JULY 2021 | Issue 281
contents July 2021
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TOP LEFT AND COVER PHOTO BY HILLARY TAYLOR
16 56 out + about
features
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ReFRESH Looking for a fresh way to beat the heat? Then go kayaking amongst the mangroves or bask in the spray of waterfalls—all without leaving the prefecture.
Through Thick and Thin Okinawa’s Takeout Treasures Among the pandemic’s many unforeseen outcomes, Okinawa’s takeout scene is now thriving. Check out some of the restaurants around island that have successfully prioritized convenience and safety without sacrificing taste.
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On the cover Grab a bite from Okinawa’s thriving takeout scene.
Uchināguchi Preserving an Endangered Language To prevent the language from dying out, many individuals and organizations have made it their mission to breathe life into Uchināguchi.
contents July 2021
45 Breakfast at the Clubs The most important meal of the day might just be the tastiest now, with breakfast at participating MCCS Clubs.
kids + parents 49 Wizarding Wonders Gather your spell books and connect with fellow fantasy book lovers at the Camp Courtney Library’s Wizarding Wonders—a whole month full of magical festivities.
51 Lifeguard Certification Course Ensuring the safety of others is a noble job, but if you’re looking to become a lifeguard, you’ll need some certifications first—all of which MCCS Aquatics is offering in a course that runs August 2–13 at the Foster Aquatic Center.
services 53 The Perfect Present MCCS Gift Cards are the most versatile gift, made for everyone and good for almost everything at MCCS facilities.
49 fitness + fun
marines + families
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Independence Day Pool Bashes The aquatic centers are pulling out all the stops for Uncle Sam’s birthday—expect music, food and classic pool party fun.
Filmmaking Series Interested in filmmaking but overwhelmed by the sheer amount of steps involved? MCCS Libraries is here to walk you through those steps so you can start creating.
33 The Race of Truth At the MCAS Futenma Bike Race Time Trials, it’ll be you versus the clock for 44km. Can you handle the truth?
35 Get Golf Ready Golf has a steep learning curve, but with Get Golf Ready—a five-day program designed for beginners—you’ll conquer that curve in no time.
55 Stay Safe As we roll into the summer and the weather turns from hot to brutal, take advantage of the Heat Flag Conditions tab on the Liberty App to stay safe and track heat conditions across Marine Corps installations on island.
extras 5 Mensôre
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Feedback & Show Us!
MCCS Education Center Offerings After receiving orders to Okinawa, a common question may arise: “Can I continue my higher education on a subtropical island so far away from home?” The answer: a resounding yes.
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dining + entertainment 43 Camp Foster Festival Celebrate Independence Day at the Camp Foster Festival, a two-day extravaganza with food, entertainment, fireworks, Fun Land rides and more.
Living on Okinawa
70 Marketplace Guide
71 MCCS News
JULY 2021 | ISSUE 281 COMMANDING GENERAL, MCIPAC Brigadier General William J. Bowers 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, Emeline Toole GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Giulia Pulvirenti, Mayar Mahmoud, Rebecca Lambertsen DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER Thomas Alan Smilie PHOTOGRAPHER Hillary Taylor EDITORIAL Alex Jusell, Angie Andrews DIGITAL & SOCIAL MEDIA Kathlene Millette, Roxine Ami, Jaci Mullally CULTURAL RESEARCH SPECIALIST Ayako Kawamitsu ADVERTISING SALES & SPONSORSHIP MANAGER Roy Forster ADVERTISING SALES & SPONSORSHIP Yoshihiro Shinzato, Hiromitsu Horikawa Terumi Nagai, Crystal Rivas, Ronshanda Perkins MARKETING ACCOUNTS MANAGER Andrew Menges MARKETING ACCOUNTS Leah Scrybalo, Bethany Ramirez DISTRIBUTION Brian Jones CONTRIBUTING WRITER Kiara Klein
We welcome your comments. Please send letters to editor@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org
mensôre “Welcome” to Okinawa Living
Typhoon Time! Summer is definitely in full swing on the island, and soon enough Mother Nature will demonstrate her immense power in the form of a typhoon. Even though the island is very well fortified—typhoons are regular visitors to Okinawa—take each and every one of these storms very seriously. During typhoon season, which runs through November 30, it’s imperative to maintain a typhoon preparedness kit that includes a four-day supply (at least) of non-perishable food and ample potable water, sandbags to reinforce doors from the outside, duct tape, and a hammer and nails for quick emergency repairs (as well as tarps/heavy plastic sheets or layers of heavy cardboard for broken windows). Having towels and a large supply of newspapers to soak up leaks is also a good idea. Flashlights with extra batteries, candles, waterproof matches or a lighter, a portable radio, plenty of food for pets and a charcoal or propane grill (in case the contents of your freezer need to be cooked in the event of an extended post-storm power loss) are also equally important. And, don’t forget medications, a first aid kit and supplies for kids including diapers, baby formula and a fully charged portable battery (or two or three) for your older kids’ mobile device(s). Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. For more information about typhoons, as well as a plethora of info on everything Okinawa, pick up a copy of the FREE 2021-2022 Okinawa Guide. But what to do during the summer when typhoons are not on the horizon? Plenty! Why not find some refreshment in the jungle-lined rivers and waterfalls in the prefecture? For more on that, flip to p. 8. And if it’s food you’re in the mood for, check out some of the take-out restaurants on island that have been there for us through thick and thin (p. 16). 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!
For advertising | 広告掲載のお問い合わせ (日本語可) 098-970-2245 (phone) | 098-970-0975 (fax) sales@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org (email) See our advertising rates at mccsokinawa.com MCCS MARKETING BRANCH MCB Camp S.D. Butler. Unit 35023, FPO AP 96378-5023
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 ©2021 by MCCS. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transferred in any form, by any means, electronic, photocopying, recording, or otherwise without written permission of the copyright owner. No federal or Marine Corps endorsement of advertisers and sponsors. MCCS is not responsible for editing content of non-MCCS ads.
Okinawa Living Magazine is printed with
Mike Daley Editor-In-Chief
Take us on the road Enjoy Okinawa Living Magazine on your favorite mobile device! Visit mccsokinawa.com/ol for the latest issue. Also, visit issuu.com/mccsokinawa to see back issues of the magazine.
feedback
from the ICE Program The McTureous School Age Care staff provides excellent service! I am especially thankful for the women who help my son with his homework after school. His grades have improved, and he is always happy when I pick him up. This puts my heart at ease. —via ICE The staff at Taiyo Golf Club is incredible. Everyone is friendly and professional and the starters are very efficient and on the ball—they do a great job of balancing walk-ons, as well as early and late arrivals. The course marshals are friendly, understanding and do a great job of maintaining order and pace-of-play. The course is well maintained and fun to play; it’s my favorite on island due to the layout and the staff. I also did a club fitting with [Pro Shop Manager] Steve Nakashima, and his service was excellent. He guided me toward a great set of clubs without pushing any particular brand or model or trying to upsell me. It was immediately apparent that he truly cares about the game, and about helping his customers play to the best of their abilities while having a great time on the course. Steve also gave me feedback during our session that made an immediate impact on my game. I am looking forward to booking lessons with [Head Golf Professional] Sonny Gibbs very soon, too. —via ICE
@okilivingmag Show us your island adventures and favorite food finds!
@ro0xay
Chasing waterfalls, water trekking & waterfall adventures in Okinawa #okilivingmag
@zaydabarros
Avocado flowers and rainbow bread? Sign me up! #okilivingmag
The staff at the Camp Hansen Library is amazing and is always happy to help with anything you need. They always have great book recommendations and are always so positive about everything, and this is contagious! I also love all the great events that they offer. —via ICE I wanted to submit this ICE comment for Jill [Jones] and the entire staff at the Courtney Bowling Center. Every time I go there, Jill remembers my family and me, and always welcomes us warmly. Thanks to the amazing staff, I will go out of my way to continue bowling at the Courtney Bowling Center. Thank you to Ms. Jill and to the MCCS crew for making this place feel like a home away from home! —via ICE Shout-out to the Camp Foster Sumo Burrito team—specifically the manager, Rubelyn Fiel. I have been multiple times and am always impressed and grateful for her and her team’s positive attitude and terrific service. Thanks! —via ICE
@meganpicha
Rainy days well spent in the jungle four wheeling around a coffee farm in the mud #okilivingmag
The MCCS Okinawa Liberty App is outstanding. –via Facebook
Domo arigatou gozaimashita and thank you for your posts! We can’t wait to see what else you love about Okinawa! —The Okinawa Living Staff Give MCCS Feedback—ICE Program & Facebook Let us know how we can better serve you or thank us for a job well-done. Go to mccsokinawa.com and click on the ICE link at the bottom of the homepage or find us on Facebook to share feedback. Comments on this page may be edited for clarity or length.
