contents July 2022
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Escape the Heat Escape Okinawa’s torrid summer with a cool, refreshing vacation in the foothills of Mt. Fuji. Start planning now, it’s only going to get hotter!
Ground to Grounds Nakayama Coffee Farm Learn how bright red coffee cherries from Nakayama Coffee Farm become the luscious brown java juice that fuels your mornings.
restaurant review
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On the cover The three-stringed instrument known as the sanshin is as much a symbol of Okinawa as shīsā and the beautiful seas that surround the island.
A Taste of Okinawa in Every Bite The Grill at Sheraton Okinawa Sunmarina Resort Are you a self-proclaimed foodie? If so, you’ll have to check out the delicacies Chef Masayuki Ihi is grilling up this summer at The Grill.
Shimauta & Sanshin Shimauta are the island melodies that fill the hearts of Okinawan people, while the sanshin is the instrument that brings them to life. Find out about the transformation of shimauta and how it has provided centuries worth of comfort and solace to the Ryukyu Archipelago.
contents July 2022
dining + entertainment 39 Bursting with Fun The most highly anticipated festival of the year has arrived—Foster Festival! You better have your ice-cold beverages at the ready because this year’s entertainment is sizzling-hot!
41 Final Fridays: Patio Luau Come hang out at Habu Pit’s newest event…Final Fridays! This month’s festivities include a Patio Luau where attendees can enjoy complimentary food, games, activities and themed cocktails.
kids + parents 47 Summer Swim Lessons Knowing how to swim opens the doors for further water recreation like boating, kayaking, snorkeling and more! If you or your children would like to learn how to swim this summer, don’t miss the chance to sign up for MCCS Aquatics’ Learn to Swim program!
services
39 fitness + fun 27 Taiyo Golf Club FREE Ride Program It has never been easier to get into the greatest game known to mankind—golf. Gather your buddies and schedule your FREE ride to the course.
31 July is Safety Month Okinawa summers come with a unique set of safety risks and staying aware is the first step to staying safe while enjoying popular island activities.
49 Tsunami Scuba Independence Day Sale Live your best dive life this summer by snagging some top-of-the-line dive gear at Tsunami Scuba’s Independence Day Sale.
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marines + families 33 Checkpoint Parties Celebrate the Summer Reading Program at the MCCS Libraries’ themed checkpoint parties happening throughout the month of July. See you there!
37 Target Education Goals Feeling a little unsure of the trajectory of your education goals and how they will align with prospective career choices? If so, sign up for MCCS Education’s Choosing a Major Workshop.
Typhoon Motors Summer Sales Keep your tires road ready, your car tuned-up and your sound system top-notch with Typhoon Motors Summer Sales!
extras 5 Mensôre
7 Feedback & Show Us!
69 Living on Okinawa
70 Marketplace Guide
JULY 2022 | ISSUE 293 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, Emeline Toole GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Tiffany Kim DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER Thomas Alan Smilie PHOTOGRAPHERS/VIDEOGRAPHERS Kathlene Millette, Mia Cox, Kirstin Spanu EDITORIAL Kiara Klein DIGITAL & SOCIAL MEDIA Roxine Ami, Jaci Mullally CULTURAL RESEARCH SPECIALIST Ayako Kawamitsu ADVERTISING SALES & SPONSORSHIP MANAGER Roy Forster ADVERTISING SALES & SPONSORSHIP Yoshihiro Shinzato, Hiromitsu Horikawa Terumi Nagai, Ronshanda Perkins, Tsutomu McCoy MARKETING ACCOUNTS MANAGER Andrew Menges MARKETING ACCOUNTS Bethany Ramirez Latoya Cardona, Deanna Berg
We welcome your comments. Please send letters to editor@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org
mensôre “Welcome” to Okinawa Living
Your Guide to Okinawa The 2022–2023 Okinawa Guide There’s a lot to learn about Okinawa for newcomers. Although it is a welcoming and beautiful island, it can also be a bit intimidating to move here knowing very little about the language, culture, where to shop and what to buy. If only there was some sort of handbook about the island that told you everything you needed to know. Some sort of manual that gave you all the information necessary to make the most of your time here. Oh, wait, there is—it’s called the Okinawa Guide and it can serve as your guide to Okinawa during your stay. The Okinawa Guide is an annual publication packed with comprehensive information on just about everything Okinawa, produced by the staff of Okinawa Living Magazine for newcomers and island veterans alike. The ‘Introduction’ chapter covers the basics—checking in, hospital info, schools on base, veterinary info and more. Japanese language, culture, holidays, festivals, eating etiquette, off-base grocery shopping and more are covered in the ‘Local Culture’ chapter, while driving tips, what to do in the event of an accident and info on local buses and taxis are covered in ‘Transportation.’ The ‘MCCS’ chapter covers the vast amount of offerings available for service members and their families on Marine Corps camps. Additionally, both the ‘Camp Guide’ the ‘Island Guide’ provide an overview of military facilities and cover places to visit on Okinawa—beaches, waterfalls, resorts, malls—and are conveniently broken down into north, central and south sections both on and off base. All this and much, much more is contained in the Okinawa Guide…and the best thing? This guide is FREE! Pick up your copy today at an MCCS facility near you!
