ham Slices, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Buttermilk Pancakes, Asstd Doughnuts, Crumb Cake. *Brunch: Breakfast Items, Creole Soup, Chicken Nuggets, Fried Rice, Asparagus, Calico Corn, Cherry Pie, Abracadabra Bars. *Dinner: Vegetable Soup, Baked Lasagna, Steamed Rice, Deep Fried Fish Portion, Seasoned Asparagus, Steamed Cauliflower, Garlic Bread, Cherry Pie, and Abracadabra Bars.

rope and more than 35,000 school-age children of active duty military and civilian employees: Football - Division III All-Conference: Antonio Garcia- First Team Offensive Line; Collin GanttFirst Team Linebacker and Second Team Running Back; and Peter Swisshelm- First Team Kicker.

2012 European Volleyball Championships All-Tournament team, Division III: Alessia Briggs and Rachel Vosler.

DoDDS Europe All-Region teams, Region IV - First Team: Deeanna Brown and Rachel Vosler.

DoDDS All-Europe, First Team: Rachel Vosler.

Perhaps the most impressive awards at the banquet were reserved until the end of the ceremony. The subsequent list shows the students, who not only excel in sports, but also excel in academics. These are the renaissance students, looking at improving their minds and their bodies and destined for leadership roles on and off the sports field: Athletic Academic Achievement Awards: Dontay Graham, Kaley Lynch, Amanda Rivera, Krystian Urquilla, Samantha McManus, Abel Ararso, Jenna Buss, Dinayda Garcia-Diaz, Halie Gasporra, Chelsea Hinton, Symone Jones, Matt Cagle, Jacob Gantt, Eli Lagger and Derek Mattis.

Athletic Academic All-Conference Award: Selei’ Chappell, Tenia Strobridge, Alexandra Loor, Rachel Vosler, Sydney Moore, Nathan Freeman and Tristan Morris.

Athletic Academic All-Europe Award: Hannah Vosler, Gabriel Adriano, Aiden Adriano, Alessia Briggs and Gabrielle Goergen.

Athletic programs are an integral part of the total educational offerings of a school and enhance the physical, mental, social, and emotional growth of each participant. Each of the aforementioned student athletes are a part of a team and depend on the entire team, just as the team depends on them. We are certainly blessed with a great bunch of young adults and I am encouraged that we will be well represented in the future by all the students in Sigonella High.

Tuesday, 11 DEC 12 *Breakfast: Hot Farina, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Grilled Sausage Patties, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Waffles, Biscuits and Gravy, Asstd Doughnuts, Blueberry Muffins. * Lunch: Chicken Vegetable Soup, Roast Turkey, Fish w/Tomato Sauce, Steamed Rice, Mashed Potatoes, Turkey Gravy, Carrots and Orange Amandine, Club Spinach, Fruit Cocktail Upside Down Cake, Oatmeal Cookies. *Speed Line: Special Pasta Day. Dinner: Zesty Bean Soup, Tacos, Burritos, Chicken Fajitas, Orange Rice, Vegetarian Lasagna, Baked Potatoes, Southern Greens, Seasoned Mixed Vegetables, Fruit Cocktail Upside Down Cake, Oatmeal Cookies.

Wednesday, 12 DEC 12 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Creamed Ground Beef, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Blueberry Pancakes, Asstd Doughnuts, Bear Claws. *Lunch: Beef Rice Soup, Lasagna, Chicken Breast, Baked Fish, Garlic Cheese Potatoes, Rice Pilaf, Cauliflower, Brussels Sprouts Polonaise, Cheese Cake, Chocolate Pudding. *Speed Line: Grilled Cheese/Hamburger, Baked Beans, French Fried Potatoes. *Dinner: Cream of Chicken Soup, St. Louis BBQ Pork Ribs, Pizza Peperoni, Steamed Rice, Greens Beans Nicoise, Steamed Peas, Cheese Cake, Chocolate Pudding.

Sunday, 09 DEC 12 *Breakfast: Rolled Oats, Grilled Minute Steak, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, French Toast Puff, Asstd Doughnuts, Italian Croissant. *Brunch: Breakfast Items, Broccoli Soup, Pork Roast , Carrots, Steam Rice, Club Spinach, Almond Cake, Crisp Toffee Bars. *Dinner: Chicken Vegetable Soup, Sauerbraten, Spring Garden Rice, Spaghetti Garlic & Oil, Mashed Potatoes, Natural Pan Gravy, Steamed Cut Green Beans, Seasoned Carrots, Almond Cake, Crisp Toffee Bars.