JULY 2021 | OKINAWA LIVING 7
OUT + ABOUT
Whether it’s an early morning solo kayak journey up a mirror-smooth river reflecting the mangroves lining the shores, or the invigorating blasts of a towering waterfall’s cool, misty spray, there’s no better way to escape the busy cities, perpetual traffic jams and daily grind of “the real world” than with a little liquid refreshment. Okinawa is well-known as a summer mecca—a subtropical island paradise featuring beautiful beaches with diving, snorkeling, jet skiing and tons of other aquatic fun. But, did you know that’s not all Okinawa has to offer? Have you ever been river trekking on island? Did you know that Okinawa and the surrounding isles feature several waterfalls that you can visit? That’s right. You could be kayaking down jungle-lined rivers like Indiana Jones searching for ancient treasures.
JULY 2021 | OKINAWA LIVING 9
OUT + ABOUT
Kayaking is a popular leisure activity on Okinawa—whether on salt or fresh water. A great way to revitalize the psyche, kayaking can also be a great workout for the cardiovascular system and upper body. Now, before you go out and splurge on a $4K Kevlar touring kayak and matching rack to attach to the roof of your 4WD (which you also purchased for your new hobby), know one thing: it isn’t necessary! Kayaks are available for rent for very reasonable rates at Courtney Ironworks Fitness Center’s Outdoor Rec. Or, if you prefer to have the kayak there waiting for you ready to launch on a river cruise, sign up for the Tours+ Yanbaru Kayaking Tour! The Tours+ Yanbaru Kayaking Tour (Adults, $61; Children 6–12, $40) provides all transportation for a two-and-a-half hour kayaking expedition amongst the mangroves of Gesashi in northern Okinawa. All you need to bring is a fresh change of clothes, a towel, sunscreen, sandals, a hat, a packed lunch with plenty of drinking water and yen for lockers (coins) and spending. For upcoming tour dates and more information, call 646-3502 or visit mccsokinawa.com/tours. JULY 2021 | OKINAWA LIVING 11
OUT + ABOUT
Taa Falls Taa Falls, located on the Henan River in Ogimi Village (a hamlet north of Nago City), is an excellent place to “get your feet wet,” so to speak. The forest surrounding the Henan River is home to numerous species of birds and countless other creatures living in the nooks and crannies between rocks and the dense forest undergrowth of the river’s banks—some of which are endangered species that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. The trek up the river to reach the falls involves copious amounts of climbing and wading through the river’s cool, crystal-clear waters.
MCCS PHOTOS
Hiji Falls Hiji Falls, the tallest on the main island of Okinawa, is probably one of the most well-known waterfalls to visiting Americans due to its proximity to the Okuma Joint Forces Recreation Facility. Hiji Falls is an approximately 3km hike (roundtrip) from the camping area (and parking lot) located downriver from the falls. Pathways and stairs are present so there is very little danger involved, making it a good trek for neophytes and younger children.
JULY 2021 | OKINAWA LIVING 13
MCCS PHOTOS
OUT + ABOUT
Pinaisaara, Kanpiree and Maryudo Falls While Hiji Falls is the tallest on Okinawa, it is quite small when compared to the tallest in the prefecture. Once restrictions allow for travel again, plan a trip to Iriomote Island, located in the Yaeyama Islands, to visit the king. Pinaisaara Falls takes the crown as the tallest (over 50m) and one of the most impressive waterfalls in the Ryukyu Archipelago. “Pinai” means “beard” and “saara” means “waterfall,” and Pinaisaara is named after its appearance: an old man’s long, white beard. As impressive as it is, Pinaisaara is only one of several waterfalls on Iriomote Island. The island is largely unpopulated, and is mostly preserved as a wildlife refuge (almost 90 percent of the island is covered in unspoiled jungle and forests). Iriomote holds the reputation as “the Galapagos of Japan” and is home to mighty rivers, beautiful waterfalls, wondrous animal and plant species, hot springs and untamed primeval forests that may remind some of a miniature Amazon (without the piranhas, of course). Iriomote’s Urauchi River, whose banks are lined with dense forests, is the longest and largest river in the entire prefecture with a total length of 39km. Boat tours up the Urauchi are very popular among visitors, and many of the more adventurous make the journey in single and dual-seated kayaks. Hiking tours are also available to Kanpiree and Maryudo Waterfalls, which are located farther upstream. The Nakama River is the second longest on Iriomote (at a length of 17.5km) and is also famous nationwide for the amazing biodiversity along its banks. The Nakama River, along with others on the island, is lined with dense mangrove forests made up of multitudes of Yaeyama hirugi, mehirugi, ohirugi and hirugi-modoki trees. The banks of the Nakama are also populated by countless gigantic mudskippers and immense herds of fiddler crabs waving their giant pincers at one another. If you’re lucky, you may spot a crested serpent eagle perched on a branch of one of the taller trees. Whether it’s underneath a waterfall in the far reaches of Iriomote or enjoying the sunset off of Araha Beach on a rented kayak, communing with nature is good food for the soul. This summer, rent yourself a kayak and watch that sunset. Go on a guided kayaking tour and marvel at the beauty and complexity of life on the riverbanks. Go chase that waterfall, find it and bask in the blasts of cool spray. Go, and be reFRESHed. JULY 2021 | OKINAWA LIVING 15
THROUGH THICK AND THIN OKINAWA’S TAKEOUT TREASURES
A TEXT BY: ALEX JUSELL, ANGIE ANDREWS & KIARA KLEIN TRANSLATION BY: HIRO HORIKAWA, YOSHIHIRO SHINZATO & AYAKO KAWAMITSU PHOTOGRAPHY BY: HILLARY TAYLOR DESIGN BY: MARGIE SHIMABUKURO
mong the pandemic’s many unforeseen outcomes, Okinawa’s takeout scene is now thriving. Businesses across island have had to adapt their menus and services—successfully prioritizing convenience and safety without sacrificing taste—to stay afloat, and the following restaurants have done just that. Through thick and thin, they’ve been our shelters in the year-and-a-half-long storm of restrictions that have kept us safe.
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29 CAFÉ PINE TREE BLESS To open during such a turbulent time for businesses shows a strong conviction in the goods you’re selling. Thankfully, 29 Café Pine Tree Bless, which just opened in March across the street from Hamby Town, has the taste to back it up. This swanky and spacious two-story café has a generous assortment of meat-centered bento, including a slow-roasted pork cutlet that ups the ante for all cutlets—tender, succulent and wrapped in a fried breading so thin and crispy it seems impossible (you can buy this pork cutlet as a sandwich, too, which is equally as satisfying). The café also features some Italian-inspired fare that hits the mark, including the savory Pasta Bolognese and Margherita Pizza. Not limited to lunch, a pancake breakfast and a (fluffy and sizable) toast breakfast—both of which come with sausages and fried eggs—are available from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. And while you’re at it, grab a coffee or orange juice (or both), as the drink selection is where 29 Café’s attention to detail really shines. Their coffee drinks—lattes (regular, chocolate and caramel), cappuccinos, Americanos and regular coffees—are made with Kimbo beans, an Italian espresso company that delivers some serious flavor. As for the orange juice, 29 Café sports a beautiful Zumex commercial juicer that squeezes your drink before your very eyes. It doesn’t get fresher than this. And with Araha Beach just around the corner, you’ve got plenty of prime real estate at which to enjoy your takeout. For more information, head to pinetreebless.com or visit them on Facebook or Instagram.
OKINAWA’S TAKEOUT TREASURES
MAHI MAHI OKINAWA Onna has gorgeous, sandy beaches and picturesque seaside resorts, but they also have a well-kept secret: MAHI MAHI Okinawa. Located off of HWY 58 just after the Onna Post Office, they are a new, quaint to-go shop that serves huli huli chicken. In Hawaii, huli means “to turn,” which is fitting because after MAHI MAHI Okinawa prepares their locally sourced chicken by marinating it in a blend of herbs, spices and other aromatics, they slowly roast it via rotisserie—turning it throughout the entire cooking process. The result of roasting the chicken in the homemade marinade is a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors, reminiscent of teriyaki. The Huli Huli Plate will surely satiate your appetite. Healthy portions of robust huli huli chicken are accompanied by the salad of the day (usually a creamy macaroni salad), Okinawan vegetables that are pickled in-house (providing a slight tang and zest) and a portion of steamed white rice. The plate comes in three different sizes to suit your appetite: 3 pieces, medium or large. MAHI MAHI Okinawa is open every day except Thursdays, and on Wednesdays they have reduced hours. Call 080-6480-5264 to place your order ahead of time. Visit mahimahi-okinawa.mystrikingly.com for a full menu and hours of operation, or follow them on Instagram (@mahimahi_okinawa) to stay up to date on offerings and announcements.
