Okinawa Living December 2023 by MCCS Okinawa

December 2023 | Issue 310

SEASON OF LIGHT OSHŌGATSU LEVELING UP

Make the local Japanese friends and learn Japanese language & culture with them!

Close to Kadena Gate 1 24 Hour Access to Class Materials Flexible Class Schedule Day + Night Field Trips, Social Nights and more!

Our Japanese Classes Adult Conversational Japanese Adult Beginners Japanese 1- 4 Adult Pre-Intermediate Japanese 1- 3 Blue House Okinawa is a close-knit, unique community for learners of Japanese and English to support each other, share culture and meet our language goals.

Blue House Okinawa Japanese School bluehouseokinawa.com Blue House Okinawa

contents December 2023

8 features 8 Season of Light Get into the Yuletide mood by visiting one of the many holiday illumination displays located throughout the island.

16 Oshōgatsu—Celebrating the New Year like a Local While here in Japan, how about celebrating the coming of the New Year like the locals? We’ll show you how it’s done!

PHOTOS FROM LEFT JAMES RIETH, STOCK PHOTO, MIA COX, MIA COX, COVER PHOTO BY AUSTIN MARTINEZ

56 Leveling Up Making Great Strides in the Philippines The gymnasts of Excellence Gymnastics Academy (EGA) continue to level up their skills with a medal rush at 8th STY International Gymnastics Cup 2023 in the Philippines.

restaurant review 42 Celebrating the Season Mark this most-special of occasions with a delicious meal courtesy of the chefs of MCCS Clubs and Restaurants.

fitness + fun 27 Kinser Santa Run Lace up your shoes and get ready to run (or walk) off all the holiday mac n’ cheese, potato salad, turkey and all those pumpkin pies at the Santa Run on Camp Kinser.

56 29 Hottest Basketball Clash As we transition from 2023 to 2024, Semper Fit has some happy news for the New Year—the return of the biggest and hottest basketball clash on the island—the 2024 MLK Pacific-Wide Basketball Tournament!

marines + families 33 MCCS Libraries—Your Home for the Holidays This year, MCCS Libraries on Okinawa will be offering service members and families an opportunity to gather on Christmas and New Year’s to experience a little “taste of home” with holiday cheer and cuisine.

dining + entertainment 39 Chef Shack’s New Menu is Ready to “Bowl” You Over! The MCCS Chef Shack Food Truck is proud to announce their new menu lineup—featuring bowls of goodness.

41 Wild Wild West Winter Saloon at Bayview Howdy! It’s time to saddle up for a darn tootin’ good time with food, fun and fellowship with friends at the Winter Saloon at Bayview on Camp Courtney!

kids + parents 45 Candy Cane Lane Family Fun Night Gather the family for an evening of holiday themed fun at Candy Cane Lane Family Fun Night at Ocean Breeze on Camp Foster.

45 Holiday Dive-In Movie Night Enjoy a holiday movie with the family in the heated waters of Foster Aquatic Center at Holiday Dive-In Movie Night.

services 51 The Perfect Stocking Stuffer MCCS Gift Cards, chargeable to the amount of your choosing, are the perfect stocking stuffer for the finicky family member.

extras 5 Mensôre

7 Feedback & Show Us!

67 Living on Okinawa

70 Marketplace Guide

DECEMBER 2023 | ISSUE 310 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 DIRECTORS Margie Shimabukuro, Emily Wright GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Tiffany Kim, Alora Wilson, Meghan Johnson, James Rieth DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER Thomas Alan Smilie PHOTOGRAPHERS/VIDEOGRAPHERS Mia Cox, Kirstin Spanu EDITORIAL Swetha Gogue DIGITAL & SOCIAL MEDIA Roxine Ami, Tiara Supakit, Claire Wilkinson CULTURAL RESEARCH SPECIALIST Ayako Kawamitsu ADVERTISING SALES & SPONSORSHIP MANAGER John Dailey ADVERTISING SALES & SPONSORSHIP Yoshihiro Shinzato, Hiromitsu Horikawa Ada Tovar, Tsutomu McCoy, Aimee Taira MARKETING ACCOUNTS MANAGER Andrew Menges MARKETING ACCOUNTS Eduardo Sanchez Perry, Amber A. Padilla DISTRIBUTION Wataru Yamanoha, Shohei Ikene MARKETING INTERN Austin Martinez

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)

mensôre “Welcome” to Okinawa Living

I resolve to… As the final month of 2023 winds down, a few of us may still be wrestling with New Year’s resolutions made the first day of this year, while many more of us have probably forgotten what they were in the first place. The vast majority in both camps are probably thinking the same thought—it seems like only a blink of an eye has passed but the year is almost over! Most New Year’s resolutions are about improving oneself…many popular ones 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 and there’s no time to waste! How about learning a martial art? Okinawa is the birthplace of karate, and there’s no better place to learn this art that teaches about self-mastery—which enables karate practitioners to harness immense power, blinding speed and an almost inhuman resilience. Resolving to get into shape while also giving back to the community? Volunteer to coach a youth sports team! Running the sidelines, giving in-game instructions and hopping up and down when your team scores can certainly get the blood pumping. And, watching your charges grow and mature certainly fills the heart. 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! 

See our advertising rates at okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/advertise MCCS MARKETING BRANCH MCB Camp S.D. Butler. Unit 35023, FPO AP 96378-5023

Mike Daley Editor-In-Chief 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 ©2023 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

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.

feedback

from the ICE Program and Facebook My team and I went to TERRA today to enjoy a meal for lunch. It was extremely busy, so we were worried it would take a long time to receive our meals. That was not the case; the service was awesome, and we received our meals in a reasonable time considering the number of people being served. The manager came to our table to make sure everything was in order (which it was). The waiter was extremely friendly and polite, and I could tell the staff were all working together effectively. We even saw the manager helping to deliver dishes to tables to assist with the workload—a sign of a good manager/ leader. To top off the experience, the restaurant had an awesome Halloween decoration theme throughout the facility! We’ll be back for another meal at TERRA. —via ICE

@okilivingmag Show us your island adventures and favorite food finds!

@samanthaevans_ photography

Kudos to these little first graders for working so hard in the sun to harvest some yummy sweet potatoes! Anybody know of a good sweet potato pie recipe?

