February 2019 | Issue 252
NO ORDINARY LOVE CACAO: FROM BEANS TO BAR
contents February 2019
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8 56 KAILEY LAVALLIERE, TOP RIGHT PHOTO COURTESEY OF CORRENETE, BOTTOM PHOTO BY THOMAS ALAN SMILIE
features
On the cover Ichiran, located on Kokusai Street in Naha, has outlets throughout Asia and the US. It was once named the “best ramen in New York “ by New York Magazine.
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Out + About: No Ordinary Love Looking for a “fashionable” chocolate for your Valentine? Head over to Fashion Candy— Okinawa’s oldest leading confectioner and chocolatier.
Restaurant Review: CORRENTE Enjoy a special meal with that special someone at this Italian eatery located inside the Hilton Okinawa Chatan Resort.
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Cacao: From Beans to Bar Meet Kei Kawai, a pioneer whose goal is to bring truly Okinawan bean-to-bar chocolate to the world.
Ramen: Piping-Hot Bowls of “Genki” Nothing quite chases away the winter chill better than a piping-hot bowl of ramen noodles.
contents February 2019
37 Futenma Flight Line Fair Mark your calendar for one of the biggest MCCS festivals of the year!
marines + families 41 Military Saves 2019 Military Saves encourages military service members and their families to increase their financial health by reducing their debt and increasing their wealth.
43 L.I.N.K.S. for Spouses Life as a military spouse is different than life in the civilian world. The military lifestyle can be difficult to adjust to for some, but L.I.N.K.S. (Lifestyle, Insights, Networking, Knowledge and Skills) is here to help.
45 Conflict Management Learn to get a grip and manage responses to conflict at this workshop.
kids + parents 49 Dr. Seuss Birthday Party He brought you The Cat in the Hat! He brought you Green Eggs and Ham!
21 fitness + fun 17 Healthy Heart Month February is Healthy Heart Month—the perfect time to get educated, take action and show your heart some love!
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19 Join the Business of Saving Lives Do you have what it takes to become a lifeguard? If so, sign up for MCCS Aquatics’ Lifeguarding Full Course.
21 Open Water Scuba Instructor Do you enjoy scuba diving? Do you love to teach? If you said yes to both questions, consider combining these passions and becoming a PADI Open Water Instructor.
dining + entertainment 35 Valentine’s Day at the Clubs This Valentine’s Day, let your significant other know just how significant they are by treating them to a romantic dinner at an MCCS Club.
services 55 Typhoon Motors Typhoon Motors has everything you need to take care of your ride while on Okinawa.
extras 5 Mensôre
7 Feedback + Show Us!
67 Living on Okinawa
70 Marketplace Guide
FEBRUARY 2019 | ISSUE 252 COMMANDING GENERAL MCIPAC Brigadier General Paul J. Rock Jr. ASSISTANT CHIEF OF STAFF, MCCS, MCIPAC Edward S. Hutsell DEPUTY ASSISTANT CHIEF OF STAFF BUSINESS & SUPPORT Michael S. Gieseck DEPUTY ASSISTANT CHIEF OF STAFF MARINE & FAMILY Carlos J. Saldaña CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER Jim Kassebaum EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Mike Daley MCCS ART DIRECTOR Henry C. Ortega OKINAWA LIVING ART DIRECTORS Margie Shimabukuro Jongeun Spencer GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Catherine Newquist, Emeline Toole EDITORIAL Amanda Carrasquillo, Ashley Sablan DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER Thomas Alan Smilie PHOTOGRAPHER Kailey LaValliere DIGITAL & SOCIAL MEDIA Kathlene Millette, Emi Hays CULTURAL RESEARCH SPECIALIST Ayako Kawamitsu ADVERTISING SALES & SPONSORSHIP MANAGER Roy Forster ADVERTISING SALES & SPONSORSHIP Yoshihiro Shinzato, Hiromitsu Horikawa Athena Garcia, Becky Stalcup MARKETING ACCOUNTS & RESEARCH MANAGER Andrew Menges MARKETING ACCOUNTS & RESEARCH Kristen Wong, Ashley Snipes, Tiffany Moore DISTRIBUTION Desiree Adams, Joan Webb
mensôre “Welcome” to Okinawa Living
Quality Time Valentine’s Day is right around the corner… have you gotten a gift yet? Are you going for something of a floral nature? Something produced from cacao beans or perhaps a delicate fragrance encased in a tiny ornate (but exorbitantly priced) bottle? Before you pull the trigger on that purchase, did you know that the best gifts— Valentine’s or otherwise—oftentimes aren’t the ones that can be purchased with money? Before someone takes this as an excuse to completely bypass purchasing a Valentine’s gift and use the monies saved on a new set of Bluetooth headphones or a year’s-worth of Netflix, that’s not what’s being implied. The answer is simple—quality time. Spending quality time together is the greatest gift of all, is it not? And, what better place than Okinawa to enjoy activities with that special someone? Living on Okinawa offers many opportunities to explore the island’s beauty—not limited to warmer weather, pristine beaches or seemingly endless colorful reefs teeming with sea life to explore. Take the day off and hike in northern Okinawa; trekking on the steep trails together will feel refreshing with the lack of summer heat and humidity. Sign up for a whale watching tour with Tours+ and gasp in awe as you witness a humpback whale breaching for the first time…together. Build Ryukyu glass cups for each other to use for morning orange juice. Or, even sign up for a Japanese language class together and practice on each other off base in the local community. The investment isn’t necessarily in money…it’s time well spent as each moment is a priceless treasure in itself; a gift that pays dividends in the form of fond memories that last long after that last chocolate morsel is digested, the last rosebud has fallen or last droplet of perfume has vaporized. As always, we thank you for picking up this issue of Okinawa Living Magazine, now time to turn the page and let your journey begin!
We welcome your comments. Please send letters to editor@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org For advertising | 広告掲載のお問い合わせ (日本語可) 098-970-2245 (phone) | 098-970-0975 (fax) sales@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org (email) See our advertising rates at mccsokinawa.com
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Okinawa Living is published by MCCS Marketing. Its purpose is to inform the military and civilian community about events and programs offered by MCCS or available in the local market. Dates and times may change. Copyright ©2019 by MCCS. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transferred in any form, by any means, electronic, photocopying, recording, or otherwise without written permission of the copyright owner. No federal or Marine Corps endorsement of advertisers and sponsors. MCCS is not responsible for editing content of non-MCCS ads. Okinawa Living Magazine is printed with
Mike Daley Editor-In-Chief
Take us on the road Enjoy Okinawa Living Magazine on your favorite mobile device! Visit mccsokinawa.com/ol for the latest issue. Also, visit issuu.com/mccsokinawa to see back issues of the magazine.
feedback
from the ICE Program and Facebook
@okilivingmag Show us your island adventures and favorite food finds!