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OKINAWA’S TAKEOUT TREASURES
FLEX BAR & GRILL If you’ve ever traveled to Jamaica, you may know that irie can be a way of expressing good vibes or saying you’re feeling alright—which is exactly how you’ll feel when you snag a bite from this cozy spot near Araha Beach. Having visited Jamaica over 30 times, Flex’s owner has developed the menu to meld familiar curry rice with the Jamaican flavors he’s picked up on his travels. With layers of one good thing after another, the Vegan Taco Rice is sure to satisfy. Steamed rice is topped with vegetables (including lettuce, cucumber, bell peppers, tomatoes, avocado and marinated carrots), tarutaru (tartar) sauce, soy crumbles and house-made salsa. Gobbling up fresh veggies is always a stellar idea, but one of these stole the show: the carrots—even without knowing the secret marinade, these tangy delights bring forth memories of Carolina-style BBQ sauce. The tarutaru sauce is made from soy milk as opposed to eggs and gets its zing from onions and homemade pickles. The soy crumbles are generously seasoned with Flex’s own jerk seasonings, and taking homemade a step further, the scotch bonnet peppers used are grown locally. Spicy and mild hot sauces are available and once you’re hooked, you can buy them by the bottle along with the jerk seasonings. For the full menu, head to bar-flex.com and place your order by calling 098-926-0470. Flex Bar & Grill is open every day except for Wednesdays. For updates and announcements, check out their Facebook and Instagram pages.
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OKINAWA’S TAKEOUT TREASURES
SAM'S CAFE Surf and turf aficionados need look no further than just outside the Camp Foster Legion Gate for their next to-go feast. There’s no reason to choose between land and sea when you can have the best of both with the restaurant’s most popular take-out dish: Garlic Shrimp & New York Strip Sirloin Steak. Think scampi in a classic butter-based sauce flavored by garlic and green onions, perched atop a bed of noodles and medium-rare steak seasoned with salt, pepper and Sam’s own house-made steak sauce. The lunch and dinner serving sizes are the same, but Mr. Yūki Shinjyō, the operation's department assistant, shared that you can ask for larger portions of steak when you order. While protein is the star of this meal, don’t underestimate the accompaniments. Your box will have mixed veggies and either French fries or rice. Side salads may be added upon request. Plus, each to-go order comes with mild curry soup and dinner rolls, which can almost double as dessert. Tinted pink and yellow, these intriguing rolls pull their colors directly from their ingredients—red wine (with raspberries tucked inside) and pineapple—and are served with pineapple butter. For the full take-out menu, including children’s meals, visit sams-okinawa.jp. Sam’s Cafe is open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Orders should be placed before 9 p.m. To place your order or for any questions, please call 098-935-3699. You can also check for news and updates through Instagram (@sams_okinawa).
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OKINAWA’S TAKEOUT TREASURES
THAI CUISINE BENJARONG Recently opened in December of 2020, Thai Cuisine Benjarong is located in Ginowan City fairly close to the Convention Center and Tropical Beach. Pulling its name from the word for a traditional type of porcelain serving dish with intricate designs, the direct translation of benjarong is "five colors." Count on your meal not only pleasing your palate, but rivaling the most inspired painter’s palette, too. Case in point: the vibrant and cheery Tom Yam Noodle Soup. Prepared by Chef Winijchai Wutthilert, a master with 25 years of experience between Bangkok, Australia and Japan, this authentic soup belongs on your must-try list. The spicy and sour stock is comprised of lemongrass, aromatic galangal and kaffir lime leaves, with chili oil creating the heat and color. Incorporating ingredients such as milk, egg, fish sauce, chili paste and lemon juice boosts the depth of flavor, and the toppings bring the fantastic final touches— boiled shrimp, rice noodles, shimeji mushrooms, crunchy sprouts, and additional kaffir leaves and lemongrass. In order to maintain the proper balance of each of its components, your order will be packed up in two stackable containers (one for the broth and one for the toppings). Benjarong is open for lunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and reopens again for dinner at 5 p.m. They are closed on Tuesdays. Follow @okinawabenjarong on Instagram to get the latest updates and to view the full menu, which also includes vegetarian options. Orders may be placed by calling 098-988-8751.
KOURI SHRIMP A trip to Kouri Island without going to Kouri Shrimp is like going to Philadelphia and not getting a Philly Cheesesteak. Sometimes, it’s the sole reason people visit Kouri Island. This restaurant—with unbeatable views of Kouri Bridge and the electric-blue ocean passing underneath—is a mecca for shrimp lovers. Kouri Shrimp began as a food truck but was able to establish a gorgeous standalone restaurant a couple years back due to its rise in popularity, the reason for which is no mystery. The amount of flavor they can pack on a single shrimp is spectacular. It’s the type of food you immediately want more of after you finish your meal. And not because of the portion size—they give you more than enough—but because it’s that good. The Garlic Shrimp is creamy and rich, the Spicy Garlic Shrimp is served with a delicious house-made seasoning that packs a satisfying punch of cayenne, and the butter in the Garlic Shrimp Butter and Lemon is enough to ask for seconds. Even though Kouri Shrimp is known for its namesake, don’t hesitate to order a non-shrimp menu item, either; the roast chicken is juicy and the beef melts in your mouth. Lastly, if you’re bringing your takeout to one of the picturesque beaches lining Kouri Island, Kouri Shrimp offers a nice lineup of drinks—fresh juice, Benny’s milkshakes, refreshing açai smoothies and more—to keep you cool. For more information, search for them on Facebook and Instagram or head to shrimp-wagon.com.
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OKINAWA’S TAKEOUT TREASURES
INDIRA
MEALS FIT4LIFE
Located in Chatan near Araha beach, Indira has got a lot going in its favor: a vibrant atmosphere, an ocean view, a menu overflowing with authentic Indian cuisine and the most mouthwatering aromas—toasted graham masala, turmeric and coriander greet you before the curry even hits your palate. While their menu has an assortment of different curries to delve into, each looking more delicious than the last, there is no limit to what you can order to-go. The Anan’s Special is part of their lunch set and delivers diverse flavors and deliciousness. In your to-go order, you’ll receive a hearty piece of tandoori chicken that is both moist and perfectly seasoned; a large, fluffy plain naan; a small side salad of crisp lettuce and shredded carrots; a silky, savory prawn curry with chunks of sweet prawn meat; a side of warm spiced potatoes and an additional “today’s curry” with your choice of either chicken or pork. And to finish the meal, a small dessert of rice pudding—a creamy, subtly sweet way to end the flavorful feast. Indira is open 11 a.m.–3 p.m. for lunch, 5–10 p.m. for dinner and is closed on Wednesdays. Furthermore, they provide delivery to the nearby area. To place your order or to find out if they deliver to your location, call 098-989-3555. For the full menu, visit indiraokinawa.com. For updates, visit them on Instagram (@indiraokinawa).
During the heaviest restrictions—when we’ve felt the most pent up and desperate for a healthy meal— LifeJuice Café and Bonsai Coffee Company have been there with Meals Fit4Life. Put simply, these offerings have kept us from feeling like total slobs. This grab-and-go menu includes grilled salmon, grilled chicken and shrimp with a citrus-miso glaze—all served with a side of grilled veggies. Not to mention, all of these options come with a brown rice and quinoa mix. And that’s not all LifeJuice or Bonsai have to offer, of course. With a whole catalogue of gluten-free yogurt smoothies from which to choose, LifeJuice allows for plenty of customizations; power up your drink by adding BCAA powder or whey protein, switch out low-fat milk with almond or soy milk or build your own smoothie from the ground up. Need less of a meal in a cup? Order one of the six different flavors of Boost Juice. Meanwhile, over at Bonsai Coffee Company, there’s plenty of customizable coffee and tea drinks available to accompany your Fit4Life choice, including some delicious, post-meal espresso or cream-based dessert drinks like the Mocha Chip Frozen Blend, the Caramel Cream Frozen Blend or the Chai Cream Frozen Blend. For more information, including locations, hours of operation, menus and more, head to mccsokinawa.com/ lifejuice or mccsokinawa.com/bonsai.
