December Okinawa Living Magazine 2022

COVER

BY SARAH HEAD

kids + parents 45

Holiday

Dive-In Movie Night

Cheery pool patrons can enjoy a warm pool and warmhearted flick at the 50m pool at the Camp Foster Aquatic Center. 47

MCCS Child & Youth Programs

Choosing childcare can be a daunting task but rest assured that MCCS Child & Youth Programs are here to support your child’s needs and help shape them into successful, motivated individuals.

services

49

Ho-Ho-Holiday

fitness + fun

27

35

Shimenawa Wreath-Making Class

Sale!

‘Tis the season for shopping and gift-giving, and, luckily, Tsunami Scuba is going to help you save some hard-earned bucks this year while doing so!

MCCS Gift Card

2023

Pacific-Wide MLK Basketball Tournament

The hottest hardcourt clash of the year has made its return! Sign up your team for this monumental event or get yourself courtside seats to cheer on your favorite five!

29

Holiday Swim Prediction Time Trials

If you love sipping on a warm mug of cocoa as much as you love swimming, you won’t want to miss this event!

31

Kinser

Santa Fun Run

Ho, ho, ho! Get ready to dash! No need to pack the sleigh or snowshoes as ice and snow flurries will probably not be in the weather forecast.

marines + families

33

Foster and Kinser Library Book Clubs

Discover a new favorite author along with a community of other literature lovers by joining a book club at libraries on Camps Foster or Kinser.

Prepare for 2023 with an enriching handson cultural experience—the Japanese and Okinawan New Year’s tradition of shimenawa wreath-making at MCCS Libraries.

37

L.I.N.K.S.

Foundation Holiday Edition

Don ye now your ugly holiday sweater and learn how to navigate the unique circumstances associated with military life at L.I.N.K.S. Foundations.

dining + entertainment

39

Christmas Buffets at MCCS Clubs and Restaurants

Gather with loved ones and celebrate this especially magical time of the year with a grand holiday meal at an MCCS Club or Restaurant.

41

Grinchmas Brunch

Get ready to squeal because one vile, green guest is making an appearance at the Ocean Breeze brunch buffet on Camp Foster.

Looking for the ideal last minute holiday gift? An MCCS Gift Card is the most versatile gift and perfect for any special occasion.

COMMANDING GENERAL, MCIPAC

Major General Stephen E. Liszewski

ASSISTANT CHIEF OF STAFF, MCCS, MCIPAC Edward S. Hutsell

DEPUTY ASSISTANT CHIEF OF STAFF, MCCS DIRECTOR, MCCS, MCB CAMP BUTLER

Michael S. Gieseck

DEPUTY MCCS DIRECTOR

MARINE & FAMILY PROGRAMS

Carlos J. Saldaña

DEPUTY MCCS DIRECTOR BUSINESS & SUPPORT

Hyun Woo Chang

CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER

Jim Kassebaum

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Mike Daley

MCCS ART DIRECTOR

Henry C. Ortega

OKINAWA LIVING ART DIRECTOR

Margie Shimabukuro

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Tiffany Kim, Emily Wright, Alora Wilson

DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER

Thomas Alan Smilie

PHOTOGRAPHERS/VIDEOGRAPHERS

Kathlene Millette, Mia Cox, Kirstin Spanu

EDITORIAL

Kiara Klein, Dani Livesey

DIGITAL & SOCIAL MEDIA

Roxine Ami, Jaci Mullally

CULTURAL RESEARCH SPECIALIST Ayako Kawamitsu

ADVERTISING SALES & SPONSORSHIP MANAGER

Julia Gregory-Bovender

ADVERTISING SALES & SPONSORSHIP

Yoshihiro Shinzato, Hiromitsu Horikawa Terumi Nagai, Ronshanda Perkins, Tsutomu McCoy

MARKETING ACCOUNTS MANAGER

Andrew Menges

MARKETING ACCOUNTS

Bethany Ramirez

Latoya Cardona, Deanna Berg

DISTRIBUTION

Wataru Yamanoha, Shohei Ikene

MARKETING INTERN

Martinez

mensôre

“Welcome” to Okinawa Living

As the final month of 2022 winds down, a few of us may still be wrestling with New Year’s resolutions made the first day of this year. And the vast majority of us have probably forgotten what they were in the first place.

Most New Year’s resolutions are about improving oneself—many timeworn cliché resolutions often include quitting smoking, losing weight (or gaining muscle), getting out of debt, drinking less and spending more time with the family. Others may include resolving to be a nicer person, holding the door open for strangers, smiling more often or volunteering in the local community.

While these resolutions are all worthwhile (especially the last), why not be a bit more creative this year and resolve to do something meaningful AND fun?

Being on Okinawa, there are plenty of possibilities. How about learning a martial art? Okinawa is the birthplace of karate, and there’s no better place to learn the art form that teaches about self-mastery—which enables practitioners to harness immense power, blinding speed and an almost inhuman resilience.

Resolving to get in shape and give back to the community? Volunteer to coach a youth sports soccer team! Running the sidelines, giving in-game instructions and victory dancing when your team scores can certainly get the blood pumping.

Looking for something a bit less strenuous but just as worthwhile? How about resolving to learn enough Japanese to say “hello” and “thank you” to the nice old Okinawan lady that rakes the leaves and cleans up the trash in the local park your children play in every afternoon?

Okinawa offers plenty of opportunities to enrich and improve ourselves both inside and out. Be it climbing a small mountain, visiting all four populated Kerama Islands, or even sampling a bowl from every Okinawa soba shop on island (although it would be a stretch trying to justify that as a viable resolution).

All jokes aside, this year I resolve to “stop and smell the roses” more—to use each moment of the coming year wisely, and savor each of them all like a steaming bowl of the aforementioned Okinawa soba.

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! 

Daley Editor-In-Chief

Take us on the road

Enjoy Okinawa Living Magazine on your favorite mobile device!

Visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/ol for the latest issue. Also, visit issuu.com/mccsokinawa to see back issues of the magazine.

Mike

feedback from the ICE Program and Facebook

I want to commend the MCCS Semper Fit Youth Sports staff for running an outstanding baseball/softball season. I know it is never easy to coordinate sports, but they all do it with professionalism, a positive attitude and passion for what they do. I love working with the entire Youth Sports team and I look forward to the improvements for the sports programs that they manage to make every year for the kids.

—via ICE

Thank you for sharing your positive feedback. I am pleased to hear that you enjoyed working with us as much as we enjoyed working with you and your kids. Together, we can continue to make improvements to our program and provide quality sports opportunities for children on Okinawa. Thank you!

—Semper Fit Youth Sports Management

Eric Burns, the manager at Camp Schwab’s Tsunami Scuba, has been awesome to work with for the entire course of my deployment. He was there to help me get gear prior to my certification and was always extremely helpful in offering advice or directions to dive sites for the rest of my time on the island. He made diving the rock that much more enjoyable. Eric is the sort of helpful face that every service member wants to see when they enter a business on base. Massive kudos to Eric.

—via ICE

Our time on Okinawa has come to an end; and during our tour, my family and I had the amazing opportunity to live aboard Camp Kinser. What made it even more special was the library! Manager Miguel Fradera and his staff are the most loving and caring human beings we have ever met, and they make Camp Kinser’s little library seem like the most magical place on island. We do hope this library and the staff continue to serve families and Marines for years to come.

I would like to express my satisfaction for awesome service I received at TERRA restaurant [on Camp Foster]. We had our inaugural breakfast in October at TERRA, and the food was delicious. We experienced extraordinary customer service by Kazuma-san and I was very impressed by Ms. Jennifer Molina who was a top-notch professional. She answered all my questions and greatly assisted with coordinating for the use of their Global Room. Both Kazuma-san and Ms. Molina did a great job and they both represented MCCS extremely well. Thanks for an awesome dining experience.