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
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 ©2022 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 mccsokinawa.com/ol for the latest issue. Also, visit issuu.com/mccsokinawa to see back issues of the magazine.
feedback
from the ICE Program and Facebook I am very happy with the wonderful Youth & Teen Center on Camp Courtney! My daughter has been going to this youth center frequently for several months now and absolutely loves it there. The staff members who work at the center are excellent—these ladies are so caring and attentive! The staff are great at interacting with the kids who attend the center, and they truly go above and beyond in creating a warm, happy and caring atmosphere. Please let the staff know how much they are appreciated for the wonderful work that they do at the Courtney Youth & Teen Center—thank you! —via ICE I had such an amazing experience with Melanie Jones at Tsunami Scuba today! I wasn’t sure what I would need, so she helped me pick out the right footwear for what I wanted to do, a mask that fit my face and told me about the Okinawa Moments shop (which she didn’t have to do at all, I was just looking for a cute beach towel). She even went over all of the scuba course information with me. She went above and beyond to help me from the moment I walked in until the moment I left. It was my first time in the shop, and I will definitely be back because of her wonderful customer service! —via ICE
@okilivingmag Show us your island adventures and favorite food finds!
@jenny.joyy
Soaking in every moment of island sunshine we’re blessed with.
MCCS rocks! Thank you very much for the Memorial Day event at the Futenma pool today. It was really nice and thoughtful. Your employees worked on a holiday to ensure we had something to do and great eats to boot. The cookout was delicious! You guys had hamburgers and hot dogs ready to go along with some great music. Can’t get over how lucky we are to have MCCS. —via ICE
@phoeva_eatin
All of the MCCS Libraries on Okinawa are great, but the one on Camp Schwab is my favorite. You guys knock it out of the park. The study rooms are awesome; the comfortable and quiet atmosphere is nice and you even have TVs, which makes it easier to review presentations. The Camp Schwab Library makes schoolwork much more pleasant. Thanks for doing what you do. —via ICE The 3d SGX (3d Supply BN) held a SNCO and Officers’ Mess Night at the Surfside on Camp Kinser and everything was perfect. The staff did an outstanding job, and accommodations were exactly out of the drill manual. Thank you to the managers and staff for an outstanding event. —via ICE Thank you for contacting us regarding your recent experience at Kinser Surfside. We were very happy to hear that we could exceed your expectations, and I will pass on your comments to the staff and management involved. Thanks again for sharing your experience with us, and we look forward to serving you in the future. —Rich Dewald, Deputy Director, MCCS Food & Beverage
@fara_dominguez
It is a belief that this power spot brings good luck when you hang a small plaque on the wall.
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 2022 | OKINAWA LIVING 7
OUT + ABOUT
Escape the Heat ...IN THE SHADOW OF
MOUNT FUJI TEXT BY: MICHAEL DALEY | DESIGN BY: JACLYNN MULLALLY
A
lthough there are obvious advantages to living on a subtropical paradise, especially during the summertime, the constant heat can get a bit old— even for die-hard beachgoers. While the heat doesn’t reach Mohavelevels, the sun can feel like a sledgehammer on the back of the neck, and the humidity can make a five-minute walk feel like a clambake from the clam’s perspective. So what does one do to beat the heat? How does a cool, refreshing breeze while enjoying mountainous panoramas sound? What are you waiting for! It’s time to plan your escape!
