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April 9, 2015 • mccsokinawa.com
okinawalivingweekly Lilies Spring to Life
Leaving the Nest
Clockwise from the top right: Yastremska/bigstock.com, Thomas Alan Smilie
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hile the cherry blossoms are blooming in mainland Japan, Okinawa gets another kind of brilliant bloom this time of year—lilies. Different species and colors of the springtime flower can be seen throughout the island, growing in neighborhoods and gardens. But the real showstopper of lily season is only a short ferry ride away. Each year, a million lilies spring to life and blanket the fields of Ie Island. The island celebrates by hosting a lily festival complete with food and entertainment. In Japan, flowers carry great symbolic significance. Known as hanakotoba (flower language), flowers and their meanings are interwoven into Japanese culture. The same flower can even have different meanings depending on the color. White lilies are known
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as shirayuri and symbolize purity, while orange lilies are known as sayuri and mean revenge or hatred. If you give someone a lily of the valley (suzuran), you are telling that person they are sweet. But if you send them a red spider lily (higanbana), it could mean you never want to see them again. Most of the lilies that grow in the fields of Ie Island are white shirayuri, but a variety of other types also grow on the island. You can even buy potted lilies to take home. This year, the festival runs from April 18 to May 6. MCCS Tours+ has two tours in April on the 25 and 26 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. to let you spend a full day enjoying the festival. For details or to book your tour today, call 646-3502.
Living at Large: Be a Coach | 3 Culture Corner: Lanterns | 5 Japanese Phrase of the Week | 5 Off Base Events: Get Out and Explore | 11
arents and teens alike experience a roller coaster of emotions in the months before and after high school graduation. For teens, the days are filled with memories to be cherished into their later years, and parents, whether it’s their first, second or third college-bound child, have their own set of questions and concerns that need addressing. To calm parents’ minds and help teens prepare for what lies ahead, the MCCS Education Center is hosting a Leaving the Nest series open to parents and college-bound teens. The sessions will cover different topics on each date. The April 7 class will focus on scholarships, April 14 on GI Bill benefits, April 21 for financial assistance and April 28 on finding the right college. All sessions will begin at 5:30 p.m. at the Education Center on Camp Foster. For more information, call 645-7160.
Photo of the Week | 11 Spotlight: Zumbathon | 13 Movie Schedule | 15 Health Tip of the Week: Sleep | 15
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livingatlarge
CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER | Jim Kassebaum MANAGING EDITOR | Ryan Anastoplus ART DIRECTOR | Hector Nieves GRAPHIC ARTS MANAGER | Henry Ortega GRAPHIC DESIGNERS | Margie Shimabukuro, Lisa Miyagi, Kelli Davis, Corrinne McKenna EDITOR-IN-CHIEF | Mike Daley EDITOR | Courtney Rick PHOTOGRAPHER | Thomas Alan Smilie AD/SPONSORSHIP MANAGER | Roy Forster AD SALES | Aya Chilcote, Yoshihiro Shinzato, Yoriko Yamashiro, Lola Cardenas, Carina Fils-Julien DISTRIBUTION | Gideon Juko, Sho Vivas MARKETING ACCOUNTS MANAGER | Andrew Menges ACCOUNTS & RESEARCH | Kelly Longo, Amanda Bakun, Megan Milovich, Lindsay Roegge, Katherine Melrose CULTURAL RESEARCH SPECIALISTS | Ayako Kawamitsu
Be a Coach
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verybody knows that if you build it, they will come. More logically, we also know that if you coach them, they will feel more confident, wellprepared and inspired both on the field and in everyday life. If you are ready to make a positive impact in the community, MCCS has the opportunity for you. Semper Fit is looking for fun, dedicated individuals who love the ol’ ball game to coach this season’s young baseball and softball athletes. The season runs from August 8 to October 17. If you are ready to challenge yourself and motivate children in your community, sign up by June 30. Coaching is a great way to meet new people and share your skills with
children who share a passion for sports and an active lifestyle. But the joys of coaching go even further. To coach is to play an active role in a child’s life and future. You are not just a coach; you are a mentor, a hero and a friend.