We appreciate your taking the time to recognize our staff members and will be sure to pass along your words to them. Again, thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts with us.

—Caleb Kennedy,

TERRA Restaurant Manager

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 okinawa.usmc-mccs.org and find the ICE link in the “MORE” section of the homepage or find us on Facebook to share feedback. Comments on this page may be edited for clarity or length.

Trees stripped bare by winter winds were adorned with canopies of shining colorful light and countless holiday icons decorated (and in some cases dominated) yards and street lanes. For those fortunate enough to live in colder climates, there was always the possibility for fresh winter’s snow blanketing everything in a pristine sheet of powdery white making the colorful holiday illumination even more brilliant.

Although Okinawa will probably never experience holiday snow substantial enough to grab your skis and hit the slopes, there is no shortage of holiday wonder and light.

Usually beginning during the months of November and December (in many places the day after Halloween), stores on Okinawa are filled aisle-to-aisle with every type of holiday decoration imaginable—colorful artificial trees of all sizes including almost-garish fiber optic versions, garlands of fake pine, real poinsettias and plenty of bright, brassy tinsel and tree toppers.

But perhaps the most popular manifestation of the holi days on Okinawa are the colorful and elaborate illumination displays—in many cases on par with versions in the U.S. Today, more and more Okinawan families join in the holiday spirit by stringing lights along their gates, in and around trees and shrubbery and over the doorways and entrances to their homes. Okinawa Denryoku (The Okinawa Electric Power

Company) even sponsors a holiday illumination contest that grows larger and larger each year (much to their delight, one would imagine).

However, even though some of these displays can almost literally turn night into day, they pale in comparison to holi day light displays held in places such as American Village in Mihama, Southeast Botanical Gardens and Okinawa Zoo and Children’s Museum both in Okinawa City, Itoman City’s Peaceful Illumination (featuring 1,400,000+ lights), several resort hotels such as Kanucha Resort, Sheraton Okinawa Sunmarina Resort, ANA InterContinental Manza Beach Resort and many others as well as many restaurants and department stores.

Home to 1,300 species of exotic plants and trees along with a petting zoo featuring the cutest animals gathered from around the world, Southeast Botanical Gardens never fails to amaze guests of all ages all-year-round. However, the gardens turn into an extra-special place during the holidays with multitudes of tropical plants draped with holiday lights and cheer. Admission* for adults is ¥1,980, ¥1,200 for kids 13–17, ¥680 for children 4–12 and FREE for kids under 4 (*special holiday rates apply Dec 23–Jan 9). The gardens will be lit up from 5 to 10 p.m. now until May 28, 2023.

SPREAD:

BROZHINSKY/BIGSTOCK.COM;

PHOTOS: LEFT RODERICA MATHIS, TOP RIGHT MIKE DALEY, BOTTOM RIGHT COURTESY OF OKINAWA ZOO & CHILDREN'S MUSEUM

Tucked away in beautiful Oura Wan Bay, Kanucha Bay resort hotel is a spectacle that’s worth the drive at any time of the year. But during the holiday season, this charming ocean-side retreat is transformed into a stunning village of stars. Kanucha Bay begins its seasonal illumination in November, ideal for those who prefer an early start on the holidays. Up until Valentine’s Day, over 1,000,000 lights decorate the sprawling hotel grounds. Ample pools make this locale a photographers’ paradise with reflections on the waters amplifying the beauty tenfold. MCCS Tours+ will be offering a tour to Stardust Fantasia; visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/tours for more information.

During the day, the sprawling Depot Garden complex of Mihama’s American Village is a veri table explosion of pinks, oranges and yellows with curved corridors lined with shops hawking the latest fashion, art, curios and gadgets. The complex itself is made up of around a dozen buildings de signed with a fusion of European, Asian and Oki nawan styles. During the holiday season (and well beyond), this explosion of color becomes a titanic eruption of holiday cheeriness in the evenings.

MAIN IMAGE: VALERY BROZHINSKY/BIGSTOCK.COM; INSET PHOTOS: TOP, MIKE DALEY, RIGHT, MARGIE SHIMABUKURO

The Okinawa Zoo and Children’s Museum is in its 20th year of celebrating the holidays with lights and festivities ranging from thousands of lights and fireworks displays to real “snow” from a giant snow machine. Families can start the day at the zoo before the sun goes down, as the Okinawa Zoo houses nearly 200 species and more than 1,000 animals including reptiles, mammals, birds and fish to gawk at. Once visitors have finished animal gazing, they can indulge in bumper cars, relax by a fishing pond, take a scenic spin on the train, twirl on the merry-go-round, float on a three-person mini-boat and a visit at the Wonder Museum—a 3,400-square-meter facility brimming with gadgets, games, and exhibits. Visit okzm.jp/en for more information on the festivities. 

Gift yourself with…

TEXT BY Kiara Klein, Dani Livesey & Mike Daley PHOTOGRAPHY BY Mia Cox DESIGN BY Margie Shimabukuro

Indulgence during the holiday season is most oft actualized in arranging and adorning the home

with holiday trappings, purchasing many gifts and their wrapping, overcommitting to seasonal pursuits and, mustn’t we forget, traveling. Lots of traveling.

Although these activities fill one’s seasonal glass with cheer, it’s not until the merrymaking obligations start to disappear… that the holiday’s hustle and bustle soon takes its toll, sometimes leaving behind tension the size of a knoll.

If the season’s stress has gotten the best of you, there’s one last gift to give, and we recommend it’s one that’s addressed to yourself…because you deserve it!

Desserts and Relaxation

Lovers of sweets and relaxation can delight themselves at the Ocean Café inside the ANA InterContinental Manza Beach Resort where the absolute perfect cup of luxurious TWG Tea accompanies desserts that are heaven sent. Here’s a sampling of what awaits.

The Marron (chestnut) Roll is a feast for the eyes before ever taking a bite. A sliced marron adorned with gold leaf sits astride a light crumbly sponge swirled with buttercream; an invigorating bite of chestnutty goodness awaits inside the swirl’s center, offering a mellow satisfying crunch to complement the silky frosting.

Lovers of sweet things will swoon for Strawberry Mousse, a glazed strawberry atop mousse so supple it aerates the tongue and, below it, a perfectly set jelly. Strawberry slices surrounding the mousse provide tartness, and the combined elements are a perfect bite. Connoisseurs of other fruits can delight in the Sparkling Wine and Fruit Jelly, where elegant cuts of fresh fruit are enveloped in a light gelatin, highlighting their flavor with the tiniest tinge of champagne.

The cozy sweater of the teatime, the Panet tone sweetbread has a soft open dough dropped through with pieces of fruit that evokes a feeling of familial comfort. Like the Panettone, refined slices of Stollen have subtle flavors and a wonderful chew—the perfect blend of almond flavor and wholesome contentment.

The pièce de résistance, the Pistachio and White Chocolate Mousse, is edible poetry. A perfectly balanced entremet, it’s filled with beautiful feather-light layers of white chocolate and pistachio on a perfect, buttery pastry tart crust. Bon appetit!

Afternoon tea service is served from noon to 4 p.m. and along with seven sweet delights includes several savory things to nibble. The service is ¥4,000 and reservations can be made at anaintercontinental-manza.jp/en/ offers/holidayafternoontea or by calling 098966-1211.

“ I would gift mysel f with… gol f lessons for my husband and I. ”

—Emily Wright, Graphic Artist

Self-Care

Unplug yourself from all the holiday blues and seasonal stress with a trip to a spa. The best part? You can start detoxing immediately after teatime with therapeutic treatments at urumo Spa—ANA InterContinental Manza Beach Resort’s relaxation emporium. With luxury treatments ranging from head and scalp massages to facial treatments, full body massages, couple’s massages and more, blissful Zen is only one appointment away. Visit anaintercontinental-manza.jp/en/spa-wellness to take a deep, relaxing dive into their treatment services.