Can you put the Marine Corps base movie theatre schedules on this app please? — via the Liberty App We have added AAFES’s Exchange Reel Time movie schedule to the Liberty App. It’s under the “Things To Do” section of the app, specifically listed under the “Visit” section for each camp and MCAS Futenma. Thanks for your suggestion and for using the MCCS Okinawa Liberty App, which is free to download for both Android and iPhone users. I saw on your MCCS Okinawa Facebook page a listing for the “Hiring Our Heroes Career Summit” on February 25 and 26 at the Ocean Breeze on Camp Foster? Is that open to all U.S. citizens or citizens of other nations?—via Facebook
@iam_zoenicole
Welcoming the New Year was so fun that I’m still screaming HAPPY NEW YEAR. #okilivingmag
This event is for the U.S. military community only, as the focus of this two-day Career Summit is introducing service members and military spouses to resources and information—including employers and hiring managers from participating companies—to assist in their career planning. Those who are eligible and interested in attending can learn more and register at the Hiring Our Heroes website: hiringourheroes.org
@mariaejohns
We’ve been hard pressed to secure our favorite burger place on island ... and that’s the level of our struggles living here! Ha! But rest assured we found our place now. I actually drove past it almost every day for two years. #okinomnoms
Thanks for hosting the free Improv Comedy shows during the holidays. Last month was awesome and we’re looking forward to attending this month’s events. I saw that Jabbawockeez will be on island soon. Will that be a family-friendly show?—via Facebook Indeed it will be. Armed Forces Entertainment is bringing the popular dance crew Jabbawockeez to Japan, and they will perform on Saturday, February 16 at 7 p.m. (doors open at 6 p.m.) at The Palms on Camp Hansen. Seating for this family-friendly event will be available on a first-come, first-served basis to all SOFA personnel. Our Exceptional Family Member Program representative, Tony Rodriguez, was extremely helpful. He made our process smooth and easy and was able to answer all our questions. He went above and beyond our expectations.—via ICE My child is in the pre-toddler classroom and I’m extremely pleased with what they’re doing. They take the time to teach her and she comes home every day with something new. She knows how to sign, she uses words in the right context and they have kept up great communication with me and my husband. We’re so grateful that she has such an awesome group of teachers! Ms. Yasue, Ms. Amanda, Ms. Jeanie, Ms. Courtney, Ms. Aika, Ms. Henliz and Ms. Robin are amazing!—via ICE
@_kelly_campbell_ beach finds #okilivingmag
Domo arigatou gozaimashita and thank you for your posts! We can’t wait to see what else you love about Okinawa! —The Okinawa Living Staff
Give MCCS Feedback—ICE Program & Facebook Let us know how we can better serve you or thank us for a job well-done. Go to mccsokinawa.com and click on the ICE link at the bottom of the homepage or find us on Facebook to share feedback. Comments on this page may be edited for clarity or length.
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No Ordinary Love Text by Ashley Sablan Layout by Margie Shimabukuro
OUT + ABOUT
Ah, chocolate. It’s similar to love in a way—soft and sweet, hard and bitter, definitely a little nutty at times, but always worth the try. This deep, dark elixir has fueled some of the most decadent dalliances time has ever seen. Exalted for centuries as “the food of the gods” and touted as an aphrodisiac by some of history’s greatest Lotharios, we can’t think of any gift better suited for the one you worship and adore.
his Valentine’s Day, pick up a box of chocolates for the god or goddess in your life. But instead of going for a commodified heart-shaped cliché, why not spring for a finer, more fashionable box of sweets custom curated from the bottom of your heart?
KAILEY LAVALLIERE
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OUT + ABOUT
ere to help you do that is Fashion Candy, Okinawa’s oldest leading confectioner and chocolatier. The company has dedicated itself to a lavish line of designer sweets and pastries since 1975, and has proven every day since then that chocolate, as a treat for any special occasion, is a cliché for a reason.
ALL IMAGES ON THIS PAGE COURTESY OF FASHION CANDY
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OUT + ABOUT
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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: KAILEY LAVALLIERE AND COURTESY OF FASHION CANDY. REST OF THE IMAGES ON THE PAGE BY KAILEY LAVALLIERE
ookies, cakes, tarts, pies, fresh breads, pastries and more slide fresh out of the bakery’s oven and onto the floor every morning. In the factory above, chocolate is mixed and molded in the form of opulent cherry, whisky and cognac bonbons, squares of ganache, rounds of roche, jeweled truffles and dainty morsels filled with tropical fruits and botanical notes. Because it’s all made in-house, everything is of consistent quality and artistry. A cloying cacao scent consumes the first floor shop where everything is displayed and ready to be individually selected, boxed and whisked away to that special somebody.
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OUT + ABOUT
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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: KAILEY LAVALLIERE, KAILEY LAVALLIERE (INSET PHOTO) & KAILEY LAVALLIERE. REST OF THE IMAGES ON THE PAGE COURTESY OF FASHION CANDY.
ashion Candy also carries a more robust, Okinawa exclusive collection of awamori-filled bonbons. As of yet, the collection contains 46 different pieces, each one beautifully packaged in gold foil and labeled according to distillery. Each piece of chocolate is sold separately with a box able to accommodate anywhere from 3 to 12 pieces. Select prepackaged sets are also available. As for their Valentine’s Day specials, chocolate ganache cigars wrapped in sable, intricately carved heart-shaped boxes of chocolate made of chocolate, rose-shaped cakes and milk chocolate teddy bears are just some of what’s in store.
The Fashion Candy Ginowan location is open every day from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (closed every 3rd Tuesday of the month). You can also find them inside San-A Naha Main Place on the first floor right around the corner from the florist. How convenient.
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FITNESS + FUN
Healthy Heart Month SHUTTER2U/BIGSTOCK.COM, MARIDAV/BIGSTOCK.COM
Change Your Life
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the U.S. But, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 80 percent of deaths from heart disease can be attributed to preventable factors like poor diet, lack of physical activity, obesity and tobacco use. In other words, simple lifestyle changes can make a huge impact on your heart’s health. Since February is Healthy Heart Month, it’s the perfect time to get educated, take action and show your heart some love. If you’re not sure how to get started or you need a little motivation, MCCS Health Promotion is here to help. Just check out the Health Promotion website for resources. You can also join them for some awesome heartpumping physical activities, such as the Heart Beat Step Challenge and the Heart Healthy Spinathon! Keeping a log is great for accountability when it comes to health and fitness goals, so try the Heart Beat Step Challenge! All you have
to do is download a log sheet from the MCCS Health Promotion website, track all your steps for each day this month and put some pep in your step. The person with the highest number of steps on island wins a fabulous prize. But whether you win a prize or not, you’ll find that because the Heart Beat Step Challenge helps participants discover all the wonderful places an active lifestyle can take you, everyone’s a winner. If spinning sounds more like your thing, you can participate in this year’s Heart Healthy Spinathon. Pedal your way to a healthier heart on Saturday, February 23 at Gunners Fitness Center on Camp Foster. For the spinathon, there will be three 50-minute sessions with three different instructors. The sessions will start at 8, 9 and 10 a.m. Bikes are limited, so make sure to call 645-3910 to reserve yours. For helpful resources or more information about these events, visit mccsokinawa.com/healthpromotion. FEBRUARY 2019 | OKINAWA LIVING 17
FITNESS + FUN
Join the Business of Saving Lives It All Starts with the Lifeguarding Full Course If you’re a strong swimmer and you think you have what it takes to prevent, recognize and respond to aquatic emergencies, then you should consider becoming a lifeguard. To get started, simply take MCCS Aquatics’ Lifeguarding Full Course. This class will teach you the necessary tools and techniques needed when caring for those in and around water. Finishing this course will result in the following certifications: Lifeguarding/First Aid/CPR/AED, Administering Emergency Oxygen and Bloodborne Pathogens Training. Courses will be
held March 11–22, April 4–9 & 9–14 and April 19–May 10 at the Foster Aquatic Center (times and days vary) for $150. To attend, students must be at least 15 years old on or before the last day of the course. Participants must also be able to pass the required prerequisite skills. For more information or to register, visit mccsokinawa.com/lifeguard. Additionally, upon successful completion of the course, check out mccsokinawa.com/jobs for lifeguarding opportunities.