For details about becoming a volunteer coach, please stop by any MCCS fitness center, call 6453533/3534 or e-mail youthsports@ okinawa.usmc-mccs.org.
mccsevents&happenings Job Fair Success April 10, 10–11 a.m. MFP-R, Camp Schwab 645-3151 FREE
Karuta: Japanese Card Game April 13, 5:30–6:30 p.m. Library, Camp Hansen 623-7372 FREE
Foster Library Book Club April 15, 6–7 p.m. Library, Camp Foster 645-7178 FREE
G.I. Bill Brief April 13, 2:30–3:30 p.m. Education Center Camps Hansen & Courtney 623-4376/622-9694 FREE
Survival Japanese Language Class April 13, 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Education Center, MCAS Futenma 645-2104 FREE
Money Management Workshop April 15, 8–11 a.m. MFP-R, Camp Hansen 623-4522 FREE
Teen Book Club April 12, 3–4 p.m. Library, Camp Courtney 622-9280 FREE
Leaving the Nest Education Series April 14, 5:30–6:30 p.m. Education Center, Camp Foster 645-7160 FREE
Conflict Resolution 101 April 16, 3–5 p.m. MCFTB, Camp Foster 645-3749 FREE
To advertise in Okinawa Living Weekly, call 645-2245, fax 645-0975, or email sales@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org. MCCS is not responsible for designing and editing outside ads. No Department of Defense, U.S. Marine Corps or Marine Corps Community Services endorsement of commercial advertisers or sponsors implied.
We Make Okinawa Home
Other FREE Media:
Channel 15 & 118
This publication printed with
Camp Foster
Various Camps
April 22 Join other Marine Corps spouses to learn about island fun, USMC traditions, moving tips, reading the LES, managing deployments and more. MCFTB 645-3689
June 15–August 21 The Youth Summer Hiring Program allows teen dependents to find summer employment. We are the only MWR on Okinawa to offer this opportunity for the community. Apply online, April 15-May 22. Job ID#13651 usmc-mccs.org/careers
Camp Kinser
Plaza Housing
While the library is closed for renovations, a reading room with limited resources will be open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Camp Kinser Education Center (Bldg. 1220, Rm. 105). mccsokinawa.com/libraries
April 30 Dress your child in their favorite cartoon characters. Adults $7.95, Children 5–11 $3.95, (under 5) FREE. Butler Officers’ Club 645-7530
L.I.N.K.S. for Spouses
monkeybusinessimages/bigstock.com
Questions? Comments? Please e-mail OLW@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org
Library Closure Until May 1
MCCS Summer Hire Program
Magical Night: Military Children Appreciation
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japanese phrase
culturecorner
of the week
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Namae wa nandesu ka? What’s your name?
Clockwise from the top right: Thomas Alan Smilie, nruboc/bigstock.com
For details about FREE Japanese language classes, please call Marine & Family Programs–Resources at 645-2104/2106.
Japanese Lanterns
he introduction of Buddhism to Japan in the 6th century shed new light on its culture with different types of lamps and lanterns still seen today. Whether made of stone and able to withstand the elements or decorative paper over bamboo skeletons, lanterns are an icon of the Japanese and Asian cultures. The first ishi-dōrō, or stone lanterns, were used on the grounds of temples and shrines to light paths and doorways. Secular use of the ishi-dōrō began in the Azuchi-Momoyama period (1568– 1600), when tea-master Sen-no-rikkyu used the lanterns to guide guests to evening tea ceremonies. The lanterns became a major garden element, not only for their function, but to add visual interest and dramatic focal points. Other types of lanterns evolved with different uses. Tsuri-dōrō are hanging lanterns, usually made of bronze, with ornate metal carvings.
Their light creates decorative patterns on walkways. Many of these octagonal lanterns hang from the eaves of temples. There are also tachi-gata on pedestals, ikekomi-gata which are buried, oki-gata are smaller lanterns, and yukimi-gata which are snow viewing lanterns. During Hina Matsuri, or the doll festival, the bombori is featured among the collectible treasures. It is a lantern on a pole which may be carried or placed in a stand.
But most commonly seen and purchased by visitors are the chōchin, or paper lanterns. The frame is a collapsible structure of bamboo hoops covered in colored paper. They may be decorated with family crests, inscriptions or colorful designs. Restaurants often use the decorations to welcome diners. They are also present at cultural celebrations and during religious ceremonies.