Self-care, the holy grail of stress slaying can also be attained at ThaiMed, a tranquil, tropical-themed spa located just off Route 58 in Ginowan. Services, including lymphmassage, aroma treatments, body massage and more will melt stress, revitalizing one for the brand-new year ahead. What’s better, they are offering a 60-minute hot stone spa and a 90-minute aroma treatment full body massage special for only ¥11,100. Head to thaimed. okinawa to check out their massage menus.

Staying on the topic of spas, Life Beauty Salon can also help re-up those serotonin levels. Located 200m from the Family Mart (in Sunabe) across from Kadena Air Base Gate 1, Life offers body massage (hot stone, facial and for couples), IPL hair removal, slimming treatments and even Ryukyu facials (which use a special brand of Okinawan cosmetics). They also have a new cryolipolysis fat-freeze special offered in four parts for ¥24,980. Delve into their spa services at lifeokinawa.net

Massage therapy feeling a little too usual? Give your stress the pins and needles treatment! Ocean Side Acupuncture Studio is the key to unlocking true relaxation. Located in Yomitan Village overlooking the East China Sea, Ocean Side truly lives up to its name and is a veritable oasis. Treatment options combine a variety of acupuncture and massage techniques, traditional methods of the Ryukyu Dynasty, forms of aroma therapy and short stints in a hyperbaric oxygen capsule to achieve the ultimate healing. Don’t have the time to indulge at the moment? Promise your self a stress free escape by getting one of their gift certificates for future use. Visit ocean-side.okinawa to find wellness.

If the manicure/pedicure side of self-care is preferred, Cocok Spa is the quintessential destination—with services options such as manicures, pedicures and, of course, massages and more, the nail-art-fan’s heart can soar. Branded with the reminder of a relaxing time, nail appointments are a great way to unwind. To check their services, go to cocok.net.

“ I would gift mysel f with… a spa day! ”

—Latoya Cardona, Accounts Executive

A Special Moment

Most, when asked “What would you give yourself as a holiday gift?” almost always pause for several moments to think. What they don’t realize at first, however, is that this is an answer in itself—a few mo ments in time devoted to yourself and your loved ones. Spending quality time together and creating lasting memories is the greatest gift of all, is it not?

Okinawa offers tons of opportunities to explore the island’s beauty—even during the cooler seasons. Take the day off, pile into the car and head to Yanbaru Adventure Field with Matayoshi Coffee Farm, which features buggy bike trekking, a coffee farm and ziplines. Call them at 0980-43-2666 for more info. For a zipline adventure a bit closer to home, visit Forest Adventure Park in Onna. With zips as long as 120m with some a dizzying 30m above the floor of the forest valley, it is no wonder that everyone who leaves Forest Adventure Park departs wearing woodchips, a huge grin and cherished memories. MCCS Tours+ offers regular tours to Forest Adventure Park; visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/tours for upcoming dates. Want something a bit more relaxing? Sign up the family for a relaxing evening on the water with the West Marine Dinner Cruise, also available at Tours+.

For those who are a bit tapped out after holiday expenditures, remember that this gift isn’t necessarily about money, it’s about time well spent—it can be something as simple as a stroll along Sunabe Seawall and an ice cream cone afterwards. Each moment is a priceless treasure in itself; a gift that pays dividends in the form of fond memories that last long after the holiday season has passed.

“ I would gift myself with… a cooking class with Food Monsters. ”

—Kirstin Spanu, Photographer/Videographer

Hottest Hardcourt Clash

2023 MLK Pacific-Wide Basketball Tournament

As we transition from 2022 to 2023, Semper Fit has some happy news for the New Year—the return of the biggest and hottest hardcourt clash on the island! The 2023 MLK Pacific-Wide Basketball Tournament, held in honor of the late civil rights leader Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., will take place January 12–16 starting at 6 p.m. and January 14–16 with games beginning at 9 a.m.

The tournament is open to men’s and women’s teams through out the Asia Pacific region. Happening at the Camp Foster Field house, the competition includes a 3-point shootout, skills compe tition and a dunk contest (the more iconic the dunk, the better, of course). The top four teams from each pool in the main round-rob in tournament will advance to the double elimination tournament.

Group Fitmas

Team and individual awards will be given to the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place finalists as well as to the All-Tournament Team, All-Tournament Coach and MVP in both divisions. A Tournament Champion and runner-up will be determined via a skills challenge, 3-point shoot-out and dunk contest.

Teams can register for $350 via Eventbrite until January 9 (1 p.m.). The 2023 MLK Pacific-Wide Basketball Tournament is spon sored in part by Red Lobster and BSN Sports. For more informa tion, call 645-4866 or 645-3521. You can also reach out by emailing adultsports@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org 

The holiday season has a way of making the impractical seem like a good idea—like at tending three holiday events in one week (no problem). Or, spending time around that one relative (you know who we’re talking about) and not have it stress you out. And, of course, there’s eating all the leftovers from this year’s gingerbread house—challenge accepted!

By the end of the season though, these crazy routines, holiday stress and gumdrop binges catch up to even the best of us. It all takes a toll on our body and mind leading to holiday burnout. Tips for avoiding those post-holiday blues include scheduling time to relax, sticking to routines as much as possible and exercising regularly to keep both stress and those indulgent (and delicious) food calories at bay. If this seems a bit daunting during an already busy time, worry not, because the folks at Semper Fit Health Promotion have a plan up their red, velvet sleeve to help it all work out.

To help you stay motivated and keep your body and mind in reindeer-running shape, Semper Fit is celebrating Group Fitmas! From December 1 to 15, all SOFA participants in regularly scheduled group fitness classes will earn a ticket for every class they attend for a chance to enter a prize drawing. Participants should write their contact information on each ticket (legibly so Santa’s helpers can read it) before returning it to the drop box. Winners will be selected on December 16. Call 645-3910 or head to okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/groupfitness for more information. 

Holiday Swim Prediction Time Trials

Swim to Win

Just as inviting as that first sip of creamy cocoa topped with melty marshmallows are the heated 50m pools at Semper Fit Aquatic Centers on Camps Foster, Hansen and Schwab. And if you love swimming as much as you love chocolate (or even if it’s a close second), you can wrap yourself in the welcoming waters while challenging your lap times this month at Holiday Swim Prediction Time Trials.

Similarly to young children racing to the tree to see what’s in store for them on Christmas morning, swimmers at these time trials can receive a present (prize) by correctly predicting their swim times for their 50m swim. Once predicted times are recorded, swimmers then race to complete their swims within two seconds of their predicted time. Hot cocoa imbibed and ready to swim? The

challenge kicks off December 5 and runs through December 9.

There are three times during the aforementioned dates in which the challenge can be executed, 5 a.m., 11 a.m. or 5 p.m., and inter ested swimmers can register on-site at their preferred challenge location and time. The event is open to SOFA ID card holders, and prizes consist of a $75 gift card for 1st place, $50 for 2nd and $25 for 3rd. Moreover, participants are allowed up to three attempts per day, with each day of the challenge being a new chance to win!

For MCCS Aquatics locations and additional event details, visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/aquatics. If you have any inquiries about the event’s format, please send an email to aquatics@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org

Lace up those cleats and gird thy shins with your trusty shin guards because the Courtney Open 6v6 Soccer Tournament is coming to town! On Saturday and Sunday, January 7 and 8, join Semper Fit at the Camp Courtney athletic fields for an extravaganza of goals, super-saves, off-side traps and banana kicks.

Fútbol aficionados ages 16 and older island wide may participate and must register via Eventbrite by January 2, 2023 (1 p.m.) for $150 per team. You may have between 6 and 12 players on your team plus a coach, with six players allowed on the field at any given moment (you are allowed unlimited substitutions). If your coach is also playing, that counts towards your 12-player limit. At the conclusion of the tournament, 1st, 2nd and 3rd place teams will receive awards.