What takeout has kept you sane during these trying times? Let us know! Snap a photo of your favorite take-out restaurant, post it on your Instagram feed and tag @okilivingmag. You may see your favorite in an upcoming issue.
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FITNESS + FUN
Independence Day Pool Bashes An Absolute Blast Ice-cold popsicles, a break from school and bright sunny days—there’s always plenty of reasons to love summer. The whole season is an absolute blast, especially when it comes to pool parties! So come one, come all; it’s time to splash around at an Independence Day Pool Bash. For Uncle Sam’s birthday shindig, MCCS is keeping the red, white and blue vibes flowing on Monday, July 5 from noon to 3 p.m. Slather on some sunscreen and pop on over to an MCCS Aquatic Center on Plaza Housing or Camps Schwab, McTureous and Kinser. What can you expect? First and foremost, the food at these soirees comes in everyone’s favorite flavor—FREE. That’s right, grab some food and drinks on us (while supplies last). And since a party isn’t a party without music, you can count on your fun in the sun being accompanied by a killer soundtrack. If your go-to pool is not hosting a bash, now’s your chance to mix and mingle at a new location. Plus, if you’re bringing your youngest firecrackers, all these locations—except for Camp Schwab—have baby pools. For more information on the Independence Day Pool Bashes, visit mccsokinawa.com/aquatics or facebook.com/mccsokinawa.aquatics. And after the holiday parties wrap up, don’t forget you can always find more aquatic fun at the Dive-in Movies (see p. 49) or at an Aquathlon (see p. 33).
Gear Up for Summer Tsunami Scuba Independence Day Sale After getting dive certified, you’ll face a crossroads common to all divers: buy your own gear, or keep on renting (and renting and renting)? There are pros and cons to each path. Renting is cheaper if you don’t plan to dive that much. Conversely, buying requires a bigger initial investment, but—as you dive more—you’ll end up saving money over the long term (plus you won’t have to go through the rigmarole of stopping by a rental shop and trying on gear every single time you want to dive). If you are currently at this crossroads, Tsunami Scuba is here to nudge you in the “buying” direction with discounted prices. On July 3 and 4 from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tsunami Scuba outlets on Camps Schwab, Hansen, Courtney and Foster will drop their already low retail prices by 10 percent as part of their Independence Day Sale. That means top-of-the-line diving brands—Aqua Lung, Suunto, Scubapro and more—will be on sale. Booties and educational materials are not included in the sale, nor are rentals, services or air fills. But if you need to replace a dive computer or buy a whole set of gear, this is the time to do it. Also, keep an eye on facebook.com/mccsokinawa.scuba for daily specials during the sale. For more information, head to mccsokinawa.com/scuba. For questions, email mccstsunamifoster@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org, or call 645-4206 from a DSN or 098-9704206 from off base. JULY 2021 | OKINAWA LIVING 31
FITNESS + FUN
Camp Foster Aquathlons Dash, Splash…and Dash Again Running and swimming are both immensely beneficial exercises that are regularly compared and contrasted with the intent of crowning one more beneficial than the other. There is plenty of research out there detailing the sports’ impacts on fat burning, muscle growth and cardiovascular, muscular and joint health. But most of these articles wind up sharing the same conclusion: the best path to achieve better overall fitness when it comes to running and swimming is…to engage in both activities. If only there was an event that rolled both exercises into one! On July 13 and 27, dash, splash and dash (again) at Camp Foster’s Aquathlons. These events follow a run-swim-run format and both dates offer two courses, which differ in distance. Each course will have a separate starting time, allowing any interested participants to double their workouts and complete both routes.
For the shorter event, athletes will run laps around the tennis courts (390m), swim 100m and repeat the run (390m). The lengthier race will take runners around the softball field with a 400m swim in between. To vary the run distances, this course switches up the number of laps for each leg of the run. Plan on running between 1.44km and 2.88km. Warm-ups and registration are from 4:30 to 5 p.m. on each date. Aquathlons are FREE and open to SOFA ID card holders island-wide. For more information, including event maps and rules, please visit mccsokinawa.com/aquatics. Questions may be emailed to mccsaquatics@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org.
The Race of Truth MCAS Futenma Bike Race Time Trials The time trial format is often called the “Race of Truth” in the competitive bike-racing world. No bikers in front of you to break the wind’s resistance, nobody to help you keep pace—it’s just you versus the clock. And at the MCAS Futenma Bike Race Time Trials, that clock will be ticking for 44km. So if you think you can handle the truth, join Semper Fit on July 18 for one of the year’s most competitive bike races. Here’s how the day will play out: cyclists will muster at the Semper Fit Fitness Center on MCAS Futenma between 6:30 and 7:30 a.m. to check in. A mandatory brief will then take place at 7:45 a.m., and the race will start at 8:05 a.m. There will be four main age categories: 15–19, 20–29, 30–39 and 40 and over. These age categories will be divided further into male and female categories. At the conclusion of the event, awards will go to the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners in each category, as well as to the overall male and female winners. The MCAS Futenma Bike Race is open to SOFA ID card holders ages 15 and older. To participate, register through Eventbrite by July 14 (11:30 p.m.; $40). For more information, head to mccsokinawa.com/adultsports or facebook.com/mccsokinawa.semperfit. If you have any questions, email adultsports@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org or call 636-2972. JULY 2021 | OKINAWA LIVING 33
FITNESS + FUN
Get Golf Ready… …In Five Days
It’s Tournament Time Camp Foster 11v11 Soccer Tournament Get ready to sink your cleats into the dirt— Semper Fit is hosting an 11v11 soccer tournament on Saturday and Sunday, July 24–25 at the Camp Foster soccer fields. The event is open to SOFA ID card holders ages 16 and older. Gather your friends and organize your team; once decided, register on Eventbrite before 1 p.m. on July 19. Your team can consist of up to 18 players plus a coach, however, if your coach plans to take part in the tournament, he or she counts towards your 18-player limit. If you haven’t participated in a tournament before, have no fear, there are only a few rules to know beforehand. Each game is comprised of two 30-minute halves with 11 players from each team allowed on the field at any given time. Substitutions are permitted and unlimited.
As for attire, players must wear shin guards covered by socks for the entire match, shorts with pockets are not allowed and metal studs are prohibited. Teams must submit their rosters 30 minutes before the first game and any teams caught with unauthorized players (players not listed on the roster) will be disqualified. Once a player’s name appears on a team roster, it prohibits them from playing for any other teams for the duration of the tournament. Lastly, awards will be given to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place teams. For additional information, check facebook.com/mccsokinawa. semperfit, or if you have any questions, email adultsports@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org. —Kiara Klein
Millions play golf because it’s fun for all ages and skill levels. If you have ever wanted to get into the game, you’ve picked a worthwhile endeavor that can turn into a lifelong pursuit. But like all new activities, getting started can prove to be the hardest part. To help you get going, Taiyo Golf Club is offering Get Golf Ready—a five-day program designed with beginners in mind. Whether you are a first-timer, or you already know a little bit about the game in general, these lessons can help you start playing and enjoying golf. You’ll work with PGA instructors on the fundamentals of driving, iron play, chipping, putting and more. Plus, you will have a chance to learn about golf ’s terminology, rules, scoring and etiquette. This hands-on program is complete with all equipment provided, five days of instruction and an on-course golf experience for the fifth and final day. Taiyo’s first Get Golf Ready sessions are from 5 to 6 p.m. on either Mondays or Sundays, beginning July 19 or July 25, respectively. If you know a few other folks who are interested in learning with you, private groups are also available (with a minimum of four people). Get Golf Ready costs $99 per person. Please register at the Pro Shop or ask about scheduling your private group by calling 622-2004 (DSN) or 098-954-2004 from off base. For more information, visit mccsokinawa.com/golf.