I arranged an Okinawa Battle Sites Tour with Mr. Mark Waycaster as part of my unit’s Commander’s Conference and I cannot say enough how impressed and thankful I am to Mark and the MCCS Tours+ team for their outstanding work. Mark was easy to work with and always responsive to my questions and requests as the tour day approached. Coming from CONUS, I was unsure how this event would go after traveling all this way, but the Tours+ team’s professionalism and thorough knowledge made me comfortable upon arriving on island. On the day of the tour, Mark was very communicative regarding the schedule and the bus driver made everyone feel safe and comfortable. Mark’s knowledge, enthusiasm and willingness to speak on information applicable to my unit’s mission made the tour a top event of our week on Okinawa. Thank you to Mark and the whole MCCS Tours+ team for their amazing work! —via ICE

@_simplynikkie

Christmas time in Japan means Pokémon donuts

I would like to say that Emi Yoshida at Courtney Library is an extraordinary employee—always so helpful with my 3D projects as I am not knowledgeable in the field. With her help and guidance, I have been able to start some very fun projects. —via ICE

@meganpicha

Thank you so much for reaching out to us! Our library technicians have all recently undergone training with 3D printing and design to help teach our patrons more skills in this area. We are happy to be meeting your needs with our Innovation Lab. Please continue to let us know if there are any other ways that we can help to serve you and your family at the Courtney Library. —Christy Vasquez-Googe, Librarian, Camp Hansen Library

A very island Christmas

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 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.

DECEMBER 2023 | OKINAWA LIVING 7

LIGHT

Many of us share memories of exploring our hometowns all ablaze in shining holiday splendor. Trees stripped bare by winter winds were decorated with canopies of shining colorful light. Nativity scenes, angels, Santa Clauses, snowmen, reindeer and countless other holiday icons decorated (and in many cases absolutely dominated) yards and street lanes. And, for those fortunate enough to live in colder climes, there is always the possibility for a fresh winter’s snow blanketing everything in a wintry sheet of white that made the colorful holiday illumination shine even brighter. Although Okinawa will probably never experience a white Christmas, there is no shortage of holiday wonder and light during the season.

TEXT BY

DESIGN BY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

MIKE DALEY

JAMES RIETH

MIA COX, EMILY WRIGHT, JAMES RIETH

OUT + ABOUT

DECEMBER 2023 | OKINAWA LIVING 9

OUT + ABOUT

Usually beginning during the months of November and December (in many places the day after Halloween), stores on Okinawa are filled aisleto-aisle with every type of Christmas decoration imaginable— colorful artificial trees of all sizes including almost-garish fiber optic trees, garlands of fake pine, real poinsettias and plenty of bright, brassy tinsel and tree toppers. But perhaps the most popular manifestation of the holidays on Okinawa are the colorful, shining illumination displays. 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. However, even though some of these displays can almost turn night into day, they pale in comparison to holiday light displays held in places such as American Village in Mihama, Southeast Botanical Gardens and Okinawa Zoo and Children’s Museum, several resort hotels such as Kanucha Resort, Sheraton Okinawa Sunmarina Resort, ANA InterContinental Manza Beach Resort and others as well as many restaurants and department stores.

Tucked away in beautiful Oura Wan Bay, Kanucha Bay 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 to the holidays. For 106 nights until Valentine’s Day, over 1,000,000 lights decorate the sprawling hotel grounds. Ample pools make this a photographers’ paradise with reflections on the waters amplifying the beauty tenfold. Visit kanucha.jp/charm/stafan for more information.

DECEMBER 2023 | OKINAWA LIVING 11

OUT + ABOUT

Home to 1,300 species of exotic plants, trees, shrubs and a petting zoo featuring the cutest animals gathered from around the world, Southeast Botanical Gardens never fails to amaze their 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 Christmas lights and cheer. Placing 2nd in a Japan-wide competition for holiday illumination displays, Southeast Botanical Garden’s Okinawa Tropical Island Illumination is sure to dazzle once again this year. Admission for adults is ¥2,150, ¥1,250 for high school students, ¥750 for elementary and middle school students, and FREE for kids under 3. The gardens will be lit up from 5 to 10 p.m. now until May 26.

DECEMBER 2023 | OKINAWA LIVING 13

OUT + ABOUT

During the day, the sprawling Depot Garden complex of Mihama’s American Village is a veritable 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 designed with a fusion of European, Asian and Okinawan styles. During the holiday season (and well beyond), this explosion of color becomes an eruption of holiday cheeriness in the evenings.

The Okinawa Zoo and Children’s Museum celebrates the holidays with lights and festivities ranging from their “Super Aurora Attraction,” fireworks displays and real “snow” from a giant snow machine. Families can start the day at the zoo early; 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 visit the Wonder Museum—a 3,400-square-meter facility brimming with gadgets, games and exhibits. Admission is ¥2,400 for adults (and high school aged kids), ¥1,400 for children 4 through junior high school and FREE for kids under 4. For more information, call MCCS Tours+ at 646-3502. 

DECEMBER 2023 | OKINAWA LIVING 15

For many on Okinawa, as well as the rest of Japan, the New Year is greeted with solemn silence. New Year’s, known as Oshōgatsu, is a time for quiet reflection and subdued celebration with the family. New Year’s observances are probably one of the most important (and definitely the most elaborate) of Japan’s holidays. And, while local celebratory customs can differ—sometimes radically—from prefecture to prefecture, most families in Japan ring in the New Year with gatherings, visits to shrines or temples and formal calls on relatives’ and friends’ homes bearing gifts. During the late evening of Ōmisoka, (New Year’s Eve in Japanese) many are outside in the chill listening to the distant sounds of firecrackers (a Chinese tradition thought to ward off evil spirits) and the sonorous reverberations of Jōya-no-Kane—the ritual ringing of Buddhist temples’ cast iron bells 108 times at the dawn of the New Year.

DECEMBER 2023 | OKINAWA LIVING 17

Preparations for the coming New Year customarily begin in mid-December with parties called bōnenkai—which are celebrations held to commemorate the end of the year (the word “bōnen” roughly means “to forget the past year’s bad luck” and “kai” is a party). Bōnenkai offer many in Japan an opportunity to forget the trials and tribulations of the past year and welcome the coming of the new one with a clean slate and cheerful countenance. Although these parties (along with shinnenkai to welcome the New Year) are mostly held with co-workers, they are also celebrated with friends and family. In addition, before the arrival of the New Year, the house receives the “clean slate” treatment in the form of a thorough cleaning inside and out called susubarai— an old Shinto custom. The home is then decorated with traditional ornamentation such as shimenawa. Shimenawa are probably the most commonly seen New Year decoration in Japan. They are comprised of a sacred rope (woven with straw) which is then decorated with tangerines, konbu (dried kelp), and white strips of paper called shide. The shimenawa is hung over the front door to mark the temporary abode of the Toshigami (New Year’s deities) and also to help prevent malevolent spirits from entering the house. Smaller versions of the charm are also sold at shrines for use on the front of one’s automobiles to ward against accidents. Before New Year’s, many people buy new clothes and attempt to clear all debts before the year’s end. These and other chores are completed to give people a sense of “starting clean” and welcoming the New Year with an unpolluted spirit. DECEMBER 2023 | OKINAWA LIVING 19