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Escape the Heat ...IN THE SHADOW OF
OUT + ABOUT
MOUNT FUJI
PHOTOS COURTESY OF MT. FUJI MARRIOTT LAKE YAMANAKA
FUJI MARRIOTT HOTEL LAKE YAMANAKA Located in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, the Fuji Marriott Hotel Lake Yamanaka offers many resort amenities to help you relax and unwind—including roten buro (public open-air hot spring baths), tennis courts and guest rooms with private hot spring baths. The healing hot springs of Yamanakako will be especially refreshing after a day exploring Yamanaka and Kawaguchi Lakes and drinking in the beauty of Mt. Fuji. Yamanaka Lake, which translates to “lake in the mountains,” is the largest of the five lakes of Fuji and one of the largest lakes in Japan. The lake is a popular recreational site for water activities such as boating,
fishing, water-skiing and more. Be sure to visit the Panorama Dai observation point to get the perfect photo of Mt. Fuji with Yamanaka Lake in the foreground. Panorama Dai is about a 30-minute hike from the Mikuniyama Hiking Course Iriguchi bus stop. For more information on setting up your base of operations for this refreshing expedition (in the form of a luxurious hotel, of course), visit marriott.com/ en-us/hotels/mmjfj-fuji-marriott-hotel-lake-yamanaka/ overview.
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Escape the Heat ...IN THE SHADOW OF
OUT + ABOUT
MOUNT FUJI
PHOTOS COURTESY OF HILTON ODAWARA RESORT AND SPA
HILTON ODAWARA RESORT & SPA For those looking for a more inclusive experience that cocoons you in luxurious bliss, look no further than the Hilton Odawara Resort & Spa. Located in the Hakone Mountain foothills, this bastion of relaxation offers beautiful views of Sagami Bay and boasts its own 18-hole putting green, bowling alley, fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, spa, hot spring baths and more. Odawara features many sights to see and fascinating history and culture to experience. Start your journey at Odawara Castle, located at the entrance to Hakone. Originally built in the 15th century, Odawara Castle is best known for being the site of the titanic battle between legendary Toyotomi
Hideyoshi and the Hojo Clan—a battle that culminated in the reunification of Japan. Odawara is located in an area known as a mecca for hot springs. That being said, you should definitely visit one! Yumoto, which is located near Odawara, is one of the area’s best known hot spring areas and features several bathhouses with indoor, outdoor, public and private baths to relax and unwind in. For more information on setting up your base of operations at the Hilton Odawara Resort & Spa, visit hilton.com/en/hotels/tyoodhi-hilton-odawara-resortand-spa.
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Protect my country
Learn Japanese Earn my degree Build a new future ATTEND A NO–COST WEBINAR FIND YOUR NEXT SUCCESS AT UMGC ASIA Register to attend at asia.umgc.edu/webinars or scan the QR code below
Succeed again. © 2022 University of Maryland Global Campus
Escape the Heat ...IN THE SHADOW OF
OUT + ABOUT
MOUNT FUJI
PHOTOS COURTESY OF IZU MARRIOTT HOTEL SHUZENJI
IZU MARRIOTT HOTEL SHUZENJI Izu Marriott Hotel Shuzenji is located on the Izu Peninsula—best known for onsen (hot spring baths), wasabi and natural beauty. This luxurious hotel features amenities such as private hot spring baths (either indoor, or located on private balconies depending on the room). The facility features a hot stone spa as well as public hot spring baths to sooth muscles aching from the plethora of fun activities in the surrounding area. Be sure to visit historic Shuzenji Temple, which according to legend, was established by Kukai (the
founder of the Shingon School of Japanese Buddhism). In addition, golfers will be happy to learn that the Izu Marriott Hotel Shuzenji is flanked by two courses—the Laforet Shuzenji & Country Club and the Fuji Amagi Golf Club. Family friendly activities are also available at the Cycle Sports Center and Shuzenji Niji-no-Sato—a themed park that offers fun for all ages. For more information on setting up your base of operations at Izu Marriott Hotel Shuzenji, visit marriott.com/en-us/hotels/fsziz-izu-marriotthotel-shuzenji/overview.