For more information, please visit okinawa.usmc-mccs/adultsports or facebook.com/mccsokinawa.semperfit. If you have any questions, please email adultsports@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org or call 645-3521. 

Courtney Open 6v6 Soccer Tournament

Kinser Santa Fun Run

Dashing Without Snow

Ol’ Kris Kringle doesn’t need any snow to dash, therefore neither do you! Come both merry and bright (as the run start times are early) to the Kinser Fitness Center for a Santa Fun Run happening on Sunday, December 18. All SOFA ID card holders ages 5 and up are welcome to participate. But wait, before one puts their name on Santa’s fun run list, there are two runs: Little runners (ages 5–9) can have a jolly time jogging a 1K which starts at 8:05 a.m., and after that the main run, a 5K, starts at 8:35 a.m. and is for runners ages 10 or older.

If this festive run puts a twinkle in your eye, register via Eventbrite by December 14 (11:30 p.m.) for $40 (5K) or $30 (1K) or on-site the day of the event for $45 or $35, respectively. Better yet, all participants will receive a Santa suit with registration, so throw on the big man’s magic threads and race around with others because there are completion medals waiting at the end! For more information, visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/adult-sports 

Hansen Open Softball Tournament

Batter Up!

Does the shouting of the phrase “frozen rope” quicken the beat of you heart? Does hitting dingers make you proud or are you a master of the snow cone? If you answered ‘yes’ to any (or all) of the above, then get your team together and start practicing because the Hansen Open Softball Tournament is happening December 10-11 at the Camp Hansen softball fields!

This tournament is open to all players ages 16 years and older island wide, and awards (and bragging rights) will be given to teams

placing in 1st, 2nd and 3rd place. Oh, and if the earlier jargon had you bamboozled but you still want to play, here’s a quick lesson in softball slang. A “frozen rope” is a powerful line drive hit, a “dinger” is a homerun and the term “snow coning” means to catch a ball in the tip of your mitt. Register your team for $150 by Monday, December 5 (1 p.m.) online at okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/adult-sports For more info, email adultsports@okinawa. usmc-mccs.org or call 645-3521. 

Don’t Wait 5,000 Years

Schwab Open Wrestling Tournament

Did you know that the sport of wrestling dates back 5,000 years to the time of the Sumerians? In fact, the earliest recorded poem, the Epic of Gilgamesh (which was scribed in cuneiform, the oldest known written language) refers to the sport; yet the first recorded tournament wouldn’t occur until 1888. Luckily, you won’t have to wait that long for a tournament, because the Schwab Wrestling Tournament is here!

Air out that singlet (might want to wash it too, while you’re at it) and start practicing those takedown skills because the tournament will be held Saturday, December 17

at the Camp Schwab Power Dome Fitness Center. The competition starts at 8 a.m., but check-ins will run from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m. This community competitive event is open to wrestlers ages 16 years and older island wide. Awards will be given to those who place 1st, 2nd and 3rd in each weight category.

Those interested in rassling must register by Wednesday, December 14 (11:30 p.m.) online at okinawa.usmc.org-mccs.org/adult-sports for $20. For more information on this tournament, email adultsports@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org or call 645-3521. 

Foster and Kinser Library Book Clubs

Calling All Readers

Stephen King was quoted as saying, “Books are a uniquely portable magic,” and, indeed, reading allows one’s mind to experience the past, present, improbable and fantastical. The distance from a novel’s cover through its pages is a journey we embark on courtesy of the imagination, and like all traveling, sometimes is best with company. If you’re looking for a community of book explorers then you need only to visit the library. Book clubs are held monthly and are a great way to connect with fellow readers, be introduced to books you might not have otherwise chosen and keep you motivated to finish that book that’s been on your nightstand a little too long. Here’s what happening this month in book club:

The Foster Library Book club is shaking things up with Bring Your Own Book Night! You are invited to bring in whatever book

you’re reading this holiday season to share with other book lovers! Furthermore, while you’re there you may learn about books, authors and genres you may have never discovered on your own. The Foster Library book club meets Thursday, December 15 at 6 p.m.

Kinser Library Book club will feature Murder on the Orient Express, a snowy detective novel by Agatha Christie, and the perfect read to snuggle up to during the winter season. Put on your detective hat and possibly uncover unknown super sleuthing skills as you figure out this whodunit! The Kinser Library book club meets Wednesday, December 21 at 5:30 p.m. For inquiries about this month’s read, email kinserlibrary@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org. 

Single Marine Program

Lunch & Learn

Now there’s two words in a phrase that are a perfect pair—lunch and learn! Although we love the alliteration because we like to write, an opportunity to learn something new is something we should all value, and, of course, when lunch is involved that only makes it better.

Single and unaccompanied Marines and Sailors interested in learning and eating can join the MCCS Family Advocacy Program at Camp Foster’s Single Marine Program in Bldg. 5908 on the last Wednesday of the month for a tasty lunch and some educational fun.

What’s there to learn? Well, plenty! Family Advocacy Program Prevention and Education Specialists will be teaching skills and knowledge regarding behavioral health, with December’s topic focusing on stress management. In addition to the brief, Prevention

and Education Specialists will provide active-duty service members with information about all the behavioral health services available on Okinawa.

The best part? FREE lunch is being provided by the Single Marine Program during the brief. In addition to Behavioral Health Overview briefs, the Family Advocacy Program also hosts briefs such as Domestic Violence/Child Abuse Prevention training, Healthy Dating, Conflict Resolution and Stress Management. Additionally, they offer a Century Anger Management class: Re-train Your Brain. For more information on SMP Lunch and Learn, call 645-2915 or send an email to fapprevention@usmc.mil 

Shimenawa

Get Ready for the New Year

Want to learn more about Japanese and Okinawan New Year’s traditions through an enriching hands-on cultural experience the whole family can enjoy? Then it’s time to visit your nearest MCCS Library where you can learn how to make your very own shimenawa wreath to adorn your home or vehicle this New Year’s.

What’s that, you ask? Shimenawa are ropes or cords made by twisting or braiding together strands of rice straw and are a traditional New Year’s decoration in Japan. Shimenawa are often combined with materials and lucky charms such as bitter oranges, pine ferns and ritual white paper strips called shide to make a shimekazari decora tion. These decorations are hung atop a house, building or shrine entrance where it is thought that they will hinder bad spirits from entering, and mark a space that has been purified to welcome Toshigami (a Shinto god who visits homes on New Year’s Day).

Shimenawa Wreath-Making is a FREE class open to all ages, and it will be held at the Foster Library on Wednesday, December 28 at 4:30 p.m.; Futenma Library on Tuesday, December 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Schwab Library on Thursday, December 21 at 5:30 p.m.; and at the Kinser Library on Wednesday, December 14 at 4:30 p.m.

Don’t forget, MCCS Libraries also offer many other ways to learn about Japanese and Okinawan culture such as their special Okinawa reference collection, Japanese on the Go classes and Japanese Culture Nights. To find more event happenings and a library directory, check out okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/libraries For questions about the Shimenawa Wreath-Making class, email libraryprograms@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org

Inspire the Next Generation

Volunteer to Coach

Inspiring, encouraging, fun-loving, dedicated, goal-oriented, patient and optimistic are attributes we might all strive to have, but when you’ve got them all, there’s a role that might be perfect for you: youth sports coach. Your team is bound to win sometimes and lose sometimes— that is the nature of sports after all, but your biggest win as a coach probably won’t be hiding within your team’s record. Coaching can be your chance to connect with the community, and you may even find yourself creating lifelong friendships. While each athlete on a team has an important role to play and position to fill, as a mentor, a coach can influence much more than athletic development. Important life lessons in areas such as teamwork, self-discipline, good sportsmanship and countless others are yours to impart. And a wise coach will know there are plenty of lessons to be learned from working with children and their families.