After susubarai, the home is also specially prepared with the aforementioned shimenawa as well as other decorations such as kagamimochi (an auspicious double-stack of mochi rice cakes decorated with a tangerine and shide) and kadomatsu (an arrangement of pine tree sprigs and bamboo) beside the entranceways of homes, apartments, and other buildings. Inside, sake (rice wine), persimmons and other foods are placed on ceremonial pedestals called toshidana (literally, “year shelf ”) to honor the Toshigami. These, and other decorations, have been used since ancient times to welcome the Toshigami into Japanese homes. After the spirit and the home are ready for the end of the year, many Japanese busy themselves with another of the important preparations for the New Year—nengajyo. Nengajyo are basically greeting cards sent by individuals to virtually every relative, friend and acquaintance. Businesses also send cards to all of their customers thanking them for their patronage. This Japanese New Year’s card sent by families fulfills many of the same functions as the all-too-familiar Christmas card—basically wishing others happy holidays and good wishes for the coming year. However, the typical Japanese person tends to send out the cards in much greater quantities—an average family mailing is usually over a hundred cards in a short timeframe. Many families design their own postcards using readily available dedicated software and have them printed, complete with the requisite family portrait. The cards are then posted between the 15th and 25th of December and held by post offices to be delivered January 1–3.

DECEMBER 2023 | OKINAWA LIVING 21

The expression “ringing in the New Year” happens to apply literally in many places in Japan. Jōya-no-Kane, or the ritual ringing of bells, is an ancient Buddhist practice believed to dispel the evil of the past year. At the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Day, Tsuri-Gane (great hanging bells) located in temples throughout Japan toll 108 times. According to Buddhist belief, every human carries 108 fundamental sins that can be cleansed by hearing the bells toll. Jōya-no-Kane, along with many other New Year’s customs, is very significant to many in Japan. However, many other customs can be enjoyable by many and even profitable to some. Many Japanese and Okinawans customarily eat toshi-koshi-soba (literally “year-crossing-noodles”) in the hope that their family’s lives and good fortune would last long like the noodles that they slurp. On Okinawa, virtually all Okinawa soba and ramen noodle shops are “standing room only" during New Year's. Some of the older residents of Okinawa who celebrate Kyū-Shōgatsu, or Uchinā-Sogwachi (Lunar New Year or Chinese New Year, as it is known in the west), supplement their soba with a myriad of traditional dishes including fish cakes, daikon (white radish), tempura, carrots and pork. These holiday dishes are usually served at grandparents’ homes on Chinese New Year’s Day throughout Okinawa. Many countries in Asia celebrate Kyū-Shōgatsu as well as the baby New Year measured by the Gregorian calendar. For many of the older generation, New Year’s is a happy time—filled with the happy cries of grandchildren. Children have a very special reason to be happy during Oshōgatsu. This reason is receiving their Otoshidama, or New Year’s present. Otoshidama literally translates into “gem of the year” and it is a gift (usually cash) given to children by parents, grandparents, close relatives and sometimes even neighbors. Unlike Oseibō, which are gifts given from family to family, Otoshidama is given to individual children by more than one person— so it is not uncommon for children of large families to receive as much as $1,000 during a three-day period.

DECEMBER 2023 | OKINAWA LIVING 23

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Oshōgatsu lasts three days, from January first to the third. The first day of the year, or Ganjitsu, is almost always spent with members of the family. People also throng to Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines for Hatsumōde, or the “first shrine or temple visit of the year.” It was customary in the past to visit the shrine or temple located in the direction from one’s home considered the most auspicious that year (i.e. north, east, south, or west). However, today it has become more common to visit well-known shrines or temples, or ones that are close by. These visits, which begin at midnight in the early morning hours of New Year’s Day, are made in extremely large numbers. Tokyo’s Meiji Shrine, Kamakura’s Tsurugaoka Hachiman Shrine, and Kyoto’s Yasaka Shrine are three of the largest and most well-known venues in mainland Japan, each receiving several million visitors over the first three days of January. Hatsumōde is also a time for some to buy good luck charms and to check one’s fortune for the coming year as well as to make pledges and wishes (the Western equivalent would be New Year’s resolutions). Temples and shrines sell all sorts of charms, many corresponding specifically to the totem animal of one’s birth year. There are also good luck charms for specific endeavors such as success in your job, love life, school tests and more. For those interested, according to the Chinese Animal Zodiac, the year 2024 is an auspicious one especially for students and graduates of Kubasaki High School—as it’s the year of the dragon. Whether your New Year’s holiday is spent with family or friends, at home or abroad, we here at Okinawa Living Magazine wish you a New Year filled with peace, hope and the promise of success. 

If you are interested in visiting a shrine or a temple during New Year’s here on Okinawa to soak up a little culture, three of the most popular are Naritasan Fukusenji in Nakagusuku Village, Naminoue Shrine in Naha and Futenma Jingu in Ginowan City. Naritasan Fukusenji, which is located right below the famous Nakagusuku Castle site, attracts quite a crowd during New Year’s. To get there, follow the signs to Nakagusuku Castle ruins. Keep going straight after you pass the castle on your right and the road will start to wind down the side of the hill. You will see the temple on the hill to your right (keep your eyes peeled for the turn to the right taking you to the parking lot). Naminoue Shrine is a beautiful and serene structure on an escarpment overlooking the East China Sea in downtown Naha City. It also gets quite crowded at New Year’s—attracting over 100,000 annually. To get there, head south on Route 58 into Naha and take a right at the Izumizaki intersection . Then, follow the signs to the shrine. One of the most popular New Year’s venues among American visitors to Okinawa (and the easiest to find parking for) is Futenma shrine. It is located on Route 330 between Camp Foster Gate #6 and Gate #7. A good idea would be to park on Camp Foster and walk. People having trouble finding the shrine shouldn’t worry—the crowd s of festively-dressed Okinawans will lead them there.

DECEMBER 2023 | OKINAWA LIVING 25

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FITNESS + FUN

Kinser Santa Run Burn Off Those Holiday Calories!

They say a moment on the lips forever on the hips. As the year ends and the parties and potlucks have caught up with you, don’t let the extra inches of your waist scream at your belt buckle to size up. It’s difficult to refrain from eating a holiday feast and not try to sneak in a second (or third) plate of everything available. Are you really going to let those extra calories force you permanently into stretchy pants? How about going for a run instead! Lace up your shoes and get ready to run (or walk) off all the holiday mac n’ cheese, potato salad, turkey and all those pumpkin pies at the Santa Run on Camp Kinser. Open to everyone island wide, runners and walkers ages 5 and up can participate. The run will start at 8:05 a.m. on December 17 at the Kinser Fitness Center.

If your kids are up for the challenge, children ages 5–9 can participate in the 1k for $30. For the 5k, kids ages 7-11 can go the distance with a registration fee of $40. All participants will receive a Santa suit and a medal for completing the race. Dash on over and burn some holiday calories just in time to fit into those new clothes you’re getting for Christmas. For more information on the Kinser Santa Run, visit okinawa. usmc-mccs.org/adultsports or facebook.com/mccsokinawa.semperfit. Deadline to register online is December 14 at 11:30 p.m. For more information, email adultsports@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org or call 6371869/645-6521. 