Call or stop by Tours+ to plan your vacation to the foothills of Mt. Fuji. Knowledgeable and supportive staff members located at Camps Kinser, Foster, Hansen and Schwab are ready to help you find the perfect place based on preferences and lifestyle. For their contact information and hours of operations, visit mccsokinawa.com/tours.
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you’ve spent any length of time in local supermarkets or farmers markets, the displays of vibrant, fragrant fruits of every hue imaginable are tangible reminders that Okinawa’s subtropical weather is the perfect climate to grow almost anything. While there are highly coveted fruits thriving at a sprawling farm located in Nago, you won’t find these fruits on display next to this season’s pineapples, dragon fruits and mangoes. These fruits are different, as we don’t normally consume them as is, albeit a quick internet search will inform you that you, in fact, can. These fruits known as “coffee cherries” won’t be next to this summer’s usual harvest of tropical fruits because…well, one, they’re not a seasonal summer fruit, and, two, they’re processed into the beloved beans used for our favorite morning (or afternoon) cup of stimulant. Welcome to Nakayama Coffee Farm.
That morning mug of go-go juice, crafted with either the beans you have at home or by your favorite local coffee shop, both started the same way, as a seed found beneath the flesh of a small, round stone fruit called a coffee cherry. Found on the coffee tree (or coffee plant), coffee cherries grow approximately to the size of small grapes and are found on the plant in large clusters; when raw, they are green in color, but as they ripen, they turn bright red, dark red or even sometimes have a purplish hue.
The kanji naka, meaning middle or central and yama translating to mountain were obviously chosen with great intention and thoughtfulness by Mr. Tatsumi Kishimoto, coffee connoisseur and farm founder, as Nakayama Coffee Farm is a vast 30,000 hectares of lush, green forest tucked in the mountains of Yanbaru. Mr. Kishimoto, possessing an inextinguishable passion for coffee and gifted with 300 coffee tree plants by a good friend, broke ground at his site in 2013. Currently, the grounds are populated with 13 different varieties of coffee plants (of the 13 distinct varieties, there are roughly 2,000–2,500 individual plants). The ground’s main species of coffee trees originate from Brazil and Indonesia, however, there are also species from other well-known and popular coffee producers such as Colombia, Ethiopia and Costa Rica to name a few. Two of Nakayama Coffee Farm’s most popular beans are Typica and Catimor.
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Among the coffee plants is a multitude of native foliage that aid in the successful yield of coffee cherries, including the statuesque hikage hego (large shade trees, typically ferns) that cast shadows over the coffee trees, protecting them from direct-sunlight, as coffee plants only require partial sunlight (40%). There are also plenty of other naturally occurring tropical trees and plants, numerous palms, banana trees, as well as the stunning broad-leafed kuwazuimo (Asian taro) and much, much more—a true haven for the nature-lover and botany-savvy alike. Yet, Mr. Kishimoto didn’t stop at coffee plants, as there is a small beehive on-site used for the collection of natural honey as well as a small, sweet herb garden chock full of a variety of herbs to supplement all health and wellness needs. One of the most heart-warming features (besides the luscious beverages) of the farm is the crowd-funded section of the gardens, a section dedicated to people and local businesses both on Okinawa and in mainland Japan, where they can plant their own coffee tree and pay an annual renewal fee (which goes towards the upkeep of their plant and the farm) in exchange for the coffee beans harvested from the plants—a much more sustainable option to having beans imported.
coffees happen to be a sub-variety of the arabica family and are well-known for their high-quality bean as well as their light floral taste and citrusy flavor with a smooth and slightly lingering sweet taste. coffees have herbal and nutty aromas and possess cherry and berry undertones with a very slight astringent mouthfeel.