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register now
Clockwise from the top right: Ryflip/bigstock.com
Walk-in registration for the 2015 Camp Hansen World Famous Mud Run will be accepted at all MCCS Semper Fit Fitness Centers until April 13.
mcftb
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Blended Families Workshop
tep families have many perks and some unique challenges. Successfully blending members of different families doesn’t happen overnight, but with proper planning and advice, it can be an enriching experience for the whole family. Marine Corps Family Team Building (MCFTB) has a workshop to help family members adjust to their new family life and explore the roles that stepparents can play in their children’s lives. When couples merge two families, differences in parenting, discipline and lifestyle can be frustrating. While there’s no right or wrong way, it’s important to have open dialogue with your partner and develop some guidelines and strategies for family life together. Frequent communication can also help build trust between stepparents and children. It’s normal for children to feel uncertain about their new family while trust
and understanding are established. It’s also important to embrace the differences of your new family rather than to try and make your blended family a replica of your first family. Couples will learn how to grow and mature in their relationship while meeting the demands of parenthood. The workshop will help participants learn how to understand and honor
differences so they can grow together as a family. The Blended Families workshop will take place on Camp Foster at MCFTB (Bldg. 5677) on April 29 from 5 to 7 p.m. For details or to register, please call 645-3749 or visit mccsokinawa.com/mcftb.
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off-base events get out and explore.
Meet a Baby Elephant! April 11, 11 a.m.Okinawa Zoo, Okinawa City Park Admission: Adults ¥500 (12-17) ¥200; (4–12), ¥100 (Under 3), FREE Ryukyu Kaiensai Fireworks Show 2015 April 11, Doors Open: 1 p.m., show begins: 6:30 p.m. Tropical Beach Seaside Park, Ginowan City Ticket (day of) ¥3,300Japan Football League FC Ryukyu vs. Fukushima United Soccer Game April 12, 4 p.m. Comprehensive Park, Okinawa City FREE for SOFA I.D. cardholders
tours+
adventure begins here. Urashima Dinner Theater April 17, 5:30–9:30 p.m. Adults $68 with lobster, $52 without, Children (6–12) $38, (3–5) $34, (under 3) FREE no meal Savor the flavors of Okinawa, traditional music and dancers. Choose between American or Okinawan dinners.
Tunnel Rats April 18, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Adults $23, Children (7–11) $16 Explore numerous caves that served as bunkers and shelters during WWII. Included is a stop at the Battle of Okinawa Historical Collection.*
Kerama Snorkling Tour April 19, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Adults $73, Children (4–11) $41 Grab your fins and get ready for some fun! Tour includes transportation to port, boat ride to two snorkeling spots and tour guide.
Pizza in the Sky & Nakijin Castle Ruins April 18, 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Adults $21, Children (3–11) $14, (under 3) FREE Overlook the beautiful ocean as you enjoy a delicious meal of pizza and salad. Afterwards, stop by the Nakijin Castle ruins to learn the history of the Ryukyu islands.*
Shuri Castle & Naha April 19, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Adults $23, Children (3–11) $16, (under 3) FREE Tour the only fully reconstructed castle on Okinawa, see Shureimon Gate and view the ponds where boat races were held to entertain the court. Then spend the afternoon at Fukushu-en Chinese Garden and Naminoue Shrine.*
Japanese Tea Ceremony April 24, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Adults $35, Children (3–11) $28, (under 3) FREE Experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at a beautiful private Okinawan home. After tea, head to Kokusai Street.*
*Bring yen for additional food, drinks and/or purchases. For more information, contact MCCS Tours+: Camp Foster 646-3502 | Camp Hansen 623-6344 | Camp Kinser Temporarily Closed | U.S. Naval Hospital 646-7013
Clockwise from the top left: EcoShot/bigstock.com, Thomas Alan Smilie
photooftheweek
Zaru soba, or chilled soba, is a delicious way to stay cool on Okinawa when the temperatures begin to rise. The noodles are typically served on a bamboo tray, garnished with dried nori seaweed and served with a dipping sauce made of dashi, sweetened soy sauce and mirin.
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spotlight Zumbathon
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Wavebreak Media Ltd/bigstock.com
et ready to sweat and have fun while showing your support for Sexual Assault Awareness Month and Alcohol Awareness Month at three special Zumba events around the island. Sexual Assault Awareness Month is observed each year to educate people on how to identify and prevent sexual violence in their communities. Similarly, Alcohol Awareness Month aims to help the public understand the issues surrounding alcohol abuse and
encourages individuals and families to seek help for alcohol-related problems. Each of the events are free and open to all DoD ID card holders. The first event will take place at Ironworks Fitness Center on Camp Courtney on April 18 from 10 a.m. to noon, followed by the Fitness Center on Camp Kinser on April 19 from 9 to 11 a.m. and Gunners Fitness Center on Camp Foster on April 25 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Registration is not required. For details, please call 645-2134.