JULY 2021 | OKINAWA LIVING 35
MARINES + FAMILIES
Lights, Camera, Action! Schwab Library Filmmaking Series Filmmaking is intimidating. The sheer amount of steps involved— from screenwriting to lighting, directing, acting, editing and more— can be overwhelming to those who are new to the process. Thankfully, the MCCS Library on Camp Schwab (Bldg. 3429) is holding a Filmmaking Series to walk you through those steps. So whether you’d like to build your résumé, network with other film enthusiasts or just have some fun, this four-part series will shed light(s, camera, action!) on the entire process. The classes will take place at 5 p.m. each Thursday in July. Part One ( July 8) will introduce you to screenwriting and the visualization of the project that takes place before actual production; Part Two ( July 15) will cover lighting and how to “shape” light for a
scene; Part Three ( July 22) will cover on-set filmmaking to include directing, camera operating, gaffing and acting; and Part Four ( July 29) will guide you through post-production and the basics of film editing. By the end of the series, participants will have pieced together a rough cut of their short film project. This series is open to all ages. Registration is required and will close once all available spots are filled; visit the Schwab Library or call 625-2518 (098-970-5555 then 625-2518 if off base) to sign up. For more information, head to mccsokinawa.com/libraries or facebook. com/mccsokinawa.educationandlibraries. If you have any questions, please email schwablibrary@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org or call the aforementioned number.
Desirable Degrees of the Decade Discover Your Destined Career Path There are many reasons to explore career paths. Maybe you are transitioning out of the military and into the civilian world, or maybe you’re a spouse looking to start a new career. Whatever the reason, taking that first step towards a career shift or a new degree can be nerve-wracking. That’s why MCCS Education is here to help you take that first step with a virtual brief called Desirable Degrees of the Decade. This online event will help you discover a path in higher education that’s interesting to you. During the virtual brief, you will review and research the top 10 degrees of the last decade. The top 10 degrees are degrees that have seen growth and expansion in their industry and are expected to continue on their trajectory. Statistically
speaking, these fields are among the safest in regards to profitability and job security. Also during the online event, you will learn how to make a vision board with photos and inspirational materials. A vision board will help keep you focused on your educational, career and personal goals. There are two chances to catch the brief: July 7 at 10 a.m. or July 21 at 10 a.m. To register for the workshop, email education@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org with your full name and email address. For more information, call 645-7160 or head to mccsokinawa.com/educationandcareerservices. —Kiara Klein
JULY 2021 | OKINAWA LIVING 37
OKUMA BEACH 4th of July Celebration
Spend your 4th of July here at Okuma! We will be featuring live entertainment as well as some fantastic Backyard BBQ food specials!
Summer at Okuma All summer long! Enjoy all Okuma has to offer! Relax on pristine sandy beaches and enjoy a wide variety of summer water activities such as water skiing, wakeboarding, jet skiing, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, tubing, ski boating, and more! Book a glass-bottom boat tour, snorkeling tour, or scuba diving excursion and explore the beautiful waters of Okuma! Visit okuma.kadenaFSS.com for more information and plan your trip today!
Camp Under the Stars at Okuma 11 • Per tent daily
$
Spend your night sleeping under a sky full of stars at Okuma! We have two campgrounds for our customers to enjoy — Beachfront and Hillside. Campers must register at Outdoor Recreation Equipment Rental prior to setting up camp. Did you forget something? Don’t worry! We have equipment to rent! Tents, sleeping bags, coolers, lanterns, and more are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
SUBJECT TO CHANGE Okuma Beach • 631-1990 Surfside Grill & Bar • 098-962-1805 Lodging Reservations • 631-1991 Located 51 miles north of Kadena Air Base
Okuma.KadenaFSS.com facebook.com/theokumabeach @okumabeach
Saturday, 14 August 19.95 • Adults | $12.95 • Ages 4 - 12 Free • Ages 3 & under
$
Bask in the gentle tropical breeze while you enjoy live entertainment and festive island music. From 5 to 9 pm, enjoy a variety of Island-style entertainment including Polynesian dancers, fire dancers, hula dance, Hawaiian music, Tahitian dance, and Okinawan dance. An island-style buffet is available for purchase. Savor the wide array of delectable island food at your fingertips such as Kalua Pork, Garlic Shrimp, Huli Huli Chicken, and other savory and delicious dishes. For reservations, call Surfside Grill & Bar at 098-962-1805.
MARINES + FAMILIES
Bettering Our Communities Lead Okinawa Teen Volunteer Workshop When it comes to serving others and using our time for the greater good, Albert Einstein, Anne Frank, Winston Churchill, Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King, Jr. have all been quoted. And there’s a general consensus in the wisdom they imparted: volunteering is one of the greatest and most impactful things you can do. Volunteers of all ages are bettering their communities every day, and here on Okinawa, you can get started with the volunteering community as early as age 13. Find out how you can get involved! The Lead Okinawa Teen Volunteer Workshop, happening on Thursday, July 22 from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Camp Foster Education Center (Bldg. 5679), is FREE and open to SOFA ID card holders island-wide. Learn about both on- and off-base opportunities, which include cleaning up local beaches and community gardens, interning with the American Red Cross, coaching youth sports and helping out at food banks, animal shelters and more.
And on top of helping your community, it’s likely you’ll help yourself. Teenagers who volunteer can look forward to many personal benefits including transferable skills and experiences that will enhance college applications, scholarship applications and résumés. Building a network of professional associates can also come in handy because volunteer supervisors may be able to provide reference letters and recommendations for your future endeavors. Registration is required and is available online at mccsokinawa. com/volunteer until July 21. If you are unable to make this session, there will be another teen volunteer workshop on August 19, same place, same time. If you have any questions, please email volunteernow@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org or call 645-3749 (DSN) or 098-970-3749 from off base.
A Resounding Yes MCCS Education Center Offerings After receiving orders to Okinawa, a common question may arise: “Can I continue my higher education on a subtropical island so far away from home?” The answer: a resounding yes. MCCS Education Centers have an abundance of offerings to support active-duty Marines, Sailors, spouses, family members and DoD civilians in achieving their educational goals. Regarding assistance for spouses specifically, the Spouse Education and Career Opportunities (SECO) program provides resources related to career exploration, education, training, licensing and more to military spouses worldwide. There’s also the My Career Advancement Account (MyCAA), a workplace development program that offers up to $4,000 of tuition assistance to eligible military spouses. If you’re curious about the local colleges, stop by a center to learn more about the University of Maryland Global Campus,
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and Troy University—and about which college best suits you. But what if you are already in school, or just wrapping up, and you need to take a test as part of some credentialing requirement? MCCS Education Centers provide military-affiliated testing services and a variety of Pearson VUE offerings, so you don’t have to hold off on getting that credential or certification. Moreover, these centers can help out with questions concerning commissioning programs, apprenticeships, credentialing services and more. Lastly, MCCS Education Centers are fantastic resources for all of your tuition-related questions. Whether you have questions about tuition assistance, financial aid or G.I. Bill benefits, qualified and friendly staff members will be happy to assist you. For more information, head to mccsokinawa.com/educationand careerservices or facebook.com/mccsokinawa.educationandlibraries. JULY 2021 | OKINAWA LIVING 39
DINING + ENTERTAINMENT
Camp Foster Festival Twice the Fun for the Fourth
Uncle Sam likes to stretch out his birthdays, which means twice the fun. We’re celebrating with the Camp Foster Festival, a two-day extravaganza on Saturday and Sunday, July 3 and 4 from 1 to 9 p.m. All SOFA ID card holders and authorized personnel are invited. Sport your favorite red, white and blue attire and join in the fun at the Community Center parking lot where you’ll find live music, street performers, dance groups and more. Come ready to nosh on familiar favorites from Bulldogs Burgers, 305 Latin Bistro,
Hickory House All-American BBQ and our pizza trailer, or sample the delights from local food trucks. Plus you can grab some mini donuts over by the Fun Land rides, which will include bumper cars, bungee, a train, the Hurricane and more. All of that sounds like an amazingly good time, but don’t forget that the ooh’s and aww’s you’ll hear on Saturday evening at 8:30 p.m. can only mean one thing: spectacular fireworks! And just in case Mother Nature decides to join in the celebration and decorate the skies with stormy weather, we’re
reserving Sunday evening as our backup plan for pyrotechnics. In keeping with III MEF / MCIPACMCBB guidelines, we thank you in advance for your cooperation and consideration for everyone’s safety. Social distancing, face coverings and limited group sizes (no more than six individuals per group) will be enforced. Please also note that pets, glass bottles, outside food and alcohol will not be permitted. Visit mccsokinawa.com/festivals for updates.