As a volunteer coach, you may find yourself working on selfimprovement, too. You will have ample opportunities to work

on your communication and organizational skills, your talent as a manager and you may even improve your health. You certainly don’t have to be the world’s best athlete or in tip-top shape to be a coach, but you’ll definitely be on the move and keeping yourself active for a few extra hours each week while teaching kids about sports and fitness.

Semper Fit Youth Sports programs span most of the year with seasons for baseball, softball, basketball, cheerleading and soccer, so there are plenty of coaching opportunities to go around. Currently, Youth Sports is seeking coaches for the upcoming soccer season. Assistant coaches must be at least 16 years of age; head coaches must be at least 18 years of age, and all interested volunteers must submit a coaching application packet. For more information about becoming a Semper Fit Youth Sports Coach or to download your application packet, visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/coachescorner. For inquiries, call 645-3533, 645-3534 or email youthsports@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org

Impaired Driving Prevention Month

Subtitle

Be Safe. Be Responsible.

December is a time for cheer and good times with friends. Unfortunately, this can sometimes lead to someone being behind the wheel of a car when they shouldn’t be. December is a deadly month for impaired driving, with arrests—and even worse—accidents rising exponentially.

Motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of death and nonfatal injury among adolescents in the U.S., resulting in approximately 2,500 deaths and 300,000 nonfatal injuries each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. To raise awareness of this tragic problem, De cember was declared Impaired Driving Prevention Month in 1981 (previ ously known as National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month). Be safe. Be responsible. Drink responsibly and DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE. Keep an eye out for impaired-driving prevention resources online and at Semper Fit Fitness Centers on Camps Kinser, Foster, Courtney, Hansen, Schwab and MCAS Futenma to learn more. 

L.I.N.K.S. Foundation Holiday Edition

The Holiday L.I.N.K.S. Foundations Workshop is on December 15 at the McTureous Community Center from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and you’re invited! Come dressed as your favorite holiday character or in your best ugly sweater. Our military families often look to one another to help navigate the unique circumstances associated with military life, and this is true especially around the holidays.

At L.I.N.K.S. Foundations, you will learn more about those unique circumstances and how they correlate to the Marine Corps’ mission while acquiring resources, knowledge and skills that will help support

Don we now our Holiday Apparel! Handmade with Love

you. What’s more, L.I.N.K.S. is a mentoring program for Marine family members taught by Marine spouses, and the classes give family members a place to connect and share with other military families. Sessions are interactive with a mixture of videos, group discussion and more.

Interested folks can sign up via Eventbrite by searching “L.I.N.K.S. Foundations - December 2022” in the search field. For questions or more information about the event, email mcftbokinawa@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org 

MCFTB Holiday Macramé

Weave and knot your way to the cutest handmade Christmas ornaments with Marine Corps Family Team Building’s (MCFTB) macramé ornament-making workshop! These sweet decorations—nestling betwixt branches of store-bought baubles and family heirlooms—will allow you to deck the fir with some personalization.

Don’t know how to macramé? That’s okay. It’s pretty easy to learn, and these small projects are the perfect place to start! Participants will watch a video on how to make the ornaments while MCFTB staff are there to help assist. There are three projects to choose from: a star, a wreath with a ribbon bow or a rope knot ornament with a wood bead. And while you craft away, light refreshments and a hot cocoa bar will be available to graze upon.

Interested? The workshop takes place on Tuesday, December 20 from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. on Camp Foster inside the Marine and Family Programs Multi-Purpose Room in Bldg. 439. Save your seat starting on November 24 via okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/mcftb 

A Special Day Deserves a Special Meal!

Christmas Buffets at MCCS Clubs and Restaurants

Special occasions and holidays are even better with a special meal. There’s nothing like gathering around the table with family or friends (or both) for a delicious feast with plenty of laughs, smiles and good cheer! During this especially magical time of the year, MCCS cordially invites you and yours to celebrate a grand holiday meal at an MCCS Club or Restaurant.

Christmas day buffets and à la carte dining events are making things all the more merry and bright, so take a break from all of the food prep and cleanup and allow the MCCS Chefs to take care of it all. On Sunday, December 25, they’ll provide the magic!

Tengan Castle on Camp Courtney is kicking off the buffets at 10 a.m. (until 3 p.m.), with prices of $21.95 for adults and $10.95 for children ages 5 to 11. For reservations, please visit Eventbrite. Butler Officers’ Club (Plaza Housing) will host from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., also at $21.95 for adults and $10.95 for children ages 5 to 11. To save your table, please visit Eventbrite. Opening at 4 p.m., Surfside on Camp Kinser and The Palms on Camp Hansen are also serving up delicious holiday

spreads. Surfside buffet meals will end at 8 p.m. and cost $21.95 for adults and $10.95 for children ages 5 to 11. Visit Eventbrite to reserve your table. The Palms will be serving their delights from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. with pricing at $21.95 for adults and $10.95 for children ages 5 to 11. Reservations can be made by calling 623-4375. And, last but not least on the buffet front, head to BeachHead on Camp Schwab if you’re looking to dine a little later in the day. They’ll be open from 4 to 8 p.m., and pricing is $21.95 for adults and $10.95 for children ages 5 to 11. For reservations, call 625-2053.

Children under age 5 may enjoy their holiday meal for FREE at any of the aforementioned locations—so families rejoice!

For those preferring an à la carte holiday meal, Taiyo Steakhouse at Taiyo Golf Club is at your service. Reserve your table for brunch (7 a.m.–3 p.m.) or dinner service (6–9 p.m.) by calling 622-2020.

For more details on Christmas Day Buffets, head to okinawa. usmc-mccs.org/clubs 

Polar Express Family Fun Night

Go on an Enchanted Adventure

The child who narrates The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg, describes an enchanted evening aboard the Polar Express, where pajama clad children “sang Christmas carols and ate candies with nougat centers as white as snow” as they traveled through “[…] cold, dark forests, where lean wolves roamed and […] climbed mountains so high it seemed as if we would scrape the moon.” It’s a classic story of wonder and joy, and just like in the book your family can experience an unforgettable evening at the Polar Express Family Fun Night!

While we can’t promise nougat centers as white as snow, the night will have delectable cocoa, scrumptious cookies and, of course, a conductor! Patrons young and old can enjoy a train ride around the “North Pole,” watch The Polar Express movie, craft holiday

Grinchmas Brunch

Merry Grinchmas!

ornaments, win prizes and treat themselves to a delicious buffet. So, take a break from the world of non-believers for a little while, indulge that spark of imagination that knows all about winter’s magic and journey past the cold, dark forest and mountains that can scrape the moon to the North Pole for a night you won’t soon forget.

Polar Express Family Fun Night will be held at the Ocean Breeze on Camp Foster on December 15 and will run from 5 to 9 p.m. Prices for the buffet are $12.95 for adults, $6.95 for children ages 5–11 and children under 5 dine FREE. For inquires, call 645-3666 or 098-9703666. Can’t make it over to the Ocean Breeze? Tengan Castle and Surfside will host their respective family fun nights at the same time. For more information, visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/clubs 

Every Who down in Who-ville is going to squeal because what we must write is quite the big deal! Someone cuddly as cactus, as charming as an eel and one bad banana with a greasy black peel is coming to share your mouthwatering meal! Grab the Who-pudding and gulp the Who-roast beast, as this mystery guest might thieve the whole feast. Did you guess from our hints, our vile green guest? His visit will make Grinchmas the very Who-Best!

That’s right, on December 18, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. you can visit with the Grinch himself at the Ocean Breeze breakfast buffet on Camp Foster. The fee to attend for adults is $9.95, children 5–11 are $4.95, and children under 5 are FREE. Reservations are highly recommended so that you don’t miss your chance to dine with the mean green fiend. To secure your table, contact 645-3666 or 098-970-3666. Or head to okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/ oceanbreeze for more information.