Holiday Time Trials

Swim to Win

Too cold to swim, you say? The heated 50m pools at Semper Fit Aquatic Centers on Camps Foster, Hansen and Schwab are just as inviting as that first sip of creamy cocoa afloat with melty marshmallows. 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 Holiday 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 on December 4 and runs through December 8. Swimmers can take the challenge three times daily during the aforementioned days: 5 a.m., 11 a.m. or 5 p.m. Interested 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 $25 MCCS Gift Cards for first place in each time slot. Moreover, participants are allowed up to three attempts per day, with each day of the challenge being a new chance to win! And, every participant will also have a chance to enter to win a new GRAND PRIZE daily! For MCCS Aquatic Center locations and additional event details, visit okinawa.usmcmccs.org/aquatics. If you have any inquiries about the event’s format, please send an email to mccsaquatics@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org.  DECEMBER 2023 | OKINAWA LIVING 27

FITNESS + FUN

Hottest Basketball Clash 2024 MLK Pacific-Wide Basketball Tournament As we transition from 2023 to 2024, Semper Fit has some happy news for the New Year—the return of the biggest and hottest basketball clash on the island! The 2024 MLK Pacific-Wide Basketball Tournament, held in remembrance of the late civil rights leader Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., will take place on January 11–12 starting at 6 p.m. and January 13–15 with games beginning at 9 a.m. The tournament is open to men’s and women’s teams throughout the Asia-Pacific region. Happening at the Camp Foster Fieldhouse, the competition includes a 3-point shootout, skills competition and a dunk contest (the more iconic the dunk, the better, of course). The top four teams from each pool in the main round-robin tournament will advance to the double-elimination tournament. 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. Champion and runner-up will be determined by a skills challenge, 3-point shoot-out and dunk contest. Teams can register for $350 via Eventbrite until January 8 (1 p.m.). For more information, call 645-3521. You can also reach out by emailing adultsports@ okinawa.usmc-mccs.org. 

Hansen Open Softball Tournament Batter Up! Does the shouting of the phrase “frozen rope” quicken the beat of your 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 9–10 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 home run and “snow coning” means to catch a ball so it’s sticking out the tip of your mitt. Register your team for $150 by Monday, December 4 (1 p.m.) online at okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/adultsports. For more info, email adultsports@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org or call 623-5558.  DECEMBER 2023 | OKINAWA LIVING 29

FITNESS + FUN

Smash Holiday Stress… With an ODST Swim Meet The holidays can be a stressful time with all of the shopping, planning and prepping. Swimming is a great activity for alleviating that 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 (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 9 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 25m swims 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.usmc-mccs. org/swimteam. 

Schwab Open Dodgeball Tournament Dodgin’ During the Holidays Dodgeball–a team sport where the objective is to eliminate players by throwing a rubber ball at the opposing team while avoiding getting hit themselves–was once a deadly sport that was documented as originating in Africa more than 200 years ago. Dodgeball back then was a game known as kwepena that used large rocks and ultimately ended in “sudden death.” A community effort, kwepena was a way to build communication, strength and endurance among the tribesmen and for socializing with one another. Scholars also believe parts of Europe including Greece played a similar game named episkyros, although episkyros is thought to be more reminiscent of football. Get ready to deflect before you get wrecked and gather up your teams to prepare for sud-

den death (not literally, of course) and join in on the fun at Camp Schwab’s Open Dodgeball Tournament. Open to everyone island wide 16 and over, the two-day tournament at the Power Dome Fitness Center runs January 6-7 with showtime at 9 a.m. Cost to participate is $125 per team. Teams can have as few as six and as many as ten players and trophies will be awarded to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place teams. Last day to register is January 2 at 1 p.m. via Eventbrite. For more information, visit okinawa. usmc-mccs.org/adultsports or facebook. com/mccsokinawa.semperfit. Questions can be answered by dialing 623-5558/6227297/645-3521 or emailing adultsports@ okinawa.usmc-mccs.org. 

DECEMBER 2023 | OKINAWA LIVING 31

MARINES + FAMILIES

MCCS Libraries Your Home for the Holidays

Sip & Paint Four Lenses Date Night Seeing eye to eye may not always be easy. We all come from different cultures, upbringings and walks of life that have molded our perspectives. Understanding your partner is the key to maintaining a happy, healthy and everlasting relationship. For your next date night, sip on non-alcoholic beverages and paint while learning more about your partner with a Four Lenses workshop at Ocean Breeze on Camp Foster December 8 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Four Lenses is comprised of four colors: green, orange, gold and blue. Learn more about how each color represents a personality and what that means for you. A trainer will be present to assess your color and apply it to your daily life so that your quality of relationship deepens with your partner as well as with fami-

ly, friends and colleagues—a win for everyone! Having a broader outlook on life is proven to make you more compassionate and provides you with a lens to see two (or more) sides to each story. This event is FREE and open to SOFA ID card holders island wide. Not an artist? Don’t worry, this event is perfect for everyone whether you’re a beginner or an experienced painter. Join MCFTB for a unique date night filled with laughter, creativity and relationship-building. Door prizes and light refreshments will be offered. Deadline to register is December 7 at noon via Eventbrite. For more information call 645-3689 or visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/mcftb. If you have any questions, email MCFTBokinawa@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org. 

Re-train Your Brain Class Become a Better You Imagine becoming a better you in only four short weeks. This is completely possible with Re-train Your Brain—a four-week class taught by MCCS Behavioral Health Family Advocacy Program’s Prevention and Education Specialists. In this class, attendees focus on building the foundational skills of interpersonal effectiveness, assertive communication, stress management and empathic listening. By building and improving these foundational skills, individuals will learn to properly manage stress levels, cope with feelings of frustration and anger and communicate effectively. This will help improve relationships through effective communication and develop healthier coping habits. Re-train Your Brain Classes are

held on Camp Hansen (Bldg. 2631) on Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and on Camp Foster (Bldg. 439) on Wednesdays from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The course curriculum is provided by Century Anger Management, a global leader in the anger management field, and participants who attend all four sessions will receive a certificate of completion. These FREE classes are open to all SOFA ID card holders island wide interested in self-improvement. Register to attend a class by emailing fapprevention@usmc.mil with your full name, telephone number and the camp where you would like to take the class: Camp Hansen or Camp Foster. For more information, visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/familyadvocacy. 