Learn to Swim
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Swimming is a great (and fun) way to exercise. It works practically every muscle in your body and keeps your heart, as well as your joints, happy and healthy. It’s also an important life skill that could save your life one day. If you don’t know how to swim or you’re tired of relying on the doggie paddle, MCCS Aquatics is ready to help with Learn to Swim, a program that’ll have you swimming with confidence in no time. Register online for parent/child lessons ($50) or regular lessons ($75) by 11 p.m. on February 12. There will also be walk-in signups available February 13–15 from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Foster Aquatic Center. Lessons are available for a variety of skill levels, last approximately 30 minutes and meet February 19–28. For more information or to register, mccsokinawa.com/learntoswim.
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FITNESS + FUN
Open Water Scuba Instructor Share Your Passion
Emergency First Response Instructor
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Be a Hero
Become a certified CPR/First Aid Instructor through Tsunami Scuba’s Emergency First Response Instructor Course. Registration is open to anyone looking to become certified in EFR instruction for use both within and outside the dive industry.* Emergency first response training is practical for anyone. In just three days, candidates will learn how to properly administer primary and secondary care options, including CPR, oxygen providing and AED (automated external defibrillator) orientation. Candidates will also receive a Care of Children Instructor rating to include training in First Aid and secondary care skills specific to infants and children. With this training, you yourself will be able
to help bring down the number of accidents around you, take immediate action in the case of grave or critical injuries, identify and use the contents in a first aid kit, bandage injuries, control blood flow and more. The EFR Instructor Course will take place from February 8 to 10 at 6 p.m. at Camp Foster Tsunami Scuba. If interested, drop by or give them a call at 098-970-4206. The cost of tuition is $295 (plus training materials). For more information, visit Tsunami Scuba online at mccsokinawa. com/scuba or facebook.com/mccsokinawa.scuba. *Registrants must have taken an EFR Primary and Secondary Care course (or an equivalent) within the past 24 months.
Do you enjoy scuba diving? Do you love to teach? If you said yes to both questions, consider combining these passions and becoming a PADI Open Water Instructor. As a PADI Open Water Instructor, you’ll educate students in PADI procedures, risk management, diver safety and more. By instructing, you’ll be entering into a career field highly soughtafter by employers at hundreds of global dive locations. PADI Instructors can teach class levels up to Dive Master, and acquire specialty instructor ratings, such as Digital Underwater Photography, Wreck and Dry-Suit Diving. Tsunami Scuba on Camp Foster will be offering 10-day PADI Open Water Instructor courses throughout the year that will teach you everything you need to know from how to conduct open water dives to risk management and what to do in the case of a rescue. The first course is set to run from February 15 to 25 (times vary and are subject to change). Prepare yourself for a mind-blowing underwater career. The price for this class is $990 plus educational materials and an online program training fee. To register, stop by Camp Foster Tsunami Scuba. You must be Divemaster certified to enroll. For more information, visit mccsokinawa.com/ scuba or facebook.com/ mccsokinawa.scuba.
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FITNESS + FUN
Taiyo From the Tips Separate the “Best” from the “Rest”
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Golf isn’t for the humble. It’s for those with confidence in their length and game. So if you think you have the fastest swing, best accuracy and longest drive, how about you put your money where your mouth is and tee it up at Taiyo’s From the Tips Tournament on Saturday, February 23? But consider yourself warned, as this isn’t some weekend morning round with your buddies, it’s for serious golfers and hardcore hitters. This tournament is meant to separate the “best” from the “rest,” so all competitors will play from the tips (the black tees farthest from the green). If you can’t make decent shots under this kind of pressure, maybe wait for the next tournament. But if you really think you have what it takes, come out and flaunt your golf game! Those who wish to participate must register by Wednesday, February 20 at Taiyo Golf Club, where the tournament will take place. The entry fee is $30 per player (greens and cart fees are not included). Handicaps will be adjusted, and tee times will begin at 7 a.m. For more information, call Taiyo Golf Club at 622-2004 (098-954-2004) or visit mccsokinawa.com/golf.
Custom Club Fitting Play with a Club That Fits You like a Glove
Playing with a custom-fit club can make a big difference in a golfer’s game. At Taiyo Golf Club, they perform a 6-point fitting, taking you through an interactive process which gives you results, as well as the insight to make good decisions. Your custom club fitting by a Taiyo Golf Club expert includes a personal interview to provide them with information regarding your practice and playing habits, enabling them to make the best recommendations to improve your game. Next is an in-depth description of custom adjustment options and what impact they have on the playability of the golf club. This is followed by a complete diagnostic of your current equipment to include length, lie angle and shaft frequency (flex). After the diagnostic, a static measurement of physical stature is made with an explanation of this baseline fit. A full dynamic club fitting of length, lie angle and shaft flex is then performed with detailed performance tracking via a technologicallyadvanced launch monitor, which tracks club and ball speed, launch angle and spin rate. Once this is complete, you’ll receive a comprehensive review of fitting results along with a professional recommendation on equipment selection including crossreferencing of specifications for all major brands. For more information about Taiyo Golf Club’s Custom Fitting, call the Taiyo Pro Shop at 622-2004(098-954-2004) or visit mccsokinawa.com/golf.
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Native to the tropical rainforest of Central and South America, and now cultivated in many countries beyond the Caribbean, cacao trees are thin evergreens that somewhat resemble apple trees and rarely grow higher than 25 feet. Their glossy, oblong-shaped leaves turn from a flamboyant red to green as they mature, and clusters of small, five-petal blossoms grow from their trunk. A small portion of these flowers (which can be white, waxy pink, yellow or bright red in color) grow fruit. These fruit, called pods, look similar to melons and carry what’s used to make chocolate—their seeds, or rather, cacao “beans.” It takes a long time to harvest cacao. This is because the trees don’t begin to blossom until they’re about four to five years old. Then, it’s another six months before the flowers bloom and pods start to develop. After the first group of pods grow, one can usually pluck them twice a year. Each pod contains anywhere from 20 to 50 beans, and are usually either green or maroon in color. Once ripened (the green will turn bright yellow and the maroon orange), the pods are gathered and slit open in order to remove the beans. The beans then go through a similar process as coffee beans. They’re fermented (for five to seven days), dried (this can take up to two weeks) and after having their shells removed before being broken down into small pieces called nibs, they’re roasted. And, just like coffee, cacao has different flavor profiles depending on its origin. Because cacao trees require warm temperatures all year round, along with humidity and a lot of rainfall, all the main producing countries lie within a narrow band that extends up to 20 degrees north and south of the equator. This band is often referred to as the “Chocolate Belt.” However, despite the environmental hurdles of growing cacao outside this belt, other countries are trying to figure out how they can be a part of the world’s growing obsession. Japan, being the largest consumer market for chocolate confectionery in Asia, is one of them. As of right now, there are just a few cacao farms—the best-known being on Izu Island and Ogasawara. But, unbeknownst to most, there’s actually another farm right here on Okinawa.