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Okay, all this coffee cherry chatter, but how does it all correlate? How do those ripe, red fruit go from tree to brew? Of course the process starts at harvest. Ripe fruits are hand-picked from the tree, although, it must be noted that coffee cherries have a variety of ripening times—even on the same branch—so careful inspection is a must. Once harvested, the flesh of the cherry must be removed to expose the bean; once exposed, the process continues by washing the bean to remove a hard-to-see outer casing, or shell. However, in many instances, Mr. Kishimoto allows the cherry to dry naturally and removes the fruit’s dried flesh to expose the seed (or pit) once it’s completely dry. He says this is to enhance the flavor of the finished product by allowing the fruit’s natural sweetness to remain. The lovely muted-green-colored bean is then dried and now considered in its “raw” stage. Now to the second most exciting (and the loveliest smelling) part of the process— drinking the fruits of one’s labor being the first, obviously (pun fully intended.)—the roasting process! The roasting process can be broken into eight different stages: cinnamon roast, New England roast, American roast, city roast, full city roast, Vienna roast and French roast; but for simplicity’s sake, the first two in the list are light roasts, the following two are medium roasts and the last three are all dark roasts. (If these roast names look like a foreign language, just go by Nakayama Coffee Farm’s staff recommendation of a 10- to 20-minute roast time.) Once the beans are roasted and appear caramelized with a nutty coffee aroma, they are ground up and used for coffee making. Nakayama Coffee Farm uses a drip method to create the ultimate cup of java.
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If this process sounds like something you’d like to experience for yourself, they offer tours during the harvest season which starts in December and ends in April, where you can go through this entire process and make a customized brew according to your tastes. Or outside of harvest season, you can enjoy a cup expertly created by one of the pleasant and helpful staff in the cozy café that, according to Mr. Kishimoto, is constructed entirely of reclaimed wood, delicately decorated and features a large, gorgeous salvaged wood table to boot. Mr. Kishimoto’s conscious-minded choices go beyond the construction of the café, as he ensures no part of the coffee plant goes to waste by using every part. Tea-lovers get ready to rejoice because the leftover dried cherries are featured in a semi-sweet, fruity cascara tea that carries slight notes of tartness. And the leaves of the plant are dried and used to create a coffee leaf tea, a divine herbal-y tasting tea. Both of these specialty teas with unique aromas are packed with free-radical protecting antioxidants and are available to enjoy (or for purchase) in the café. Ride the wave of sumptuous, specialty brewed coffee this summer all while you intake the stunning scenery and clean mountain air of Yanbaru. Pinkies up, and see you out there!
INSTAGRAM @nakayama.coffee.farm WEBSITE nakayama-coffee.com LOCATION 378 Nakayama, Nago Okinawa, 905-0003, Japan HOURS Monday–Saturday 10:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Sundays 10:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. *The café closes at 4:30 p.m. PAYMENT ¥ Only
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FITNESS + FUN
Camp Kinser Ultimate Disc Tournament
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 with granular data 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 12 and 26 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., dash, splash and dash (again) at Camp Foster’s Aquathlons. These events follow a runswim-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. Aquathlons are FREE and open to SOFA ID card holders island-wide. For more information, including event maps, rules and registration information, please visit mccsokinawa.com/aquatics. Questions may be emailed to mccsaquatics@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org.
Need a Ride?
Get those wrists snapping and polish up your follow-through because bragging rights (and awards) are up for grabs at the Camp Kinser Ultimate Disc Tournament on Saturday and Sunday, August 6 and 7, at the Camp Kinser athletic fields. Each team can have a maximum of 15 players, but only seven players are allowed on the field at once, although substitutions can be made after a score and during a time-out. Similar to football, a team scores when they catch the disc in the opponent’s end zone. Teams will work the disc up the field by completing passes in any direction until they do their end-zone dance. Additionally, Ultimate Frisbee stresses the importance of sportsmanship and fair play as it is often played without a referee. If your wrist flick is on point, you can register your team via Eventbrite by July 25 (1 p.m.). If you have questions, send an email to adultsports@ okinawa.usmc-mccs.org.