Thursday, 13 DEC 12 *Breakfast: Hominy Grits, Corned Beef Hash, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, French Toast, Asstd Doughnuts, Raisin Muffins. *Lunch: Corn Chowder Soup, Roast Pork, BBQ Chicken, Mashed Potatoes, Brown Gravy, Steamed Rice, Seasoned Carrots, Asparagus, Peanut Butter Cookies, Cherry Pie. *Speed Line: Assorted Pizza. *Dinner: Minestrone Soup, Turkey Pot Pie, Grilled Cheese Burger, Ginger Rice, Mexican Corn, Steamed Broccoli, Cherry Pie, Peanut Butter Cookies.

Monday, 10 DEC 12 *Breakfast: Hot Hominy Grits, Minced Beef on Toast, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, French Toast, Asstd Doughnuts, Streusel Coffee Cake. *Lunch: Creamed of Broccoli Soup, Veal Parmesan, Steamed Rice, Mixed Vegetables, Chicken Adobo, Squash, Brownies, Yellow Cake w/ Icing, Fruit Ambrosia. *Speed Line: Sloppy Joe, Onion Rings. *Dinner: Vegetable Supreme Soup, Salisbury Steak, Rice Pilaf, Brown Gravy, Linguine Carbonara, Peas & Onions, Corn on the Cob, Brownies, Yellow Cake w/ Icing, Fruit Ambrosia.

Friday, 14 DEC 12 *Breakfast: Hot Oatmeal, Grilled Sausage Patties, Oven Fried Bacon, Asstd Omelets, Eggs to Order, Roasted Potatoes, Waffles, Asstd Doughnuts, Cinnamon Rolls. *Lunch: Cream of Potato Soup, Spaghetti yakisoba, Baked Fish Pollok, Oven Glo Potatoes, Tossed Green Rice, Seasoned Mix Vegetables, Summer Squash, Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, Chocolate Cake, Vanilla Pudding. *Speed Line: Grilled Hamburger/ Cheeseburger, French Fried Potatoes, Baked Beans. *Dinner: French Onion Soup, Roast Beef, Steamed Rice, Ham Sandwich, Spinach, Cauliflower Polonaise, Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, Chocolate Cake, Vanilla Pudding.

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DECEMBER 7, 2012

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ON THE GO WITH MWR Mark your calendar! December 14, from 4 - 7 p.m. in the Midtown Atrium you have an opportunity to taste wine from Principi di Spadafora and local Sicilian treats at no cost to you!

Principi di Spadafora is one of the oldest and most well know families from the Palermo providence with more than 180 acres of vineyards. The wine production began in 1988 with bottling to follow in 1995. Wines include Catarratto, Grillo, Inzolia e Chardonnay, Syrah, Cabernet, Merlot and Nero d'Avola. You don’t want to miss tasting these Gold Medal wining wines.

In addition to great wines, sample from one of Catania’s specialty delicatessens, I Sapurusi’s.

Their specialty creations highlight regional products from all areas of Sicily including ham, salami and one of a kind cheeses such as buffalo mozzarella and burrata. They also specialize in homemade jellies and marmalade and offer traditional Sicilian sweets Panettone and Tronchetto that add a touch of Sicily to any occasion.

Midtown Movie theaters SCHEDULE & DESCRIPTIONS Wednesday, December 12 5:00 PM 5:30 PM 7:30 PM 8:00 PM

Breaking Dawn, Pt. 2 Trouble with the Curve Sinister Silent Hill 2

PG-13 PG-3 R R

ALEX CROSS……………........…PG-13 STARRING:Tyler Perry, Matthew Fox A homicide detective is pushed to the brink of his moral and physical limits as he tangles with a ferociously skilled serial killer who specializes in torture and pain. (101 m.)

Thursday, December 13

Friday, December 7 5:00 PM 5:30 PM 7:30 PM 8:00 PM

Fun Size Sinister Silent Hill 2 3D Taken 2

PG-13 R R PG-13

Saturday, December 8 2:00 PM 2:30 PM 4:30 PM 5:00 PM 7:30 PM

Rise of Guardians 3D Here Comes The Boom Alex Cross Paranormal Activity 4 Cloud Atlas

PG PG PG-13 R R

Sunday, December 9 2:00 PM 2:30 PM 4:30 PM 5:00 PM 7:30 PM

Hotel Transylvania 3D Rise of the Guardians Fun Size Cloud Atlas Silent Hill 2 3D