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In April of 2016, a good-hearted man by the name of Kei Kawai planted the first ever cacao fields on Okinawa. Since then, his trees have survived several stages of research, errors and harsh weather conditions such as typhoons and winter. In November that same year, Kawai-san began making chocolate—branded as Okinawa Cacao. There’s still some time before his first harvest, but once he’s able to use his own beans his chocolate will be the first true Okinawan chocolate. Kawai is a one-man team for now, but with the goal to establish a cacao industry on Okinawa, he has plans to expand in the near future. This is not an objective designed by greed or want for deep pockets, but a wish to simply melt the distance between people.
This desire came to Kawai when he was living in Tokyo, after the devastating Tōhoku earthquake (March 11, 2011). The tragedy made him yearn for the simple life of the countryside and the peacefulness of Okinawa. He also wanted to make a contribution to society, and eventually decided the best way was to farm cacao and produce chocolate. When asked why, his answer was simple: “Everybody loves chocolate.” For Okinawa Cacao’s location, Kawai chose Ogimi, a quiet village just north of Nago. One might assume his selection was influenced by the village’s mineral-rich produce, but that wasn’t the case. It was actually the fact that Ogimi holds the highest longevity record of all Japan. The harmony of the village and its resilience certainly inspired him, but he found himself worrying over the time to come. Both Japan’s economy and society have been negatively impacted by a decreasing population since its peak in 2008, meaning villages like Ogimi are losing those responsible for the future—the youth. So in an attempt to revitalize the region, he wants to use Okinawa Cacao to create attractive work and opportunities (to draw more people to Okinawa). He also wants to be able to form contacts between other regions. But, of course, he has to harvest before he can do that.
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Kawai has 400 trees, most of which crowd the inside of a relatively small greenhouse. This was the result of damage received by the most recent typhoon, but Kawai says an additional, and much larger greenhouse, is in the works. Greenhouses are necessary for cacao trees because they’re extremely delicate when young. They need to be in the perfect climate (the best temperature is around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and the worst is less than 59), and need protection from the sun and wind. Once older, they’re able to be planted outside, as long as they’re planted by other trees that can protect them. Inside Kawai’s greenhouse is a camera that monitors the temperature and humidity. It also takes a photo every hour, which he uses to observe the daily growth of his plants. Outside the greenhouse, Kawai also grows his own ginger (which he uses for one of his chocolates) and is in the process of growing banana trees to help block strong winds and provide shade for the cacao trees that are ready for the field.
Now Kawai’s not ashamed to say cultivating cacao has been extremely difficult, even exhausting, so far. But he constantly reminds himself that he’s paving a way for the future. And, not only are his trees thriving, he’s been able to connect with great people who are eagerly waiting to see what characteristics Okinawan chocolate will bring to the table. Until then, each chocolate is made from a blend of beans from Ghana, Vietnam and Africa. All the other ingredients are local products. Right now, Okinawa Cacao sells three flavors of chocolate: cinnamon, shikuwasa (a citric fruit related to the mandarin) and ginger. Each kind is gentle on the pal palate, with low levels of bitterness, yet a strong chocolatey taste—while the added flavors make the bars bold and full-bodied. The cinnamon is the perfect combination of sweet and spicy, while the ginger is zesty with a little bit of a woody flavor. As for the shikuwasa, it’s pleasantly sour. Even so, the best part about Okinawa Cacao’s chocolates is that they’re sweet enough for those with a sweet tooth, but not overwhelmingly so—meaning dark chocolate lovers can enjoy them too.
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The chocolate-making magic happens in a small kitchen located beside Yanbaru Craftworks, a store about five minutes down the road from Kawai’s farm. This is where the beans are roasted, ground into a liquor, molded and packaged. The first step to creating Okinawa Cacao is to remove the shells of the cacao, which Kawai does by hand, and break the beans into pieces (the nibs). He then adds the nibs into a melanger (a cylindrical machine that grinds the nibs into a liquor) one small handful at a time. It takes about 12 to 18 hours for the liquor to be smooth, and it’s during this time he adds organic sugar, cacao butter and the cinnamon, ginger or shikuwasa. Once finished, the liquor is carefully poured onto glass slates to cool before being broken up into large pieces and packaged. You can purchase Okinawa Cacao in a shop on the second floor of the Domestic Terminal inside the Naha Airport. Prices are ¥500 for a 30g pack and ¥700 for a 40g pack. While it may be true that Kawai is just a man with a big dream, he could very well be the one to bring the cacao industry to Okinawa. And, if he succeeds, Okinawa Cacao will surely be the contribution to society he so desires. Many will seek Okinawa not just for work, but to be a part of a cacao movement and, of course, for the delicious homegrown chocolate. He has to take one step at a time, however, as he’s still diligently working on figuring out just what cacao trees need to survive on this island, but in the meantime, we should all enjoy the delicious chocolate he’s producing today.
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DINING + ENTERTAINMENT
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Valentine’s Day at the Clubs It’s said that one of the best ways to a person’s heart is through their stomach. This Valentine’s Day, let your significant other know just how significant they are by treating them to a romantic dinner at an MCCS Club. First on the list, love birds who wish to celebrate a little early this year can enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres and champagne during cocktail hour followed by a four-course dinner including an entrée of your choice at Surfside on Camp Kinser on February 10. Cocktail hour is at 6 p.m. and dinner begins at 7 p.m. Tickets for this event can be purchased at Surfside for $80 per couple (adults only). The Ocean Breeze on Camp Foster will offer a Sweetheart Dinner February 14 with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and champagne at 6 p.m. followed by a four-course dinner beginning at 7 p.m. Tickets for this event can be purchased at Ocean Breeze for $80 per couple (adults only). On February 14, Taiyo Steakhouse will remain open for business as usual, except—on this night only—with a complimentary beverage and flower for couples. For reservations, call Taiyo Steakhouse at 098-954-2020. The Butler Officers’ Club on Plaza Housing will celebrate a postValentine’s extravaganza on February 15 beginning with a 6 p.m. cocktail hour complete with complimentary hors d’oeuvres and champagne followed by an elegant seven-course meal, live entertainment and
dancing throughout the remainder of the evening. Purchase your ticket at Butler Officers’ Club for $50 per participant (adults only). Flowers and wines will also be available for purchase at an additional charge. And finally, for something a little more kid-friendly, on February 14 at 5 p.m. at Tengan Castle on Camp Courtney, adults can enjoy a romantic four-course meal including an entrée of their choice (adult menu and pricing will be available 2 weeks prior to the event) while children can eat from a special buffet, craft Valentine’s cards and watch movies in their own private dining area. Adult supervision will be on deck, so parents needn’t worry; however, infants will need to remain with their parents. The children’s buffet is $7.50 for ages 5 to 11 and FREE for tykes under 5. Reservations for this event are highly recommended and can be made at 098-954-9413. For more kid-friendly venues, Valentine’s Day Family Fun Nights will also be held on February 13 at The Veranda at Ocean Breeze on Camp Foster and February 14 at Butler Officers’ Club (5 to 9 p.m. both nights). Enjoy a family buffet, Valentine’s Day card-making and awesome giveaways. Prices for this event are $7.95 for adults, $3.95 for children (5–11) and FREE for children under 5. For more information, visit mccsokinawa.com/clubs.