Taiyo Golf Club FREE Ride Program Millions play golf because it’s fun for all ages and skill levels. If you have ever wanted to get into the greatest 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. Well, except for getting yourself and your clubs to the course to practice and play without wheels, that is. The Green Line, you ask? Doesn’t go to the golf course, unfortunately. Well, Taiyo Golf Club has good news for you—a FREE shuttle service for SOFA ID card holders to and from the course to Camps Foster, Courtney and Hansen! Beginning in July, the Taiyo Golf Club FREE Ride Program will shuttle golfers Monday–Sunday (first pick-up at 9 a.m. and last drop-off at 6 p.m.) to and from Taiyo G.C. to the SMP Center and Exchange Bus Station on Camp Foster, the USO and The Palms on Camp Hansen and the Exchange and Mess Hall on Camp Courtney. No clubs, you say? No problem! Taiyo offers club rentals as well as a full line-up of gear in their Pro Shop! Registration for Taiyo’s FREE Ride Program is required at least 24 hours in advance and can be made by calling 622-2004/2006 (DSN) or 098-954-2004/2006 from off base. For more information, visit mccsokinawa.com/golf. JULY 2022 | OKINAWA LIVING 27
2 nd Lt . Bra n d o n W i l l i a m s U . S. Arm y (’2 1 )
for
Troops Center
TERM I 2022 AUG. 15 - OCT. 16, 2022 REGISTRATION BEGINS: 05/09/22
TERM II 2022 OCT. 17 - DEC. 18, 2022 REGISTRATION BEGINS: 09/26/22
TERM III 2023
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. Contact the program coordinator nearest you for more information. KADENA AB MISAWA AB kadena@troy.edu misawa@troy.edu DSN 634-7464 DSN 226-3748
troy.edu/pacific
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JAN. 9 - MARCH 12, 2023 REGISTRATION BEGINS: 11/28/22
TERM IV 2023 MARCH 20 - MAY 21, 2023 REGISTRATION BEGINS: 02/27/23
TERM V 2023 MAY 30 - JULY 30, 2023 REGISTRATION BEGINS: 05/08/23 Paid Ad. No federal endorsement of advertiser intended.
FITNESS + FUN
It’s not Football…it’s Fùtbol! The Foster Open Soccer Tournament Do we have Semper Fit designed T-shirts photo?
Hut Hut...HIKE! MCAS Futenma Open Football Tournament Get ready to bust out a combination of your best spins and turns, dodging techniques and quick-as-a-flash flag grabs because it’s once again time to vie for the flag crown at the MCAS Open Flag Football Tournament. Build your roster, call a team huddle and decide your strategy and tactics as kickoff takes place on Saturday and Sunday, July 30 and 31, at the MCAS Futenma athletic fields. Rosters are filled with 20 players plus a coach, unless the coach plans on playing, then he or she counts towards roster numbers. Eight players from the team will be allowed on the field at any given time and games will consist of two 20-minute halves. To qualify to compete, teams must show up 30 minutes prior to their game start time in approved attire—shorts without pockets and tucked in T-shirts (which must remain tucked in for the duration of the game). As for footwear, the only thing prohibited is metal cleats (although flip-flops are out of the question as well). Bring your ‘A’ game, as prizes will be awarded to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place teams. This tournament is open to SOFA ID card holders ages 16 and older. Those interested can register their team by July 25 (1 p.m.) on Eventbrite for $150. For more information, head to mccsokinawa.com/adultsports, or follow Semper Fit on Facebook for event updates and future happenings at facebook.com/mccsokinawa.semperfit. For questions and a list of the bylaws, email Adult Sports at adultsports@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org.
As the island heats up and summer reaches peak intensity, so will the competition! Are you the master of the banana kick from the corner? Is your offside trap good enough to fool the wiliest midfielder? Most importantly, is your team good enough to be crowned as victors at the Foster Open 11v11 Soccer Tournament this year? Find out on July 23 and 24 at the Camp Foster athletic fields, where 11-member squads (plus a coach, if your coach isn’t playing) will square off in the hottest shootout on the island. This tournament is open to teams island wide consisting of players 16 years and older, and registration is due by July 18 (1 p.m.) via Eventbrite for $150. Awards will be given to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place teams. For more information, head to mccsokinawa.com/adultsports or facebook. com/mccsokinawa.semperfit. If you have any questions, please email adultsports@ okinawa.usmc-mccs.org or call 623-5558.
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FITNESS + FUN
Ready, Set, Swim! ODST Swim Meets
Fit Camp Working Towards Self-Improvement Do you have fitness goals but feel unsure how to go about achieving them? Or, are you already working on them, but you feel a bit stuck? The good news is that you are not alone, and finding like-minded folks who are also working towards self-improvement can be empowering. And, even better yet is when one of them happens to be a personal trainer ready to lead the whole group while focusing on each individual’s progress. This is exactly the type of support you’ll get with Fit Camp. Fit Camp is a six-week program designed to help you build strength, confidence and motivation to keep going with your fitness goals. With an emphasis on circuit-style
workouts, you’ll quickly pick up new exercises to incorporate into your long-term routines. Fit Camps run year round, but there’s no time like the present to get started. So if you’re ready to accept the challenge, the next Fit Camp is July 11 through August 19 and will be held on multiple Marine Corps installations. Register before July 8 by visiting the front desk of the Semper Fit Fitness Center where you’d like to attend. SOFA ID card holders ages 18 and older are eligible to participate. For more information, please visit mccsokinawa.com/healthpromotion or call 645-3910 from a DSN or 098-970-3910 from off base.