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upcoming semperfitevents movieschedule CAMP COURTNEY
CAMP FOSTER
Thursday, April 9 CLOSED
Thursday, April 9 Furious 7 (PG 13) 7 p.m.
Friday, April 10 The Longest Ride (PG 13) 6 p.m. The Longest Ride (PG 13) 9 p.m.
Friday, April 10 Home (PG) 3D 3 p.m. The Longest Ride (PG 13) 6 p.m. Furious 7 (PG 13) 9 p.m.
Saturday, April 11 Home (PG) 3 p.m. The Longest Ride (PG 13) 6 p.m. Sunday, April 12 Spare Parts (PG 13) 3 p.m. The Longest Ride (PG 13) 6 p.m. Monday, April 13 Hot Tub Time Machine 2 (R) 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 14 CLOSED Wednesday, April 15 The Longest Ride (PG 13) 7 p.m.
MCAS FUTENMA Thursday, April 9 CLOSED Friday, April 10 Furious 7 (PG 13) 6:30 p.m. Saturday, April 11 Get Hard (R) 4 p.m. Furious 7 (PG 13) 7 p.m. Sunday, April 12 The Longest Ride (PG 13) 4 p.m. The Divergent Series: Insurgent (PG 13) 7 p.m. Monday, April 13 The Longest Ride (PG 13) 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 14 CLOSED
classoftheweek Body Bar
This is a fast-paced and high-energy packed class with upper and lower body movements including weights and cardio. This class is designed for beginning to advanced athletes.
weeklyhealthtip The idea of “detoxing” or a “cleansing” diet and the industry surrounding it has continually been proven ineffective. No amount of supplements or green smoothies can undo a bad diet. Besides, your body has a built-in defense system against toxic or poisonous substances you ingest—your liver, kidneys, lungs and skin are constantly working to irrigate your body of that second helping of cheese fries.
Wednesday, April 15 CLOSED
CAMP KINSER Thursday, April 9 Furious 7 (PG 13) 6:30 p.m. Friday, April 10 The Longest Ride (PG 13) 6:30 p.m. Saturday, April 11 Furious 7 (PG 13) 3 p.m. The Longest Ride (PG 13) 6:30 p.m.
Saturday, April 11 Home (PG) Noon Seventh Son (PG 13) 3 p.m. Cinderella (PG) 6 p.m. The Longest Ride (PG 13) 9 p.m. Sunday, April 12 Cinderella (PG) 1 p.m. Home (PG) 3D 4 p.m. The Longest Ride (PG 13) 7 p.m. Monday, April 13 The Duff (PG 13) 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 14 Furious 7 (PG 13) 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 15 The Longest Ride (PG 13) 7 p.m.
CAMP HANSEN Thursday, April 9 Insurgent (PG 13) 7 p.m. Friday, April 10 The Longest Ride (PG 13) 6:30 p.m. Furious 7 (PG 13) 10 p.m. Saturday, April 11 The Longest Ride (PG 13) 6 p.m. Furious 7 (PG 13) 9:30 p.m. Sunday, April 12 Get Hard (R) 3:30 p.m. The Longest Ride (PG 13) 7 p.m. Monday, April 13 The Duff (PG 13) 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 14 Insurgent (PG 13) 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 15 Furious 7 (PG 13) 7 p.m.
CAMP SCHWAB Thursday, April 9 CLOSED Friday, April 10 The Longest Ride (PG 13) 6 p.m. Furious 7 (PG 13) 9 p.m.
Sunday, April 12 Home (PG) 3D 1 p.m. The Longest Ride (PG 12) 3:30 p.m. Get Hard (R) 6:30 p.m.
Saturday, April 11 The Longest Ride (PG 13) 6 p.m. The Duff (PG 13) 9 p.m.
Monday, April 13 CLOSED
Sunday, April 12 Insurgent (PG 13) 4 p.m. Furious 7 (PG 13) 7 p.m.
Tuesday, April 14 CLOSED Wednesday, April 15 The Duff (PG 13) 6:30 p.m.
Monday, April 13 The Longest Ride (PG 13) 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 14 The Duff (PG 13) 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 15 CLOSED
Movie schedule is subject to change. For the latest updates visit shopmyexchange.com.