JULY 2021 | OKINAWA LIVING 43
DINING + ENTERTAINMENT
Start Your Day Right Breakfast at the Clubs The most important meal of the day might just be the tastiest now, with breakfast at participating MCCS Clubs. And whether you choose to break your fast with brunch, a buffet or one of the many à la carte options, rest assured you’re starting your day right. For brunch, head to the award-winning Butler Officers’ Club on Plaza Housing any Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for an expansive selection of breakfast favorites, pastas, carved meat entrées and more. Or, head to Tengan Castle on Camp Courtney on Sundays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. for a delicious brunch perfect for the whole family. In the buffet arena, Ocean Breeze on Camp Foster offers a near-endless array of breakfast goodies: bacon, eggs, toast, coffee, stacks of pancakes and much more. This breakfast shebang is available on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Meanwhile, Habu Pit on MCAS Futenma is open on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. with a similarly satisfying breakfast buffet. And if you’d rather enjoy an à la carte breakfast, you’ve got three delicious options: Camp Schwab’s BeachHead is open weekends, serving up French Toast, Chorizo Burritos and more from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Terra’s breakfast—chock-full of your favorite breakfast classics—is available weekdays, from 6 to 10 a.m., and weekends, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.; and Taiyo Steakhouse offers an outstanding selection—like the Crab Benedict and Delmonico Steak Frites—on weekends and holidays from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Events are subject to change. For more information, including a list of numbers, locations and menus, head to mccsokinawa.com/clubs.
JULY 2021 | OKINAWA LIVING 45
KIDS + PARENTS
Wizarding Wonders Calling all Fantasy Fanatics! Do you say it “Wingardium Leviosa” or “Wing-gar-dium Levi-o-sa?” Either way, gather up your spell books and connect with fellow fantasy book lovers at the Camp Courtney Library’s Wizarding Wonders—a whole month full of magical festivities. Wizards, witches, warlocks and muggles of all ages are welcome, so step up to the platform and run in on the fun. With a new program slated for every week in July, you’ll have plenty of chances to flex your spell-casting skills with events like magic-themed scavenger hunts, games and read-alongs. Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end—but this month of fun will end with a sorcery soiree to remember. On July 30 from 4 to 6 p.m., stop by the Camp Courtney Library for an enchant-
ed evening to cap off Wizarding Wonders. At this event, you’ll be able to make your own wand, take photos with your friends and family at a photo station and even partake in some wizard-themed 3D-print painting. There is no registration necessary, just gather your friends and stop by to enjoy all the wonders wizardry has to offer. Find additional information and a full event list at mccsokinawa. com/libraries or facebook.com/mccsokinawa.educationandlibraries. For questions, email libraryprogram@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org or call 622-9280 from a DSN (098-954-9280 from off base). —Kiara Klein
Dive-in Movies Retreat from the Sweltering Heat Ah, summer on Okinawa—where the days are hot and the nights are…hot and dark. Looking for a way to escape the evening heat? MCCS Aquatics has just the fix. Now until September, select aquatic centers will be hosting poolside movie screenings. Hang out around the pool, or watch from inside the pool itself—either way, it’ll be a great time and a nice retreat from the sweltering heat. This month, there will be three Dive-in Movies: July 16 at the Kinser Aquatic Center, July 23 at the Foster Aquatic Center and July 30 at the Plaza Aquatic Center. All movies begin at 7:30 p.m. and include FREE snacks and beverages while supplies last. If your go-to pool is not on the list of aquatic centers hosting a Dive-in Movie, this is a perfect opportunity to check out what the
other pools have to offer. Camp Foster Aquatic Center features a 50m pool and a slide; Kinser Aquatic Center is home to a 50m pool, a waterslide, a diving board and two baby pools; and Plaza Aquatic Center has a 25m pool, a diving board and a baby pool. As for the movies themselves, MCCS plays mostly PG-rated movies. Some of the family-friendly classics shown last year were Aladdin, Sonic the Hedgehog and Kung Fu Panda 3. These events are open to SOFA ID card holders and registration is not required. Be sure to follow facebook.com/mccsokinawa.aquatics for updates and movie title announcements as the dates approach. For more information, visit mccsokinawa.com/aquatics. If you have any questions, email mccsaquatics@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org.
JULY 2021 | OKINAWA LIVING 49
TROY’s Military and Family Scholarship caps the cost of tuition at $250 per credit hour for active duty military. Also, your spouse and dependents receive up to 50% in tuition savings.
for
Troops Center
TERM I, 2021 Aug. 9 - Oct. 10, 2021 Registration Begins: 05/03/21 TERM II, 2021 Oct. 11 - Dec. 12, 2021 Registration Begins: 09/20/21
CONTACT THE PROGRAM
TERM III, 2022 Jan. 3 - Mar. 6, 2022 Registration Begins: 11/22/21
FOR MORE INFORMATION
TERM IV, 2022 Mar. 14 - May 15, 2022 Registration Begins: 02/21/22
COORDINATOR NEAREST YOU
KADENA AB kadena@troy.edu DSN 634-7464
OSAN AB osan@troy.edu DSN 784-8151
MISAWA AB misawa@troy.edu DSN 226-3748
CAMP HUMPHREYS humphreys@troy.edu DSN 755-3534
troy.edu/pacific
TERM V, 2022 May 23 - Jul. 24, 2022 Registration Begins: 05/02/22
KIDS + PARENTS
Golf 4 Kids Learn the Fundamentals Did you know that Tiger Woods hit his first hole-in-one when he was only eight years old? Now, the odds of actually hitting a hole-in-one are really rare (about 12,500 to one), but the probability of enjoying the game of golf is much higher, especially once you learn how to play. This summer is the perfect time to give your kids that chance. Golf 4 Kids at Taiyo Golf Club is open to children of SOFA ID card holders island-wide. During this weeklong workshop, students will have the option of attending either July 12–16 or August 16–20, both of which will be separated into two age groups. Ages 8 to 10 will meet from 8:15 to 9:30 a.m. and ages 11 to 17 from 9:45 to 11 a.m. All equipment will be provided and participants will not need to bring any gear. Young golf enthusiasts will learn about the different clubs and then apply their newfound knowledge on the course. As they discover short irons, drivers, fairway woods and more, students will get to practice their swings, putting, chipping and more. Children of all experience levels are welcome to attend and parents are invited to an awards luncheon on the final day of the workshop. Register at the Pro Shop for $65 before July 3. For families with more than one child attending, second family members will receive the discount price of $30. For more information, visit mccsokinawa.com/golf.
Lifeguard Certification Course MCCS Aquatics Ensuring the safety of others is a noble job, but if you’re looking to become a lifeguard, you’ll need some certifications first—all of which MCCS Aquatics is offering in a course that runs August 2–13 at the Foster Aquatic Center. This Lifeguard Certification Course will teach SOFA ID card holders ages 15 and older the skills to handle aquatic emergencies, as well as how to provide care for breathing and cardiac-related emergencies while waiting for medical services to arrive. Upon completion of the course, participants will receive American Red Cross certificates—valid for two years—for Lifeguarding, First Aid, CPR, AED and Administering Emergency Oxygen. Moreover, participants will receive a Bloodborne Pathogens Training certification, which is valid for one year. While successful completion of the course does not
guarantee a job with MCCS, those who complete the course may apply for a lifeguarding position online at mccsokinawa.com/jobs. The first day of the course will include a skills evaluation in which you must swim 300m continuously, tread water for two minutes using only your legs and complete a timed object retrieval. The first day of class is from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., while the rest of the days will be from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Please bring a swimsuit and a towel for every session, including the skills evaluation. To register, head to mccsokinawa.com/ lifeguard and sign up by July 31 for $150. For more information, head to facebook.com/ mccsokinawa.aquatics. If you have any questions, please email mccsaquatics@okinawa. usmc-mccs.org.
JULY 2021 | OKINAWA LIVING 51
SERVICES
The NEW MCCS Gift Card The Perfect Present! Show them how much you care with an MCCS Gift Card for that special occasion! What can they use it for? We’re 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 drawing with a frame from Foster Framing and Fine Arts? The MCCS Gift Card is the most versatile gift, made for everyone— good for logoed merchandise and performance apparel from the Taiyo Golf Club Pro Shop, a customized ball from the Camp Foster Bowling Pro Shop, an oil change from Typhoon Motors, snorkeling and diving gear for ocean fanatics from Tsunami Scuba or even gymnastics classes at 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 Terra, all fast-casual dining facilities (Bonsai Coffee Company, Bulldogs Burgers, Shisa Pizza, Sumo Burrito and Red Barn Country Kitchen), 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. In addition, the new MCCS Gift Card is accepted at just about every MCCS facility—including Special Events Bouncers+, Semper Fit Outdoor Recreation, 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! MCCS Gift Cards are currently not available for purchase online. For more information about MCCS Gift Cards, call (DSN) 645-5809 or 098-970-5809.