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DINING + ENTERTAINMENT
MCFTB Featured Classes
Futenma Flight Line Fair THOMAS ALAN SMILIE
Mark Your Calendar!
The much-anticipated Futenma Flight Line Fair (FLF) is coming up! This year, the annual fest will be held on Saturday, March 9 and Sunday, March 10 from 1 to 9 p.m. both days. The FLF will feature fun for both service members and families alike with FREE live entertainment, game booths, Fun Land rides, a car show (Sunday) and delicious food such as bodacious burgers from Bulldogs, succulent BBQ beef brisket from Hickory House All-American BBQ, sizzling-hot pizza and zesty selections from 305 Latin Bistro. And, of course, there will be a static display
showcasing Marine Corps aircraft and tactical vehicles. Admission to the FLF is FREE and open to all SOFA personnel, and U.S. and Japanese citizens. Please be prepared to show a photo ID at the gate. Also, no one will be admitted with pets, bottles, outside alcohol or coolers. And, as always, we encourage everyone to drink responsibly; don’t drink and drive. Both taxi and daiko services will be available. All patrons must park in the designated parking area and walk to the festival grounds. For more information, call 645-5828 or visit mccsokinawa.com/festivals/#tab5. FEBRUARY 2019 | OKINAWA LIVING 37
RESTAURANT REVIEW
CORRENTE
Spectacular Italian Cuisine at Hilton Okinawa Chatan Resort Text by Mike Daley, Photographs provided by Hilton Okinawa Chatan Resort and Kailey LaValliere Hours of Operation Open Daily Lunch 11:30 a.m.–3 p.m. (last order 2:30 p.m.) Dinner & Bar 5:30 p.m.–11:30 p.m. (last order for food 9:30 p.m.; beverages 11 p.m.) Phone 098-901-1100 Address Hilton Okinawa Chatan Resort CORRENTE GPS: 26.318564, 127.754690 Payment ¥/$/CC
History. Tradition. Reputation. These words can be hard to come by when one owns or operates a business. It’s not only about maintaining the quality of the product delivered and ensuring patrons leave with a positive impression of your establishment, it’s more about the foundation on which history, tradition and reputation are built upon—pride and dedication. Hilton Hotels, which celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2019, is a shining example of successful execution. Since it was founded in 1919, Hilton has made quite a name for itself—one that is known worldwide. By now, you may be beginning to wonder why Hilton Hotels are relevant to a restaurant review. It’s because this month, we visited an excellent modern Italian restaurant called CORRENTE, located inside the Hilton Okinawa Chatan Resort. CORRENTE embodies the selfsame qualities of pride and dedication, and this shows as each plated masterpiece travels from the kitchen to your table. First opening its doors to guests in April 2014, CORRENTE and the hotel it resides in have also been building a reputation for quality and excellence— making the Italian eatery a perfect venue for celebrating a special event such as a Valentine’s Day dinner.
CORRENTE is currently offering two “Celebration” dinner courses under the their Anniversary Plan—the “Diamante” for ¥11,000 and the “Oro” for ¥5,000 (less service and tax). For this review, we opted for the Oro plan specially prepared by chef Tatsuya Ishikawa. Oro begins with an appetizer platter consisting of a cool carrot and cumin gazpacho, carpaccio with fresh yellowtail and shīquāsā dressing, prosciutto ham and roast duck with a mustard dressing. The main course was 200 grams of succulent, melt-in-your-mouth Australian tenderloin served with a porcini sauce. Dinner was served with freshly baked bread and finished with a special dessert of the day—a gâteau chocolate for two during this review. Several options are available with your meal, including different flowers that can be presented and taken home once the meal is complete, all-you-candrink plans and even sweets (macarons or banana bread) to take home to accompany the nightcap. Reservations are required three days in advance either via phone (098-901-1100) or online at www3. hilton.com/en/hotels/japan/hilton-okinawa-chatan-resortOKAOCHI/dining/index.html. Enjoy your evening!
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MARINES + FAMILIES
Military Saves 2019
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Set a Goal, Make a Plan and Save Automatically! Throughout the DoD, February 25–March 2 is designated as Military Saves Week. On Okinawa, Military Saves Week is extended to encompass the entire month of February as Okinawa Military Saves Month. The annual Military Saves Week, part of the DoD’s Financial Readiness Campaign, has evolved and grown each year. Now going into its 11th year, Military Saves is a dedicated effort by military installations, financial institutions, non-profit organizations and government agencies to encourage military service members and their families to increase their financial health by reducing their debt and increasing their wealth. Additionally, since its start in 2007, over 300,000 military members worldwide have taken the Military Saves Pledge online, with over 26,000 individuals taking the Military Saves Pledge during the 1st quarter of 2018. Military members on Okinawa are highly encouraged to “Set a Goal, Make a Plan, Save Automatically” by taking the pledge, establishing goals, saving money automatically every month and joining the thousands of others on the road to financial stability.
Military Saves encourages service members and their families to Set a Goal, Make a Plan and Save Automatically! The primary goal of the Personal Financial Management Specialists assigned on Okinawa, is to develop a culture that supports financial literacy through education, training and counseling. During this month, MCCS Personal & Professional Development-Resources (P&PD-R) will provide workshops, to include evening workshops focused on promoting savings and financial stability to include: money management, TSP and saving and investing classes. MCCS strongly encourages all military service members, DoD civilians and their families to take the Military Saves pledge on the Military Saves website at militarysaves.org to reach a financial goal while setting a foundation for a strong financial future and taking action to improve their financial health and wellness. For more information on Personal Finance workshops and services, call 645-2104. Visit P&PD-R online at mccsokinawa.com/ personal_finance_management or on the MCCS Marine & Family Facebook page.
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MARINES + FAMILIES
L.I.N.K.S. for Spouses Lifestyle, Insight, Networking, Knowledge and Skills
uncertain and a bit nervous about what they’re getting into. The L.I.N.K.S. workshop is here to provide spouses with the tools they need to successfully navigate the military lifestyle, in addition to MCFTB which provides educational resources and services to foster personal growth and enhance the readiness of Marine Corps families. L.I.N.K.S. for Spouses welcomes new and veteran spouses to network and gain insight about Marine Corps culture and tradition, island fun, available resources, moving tips, managing deployments, building a community and more. The next L.I.N.K.S. for Spouses class will take place February 4–5 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (both days) at the Camp Foster Education Center. To register for this class, email mcftbokinawa@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org or visit mccsokinawa.com/mcftb. For more information about this class and other MCFTB offerings, call 645-3689.