The winter holidays, as merry as they can be, can also mean busy schedules, party planning (and execution), shopping, tension, financial uncertainty and a fair amount of stress. In addition, unfamiliar surroundings only compound it. To help alleviate holiday stress and help chase away these blues, MCCS offers many activities to make Okinawa, mainland Japan, South Korea, Guam and even a deployment to Australia “Your Home for the Holidays.” Events include activities promoting healthy stress-free living, FREE athletic tournaments for Marines and Sailors, FREE events and food throughout the holiday season and much, much more. This year, MCCS Libraries on Okinawa will be offering service members and families an opportunity to gather on Christmas and New Year’s and experience a little “taste of home” with holiday cheer and cuisine courtesy of MCCS Clubs and Restaurants. These events, which start at 1 p.m. at MCCS Libraries island wide, offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy fellowship and foster connections with the community. It also offers MCCS Libraries an opportunity to show their appreciation for the community that they’re here to serve. For more information on these offerings, contact an MCCS Library near you or send an email to libraryprogram@okinawa.usmcmccs.org. 

DECEMBER 2023 | OKINAWA LIVING 33

MARINES + FAMILIES

Impaired Driving Awareness Month

Wrap & Yap Making Wrapping Gifts Fun! After all the holiday shopping, the daunting duty of wrapping presents awaits you. Instead of staying home trying to do it all by yourself, turn the mundane task of wielding paper, scissors and tape into a jolly good time with friends and family. With the holiday season being primetime for family gatherings, this is the perfect chance to make your spirit brighter while connecting with others. Gather your presents and socialize for two days of Wrap & Yap hosted on December 14 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Camp McTureous Community Center and December 15 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Camp Foster’s Education Center (Bldg. 5679, Room 10 on the 2nd floor). These events are FREE and open to SOFA ID card holders island wide.

Impress your gift recipient with different techniques shown through on-site demonstrations. Choose from an array of wrapping paper, bows and ribbons that will be provided. Filled with holiday cheer and entertainment for everyone, this event will keep adults and children occupied. Keep the family entertained as there will be family friendly holiday movie showings and holiday music as you unwind and relax with complimentary apple cider, cookies and light refreshments. Deadline to register via Eventbrite for Wrap & Yap is December 13 at noon. For inquiries, call 645-3689 or email questions to MCFTBokinawa.usms-mccs.org. 

As the year ends with potlucks, gift exchanges and increased opportunities for alcohol consumption, it’s not surprising that there’s an increase in DUIs and DWIs. Driving inebriated leads to nothing good—consequences range from disciplinary action to possibly losing your job, to name a few. It can also lead to injury and death and this not only affects you, but others around you. Throughout the month of December, MCCS Fitness Centers on Camps Foster, Courtney, Hansen, Schwab and MCAS Futenma will be providing FREE impaired driving prevention awareness information via booths on-site as well as online on Facebook to spread awareness about this problem. MCCS Health Promotion, located on Camp Foster, will also be disseminating information about the misuse and abuse of alcohol. Drink responsibly and as you’ve heard—not one drop if you’re driving. For more information visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/ healthpromotion or facebook.com/ semperfit. For questions, email mccshealthpromotions@okinawa. usmc-mccs.org or call MCCS Health Promotion at 645-3910. 

Happy Birthday Bluey! Bluey’s Birthday Bash Created by Joe Brumm (also known for his work on Charlie and Lola, Peppa Pig, Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom and Tinga Tinga Tales) and produced by Queensland, Australia-based company Ludo Studio, Bluey is a popular animated preschool television series that premiered in 2018. It was picked up on Disney Junior in the U.S. and released internationally on Disney+. Renowned for its caring and inclusive themes, the show follows a six-year-old Blue Heeler puppy named Bluey, her mother and father (Chilli and Bandit) and her younger sister Bingo, who regularly joins Bluey on her adventures. Join us at the Foster Library on December 14 at 3:30 p.m. as we celebrate Bluey’s Birthday with imaginative play and engaging games such as “Keepy Uppy,” “Chattermax Dance Mode” and more! This event is FREE and open to all ages. For more information about Bluey’s Birthday Bash, contact the Foster Library at 645-7179. For more information about MCCS Library offerings, visit them at okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/libraries or on Facebook at facebook.com/ mccsokinawa.educationandlibraries.  DECEMBER 2023 | OKINAWA LIVING 35

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DINING + ENTERTAINMENT

Christmas at the Clubs Christmas—the most wonderful time of the year when we spend hours shopping, decorating and gift wrapping for our friends and family. Instead of adding cooking and dishwashing to the top of this stack of duties, how about gathering around the table and enjoying a relaxing and delicious Christmas meal at a MCCS Clubs or Restaurant on December 25 with those who are dear. Camp Schwab will be hosting Christmas dinner buffet at BeachHead from 4 to 8 p.m. For reservations, call 625-2053. For brunch options, choose from The Palms on Camp Hansen, Tengan Castle on Camp Courtney or the Butlers Officers’ Club on Camp Foster. The Palms will begin brunch from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. To reserve a table, call 623-4375. For an earlier start, Tengan Castle and the Butlers Officers’ Club will be open from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Reservations are required via Eventbrite for Tengan Castle and

the Butlers Officers’ Club. For Tengan Castle inquiries, call 622-9413. For more information about the Butlers Officers’ Club, call 645-7530. For dinner, Surfside on Camp Kinser will be open from 4 to 8 p.m. Reservations are required via Eventbrite. Call 637-3137 for any questions. All MCCS Christmas buffets are $21.95 for adults, $10.95 for children ages 5-11 and FREE for children under 5. For those opting for an à la carte menu, Taiyo Steakhouse will serve brunch from at 7 a.m. until 3 p.m., with dinner served served from 6 to 9 p.m. Reservations are strongly recommended for lunch and are required for dinner. To book a table, call 622-2020. Visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/clubs for more details. Happy holidays from all of us at MCCS! 

Chef Shack’s New Menu is… …Ready to “Bowl” You Over! The MCCS Chef Shack Food Truck is proud to announce their new menu lineup— featuring bowls of goodness! Choose from tender, thinly sliced beef, boneless marinated chicken or a plant-based Korean bulgogi-style beef substitute, then top and top your selection with Asian-style BBQ, sweet teriyaki, spicy Sriracha mayo or tangy lime mayo sauce and dig in! Whatever you choose, it’ll be served over rice and garnished with glass noodles, green cabbage and shredded carrots. All bowls are $8, and if you’re feeing really hungry, you can double your meat for only $4! Chips are available to accompany your bowl for $1.50 and Macadamia & Chocolate Chip Cookies are available for dessert for $2. Sodas and bottled water are available a la carte for $1 to wash down your bowl after you devour its contents. For more information about Chef Shack—including its availability to support command, unit or other special events on Marine Corps installations island-wide—send an email to mccsfoodtrucks@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org. To see where you can pick up a bowl from Chef Shack next, visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/chefshack to see their schedule.  DECEMBER 2023 | OKINAWA LIVING 39

GET READY FOR WINTER INTERSESSION DECEMBER 13 – JANUARY 9 Register for Fall Session 2 (October 18–December 12)

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DINING + ENTERTAINMENT

A Taste of the Holiday Season …at Bonsai Coffee

Ring in the New Year… …With MCCS! Come celebrate the dawn of a brand-new year with MCCS! We’ve got your party needs covered with plenty of events to choose from at participating MCCS Clubs. If you’re looking for excitement—meaning music, dancing, hors d’oeuvres and midnight toasts—here are your options. (Two things to note: parties are open to all ranks, civilian equivalents and their guests unless otherwise noted, and whenever a rank is mentioned in the following list, civilian equivalents and their guests are welcome.) Come to Camp Foster’s Globe & Anchor dressed to impress at 9 p.m. or, if you’re a SNCO, head to Chesty’s SNCO Lounge at 9 p.m. Camp Courtney’s bash at Bayview starts at 9 p.m. and is open to E-5 and below.