Warehouse Sale! Computers, Furniture and More
Did you know that MCCS conducts weekly sales of excess Non-appropriated Fund (NAF) property every Wednesday? Items such as computers, monitors, furniture, sporting gear, recreational equipment and more are usually available. These sales take place on Camp Foster in Warehouse 5601 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. During the hours of 8–11 a.m., the sale is open to SOFA ID card holders only, while both card holders and non-SOFA ID card holders may make purchases from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. In addition to warehouse sales, MCCS also conducts sealed bid sales for larger items on a semi-monthly basis. Items offered include vehicles such as sedans, vans and trucks,mccsokinawa.com/w larger gym equipment and even hard-to-get specialty items such as forklifts. Sales are announced on facebook.com/mccsokinawa at the beginning of the month, and sealed bids are accepted Monday–Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the MCCS Supply Branch in Bldg. 5601 on Camp Foster until bidding is closed. For more information about warehouse or sealed bid sales, contact MCCS Supply via email at warehousesales@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org or via DSN at 645-3954 (098-970-3954 from off base or a mobile phone). JUNE JULY 2021 | OKINAWA LIVING 53
Summer Mini-Lipo
★for jowls
★chin
Before
After
Before
After
After
PicoSure for DARKS SPOTS
★Pigmentation on lips ★Armpit
¥15,000
After
Before
¥3,000
After
※Please bring this ad with you on your first visit.
¥10,000
BOTOX & FILLERS
Allergan Botox & Dysport available !
TATTOO REMOVAL
Laser Hair Removal All Skin Types & All Seasons
can be treated with the latest Pico Laser ! !
After
Lunchtime lifting with dissolving threads ! !
Before
After
Before
PDO Mono Thread + N-COG Lift
A groundbreaking approach with full lifting for a natural look.
¥10,000
After
Before
After
★Filler for lower lids
Before
Before
After
for upper lids
After
★filler
Before
★Suture Method
Before
Mini Nose Lift
★with threads
DEEP PLANE Facelift Before
Minis
i s fo r
★etc Minor saggy parts are treatable with mini-lipo
Mini UPPER & LOWER EYE LIFT
The latest Juvederm or the original For wrinkles, lips, & contouring Restylane
BREAST ENHANCEMENT
with PicoSure, the latest tech
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とまりん
Open : Mon.-Sat. 10:30a.m.-6:00p.m. Wed. 10:30a.m.-12:00a.m. Closed : Sundays & announced days
2-
2 -1
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To Naha （ ） Airport
（3F a, J naw ）Maej ima Naha City, Oki
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SERVICES
Good News, Job Seekers: We’re Hiring! Landing a new job is always a welcome confidence boost. Searching for a job? Well, that can leave anyone feeling unsure at times. Let us reassure you: MCCS is hiring and looking for candidates just like you! And a new job is just the tip of the good-news iceberg; MCCS provides many benefits for employees. On top of medical and dental insurance, savings opportunities that will help you sock away even more of your new and fabulous paychecks are available. You can look forward to options such as the NAF Pension Plan, a 401(k) with employer matching, a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and the Tuition Assistance Program (which provides up to $10,000 per year for certifications, licenses and college degrees up to a professional level). In addition, a Leave Donation Program, the Family Friendly Leave Act, Family Medical Act, Employee Assistance Program and many more policies are in place for qualified MCCS employees, as well. Join the MCCS team through rewarding career fields such as IT, hospitality, marketing, sports, entertainment, accounting, childcare and many more. To start your job search, head to mccsokinawa.com/ jobs or careers.usmc-mccs.org. You can also keep up with the weekly “hot jobs” announcements sent directly to your inbox when you subscribe to our newsletter (mccsokinawa.com/newsletter). For those currently without internet access, visit one of your local MCCS Libraries or the MCCS Human Resources Office (HRO), located on the second floor of Bldg. 5966 on Camp Foster. For any questions, please call 645-3052.
Stay Safe Heat Flag Conditions on the Liberty App While moving to a new country is exciting, it does have a catch—it’s unfamiliar. And being stationed overseas, there are a lot more rules you may be unaccustomed to than if you were stationed somewhere in the States. Obviously, that can be both overwhelming and confusing. But don’t worry: there’s an app for that. Make overseas life easier and download the award-winning MCCS Okinawa Liberty App—it contains all sorts of information concerning life on Okinawa (both on and off base), including transportation schedules and numbers, event information, emergency contacts, a helpful guide on Okinawan policies and places to eat, shop, visit and play. The Liberty App also provides sea conditions, up-to-date TCCOR levels, a yen rate calculator, common basic Japanese phrases with pronunciations and even a self-assessment survey that can gauge your total fitness and offer you resources based on your results. And as we roll into the summer and the weather turns from hot to brutal, take advantage of the Heat Flag Conditions tab to stay safe and track heat conditions across Marine Corps installations on island. The different colors of the flags are all explained, and flag conditions are updated frequently. The Liberty App is available for both iPhone and Android users, and can be downloaded for FREE via the Apple Store and Google Play as well as on the MCCS website. For more information, or to download the app, visit mccsokinawa.com/liberty. For iOS
For Android
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Preserving an Endangered Language
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Text by: Alex Jusell | Design by: Giulia Pulvirenti | Translation by: Ayako Kawamitsu
chināguchi, the Okinawan language, has been through the wringer. For hundreds of years, it was the official language of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Today, only a couple hundred thousand people speak it. To prevent the language from dying out, many individuals and organizations have made it their mission to breathe life into Uchināguchi.
MCCS PHOTO
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What Happens When a Language Dies? Language is a major aspect of one’s identity; it is a reflection of culture and history which grants cultural and historical context to the person speaking it. If a language dies, it’s like a link to the past is severed. For someone inside of a dying culture, this severing can have a devastating effect on one’s sense of belonging. On the community level, given enough time, cultural staples such as holidays, traditions and recipes may be lost or forgotten.
MCCS PHOTO
Reasons for Decline Uchināguchi has been fighting an uphill battle since 1879, when Japan annexed the Ryukyu Kingdom and enforced Japanese as the primary language. This enforcement became systemic: Japanese officials overtook the top political positions, schools shifted to teaching in Japanese, people who spoke Uchināguchi were publicly humiliated and, during WWII, speaking Uchināguchi became illegal. This suppression stigmatized Uchināguchi to the point that—even after the war—many perceived it as a secondclass dialect, even though Uchināguchi and Japanese are as different as English is to German. Today, Uchināguchi not only faces competition from Japanese, but other languages that younger generations on island may deem more relevant—namely English and Korean. There’s not much opportunity to use Uchināguchi outside of Okinawa, either, let alone learn; classes are hard to find and language-learning apps like Duolingo don’t teach Uchināguchi (though—as if to add insult to injury—Klingon and High Valyrian are available). Lastly, most fluent speakers are 70 or older. If these individuals pass away before passing down their language, their knowledge will die with them. JULY 2021 | OKINAWA LIVING 61
Hope However, as time passes and as Japan’s bias towards language homogenization wanes, Uchināguchi is managing to shed the stigma which has enveloped it for so long; in the last 20 years especially, the Okinawan population has shown a growing appreciation for Uchināguchi—a shift in attitude that may just save the language. In 2014, the Okinawa Prefecture conducted a survey in which roughly 70 percent of respondents stated that they wanted their local languages to be taught at school. Most experts agree this solution—revamping school curricula to include Uchināguchi— would be the most surefire way to lock in the language’s return. But while this implementation seems unlikely, since the central Japanese government decides school curricula— not Okinawa—the positive public opinion is a good sign. And the Prefecture has flexed its administrative muscles in support of Uchināguchi on more than one occasion. In 2006, Okinawa declared September 18 to be Community Languages Day—a small but meaningful statement by the government, embracing a language it had previously shunned. Okinawa Prefecture also co-sponsors yearly speech contests, and the Department of Culture, Tourism and Sports has played an
important role in language revitalization by publishing Uchināguchi language manuals and calendars; developing programs that teach students traditional Okinawan dance and music through Uchināguchi; and establishing the Center for Revitalizing Shimakutuba. (Shimakutuba means “island languages.” Sometimes it is used as an umbrella term for all of Okinawa’s local languages, and other times it is used interchangeably with Uchināguchi.) But whether there are more governmentled efforts to preserve Uchināguchi on the way is unclear. So instead of waiting for any top-down actions that may or may not come, individuals and organizations—both on island and abroad—are taking a grassroots approach to save the language.