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Forward-deployed Marines, Sailors and family members all know the mantra, “we will be ready to fight tonight.” However, remaining constantly vigilant isn’t easy—it takes planning, knowledge of resources available and, most importantly, the confidence that comes with knowing that families on the homefront are taken care of. Marine Corps Family Team Building (MCFTB) offers many classes, workshops and training to enhance readiness and build confidence, and one of the most important of these offerings is L.I.N.K.S. (Lifestyle, Insights, Networking, Knowledge and Skills). L.I.N.K.S. is a program designed by spouses, for spouses to help foster a support system for spouses, service members, teens and kids. Being a spouse in the military world is different than life in the civilian world. The military lifestyle can come with an adjustment period for many spouses and family members. Many spouses new to the military feel
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TROY’s Military and Family Scholarship caps the cost of tuition at $250 per credit hour for active military. Also, your spouse and dependents receive up to 50% in tuition savings. CONTACT THE PROGRAM
COORDINATOR NEAREST YOU FOR MORE INFORMATION
KADENA AB kadena@troy.edu DSN 634-7464
OSAN AB osan@troy.edu DSN 784-5141
MISAWA AB misawa@troy.edu DSN 226-3748
CAMP HUMPHREYS humphreys@troy.edu DSN 755-3534
YONGSAN AG yongsan@troy.edu DSN 723-7508
troy.edu/pacific
TERM IV 2019 Mar. 18 - May 19, 2019 Application Deadline: 03/08/19 Registration Begins: 02/25/19 TERM V 2019 May 28 – July 28, 2019 Application Deadline: 05/17/19 Registration Begins: 05/06/19
MARINES + FAMILIES
Real Leaders Listen Communicate to Lead The art of communication is the language of leadership, and it’s critical in daily life as well. Attend Communicate to Lead to learn how to sharpen communication skills and build stronger personal and professional relationships. Open to current and future leaders, this workshop will help Marines and families learn how to communicate with one another in an effective and mutually productive manner. Communicate to Lead will be held on February 27 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the MCAS Futenma Education Center. For more information on this offering, call 645-3689 or visit MCCS Marine Corps Family Team Building (MCFTB) online at mccsokinawa. com/mcftb.
Conflict Management
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Conflict is Also an Opportunity “Peace is not the absence of conflict, it is the ability to handle conflict by peaceful means,” said Ronald Reagan, former president of the United States. This statement not only holds true between countries, but for individuals as well. The Marine Corps Family Team Building Conflict Management Workshop addresses interpersonal conflict and is designed to help service members and their families become more aware of conflict and empower them to make healthy choices by managing their responses to conflict, both at home and in the work place. The next workshop will be held February 12 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Camp Foster Education Center. To register, visit mccsokinawa.com/mcftb.
Four Lenses Workshop What Style Personality Do You Have? Everyone has a unique personality spectrum (or lens) that reveals how they naturally see the world. Knowing yours will help you understand your strengths and weaknesses, avoid conflict, know what environments you perform the best in and more. You can find out what lens you use at a Four Lenses workshop. There will be one held February 21 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the Camp Hansen Library.
Four Lenses is a proven personality temperament model that helps you understand the different personality styles, as well as identify yours. By attending this workshop, you’ll not only discover more about yourself, but will learn about value and communication styles that’ll improve your worldly interaction. To register, visit mccsokinawa. com/mcftb. FEBRUARY 2019 | OKINAWA LIVING 45
MARINES + FAMILIES
Secure Your Future Manage Your Finances for a Better Tomorrow Whether you’re in for 2 years or 20, you might be able to live out the retirement you’ve always dreamed of if you start saving now. To promote the 2019 Military Saves Campaign theme, “Set a Goal, Make a Plan, Save Automatically,” MCCS Personal Financial Management Specialists will be providing additional workshops on the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) to assist service members and DoD civilians in effectively managing their TSP retirement account. The TSP Workshop will discuss allocations, avoiding redundancies and provide other tips and resources to maximize the effectiveness of your account. For more details or to register, please call 645-2104 or visit mccsokinawa.com/personal_ finance_management.
Married and Loving It! Restore Your Connection Attending a marriage workshop is a great way to reconnect with your spouse and strengthen your relationship. Many also find comfort in opening up to a third party as it provides a good amount of support from others. Those facing issues also tend to appreciate the reassurance that they’re not alone. But, you don’t have to have marital problems to receive advice—it’s always beneficial. The Behavioral Health Family Advocacy Program (FAP) offers a great workshop called Married and Loving It! that all couples should try.
Expand your communication skills, open your dialogue regarding finances, discover your love language and improve your conflict resolution skills at this two-part workshop on February 1 and 8 in Bldg. 439 on Camp Foster. You must be registered to attend. Couples are encouraged to participate together, but it’s not required. You also don’t need to be married to go. To register, call 645-2915 or email fapprevention@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org. For more information, visit mccsokinawa.com/behavioralhealth.
TAKE ACTION
RODERICA MATHIS, VECTORFUSIONART/BIGSTOCK.COM
Finance Your Higher Education In the past, many service members and their families postponed their education for financial reasons. They were often discouraged by false information about access to funds, or just didn’t know financial aid was available. Attend TAKE ACTION, a workshop designed to teach you how to make sense of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), tuition assistance (TA), scholarships and the GI Bill. There will be two workshops held this month—one aboard Camp Hansen and the other on Camp Foster. Hansen’s will take place on February 13 in the Education Center (Bldg. 2339) and Foster’s will be on February 20 in the Education Center (Bldg. 5679). Both workshops will run from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For more information, call the Camp Hansen Education Center at 623-4376 or the Camp Foster Education Center at 645-7160. You can also visit mccsokinawa.com/educationandcareerservices. FEBRUARY 2019 | OKINAWA LIVING 47
KIDS + PARENTS
Dr. Seuss Birthday Party He brought you The Cat in the Hat! He brought you Green Eggs and Ham! So, on Saturday, March 2, join MCCS Libraries on Camps Kinser, Foster and Courtney in a wacky birthday celebration of the famed children’s author and illustrator, Dr. Seuss! Theodor Seuss Geisel was born on March 2, 1904 in Springfield, Massachusetts. After graduating from Dartmouth College in 1924, Geisel began to pursue a doctorate in literature from Oxford University. This was interrupted, however, upon meeting his first love, Helen Palmer. The two married just three years later. After returning to America, he worked as a cartoonist for the nation’s leading satire magazine at the time, Judge. His work also ran in Life, Vanity Fair and Liberty. His first book, And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street, was published in 1937. The book was initially rejected by nearly 30 publishers before it finally made it onto store shelves, but what followed was a string of immensely popular children’s books that helped millions of little ones across the globe learn how to read and rhyme.
Leading up to World War II, Geisel also worked as an editorial cartoonist. During the war, he served in the U.S. Army (1942–1946) for whom he wrote documentaries and films (both of which landed him Academy Awards). After a 1954 Life report on youth illiteracy, Geisel was encouraged by his publisher to author books that contained more kid-friendly pictures, colors and words; thus, The Cat in the Hat was born. The book contained 225 words both Geisel and his publisher thought important for children to know—words that rhymed. In his years as Dr. Seuss, Geisel authored and illustrated 44 children’s books, many of which are now classics that have been recreated and remastered into moving pictures and other multimedia. From 10 to 11 a.m., bring your children for a fantastical hour of stories, songs and special appearances from The Cat in the Hat and Sam I Am, and help celebrate the legacy of the man who helped us all learn and love to read. For more information on these events, contact a participating library or visit mccsokinawa.com/libraries.