Need to get your little one photo-ready to meet the Grinch so they aren’t afraid of the big green fellow, whose belly might shake, but not like Jell-O? Take the time ahead of brunch to introduce the character so he is a familiar sight. Show them the live action How the Grinch Stole Christmas and read them the book at bedtime. Lastly, don’t forget to chat with your child a few days in advance, and remind them day of, where you are going and what to expect upon arrival to prepare them to meet that foul crocodile with a devious, camera-ready smile. 

Location

Seafood House Pier 54 54 Mihama Chatan

Contact Information 098-901-4377

Hours of Operation

Lunch 11:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. (L.O. 2:30 p.m.)

Dinner 5–10 p.m. (L.O. 9:30 p.m.)

Payment Yen and Card Website

seafoodhouse.jp/index_en.jsp

Like Home Seafood House Pier 54

Fine

When I first arrived at Seafood House Pier 54 located inside the Uminchu Wharf Building in Mihama, I was warmly greeted by Mr. Jack Isa, representative of the Terrace Hotels and the Moon Hotels and Resorts Group (which owns and operates the facility), and he gave me some wonderful background on their rich history, including that of the restaurant’s founding, their management of Chatan Harbor Brewery and Restaurant and the wonderful cruiser whose port of call gives the restaurant its name.

“Seafood House Pier 54 has long been lauded for excellence in food making as well as its unwavering commitment to service and hospitality” Mr. Isa said, explaining that what they wanted to do with their California-style was to make American service members feel at home, while giving it an Okinawan twist. Here people can sit on the terrace, enjoy the extensive wine bar or Chatan Harbor Brewery’s craft beers and have amazing food.

The homey feel doesn’t mean everyday cooking though. For instance, only the best oysters from Japan are freighted into Okinawa and nurtured locally, Mr. Isa explained, but they are even more uncompromising on mussel quality; all mussels come from Canada because, as he put it, “we know that Canada provides the best mussels.”

After the not-so-humble statement about their quality, I had to start my meal with the oysters, and they were literally the largest specimens I’ve seen in my life. Everyone agreed it was not a one bite oyster, yet I (less than gracefully) slurped my first one down in one attempt, and then several more. They were silky, briny and their citrus sauce was a tantalizing accompaniment.

The second course was the Tuna Poke Bowl, and my first impression was that it resembled a garden. Assorted lettuces complimented bright-red cherry tomatoes, rich pink tuna cut into velvety cubes and a fluffy bed of rice so well cooked its texture nearly stole the show. Add in a bit of acidity from the dressing, creamy avocado with umami from nori strips, and the result was a mosaic of food that was both satisfying and light.

From there I transitioned from a kaleidoscope

Dining that Feels

of color to an orchestra of texture with Baja-Style Fried Fish Tacos—the combination of carmine red salsa fresca, luscious guac, crunchy shredded green cabbage and crispy fried fish, was a symphony of color, taste, and texture wrapped in a thin grilled tortilla that never got soggy.

Next came the absolute star of the day—the Aqua Patza, or poached white fish. When the plate came, I let out a gasp—it was edible art deco. I first went for the mussels our host boasted about, and they were as delightful as promised. Next was the herbaceous broth, accentuated by the brininess of the mussels, it was a flavor bomb with pops of salt, lemon and olive oil.

Finally, I turned my attention to the focus of the dish—the filleted fish (which varies depending on the catch of the day) displayed with artful grace. The meat was succulent, and the skin was a chewy joy. When all that was left was the head, Mr. Isa asked me if I would like to try it, and I confessed it wasn’t something I’d ever done before, but since my food motto is “I’ll try anything twice,” he showed me the technique. I have to say, it was a completely new and totally wonderful experience. A devotee of different textures in food, I found myself completely taken with contrast of tender flavorful meat against the crunchy fried skin bits and cartilage.

My chosen end to the meal was an irresistible Clam Chowder Served in a Bread Bowl (I prefer bread over dessert any day of the week). It was a stunning and steaming dish—slightly more rustic than their other offerings but filled to the top with chewy clams and silky white chowder. The vessel containing the soup was my favorite bite of the day; it was a hot crusty bread baguette baked to perfection. The flaky and crispy crust surrounding the beautifully soft and chewy insides made it the perfect last bite.

I left Seafood House Pier 54 with both heart and belly filled to the brim. It was clear to me, that our gracious host had been correct when he told me that eating there wasn’t just meant to be a meal; it was meant to be an experience. Indeed it was, and a lovely one at that. 

Text by Dani Livesey | Photography by MIa Cox | Layout by Emily Wright

Smash Holiday Stress…

With an ODST Swim Meet

The holidays can be a stressful time with all of the shopping, planning and prepping, and swimming is a great activity for alleviating stress while getting fit in the process. That being said, did you know that there’s an even better way to boost those swimmer endorphins? How about competing in (and possibly winning) a swimming competition? Smash your holiday stress at a swim meet hosted by the Okinawa Dolphins Swim Team (ODST) on Saturday, December 10 from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the Foster Aquatic Center! Warm-ups start at 7 a.m. Not a member of ODST? Not a problem! Non-ODST participants can choose their own events, ranging from a 25m kick with a board for neophytes to a 400m free or individual medley for the more advanced.

For more event information such as a full list of events, age groups and more, head to okinawa.usmcmccs.org/swimteam 

Anticipate Fun

…at Christmas Magic Storytime

Snuggled in matching holiday jammies, your child’s eyes shine and brighten as you flip through the pages of ‘ Twas the Night Before Christmas. Cognitions of eight sets of pitter-pat tering little reindeer hooves and the North Pole’s largest elf, Mr. St. Nick himself dance in their head.

And quite like the Grinch’s heart—on that cold day in the snow—their eyes widen, and their anticipation grows. Feed your child’s ex citement and create more memories at Christ mas Magic Storytime!

An all-ages holiday-themed storytime is happening on December 9 at Camps Kinser, Hansen and Courtney Libraries at 5:30 p.m., then on December 10 at the Camp Foster Library at 5:30 p.m. You and your littles can expect to listen to some read-aloud stories, sing a carol or two and wrap up the evening with some merry little crafts—including “Letters to Santa” stations.

For more information, visit okinawa.usmc-mccs. org/libraries, or search MCCS Okinawa Education & Libraries on Facebook to see what else they’re up to! 

Holiday Dive-In Movie Night

Tidings of FREE Popcorn & Drinks

How fortunate are we island inhabitants to be able to have a Holiday Dive-In Movie Night? That’s right, on Friday, December 16 from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. the 50m pool at the Camp Foster Aquatic Center will be warm and ready for cheery pool patrons. So, splash around or lounge poolside while you and the family enjoy a warmhearted flick.

The film choice will be determined by moviegoers, and the showing is between either Toy Story 4 or A Christmas Carol (the 2009 release featuring Jim Carrey). There will be FREE popcorn and drinks to enjoy during the movie (while supplies last). Additionally, patrons can also play a candy cane guessing game for the chance to win a prize!

If you’re an avid swimmer, you can read about another festive pool event—Holiday Swim Prediction Time Trials—on p. 29. For more information, visit okinawa.usmc-mccs. org/aquatics, or for questions regarding Dive-In Movie Nights, email aquatics@okinawa. usmc-mccs.org 

MCCS Child & Youth Programs

Choosing childcare is a daunting task, parents want to send their children somewhere that is going to support their child’s social, cognitive, physical and creative development as well as have them around trusted adults who will help shape them into successful, motivated individuals. If you’re looking for childcare that does all of the aforementioned and more, look no further than MCCS Child and Youth Programs (CYP).

CYP—an encompassing organization which includes the Child Development Centers (CDC), School Age Care (SAC) facilities and Youth and Teen Centers—provide safe, healthy and developmentally appropriate care for children ages 6 weeks through 18 years old. In addition to providing a favorable learning environment for the kids, CYP offers fun recreational opportunities for the entire family.