If you’re a SNCO on Courtney, head to Hashmarks at 8 p.m., and if you’re an officer, head to Legends at 6 p.m. Camp Hansen’s The Palms, Camp Schwab’s BeachHead, Camp Kinser’s Surfside Ballroom and Plaza Housing’s Butler Officers’ Club will all start rocking at 9 p.m., with the latter only open to officers. Lastly, on MCAS Futenma, head to Thirsty’s at 9 p.m. or, if you’re a SNCO, to Habu Pit at 9 p.m. for a night to remember. Whichever club you choose, MCCS will start 2024 on the right foot. For more information, including participating clubs’ phone numbers and locations, head to okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/clubs. 

Get into the holiday spirit with Bonsai Coffee Company’s holiday limited time offerings—Peppermint Mocha, Apple Spice and Chai Apple Spice drinks. Because it’s everything nice, try the Apple Spice first. Made with real apple juice, hints of vanilla and cinnamon and topped whipped cream, it’ll will warm you up from inside out. For a slightly more caffeinated cider callback, try the Chai Apple Spice, which boasts all the delights of the Apple Spice with an added Chai tea concentrate. Looking for something to cool you off instead? You’re in luck because both the Apple Spice and Chai Apple Spice come hot or iced. For the chocolate lovers of this season, Bonsai has brought back the sweet treat that heralds the holidays—the Peppermint Mocha. Made with an espresso shot, decadent chocolate sauce, peppermint syrup and topped with whipped cream sprinkled with peppermint candies, it’s the beverage that sugar plum fairies dream about. For more info on these offerings, as well as locations and hours of operation for your nearest Bonsai Coffee Company, visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/bonsai. 

Wild Wild West Winter Saloon at Bayview Howdy! It’s time to saddle up for a darn tootin’ good time with food, fun and fellowship with friends at the Winter Saloon at Bayview on Camp Courtney! Round up your best cowboy and cowgirl gear while you giddy on up into the wild west on December 23 from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Dress up in flannel, leather, denim or cow print and spend the evening having a hog-killin’ time. The Winter Saloon is open to service members E-5 and below. Accessorize with fringe, turquoise, hats and buckles––the bigger the better. There will be prizes for the biggest

buckle, best dressed and the best dancer. To bring good luck, adorn yourself with a bit of extra turquoise, as the gemstone is known to bring good fortune and to provide protection and peace. There will also be complimentary heavy hors d’oeuvres along with games, entertainment and prize giveaways throughout the night. Yee-haw! Reckon’ you skedaddle on down because this night just might be the talk of the town. For more information, call 622-9520 or visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/bayview.  DECEMBER 2023 | OKINAWA LIVING 41

RESTAURANT REVIEW

Celebrating the Season Traditional holiday meals on Okinawa are only a phone call away!

Text by: Mike Daley | Photography by: Kailey LaValliere

TRADITIONAL HOLIDAY PACKAGES Classic 20–22 lb. Turkey Package with Holiday Sides: $145 (Serves 15) Deluxe 9 lb. Glazed Hickory-Smoked Ham Package with Holiday Sides: $145 (Serves 15) Holiday Feast Combination Package: $260 9 lb. Ham and 20–22 lb. Turkey *Includes DOUBLE Holiday Sides and two pies (Serves 30) HOLIDAY SIDES 4 lb. Traditional Herb-Seasoned Bread Stuffing 4 lb. Mashed Potatoes 4 lb. Candied Yams 4 lb. Seasoned Green Beans 2 qt. Turkey Gravy Choice of one pie—Pumpkin, Pecan or Apple À LA CARTE 18–20 lb. Whole-Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Sauce: $85 9 lb. Glazed Hickory-Smoked Ham: $85 2 lb. Mashed Potatoes: $16 2 lb. Traditional Herb-Seasoned Bread Stuffing: $16 2 lb. Candied Yams: $16 2 lb. Seasoned Green Beans: $16 1 qt. Turkey Gravy: $9 1 lb. Cranberry Sauce: $3 Choice of one pie—Pumpkin, Pecan or Apple: $16 CONTACT Surfside: 637-3137 (098-970-5555, then 637-3137) The Palms: 623-4375 (098-969-4375) Ocean Breeze: 645-9242 (098-970-9242) Tengan Castle: 622-9413 (098-954-9413)

Gathering around the table for a delicious feast with family, friends or both brings laughs, smiles and good cheer—especially during the holiday season. It’s the type of nourishment that equally fills both the stomach and the heart. However, finding a restaurant on island that gets a holiday meal right— including accurately seasoned turkey and ham and “properly” mashed potatoes— can be a challenge to find. Once can say that it’s just easier to prepare it oneself, but a well-executed holiday feast usually involves days, if not a week or more, of prep time. That’s a lot of effort for one meal—even one as special as Christmas. Why not serve up a little convenience along with your traditional spread this year? Holiday Meals-To-Go—an annual MCCS offering—makes ordering, picking up and serving a taste of home easy as pie (more on pies, later). This catering option gives you the choice of ordering complete meals or à la carte selections. For a crowd-pleasing meal, choose one of two Traditional Holiday Packages— the Classic 20–22 lb. Turkey Package with Holiday Sides or the Deluxe 9 lb. Glazed Hickory Smoked Ham Package with Holiday Sides. Looking for a taste of both? Go for the Holiday Feast Combination Package, which also comes with double sides and two pies.

To accompany the whole-roasted turkeys and glazed hickory-smoked hams, MCCS chefs are cooking up plenty of side dishes as well, including mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, candied yams, green beans and herbseasoned bread stuffing. And, of course, the aforementioned pies for dessert! Choose from apple, pumpkin, or pecan to complete your feast. All of the items mentioned above are also available on the à la carte menu, so go ahead and mix and match all of your favorites. These seasonal meals are available from Surfside on Camp Kinser, Ocean Breeze on Camp Foster, Tengan Castle on Camp Courtney and The Palms on Camp Hansen. Ordering is available Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. through December 25 and pickup dates stretch all the way to December 30, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to feast! Place your order at least five days in advance of when you would like to pick it up and complete your payment at least two days prior to your scheduled pickup date. For more information, check out the sidebar or visit okinawa.usmc-mccs. org/catering. And, from everyone here at MCCS, we wish you a safe and happy holiday season! 