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KIDS + PARENTS
Home Visits One-on-One Guidance for New Parents Becoming a new parent or adding a sibling to the family can be extremely scary, not to mention overwhelming. But it’s important to know there’s a lot of help available. In fact, you can get a great deal of support that comes right to your door. The MCCS New Parent Support Program (NPSP) invites mothers and fathers to sign up to receive planned home visits, which are conducted by registered nurses and trained clinicians with extensive knowledge of the issues encountered by today’s parents. Home visits will help you build a solid foundation for your journey through parenthood on a wide variety of topics, such as pregnancy, infant care (first six weeks of life), breastfeeding, baby/toddler home safety, development, nurturing, potty training, attachment and bonding during deployment and much more. Home visitors will also help you cope with stress, isolation and the everyday demands of parenthood. Home visits are great whether parents are first-timers or not because not only do they provide necessary resources, but most people are just more comfortable asking questions and expressing their concerns about parenthood where they’re comfortable, like in the privacy of their own home. Visits can be conducted in your home, at the NPSP office or another convenient location. To register, call NPSP at 645-0396. For more information, visit mccsokinawa. com/npsp.
Baby Boot Camp RODERICA MATHIS
Baby On the Way? Baby Boot Camp is a parenting education class for expectant parents in their third trimester. In this class, mothers and fathers-to-be are educated on the birthing process and first six weeks of their child’s life. The goal of Baby Boot Camp is to enhance the confidence and competence of new (and new again) parents. The class consists of hands-on interactive parenting education in topics such as bathing, feeding, soothing, safety, managing early parenting stressors, education on shaken baby syndrome, sudden infant death syndrome and the overall prevention of child abuse and neglect. Parents will receive community resource and referral information on all programs offering family services. This is a one-day event held monthly with the next session being February 4 in Bldg. 439 on Camp Foster. Visit mccsokinawa.com/npsp for information and call 645-0396 to register. FEBRUARY 2019 | OKINAWA LIVING 51
KIDS + PARENTS
Hey Coach!
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Volunteer as a Coach and Shape a Child’s Future Many of us have had one—that one person who made a lasting impact in our lives during our younger years. Whether it was a teacher that showed us the joy of reading that blossomed into a love of writing, a music instructor who taught us the beauty of music or a soccer coach who taught us that a defeat wasn’t the end of the world, but rather something that made us stronger and better in the long run. With the right coach, kids feel more confident, well-prepared and inspired both participating in their chosen sport as well as in everyday life. Participating in sports at a young age can have a healthy developmental influence on children. Not only do sports promote cooperative play, teamwork and sportsmanship, the physical activity also has a positive impact on improving motor skills and boosting self-esteem.
If you’re ready to make a positive impact in both the community and a child’s life, MCCS Semper Fit Youth Sports has the opportunity for you. Youth Sports is looking for fun, dedicated individuals who want to make a difference in a child’s life and teach life lessons that they’ll carry on into adulthood. To coach is to play an active role in a child’s future. You’re not just a coach; you’re a mentor, a hero and a friend. In addition, coaching a team is a great way to meet new people and share your skills with children who share a passion for sports and an active lifestyle. Volunteer opportunities are available to coach cheerleading, basketball, baseball, softball and soccer all-season-round. For more information about becoming a volunteer coach, please call 645-3533/4 or email youthsports@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org. FEBRUARY 2019 | OKINAWA LIVING 53
SERVICES
Typhoon Motors
URFINGUS/BIGSTOCK.COM
Shop & Support Services Our beloved cars... They make our lives easier, but sometimes they can also be kind of a hassle. Lucky for us, however, Typhoon Motors’ shop and support services make maintaining our vehicles pain-free. From oil changes, tire services, JCIs and JCI pre-inspections to indoor work stalls, auto air conditioning services and more, Typhoon Motors has everything you need to keep your car running smoothly or to make a few improvements. For starters, you can get rid of the factory speakers in your car for some real sound. All it takes is some easy, affordable upgrades for improvements in clarity, quality and power capabilities. You can also choose from features like Bluetooth, GPS, smartphone connectivity and more. To help spice up your
sound system, Typhoon Motors sells a wide selection of Kenwood audio equipment. And, don’t worry, with an appointment you can get an expert to install your fancy new system. If you need to sell your vehicle, you don’t have to worry about finding the best way to advertise your car. All you have to do is park it at the Auto Resale Lot on Camp Foster. But first, make sure to register your car at the Foster Typhoon Motors (Bldg. 5981) open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. any day of the week. Parking permits are $10 for one month, and the lot is conveniently located in a high-traffic area adjacent to Arby’s and across the street from the Exchange. For more information about the lot, call the Foster Typhoon Motors at 645-7169 or visit
mccsokinawa.com/autoresalelot. Those who have no intention of selling their vehicle must deregister it. Typhoon Motors Auto Recovery Center disposes vehicles for FREE. To do this, all Japanese taxes and fees must be current, and the vehicle must be registered by the owner (if not, a valid power of attorney is needed). For more information, call the Auto Recovery Center at 645-1799. Finally, if you find yourself on the side of the road, Typhoon Motors also offers islandwide towing. Just call 090-3794-2556. For more offers, call your local Typhoon Motors or visit mccsokinawa. com/typhoonmotors.
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Okinawa soba is not the only noodle in town; the island, as well as the rest of Japan, is home to a variety. One type—ramen—has been delighting palates in the Far East for centuries. Although ramen traces its lineage to China like its many Asian brethren, modern ramen is as Japanese as sushi. The typical ramen noodle is made from wheat, flour, saltwater and kansui (a yellow-ish alkaline mineral water). In some cases eggs are substituted for the last. Ramen noodles are usually yellow, but the color can vary as much as their consistency, length, circumference and, for lack of a better term, “crinkly-versus-straightness.” The soup in which these noodles languish also differs—in many cases based on their region of origin. Some of the variations that have broken through their borders and achieved national fame are Sapporo’s “miso ramen,” Tokyo’s “shôyu ramen” and “tonkotsu” (a.k.a. Hakata ramen) from Fukuoka. Shôyu ramen, along with shio (salt ramen that can be found nation-wide), use a clear, light soup made from chicken (and sometimes other meats) as well as vegetables. They're clear and savory, but light on the palate. Miso ramen soup combines this base stock with copious amounts of miso bean curd for a richer flavor. The soup used for tonkotsu ramen is the richest, with the strongest flavor. The soup, which is made from slow-boiling pork bones and vegetables for a long period of time, has a rich, hearty and in some cases almost a creamy consistency. Following are a few of our local favorite ramen joints…that are easier-to-find and English-speaker-friendly.