The CDC and SAC are both nationally accredited programs; the CDC is accredited through the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), while SAC is accredited by the Council of Accreditation (COA). As for the Youth and Teen Centers, they are proud affiliates of the Boys & Girls Club of America.

The childcare providers at CYP understand the magnitude of providing safe, dependable care for infants, youth and teens, and they take it to heart. CYP providers relate to the struggles of the military community, and they want you to be able to serve with confidence, knowing your child is somewhere safe. For more information, please visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/cyp, or give them a call at 645-4117 to tour any of their facilities and meet the CYP family. 

Get lost in a good read or plug into an audiobook at an MCCS library near you, home to hundreds of books, graphic novels, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, video games, music CDs and USMC/USN professional reading collections.

In addition, MCCS Libraries offer inter-library loans, adult, teen, children and family programs, Japanese language learning, the Summer Reading Program, conference rooms and meeting spaces, gaming nights, crafts and charging stations as well as eResources such as EBSCO/GALE research databases, Mango Languages, Universal Class, Launchpad Brain Games and more.

For the creatives, there’s also the Innovation Lab! There, you’ll find 3D printers, die-cut machines, a research-grade robot, coding programs, Raspberry Pi’s, Oculus Rift virtual reality stations, Microsoft HoloLens headsets, LittleBits Pro Library, vinyl cutters, musical instruments, music and photo editing software and many more makerspace opportunities.

For more information about MCCS Libraries, visit okinawa.usmcmccs.org /libraries. 

Holiday Sales at Typhoon Motors

Gearheads can be hard to shop for; if you aren’t one yourself, it can be a difficult proposition to guess what a car lover wants.

Even if you’re a member of the car-loving community, parts can be too expensive or too specific to find easily. Well, it’s time to throw those worries out the window (or sunroof)! Typhoon Motors’ holiday sales make shopping for car-related presents that much easier.

Whether it’s something to make their ride run smoother, brake maintenance and repair to ensure that they’re safe on the road (brakes are kind of important, if you didn’t already know) or an upgrade to their sound system—such as a brand-new head unit, amp or speakers—Typhoon Motors will have the perfect present to keep them happy on the road.

The first sale on the calendar is the Kenwood Sale at Typhoon Motors on Camp Foster. For the entire month of December, Ken-

wood car entertainment equipment—radios, speakers, amps—will be 15% off. Also throughout the month of December, all Typhoon Motors will be offering 10% off all brake service and repairs during their December Safety Special.

Rounding out the trifecta is the 12 Days of $1 Lift and Stall Christmas Special. If the car-lover in your life would like some space to work on their own car, this is a great (and cheap!) option. The indoor auto work stalls—either with or without lifts—come stocked with tools so there’ll be zero worries about forgetting the hex wrench at home. This promotion is available at all Typhoon Motors Centers December 22–January 2.

For more information on upcoming sales at Typhoon Motors, and more info on their offerings, call your nearest location or visit them online at okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/typhoonmotors 

Ho-Ho-Holiday Sale!

‘Tis the season for shopping and gift-giving, and Tsunami Scuba is going to help you save some hard-earned bucks this year while doing so! On December 17 and 18 at Tsunami Scuba locations island wide, enjoy 10% off ALL retail in-stock items (excluding boots and educational materials).

Chances are you have a friend, coworker or family member who is either already an avid diver or snorkeler or aspires to be one on this gorgeous island. There’s no better way to truly enjoy your stay on Okinawa than to literally jump off it—and enjoy the breathtaking underwater scenery and sea creatures that call the waters surrounding Okinawa home. Perhaps you fit into this category and should start dropping some hints about the underwater toys you hope to see under the tree this year. Either way, there’s no better place to find that perfect gift than at your nearest Tsunami Scuba!

Be it BCDs, scuba lights, dive knives, masks, snorkels, steel and aluminum cylinders, rash guards, or the tons of other accessories available, you’ll probably buy a few things for yourself as a reward for being such a great Santa. For more details, call 645-4206 or visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/tsunamiscuba. 

MCCS Gift Card

Show them how much you care with an MCCS Gift Card for that special occasion! What can they use it for? We’re so glad you asked!

How about a relaxing massage from Semper Fit followed by an evening of fine dining at Taiyo Steakhouse? Or, how about immortalizing a child’s prized 3rd grade drawing with a frame from Foster Arts and Crafts? The MCCS Gift Card is the most versatile gift, made for everyone—good for branded merchandise and performance apparel for golfers from the Taiyo Golf Club Pro Shop, a customized ball from the Camp Foster Bowling Pro Shop, an oil change for their ride from Typhoon Motors, snorkeling and diving gear from Tsunami Scuba for ocean fanatics or even branded gymnastics apparel from Excellence Gymnastics Academy for budding Olympians—the list is endless.

MCCS Gift Cards are available for purchase and redemption at all MCCS Clubs and Restaurants including Taiyo Steakhouse and Taiyo Café, retail operations, all fast-casual dining facilities (Bonsai Coffee Company, Bulldogs Burgers, Shisa Pizza, Sumo Burrito and Red Barn), Taiyo Golf Club (including the Pro Shop) all Bowling Centers (including the Camp Foster Pro Shop) and all Tours+, Tsunami Scuba, Typhoon Motors locations.

In addition, the MCCS Gift Card is usable at just about every MCCS facility—including Special Events party rentals and Semper Fit Outdoor Recreation rentals, at all staffed Semper Fit Fitness Centers (including retail and LifeJuice purchases, martial arts and other classes as well as event and athletic tournament fees) and much, much more! For more information about MCCS Gift Cards, call 645-5809. 

How many times have you seen or experienced something on island that made you immediately think of someone you love? Instantly, you think to yourself, “Gosh, they’d really get a kick out of that.” Sure, you’ll tell them the story, or message them a few photos you snapped, but that will only leave them with a faint memory of your conversation. Why not give them the closest thing to actually being here—their own copy of Omoide: Memories of Okinawa or The Best of Okinawa Living?

Omoide: Memories of Okinawa is filled with the most spectacular island views any camera lens could capture. It’s perfect for reminiscing about favorite places and beautiful scenes you’ve witnessed during your time on island. If it’s insights about the island, historical tidbits and local

artists’ perspectives you’re looking for, look no further than The Best of Okinawa Living, which shares words and knowledge along with photos.

With both books, sharing Okinawa is one of the best gifts you can give—especially when you’re already on the hunt for a special holiday gift. Say, did any of the times you were out and about remind you of your dad? Think about how much you wish he could see Okinawa through your eyes. Now you have a perfect gift for his upcoming birthday that he’s sure to appreciate. So, go ahead, add one or both to your gift list and then complete your shopping at almost any Exchange retail facility on island that sells books. For more information, visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org 

Text by Mike Daley Photography by Sarah Head and Thomas Alan Smilie Layout by Emily Wright

The “art” of lacquering was originally not an art at all, it was an ordinary means of strengthening and waterproofing items for daily and ceremonial use with a special type of tree sap. Lacquer provides a moistureproof barrier, resistance to heat, acid and alkali, and its color and luster are highly durable, adding beauty to practical use.

Originally Chinese in origin, the process of lacquering items such as bowls, plates, utensils and ceremonial trays and vessels was quite commonplace. In addition, before the invention of ink in China, lacquer was used for writing as long ago as 475 BC.

Lacquer comes from the sap of the tree species Rhus Verniciflua, which is commonly known as the lacquer tree in China, as urushi in Japan and urushu on Okinawa. Although this tree can now be found throughout China and Japan, it is said to have originated in central Asia, and is a member of the Anacardiaceae family—a distant relative of the cashew, mango and pistachio tree. While harvesting lacquer from the urushu is relatively simple, it can be quite exhaustive. Although techniques vary depending on region, generally small horizontal cuts are made in the tree’s trunk and the sap is scraped and collected as it oozes out. However, because the sap quickly hardens upon contact with cool, dry air, sap tends to be harvested during the hot and humid summer months.