DECEMBER 2023 | OKINAWA LIVING 43

KIDS + PARENTS

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 15 from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. the 50m pool at Camp Foster Aquatic Center will be warm and ready for cheery pool patrons. So, splash around or bundle up poolside while you and the family enjoy a warmhearted flick. The film choice will be determined by moviegoers, and the choices available will be published on facebook.com/mccsokinawa.aquatics

prior to the event. There will be FREE popcorn and drinks to enjoy during the movie (while supplies last). 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 Time Trials—on p. 27. For more information, visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/aquatics, or for questions regarding DiveIn Movie Nights, email mccsaquatics@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org. 

Candy Cane Lane Family Fun Night Gather the family for a fun-filled trip down Candy Cane Lane! And, no, we aren’t talking about the movie starring Eddie Murphy, we’re talking about Candy Cane Lane Family Fun Night on Thursday, December 7, from 5 to 9 p.m. at Ocean Breeze on Camp Foster. This event—a perfect opportunity for some pre-holiday family bonding—will feature a holiday-themed buffet, prize giveaways, hot chocolate bar, gingerbread cookie decorating station and a SURPRISE special guest that is quite jolly and looks absolutely smashing in red trimmed with white fur. Prices for the Candy Cane Lane Family Fun Night are $12.95 for adults, $6.95 for kids ages 5 to 11 and FREE for children under 5. For more information, call Ocean Breeze at 645-3666 or visit them online at okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/oceanbreeze.  DECEMBER 2023 | OKINAWA LIVING 45

KIDS + PARENTS

Frosty Fun at Ocean Breeze Polar Express Family Fun Night

As the days get cooler and the temperature drops (a relative term in subtropical Okinawa, we know) that means one thing—the holiday season is here! Although we’ll never experience cancelled classes or extended telework due to snow flurries, the holiday spirit is still present with candy canes, holiday lights and silver bells ringing. To celebrate, deck yourself and the whole family out on your coziest PJs and ugliest holiday sweaters and spend a fun-filled evening at Ocean Breeze’s Polar Express

Family Fun Night. On Thursday, December 14, from 5 to 9 p.m., take the night off from slaving away at the stove and let Ocean Breeze do the cooking. The traditional American style buffet will be available for $12.95 for adults, $6.95 for kids ages 5-11 and FREE for children under 5. After everyone in the family has dined to their content, relax while creating memories sipping on a nostalgic cup of hot cocoa while munching on some cookies—and remember, don’t forget to leave some out

for Santa Claus before he checks his list twice to see who’s been naughty or nice. For a homemade souvenir to take home, there will be ornament crafting. While the elves are working overtime and Rudolph is getting ready to lead the sleigh, let your kids hop on the Polar Express train! Choo! Choo! All aboard! Children of all ages will have a jolly good time experiencing a magical Christmas ride. For more information, call Ocean Breeze at 645-3666 or visit okinawa.usmcmccs.org/oceanbreeze.  DECEMBER 2023 | OKINAWA LIVING 47

SERVICES

Typhoon Motors Christmas Sales You'll Fa-La-La in Love with these Specials! Although winter on Okinawa means we don’t spend hours shoveling snow from our driveway, scraping ice off our windshields and girding our tires with snow chains, a malfunctioning ride still isn’t the way you want to pull up to the holiday party, is it? Well good tidings are here as all Typhoon Motors locations are gifting you and your ride with the miracle of 12 Days of Christmas Specials. With $1 lift and stall rentals you’ll have a full set of luxurious tools to fix your ride from December 22 until January 2. Give yourself the present of replacing that annoying rear shock that causes your car to bounce as you drive. How about that pesky lightbulb that desperately needs to be

changed? Well, you can do that and more at an affordable price that won’t break the bank! Rejoice for savings on savings while you work in the comfort of a hobby shop as you DIY and spend the day with your favorite vehicle. Dash on over to MCCS Typhoon Motors and get your vehicle inspected after you’ve been rockin’ around the island to ensure you have a safe and reliable vehicle after all the wear and tear from braking and cautiously avoiding potholes. Why not give thanks to your sleigh ride with 10% off all brake service and repairs throughout the month of December from MCCS Typhoon Motors.

Nothing beats a good stroll as you listen to your favorite tunes and belt out the lyrics— free therapy one might say, but the fury it brings when your radio is relaying static or one speaker is blown out, your sound system literally screeching at you. Head on over during the month of December to Kinser Typhoon Motors for their 15% off Kenwood Car Audio Christmas sale to improve your music experience. Fa-la-la—in love with these specials as they’re here for a limited time. For more information on these discounts and offerings, call the nearest center or visit them online at okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/ typhoonmotors. 

DECEMBER 2023 | OKINAWA LIVING 49

SERVICES

The Perfect Stocking Stuffer MCCS Gift Cards! MCCS Gift Cards, chargeable to the amount of your choosing, are the perfect stocking stuffer for the finicky family member. What can they use it for? How about a relaxing massage from Semper Fit followed by an evening of fine dining at Taiyo Steakhouse? MCCS Gift Cards can be used for this and more! MCCS Gift Cards are available for purchase and redemption at all MCCS Clubs, Restaurants and retail operations including

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 and Typhoon Motors locations and more! For more information about MCCS Gift Cards, call 645-5809 or visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/giftcard for more ideas about how and where to put them to good use. 

Uniquely Okinawan Books The Perfect Present for the Okinawa-Lover in Your Life Share the beauty of your home-away-from-home with friends and family in the states. The Best of Okinawa Living, a substantial and comprehensive pictorial compilation of everything Okinawa, covers the island’s history, picturesque locales, interesting cuisine, cultural curiosities, art and artists, national and local festivals and holidays and much more.

Omoide: Memories of Okinawa is a collection of images that will elicit fond memories of the island and makes a perfect pair. The Best of Okinawa Living and Omoide: Memories of Okinawa are available island-wide at Exchange retail facilities selling books. For more information on these publications, visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/ publications.  DECEMBER 2023 | OKINAWA LIVING 51