Ichiran Ramen, one of the most popular ramen chains in Japan, serves Fukuokastyle Hakata tonkotsu ramen—with a thick and creamy, stick-to-your-ribs broth. Ichiran is (self) credited with elements of a tonkotsu ramen shop that many veterans will immediately be familiar—the thick red sauce which controls the spiciness of the bowl, the “solo” dining booth which isolates diners and allows them to concentrate on their noodles without distraction, the paper ordering system that allows diners to “fine tune” their order with noodle consistency, level of spiciness, etcetera and the automatic “kaedama” (which basically means “gimme more noodles”) ordering system. Ichiran arrived on Okinawa recently—opening in October 2018. The shop began as a “yatai” (stall) that opened in the Nakasu District of Fukuoka. Formally established as a full-fledged company in 1993, Ichiran shops have since spread throughout Japan as well as locations in Taiwan, Hong Kong and New York. At Ichiran, there's only one ramen offered—tonkotsu ramen for ¥890. A vending machine system is used for ramen orders, toppings (such as extra stewed pork), drinks and other accompaniments. Pictures are provided as well as instructions in Japanese, English, Chinese and Korean. Once at the table, diners are given an order sheet in which they choose the level of dashi, richness of the soup, amount of garlic, whether or not they prefer green onions and chashu pork, the amount of spicy sauce and the texture of the noodles. If you change your mind on accompaniments, there’s no need to return to the machine as the second sheet allows diners who have changed their minds to order. Ichiran’s patented savory tonkotsu broth is substantially flavorful however, it lacks the strong aroma customarily associated with tonkotsu. The noodles are thin and wheat-based and stored meticulously (they aren’t even exposed to air until right before they go into the pot). Ichiran takes their ramen seriously, to say the least—they have won awards from agencies ranging from the Brooklyn Awards Program and New York Magazine to the 15th Hong Kong Forum and even the Japan Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.
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If you like it hot, hit up Ramen Gadou located right across the street from the Chatan AEON Mall parking lot. Ramen Gadou is known for its signature Kazan Spicy Volcano Noodles (¥980), a thicker than normal tomato/miso-based ramen that kind of resembles lava. Some caution is in order. The spiciness gauge for this bowl of molten hot liquid runs from 1–1000. For every hundred increments, an additional gram of pepper paste is added to the soup. Not long after deciding what level you can handle, a bowl of yellow noodles topped with green onion will arrive at your table in a sizzling stone bowl (it’s important you do not touch). Also on the tray, you’ll find a plate of chashu, egg, bamboo shoots and the opaque red broth sitting in a separate dish. Pour the broth into the noodles and, just like a volcano, watch it almost combust—bubbles boiling, steam rolling and a trail of savor and spice rising up out of the cauldron. As the heat dies down, slide in your toppings and get ready for a culinary experience that’ll melt your worries away in an exhilarating burst of aromatic steam. Heat aside, the soup also packs an intense flavor drawing from the tomato and miso that’s unlike any ramen we’ve ever had. If you’re looking for something a little more subtle, Ramen Gadou also serves a miso ramen (¥780) that’s a lot like the Spicy Volcano Noodles, only they’ve omitted the heat in favor of more of that luscious miso swimming about the bowl. If the former was Mercury, then this is more Earthly. Other choices include their Spicy Volcano Curry Noodles (¥980), shōyū ramen (¥780), shio ramen (¥780) or, for the warmer months, tsukemen dip noodles (¥1080). You can also try their Spicy Volcano Noodle challenge. If you can finish a bowl with spice ranging anywhere from level 200–1000, you'll receive a voucher to use during your next visit and have your picture put up on their wall of fame.
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In the culinary world, Hokkaido is famous for three things: seafood, beer and rich ramen that warms you from the inside out. Winters in Hokkaido can be harsh, and the ramen there is almost perfectly engineered to battle this cold. What really sets this ramen apart is its embellished broth. The secret is lard, which when added, lavishly layers itself at the top of the bowl and helps to prevent heat from escaping. Another Hokkaido-style hallmark is the additional use of pastes to further flavor soup stock, particularly miso. In fact, miso ramen was popularized in this very region. When used together, lard and miso create a luxurious texture, complex flavor and a combined fattiness that keeps your belly warmer and fuller for much, much longer. It may not necessarily be Hokkaido-cold here on Okinawa, but if you’re looking for a bowl of ramen that’s guaranteed to satisfy, visit Hayatemaru at any one of their six locations on island. An Okinawan local, Munetsugu Okuhara, is the shop’s owner. He found himself in Hokkaido back when studying traditional Japanese cuisine, and it’s where he decided to open his first ramen shop, Kotenpan in 2002 (which he later renamed). Hokkaido also happens to be a major producer of wheat, so you’ll find some of the finest noodles in ramen such as the kind served at Hayatemaru. Their best-selling bowl is their Ramen with White Miso Soup (¥730). The miso is light, but a dollop of spicy ume (plum) paste adds a nice zing. Another sound option is their Ramen with Spicy Soup (¥730) in which they add a miso-shōyū base, prawns, egg, minced meat, cucumbers and red peppers. While it’s true their noodles are 100% Hokkaido-produced, for these toppings, Hayatemaru uses only the freshest Okinawan meat and vegetables. It’s an amalgamation of north and south—the best of what each has to offer.
FEBRUARY 2019 | OKINAWA LIVING 63
LIVING ON OKINAWA
Ichigo Daifuku (Strawberry Mochi Treats) Daifuku are tasty morsels of rice dough filled with a sweet bean paste called anko in the middle. Strawberries are a popular addition to this treat—making them unique (and surprisingly healthy). Ingredients 1 1/2 cups mochiko (rice flour) 1 1/2 cups water 1/4 cup sugar 2 cups of anko (sweet red bean paste available premade in cans at local grocery stores) Approximately one dozen small to medium strawberries Wax paper or a cutting board One cup katakuriko (potato starch) Preparation 1. Mix flour, water and sugar in a pot. When it’s good and mixed, heat on high then cover. 2. After a few minutes, the mixture will began to thicken rapidly. Stir thoroughly every minute or so until the mixture becomes tacky. Remove from heat and leave uncovered to cool. 3. Thoroughly flour the working surface with the potato starch (the mixture will be very sticky). 4. Using a wooden spoon, pull out golf ball-sized portions and set them individually on the potato starch. This will help them cool faster. 5. Smear anko all over the washed and stemmed strawberries. 6. When the dough is cool enough to touch, flour fingers, then work the dough balls into flat circles. Place an anko-covered strawberry in the middle, then draw the dough up over the filling and pinch it together so it sticks. Caution: Don’t stretch the dough too thin because it will tear. 7. Serve as quickly as possible (these treats don’t last well in the refrigerator).
Setsubun-no-hi
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Setsubun is a Japanese festival that originally descended from ancient China. This event is held on February 3, which is considered the day before the first day of spring according to the lunar calendar. The general idea of Setsubun is to drive evil spirits, bad luck and sickness away from the home, while welcoming in good luck by throwing roasted soybeans. Here’s how it’s done: First, throw the beans as strongly as possible outside the home from doorways and windows (be careful not to hit anybody in the eyes) while shouting “oni wa soto!” (devils out!). Then, toss beans inside of the home while saying “fuku wa uchi!” (happiness in!) to invite the good luck. In many places in Japan, sometimes the father (and sometimes oldest son) will don an oni (ogre) mask and the rest of the family members will throw roasted beans to frighten the “oni” away. This tradition makes the event more enjoyable for children. After throwing roasted soybeans, it’s also customary that everyone eat the same number of beans as their age in order to wish for good health during the year. Many may be wondering “why soybeans?” It’s thought that because soybeans grow virtually everywhere while also bringing fertility to the soil, that they contained magical powers. Soybeans were therefore believed to be an effective weapon against evil. If you’re planning on joining the many millions of Japanese in beanthrowing for Setsubun this year, please remember one thing—use roasted beans—unless you want a soybean farm in your yard.
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Aisun FEBRUARY 2019 | OKINAWA LIVING 67
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