PG PG PG-13 R R

Tuesday, December 11 5:00 PM 5:30 PM 7:30 PM 8:00 PM

Hotel Transylvania 3D Taken 2 Dredd 3D End of Watch

PG PG-13 R R

2:00 PM 5:00 PM 5:30 PM 7:30 PM 8:00 PM

Elf Rise of Guardians 3D Alex Cross Paranormal Activity 4 Argo

PG PG PG-13 R R

Friday, December 14 5:00 PM 5:30 PM 8:00 PM 8:30 PM

The Hobbit 3D Here Comes The Boom Cloud Atlas Flight

PG-13 PG R R

Saturday, December 15 1:00 PM 2:30 PM 4:30 PM 5:00 PM 7:30 PM

The Hobbit 3D Rise of the Guardians Flight Fun Size Lincoln

PG-13 PG R PG-13 PG-13

Sunday, December 16 2:00 PM 2:30 PM 4:30 PM 5:00 PM 8:00 PM

Wreck-It Ralph 3D Fun Size Lincoln Cloud Atlas Silent Hill 2 3D

GREEN RED BLUE

PG PG-13 PG-13 R R

PREMIER LAST SHOW FREE MOVIE

Coming soon ...

Chasing Mavericks, Man with Iron Fists, Life of Pi, Red Dawn, ilver Linings Playbook, Killing Them Softly, Playing for Keeps

CLOUD ATLAS……………………..….….R STARRING:Tom Hanks, Halle Berry and Hugh Grant An exploration of how the actions of individual lives impact one another in the past, present and future. (172 m.)

FUN SIZE…………………..………PG-13 STARRING: Victoria Justice, Chelsea Handler and Ana Gasteyer Wren's Halloween plans go awry when she's made to babysit her brother, who disappears into a sea of trick-or-treaters. (86 m.)

SILENT HILL: REVELATION 2D & 3D…………….….……..….R STARRING: Adelaide Clemens, Kit Harington and Sean Bean When her father disappears, Heather Mason is drawn into a strange and terrifying alternate reality that holds answers to the horrific nightmares that have plagued her since childhood. (94 m.)

Movie schedule is subject to change.

Please call to confirm.

Movie Hotline: 624-4248

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GAME Find the words!

The words listed below are from a familiar Christmas Carol. What is it? Find and circle all of the words hidden in the grid. The remaining letters spell the name of the Christmas Carol.

ALL ANCIENT APPAREL AWAY BEFORE BLAZING BOUGHS CAROL CHORUS DON FAST FOLLOW GAY HAIL HARP HEEDLESS HOLLY JOIN JOLLY JOYOUS LADS LASSES

MEASURE MERRY NEW NOW OLD OUR PASSES SEASON SING STRIKE TELL TIDE TIS TOGETHER TREASURE TROLL WEATHER WHILE WIND WITH YEAR YULE

DECEMBER 7, 2012

DECEMBER 7, 2012

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Sudoku!

Did you know?

Armadillos can be housebroken.

Babies are born without knee caps.

They don't appear until the child reaches 2-6 years of age.

Donald Duck's middle name is Fauntleroy.

Dreamt is the only English word that ends with "mt".

Every person has a unique tongue print.

PAGE 14

AUTOMOBILES 2006 Pontiac G6, AUTOMATIC, around 70K miles, sold as is, stereoadded. Asking $4,000 OBO. Available in January. Call Chrissy at 328-227-0785.

1996 Fiat Brava ES, 4dr hatchback, runs great. Good on gas! Few quirks, but mechanically sound. Nice interior. Asking $1,200 OBO. Must see to appreciate! Call Jack at 624-1213 after 5 p.m. or email jaxbox36@yahoo.com.

2001 BMW 530 Diesel 4dr Sedan. Averages 42MPG. Dependable family car. Sacrifice for $2,000 OBO. Call Jack at 624-1213 after 5 p.m. or email jaxbox36@yahoo.com.

2001 Renault Laguna 1.9 Turbo Diesel DCI 120 HP. Get 20 km. with one liter of diesel.

Perfect condition. Dual zone climate control, 6 Air Bag, power windows, stereo, etc.

Perfect engine, ready for any test. Asking 2,500 euro. Call Salvo at 338-3225071.

NOTICE Sigonella School-Community Theatre’s March musical BROADWAY TONIGHT! will feature scenes from six world-fa-

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mous musicals: The Wizard of Oz, Tom Sawyer, Mary Poppins, Les Miserables, Wicked and The Phantom of the Opera.