A Grassroots Approach
One of those individuals is Minoru Ikehara, the CEO of Crest Co., Ltd. (an information and communication technology company) and a great boon to Uchināguchi’s life expectancy. Like most Okinawans born right after WWII, Mr. Ikehara grew up in a house that spoke Uchināguchi but in a community that looked down on the language. It wasn’t until later in life—shortly after the first Community Languages Day—that he began to see Uchināguchi as something of which to be proud. Since this realization, he’s devoted himself to preserving the language, and as a businessman with resources in broadcasting, his efforts have been effective. Mr. Ikehara’s strategy? “To create an environment where people can interact with the language on a daily basis.” And when he says daily, he means nonstop. In 2014, Crest established Shimakutuba Hōsōkyoku, an FM station that broadcasts all of its programs in the island’s local languages every hour of every day. Over 100 individuals and organizations from around Okinawa host programs on Shimakutuba Hōsōkyoku, too, so the station has transformed into a platform for a growing Uchināguchi community. There is an ever-present challenge, though: how to reach those who aren’t listening?
To help advertise Shimakutuba Hōsōkyoku—and to further increase the exposure that Okinawans have to local languages—Mr. Ikehara and his team have repurposed an object with which tens of thousands of Okinawans interact on a daily basis: vending machines. “The Shimakutuba Radio vending machines run programs from the Okinawa Shimakutuba Broadcasting Station 24 hours a day, 365 days a year,” said Ikehara. So while you’re purchasing some Shimakutuba-related goods from the vending machines such as T-shirts, handkerchiefs, hanging scrolls and poems, you can actually hear programs delivered in Uchināguchi. There are currently 35 Shimakutuba Radio vending machines on Okinawa, from Nanjo to American Village (outside the Starbucks) to Bise. Among the many other notable organizations working to preserve the language are Okinawa Hands-on NPO, which creates documentaries on local languages; the Ryukyu Heritage Language Society, which holds endangered language symposiums and writes proposals to the Prefecture suggesting ways to save Uchināguchi; and the Council of Connecting Community Languages, which helps concert the different organizations’ efforts to create sustainable change.
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Uchināguchi Abroad Efforts to preserve Uchināguchi aren’t limited to the confines of the island, either. In 2009, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) labeled the language “definitely endangered,” a seemingly small designation, but one that brings global awareness to Uchināguchi. There are also many community organizations promoting Uchināguchi and Okinawan culture in Hawaii, Brazil, Los Angeles and more— namely places to which Okinawans immigrated to escape the atrocities before and during WWII, as well as the overall economic strife that preceded the war. Some of these organizations are small—like an Uchināguchi language class in L.A. with a handful of students that meets bimonthly to practice the language—but some are quite large, like the Okinawa Association of Brazil. With 40 branch offices in São Paulo alone (as of 2017), the Okinawa Association of Brazil hosts traditional Okinawan activities, establishes scholarship programs, holds sporting events and helps preserve Uchināguchi for generations to come. For an impressive list of Okinawan organizations around the world (including clubs in Alabama, Oregon, Michigan, Florida and more), visit the Worldwide Uchina Network’s home page at wun.jp/en/network#kaigai.
MCCS PHOTO
Uchināguchi’s Future Will public opinion continue to build in favor of Uchināguchi? Will the government take a larger role in preserving the language? Will organizations continue to sprout up in support of the grassroots movement? No one knows what the future holds. But to borrow from Ikehara-san, “Shimakutuba is the foundation of Okinawan culture. If Shimakutuba disappears, Okinawan culture will also decline.” With that in mind, one thing is for certain: Uchināguchi will not disappear without a fight. JULY 2021 | OKINAWA LIVING 65
LIVING ON OKINAWA
Okonomiyaki Serves 3 Ingredients 100 g flour 1 egg, beaten 1 tsp. salt 2 tsp. baking powder 150 mL water 8 leaves of cabbage, shredded 100 g lean pork, cut slightly larger than bite-sized 2 Tbsp. ketchup 3 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce Thinly shaved dried bonito flakes (katsuobushi) Green laver Vegetable oil Mayonnaise Method of Preparation 1. Mix flour, salt, baking powder, egg and water thoroughly until smooth. 2. Mix cabbage and pork into the flour mixture. 3. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan. 4. Pour the mixture into the pan in the shape of a pancake. 5. Cook until underside is golden brown; flip over. 6. Drizzle mayonnaise lightly over top surface. 7. Spread mixture of ketchup and Worcestershire sauce over mayonnaise. 8. Continue cooking until the underside is golden brown. 9. Sprinkle with green laver and bonito flakes and serve.
Tanabata Absence makes the heart grow fonder. However, imagine only being able to see your loved one once a year. In Japanese folklore, there is a story about such a situation. Every year on July 7, many in Japan celebrate a festival called Tanabata (or “Star Festival”). On this day, two stars that are normally distant in the night sky—Vega and Altair— approach each other. The story goes that these two stars are actually two star-crossed lovers of ancient Japanese folklore. Once upon a time, there lived a princess named Orihime (Vega) who was responsible for weaving the clothing of the gods. She was very skilled, and her textiles were very popular among the divine. One day, Orihime was introduced to Hikoboshi (Altair), who watched over the celestial cow herds. In time, they fell in love, and like many other couples in the same situation throughout the universe, they spent every waking hour together. However, this proved to be their downfall because in the meantime, they were seriously neglecting their duties. The gods were, of course, not amused at all and immediately separated them to the eastern and western sides of the Amanogawa or “River of the Heavens” (known by modern-day astronomers as the Milky Way). While Orihime now had plenty of time to weave, the beautiful colors she wove into her fabrics were washed away by her tears. Over time, the gods relented, and allowed the couple to meet— but only once a year, after their tasks were completed.
Many Japanese celebrate Tanabata by placing small bamboo trees decorated with ornaments and narrow strips of colored paper outside of their homes. Both children and adults alike write wishes on these strips in the hopes that diligence and hard work will allow their wishes to come true.
Uchinâguchi Corner English
Japanese
Uchinâguchi
Summer
Natsu
Nachi
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Commercial Ad Directory
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FROM LEFT: BRIGADIER GENERAL WILLIAM J. BOWERS, COMMANDING GENERAL, MARINE CORPS INSTALLATIONS PACIFIC; MS. MARIA MEJIA, LODGING PROGRAM MANAGER, MCCS OKINAWA AND SERGEANT MAJOR JOY M. KITASHIMA, SERGEANT MAJOR, MARINE CORPS INSTALLATIONS PACIFIC
Proudly Serving Proudly serving those who serve…these words are the lifeblood of Marine Corps Community Services (MCCS) in our mission to support Marines, Sailors and their families stationed on Okinawa, in mainland Japan and in the Republic of Korea with a wide variety of services, programs and facilities. Many members of MCCS have made fulfilling this mission their lifework. Last month, one such individual was recently paid the highest compliment—being recognized as Junior Non-appropriated Fund (NF-4 and below) Marine Corps Installations Command Civilian of the Year for 2020 by the very people she serves. Ms. Maria Mejia received this honor for meritorious service from January 1 to December 31, 2020 while serving as the Lodging Program Manager, MCCS, Marine Corps Installations Pacific-Marine Corps Base Camp Butler (MCIPAC-MCBB), Okinawa, Japan. Due to COVID-19, MCCS was tasked with locating additional lodging resources in the local community to support outbound and incoming personnel and their families, as on-base resources were beyond capacity. MCCS was able to contract an entire private hotel in the Okinawan community to meet mission requirements. During this crisis, Ms. Mejia provided outstanding management, teamwork and customer service to inbound travelers on
Restriction of Movement (ROM) at the Inns of the Corps, Camp Foster. Working well beyond normal duties, she dedicated her time to plan, coordinate and arrange lodging for all military, civilian and family members—from arrival at the terminal to release from ROM—developing tracking methods and processes that made the transportation and transition efficient and transparent. Ms. Mejia executed her demanding duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner, and her support of Task Force PCS (Permanent Change of Station) and the command mission of family readiness exceeded all expectations. Her distinctive contributions, perseverance and loyal dedication to duty reflected credit upon her and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. Please join us in congratulating Ms. Maria Mejia, a stellar role model in the organization. Employees such as her exemplify the principles that MCCS is built upon—supporting our community of Marines, Sailors and their family members with exceptional services and programs that enhance personal and family readiness— while keeping with the highest standards of the Marine Corps and Naval Service.
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