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s most students are twirling their pencils, bouncing their feet and focusing on lectures all day, ten gymnasts ranging from elementary to high school were tumbling, somersaulting and pivoting throughout Asia with MCCS’s Excellence Gymnastics Academy (EGA). Following a total of an 8-hour flight time from Naha, the ten athletes and their two coaches, Coach Corlise Taylor and Coach Tiffany Mills traveled to Manila, Philippines. On October 20–22, 2023, the contestants competed on an international level at the 8th STY International Gymnastics Cup 2023 at Muntinlupa Sports Complex in Muntinlupa City. The sports complex seats 3,000 spectators and has hosted the 2017 Asia Women’s Volleyball Championship and the 2019 Badminton Southeast Asian Games, to name a few. The gymnasts competed in Levels 2-6 and brought home silver and bronze medals in each category, tallying up 14 medals combined. Level 2 gymnast, Aria, took home two silver and two bronze medals. Aria, who was still full of joy and excitement from winning multiple medals, walked into the first practice after the international competition with her prized

medals adorned around her neck. standard with a requirement of an A or Clearly, she was still over the moon B in each of their classes. about her achievements. Coach Tiffany, who has been coaching for “It (gymnastics) is the first over two decades said, “On their off days they sport I am passionate about,” do homework. If they come in to practice Aria said. early, they finish their homework. SomeThe impact of winning a medal left times they miss practice because they have a lasting impression, so lasting, that she to finish up their homework.” went on to wear her medals from sunrise Education is the priority, and Coach to sundown for a few days after the comTiffany accommodates schedule changes to petition was over. ensure kids focus on their academics. Level 3 gymnasts Julia and Bria meBeing stationed on Okinawa has advandaled in their division. Locklyn and Grace tages for EGA athletes due to its location, brought home three silver medals and two as opportunities to travel to meets in Asia bronze medals in the Level 4 category. are easier in terms of cost and travel time. Kinzley took home one bronze medal as EGA opened its door to the public on a Level 5 competitor. At Level 6, Riley November 16, 2020. The program caters to obtained a bronze medal. a wide audience ranging from infants as Maintaining school on top of practice young as 10 months old up to adults. requires a gracious attitude, discipline, sacrifice and humility. Practicing two to four times a week for up to 20 hours, their rigorous after-school schedule can only be continued so long as they are a -Ari able to maintain good grades. ” . t “EGA impacted my life by making me try bou a e hard,” Addison revealed. nat o i The young athletes are s pas kept to m a I a high ort

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EGA prepares gymnasts for success on an international level through “practice, repetition, strength, conditioning, artistic work and choreography,” Coach Tiffany stated. “When you want to be good at something you have to work hard. You can’t just wake up one day and be amazing,” Locklyn emphasized. Although competition in foreign countries is difficult due to different languages, foods and culture, the ability to bond in a new location and watch the kids enjoy tinikling (traditional Filipino folkdance dating back to Spanish colonial era) and listen to various national anthems is a big accomplishment for the athletes. The hardest thing about coaching and contending for the prize in an international setting compared to home turf is “new venues, new city and navigating new rules and policies,” Coach Tiffany said. Throughout her interview, Coach Tiffany stated gymnastics is not just a sport, but include “life lessons” that can be utilized in daily life. “I enjoy watching children grow and gain self-worth, getting over fear and anxiety. Understanding life lessons through sports.

“Wh to w en you w ork h ard. ant to be You can good a ama ’t just wat someth zing .” -Lo ke up oning, you cklyn h e da You just have to y an ave d be roll with the punches and face them as they come. The days are not going to stop. A competition is just a snapshot of your career. You just have to put it into perspective, keep it calm and move on to the next.” Regardless of how high or low of a score one places, Coach Tiffany said all athletes get a high-five and a hug. Competing in the Philippines, Coach Tiffany and her team created memorable moments as they sat skin-to-skin, elbowto-elbow and knee-to-knee with 20 people in a Jeepney (mini-bus like public transportation), swimming at their hotel pools and having conversations outside of gymnastics as a topic with parents. “It was nice for us to bond because it enabled them to see me not just as a coach but as a person,” Coach Tiffany said. This year, 24 different gymnastics clubs participated with 547 competitors from seven countries throughout Asia including Indonesia, Philippines, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Japan accompanied by a total of 75 coaches, sharing the floor with one another in hopes of taking

the podium, honor and recognition from their respective countries. “It’s all the same, everyone gets on the floor and does the same thing. They’re all laughing and helping each other because our common denominator is gymnastics. It’s a group effort and all platforms are aligned,” Coach Tiffany reiterated. On top of vying for medals, team players and dozens of coaches networked with one another sharing smiles, stories and societal knowledge with the base of love for gymnastics as a sport. As this event is the biggest gymnastic tournament in the Philippines, Ruffy Biazon, the mayor of Muntinlupa and Oliva “Bong,” Coo, Philippine Sports Commissioner, greeted and took photos with EGA coaches. Coaching and practicing are just components of gymnastics, the heart of what Coach Tiffany does is rooted in creating a community, valuing relationships

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and integrating life lessons. For Kinzley, making new friends and having a positive impact on her life is just a perk of EGA. “Gymnastics makes me happy because I get to learn new tricks,” she said. From mothers carrying babies in the womb for nine months and visiting Coach Tiffany after a few short weeks post-partum to show her their next student as well as small (big) gestures such as watching a toddler so mom can use the bathroom without lugging around a tiny human—EGA is as much a community as it’s a gymnastics program. “It comes full circle. Bringing kids here teaches them to socialize. They learn how to overcome and learn how to work with fear. Parents and families become a community here while feeling safe,” Coach Tiffany said. During the international competition, coaches and gymnasts from various countries expressed an interest in visiting Okinawa. In 2024, EGA will be competing in Las Vegas, Nevada in January and Bangkok, Thailand in March. On top of practicing gymnastics as a sport, children learn life lessons, self-discipline and self-respect. “EGA has impacted my life by challenging my physical abilities as well as my mental abilities, which helps me solve a lot of problems outside of gymnastics,” Grace said. To prepare for the future, gymnasts will be focusing on new routines, new skills and new choreography while continuing to “level up,” in gymnastics, as well as outside EGA in their daily lives. 

“EGA

ha my m s impac te enta l abi d my life litie s, wh by cha lleng ich h i e l p s me ng my p of g ymn h asti solve a ysical a cs.” l o -Grac t of pr bilities oble a e ms o s well a s utsid e

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they ause d it c e b n s “Turn un to do aappy…” f h e ar feel s me Julia e k a m

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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 (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 ball-sized portions and set them individually on the pan. 1. Mix flour, water and sugar in a pot. After mixing thoroughThis will help them cool faster. ly, heat on high until it reaches a boil. Reduce heat to low 5. Smear anko all over strawberries. and cover. 6. When the dough is cool enough to touch, coat your fin2. After a few minutes, the mixture will begin to thicken rapgers generously with flour and then work the dough balls idly. Stir thoroughly (every minute or so) until the mixture into flat circles. Place an anko-covered strawberry in the becomes tacky. Remove from heat and leave uncovered middle, then draw the dough up over the filling and pinch to cool. it together so it sticks. Caution: don’t stretch the dough too 3. As the mixture is very sticky, thoroughly coat the surface of thin because it will tear. the cookie sheet or baking pan that you will be working on 7. Serve as soon as possible (these treats do not last very with potato starch. well in the refrigerator). 4. Using a wooden spoon coated with starch, dole out golf

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 used back in the old days. The original inspiration for using an orange to top this decoration is 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

Japanese

Uchinâguchi

Would you like to dance with me?

Isshoni odorimasenka?

Majun wuduibiranai?!

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