The revue will showcase performers of all ages from elementary school through adult. Audition workshops and auditions are scheduled for December 17 – 19 in Knights Hall. Monday, December 17: 2:15 – 4 p.m. ES Audition Workshop* ES Music Room; 4 – 5 p.m. MS/HS Audition Workshop ES Music Room; 5 – 7 p.m. Adult Audition Workshop ES Music Room. Tuesday, December 18: 3– 5 p.m.ES Audition* Knights Hall; 5 – 7 p.m.

MS/HS/Adult Audition Knights Hall; Wednesday, December 19: 5 – 7 p.m.

MS/HS/Adult Callback Knights Hall. *Elementary Students: by audition invitation only, based on preliminary auditions.

Contact lynn.soeby@ eu.dodea.edu for more information.

Broadway Tonight! Auditions: Attention actors, singers, dancers and musicians!

Benefits Open Season For Health, Dental, & Vision Insurance Flexible Spending Account is November 12 - December 10, 2012. During the annual Benefits Open Season, employees can take the actions listed below for the Federal Flexible Spending Account Program (FSAFEDS),

Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP), and the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHB). Enroll in a flexible spending account - a health care and/or dependent care account, under the FSAFEDS Program. Unlike with other programs, employees MUST reenroll in FSAFEDS each year to participate. Enrollments DO NOT carry over year to year. Enroll in, change, or cancel an existing enrollment in a dental plan under the FEDVIP Program. Enroll in, change, or cancel an existing enrollment in a vision plan under the FEDVIP Program. Enroll in, change, or cancel an existing enrollment in a health plan under the FEHB Program.

DECEMBER 7, 2012

Jenna, 3 years, medium, female, tan and black, dog, very mild mannered and loving, great with dogs, children, and people, current on shots, microchipped, and spayed. She has a few 3 month old puppies left.

Diesel, 8 months, medium to large, male, black and brown, rottweiler, very smart and loving dog, loves cats, dogs, and children, current on shots, microchipped.

PA I D A D S

You can adopt while posted overseas.

International & fostercare adoptions, homestudies. www.adopt-abroad.com

SAWS ANIMALS Mario & Luigi, 6 months, medium, male, brown, dog, current on shots, microchipped, may due better with older children.

Fideo, 7 months, medium, male, brown, dog, loves everyone and is a typical active puppy, current on shots, microchpped.

Phillipo, 7 months, medium, male, black and white, dog, a very active and playful puppy, current on shots, microchipped.

The appearance of advertising in this newspaper, including inserts of supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense, the Navy (or Marine Corps), (name of command) or (name of publisher) of the products and services advertised. "Everything advertised in this newspaper shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected. Published by Stampa, a private firm in no way connected with DoD, the U.S. Navy (or Marine Corps), under exclusive contract with the U.S. Navy (or Marine Corps).

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DECEMBER 7, 2012

NASSIG Fire Department GAME us n o b receives accreditation status

BY MC3 CAMERON BRAMHAM NAS Sigonella Public Affairs

On November 12-16, three civilian fire chiefs and one Department of Defense (DoD) fire department representative came to Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella to do a peer team assessment for NAS Sigonella Fire & Emergency Services Programs.

These fire chiefs reviewed documentation, training methods, facilities and apparatus and validated that NAS Sigonella was meeting standards for quality fire service not only by NAS Sigonella standards but by all International Fire Service Standards. This standard is known as accreditation status.

According to NAS Sigonella Fire Chief Lea Hayes, accreditation is a process by which an agency evaluates and recognizes a program of study as meeting certain predetermined standards or qualifications.

It applies only to institutions or agencies and their programs of study or their services.

Simply put, accreditation is a process which validates performance by the institution and/or agency.

“Accreditation is done to promote excellence within the fire department,” Hayes added.

“Accreditation identifies strengths and weaknesses of the department and is a methodology for building on strong

points and addressing deficiencies. It is a way to ensure effectiveness and efficiency.”

Hayes also said accreditation encourages quality improvement through a continuous selfassessment process and provides a detailed evaluation of the department and the services it provides to the community.

NAS Sigonella was one of 163 fire departments out of more than 30,000 selected for accreditation status, however, the process is not complete for NAS Sigonella Fire Department officials.

NAS Sigonella Fire Department Battalion Chief Marlon Brown says officials will travel to Henderson, Nevada in March for the final step in recognition.

“After the approval, we sit in front of a board and they confirm our accreditation,” Brown said. “This is a level of service we strive to provide this community.”

According to Brown, this is a level the department has been motivated to achieve for a long time and he knows the department will continue to excel at the highest standards.

“This is something that the community should be proud of,” Brown said. “As well as the firefighters here who take pride in pursuing excellence.”

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DECEMBER 7, 2012