In China, the earliest examples of lacquerware were actually thought to be pottery—a cup and a pot that had been painted with lacquer after being fired. These pieces, which are thought to have been created during the Neolithic age (8,000–5,000 BC), are the oldest lacquered pieces yet discovered in China. They are now kept at the Museum of Nanjiang.

As the processes of lacquering grew into an art form in China, several distinct styles began to develop, centering on various areas where the lacquer tree flourished. Eventually lacquerware crossed China’s borders, and in the skillful hands of artisans in countries and kingdoms neighboring the vast empire evolved into divergent strains.

Chinese lacquering practices involving the priming of objects as well as polishing techniques were introduced into Japan during the 5th and 6th centuries. Japanese craftsmen incorporated processes such as using several hundreds of layers of lacquer and inlaying intricate patterns with gold and mother of pearl into their works. They also improved many lacquering techniques and broadened the saps uses.

One of the most important techniques developed by Japanese artisans in the field of decorative lacquerware was the art of makie. This decorating method involved the use of finely-ground silver and gold powders in the design stage, and was highly sought after by nobility. Many Japanese pieces created with makie designs can be found in museums throughout the world—as stunningly beautiful today as when they were created hundreds of years ago.

During the days of the samurai, lacquering also became very important to the warrior class. The traditional armor of the samurai, called yoroi, was made of rows upon rows of extremely strong and light lacquered plates laced together with silk or leather. Sheaths for warriors’ swords were also lacquered, as well as saddles and stirrups used for battle livery.

Over time, lacquering objects became very important to the people of Japan, and this fact was noted by visitors from western nations. Even today, the Oxford Dictionary lists the definition of the lowercase word “japan” as “a black, glossy varnish of a type originating in Japan.”

While the Ryukyu Island chain is better known for farming, fishing and other practices that don’t involve armor, swords or saddles, the archipelago is nonetheless famous throughout Asia for its lacquerware. The art of urushi shikki, or Ryukyu Lacquerware, was established in the islands during the late 14th century. Like many Okinawan art forms, it was heavily influenced by Chinese, and later by Japanese lacquering techniques. Several natural factors including high temperatures, humidity and intense ultraviolet light combined to make Okinawa an ideal locale for creating lacquerware. Because of Okinawa’s climate, the sap of the urushu could be dried under natural conditions, which produced an exceptionally clear finish. In mainland Japan, oftentimes this process was done in the heat and humidity of a bathhouse, and excess water vapor and lack of ultraviolet light caused finishes to be either black or a brownish red.

The wood of the local deigo tree, which was known for its light weight, durability and resistance to cracking and distortion, played a major role in the creation of Ryukyu lacquerware. Deigo wood is spongy and porous and was used to make larger trays, which appeared heavy at first glance, but were light as a feather when carried.

While climate, weather and readily available local components such as turban shells played a large

During early times on Okinawa, designs such as vivid flowers and exotic birds etched or inlaid into vivid cinnabar-red pieces were popular. However, following the invasion of Okinawa by the Satsuma clan from southern mainland Japan (now Kyushu), primarily Chinese-style black lacquerware was produced to pay tribute to China and mainland Japan. During this period, designs portraying idyllic landscapes and religious themes were overwhelmingly popular. Following the establishment of Okinawa as a prefecture of Japan, uniquely Okinawan plants and birds became fashionable and after WWII, black lacquerware vases and trays decorated with red hibiscus flowers became popular souvenirs for visiting U.S. military service members. Following are a few of the uniquely Okinawan techniques developed for designing lacquerware.

Like their counterparts in neighboring China, many traditional tsuikin designs portrayed idyllic landscapes and patterns depicting flowers and birds. Basic tsuikin techniques involved coating pieces with tens to hundreds of layers of lacquer, engraving patterns, then molding three-dimensional designs onto the works with partially dry unrefined lacquer (which has a dough-like consistency). High temperatures and humidity are especially important to the creation of proper tsuikin.

Hakue and urushie were usually used in combination with each other or with other techniques. Hakue involved creating simple designs with black lacquer and gold leaf. Urushie consisted of painting freehand designs or pictures directly onto pieces with lacquer dyed with various pigments.

is quite similar to tsuikin. After coating the piece, designs are carved onto the polished lacquer surface and a different colored lacquer was placed into the resulting grooves. Oftentimes, gold leaf or dust was pressed into these grooves before the lacquer dried. The resulting combination of bright vermillion, deep clear lacquer and gold made many chinkin design pieces extremely valuable.

Ryukyu raden is considered by many as one of the most prominent representatives of Okinawan lacquerware design. Traditional designs uses fragments of turban shells ground flat, cut into shape and either inlaid or affixed onto pieces creating dizzyingly beautiful motifs such as flowers, scenes of palace life and mystical creatures. Because turban shells display similar characteristics to mother of pearl, these patterns seem to move of their own accord in the right light. The throne of King Sho Shin, which was re-created by lacquerware master Koin Maeda, was decorated profusely with raden and chinkin designs of dragons and multi-colored clouds. Unfortunately, this priceless treasure was lost in the fire that destroyed Shuri Castle. While raden is one of the most intricate forms of Ryukyu lacquerware design, it is also the most difficult to learn. And, unfortunately is a slowly dying artform. 

The Ryukyu Lacquerware Shop,

Ryukyu Lacquerware Shop

Ichigo Daifuku

(Strawberry Mochi Treats)

Daifuku are tasty morsels of rice dough filled with a sweet bean paste called anko in the middle. Strawberries (which become more and more common in local grocery stores in December) are a popular addition to this treat—making them a unique (and surprisingly healthy) treat. You will need a medium-sized cookie sheet or baking pan to make them.

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 in cans at local grocery stores)

Approximately one dozen small to medium strawberries, washed and stemmed

1 cup katakuriko (potato starch)

Method of Preparation

1. Mix flour, water and sugar in a pot. After mixing thoroughly, heat on high until it reaches a boil. Reduce heat to low and cover.

2. After a few minutes, the mixture will begin to thicken rapidly. Stir thoroughly (every minute or so) until the mixture becomes tacky. Remove from heat and leave uncovered to cool.

3. As the mixture is very sticky, thoroughly coat the surface of the cookie sheet or baking pan that you will be working on with potato starch.

4. Using a wooden spoon coated with starch, dole out golf ball-sized portions and set them individually on the pan. This will help them cool faster.

5. Smear anko all over strawberries.

6. When the dough is cool enough to touch, coat your fingers generously with flour and then work the dough balls into flat circles. Place an ankocovered 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 soon as possible (these treats do not last very well in the refrigerator).

Kagami-Biraki

Although many in Japan enjoy eating rice cakes called mochi throughout the year, the beginning of January is the time when this cake is consumed the most. During New Year’s, many Japanese prominently display kagami-mochi (“mirror-rice cake”) in their homes. This traditional decoration is made with two different size rice cakes stacked on top of each other with an orange on top—sort of like a snowman with an orange head. The reason this decoration is called “mirror” mochi is because the rice cakes are shaped like the old-fashioned metal mirrors that many Japanese people used back in the old days.

The original inspiration for using an orange to top this decoration comes from the fruit’s name. In Japanese, the color orange is pronounced “dai-dai” which also means “from generation to generation” and symbolizes prosperity.

Every year on January 11, during the days of the samurai, kagami-mochi were broken and eaten in a ritual called “kagami-biraki—which literally means “mirror opening”—to usher in a prosperous new year. The pieces of mochi were then eaten, often in a red bean soup. Nowadays, kagami-mochi are often vinyl-coated facsimiles, because real mochi easily molds and cracks. However, the casings still usually contain individually wrapped mochi, and the rice cakes remain an important Japanese New Year’s tradition. 

Uchinâguchi Corner

English

Would you like to dance with me?

Japanese Isshoni odorimasenka?

Uchinâguchi Majun wuduibiranai?

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