Showcase your hours of rigorous training at the next monthly Okinawa Dolphins Swim Team (ODST) swim meet. The first meet of the summer is slotted for July 16 at the Camp Foster Aquatic Center from 7 to 10 a.m. Swimmers will test their skills at a maximum of three individual events (out of their choice of 17), and the meet runs until all of the events are complete. This event is open to swimmers of all ages but is broken down into separate age groups: 8 and under, 9–10, 11–12, 13–14, 15–18, 19–29, 30–39, 40–49, 50–59 and 60 and over. Ribbons are awarded to the top eight finishers in each age category by gender in their individual events. In addition to awards, competitors can look forward to a frosty treat in the form of Blue Seal ice cream. Those interested in competing can register by emailing mccsaquatics@ okinawa.usmc-mccs.org by July 13. For more information and to find the dates of subsequent meets, visit mccsokinawa. com/swimteam.
July is… Safety Month At first glance, many will see Okinawa as the mecca for exhilarating hiking trails, pristine beaches and recreational water sports. And, while it’s true Okinawa’s warm summer months provide the perfect opportunity for partaking in island fun and the gamut of water sports, you’ll find upon further investigation, Okinawa’s popular summer activities come with a variety of unique safety risks. Heat is always a factor during summertime activities and keeping yourself hydrated is a must. In addition, June 1 marked the start of the typhoon season on Okinawa and continues until November 30. When typhoons develop, their extreme winds and rains pose serious threats to the community and water conditions. Even in the storm’s wake, water conditions can still be greatly affected, which means it’s even more paramount to ensure the ocean is safe for recreational use. And those lovely heavily-forested hiking trails? Well, be cautious because the last thing you want to do is encounter one of Okinawa’s most infamous residents—the habu snake. If you have any questions about staying safe while stationed on Okinawa, contact MCCS Health Promotion at 645-3910. JULY 2022 | OKINAWA LIVING 31
MARINES + FAMILIES
Summer Reading Program July Checkpoint Parties If you haven’t heard yet, the Summer Reading Program is happening through July 31 and MCCS Libraries have upped the stakes of the Summer Reading Program by hosting “Checkpoint Parties” that are based on this year’s outdoorsy/nature theme of Read Beyond the Beaten Path. This month, you can join in the fun from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Courtney Library for their Live Wild party on July 8. At this event, participants will enjoy finding and hiding treasures with geocaching, practice making and using maps through cartography, enjoy themed scavenger hunts, delve into intriguing and comprehensive field guides and more! Then, on July 15 from 4 to 7 p.m., the Foster Library will be holding their Space Camp party, where patrons can experience moon-guided meditations, solar system scavenger
hunts, space-themed story time and constellation crafts, astronomy movies and more! On July 23, partygoers can enjoy a dunking booth, water games and paracord bracelet making at the Kinser Beach Party from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Kinser Library. All checkpoint parties are open to SOFA ID card holders of all ages and, better yet, each party will have a door prize drawing for all those in attendance (winners must be present to claim their prize). Head to okinawabutler.beanstack.com to create your account and record your reading minutes. For more information on these events, as well as more on the Summer Reading Program, visit mccsokinawa. com/libraries or on Facebook by searching MCCS Okinawa – Education and Libraries.
Marine Corps Family Team Building Here for you and your Family Marine Corps Family Team Building (MCFTB) is here to help Marines, Sailors and their families successfully meet the challenges of the military lifestyle with a variety of training opportunities for all members of the community. MCFTB is also here to help service members and their families to enjoy their stay and grow as individuals while stationed on Okinawa. With training opportunities including workshops such as 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Speed of Trust: Foundations and Service Members and Unconscious Bias—all from the well-known Franklin Covey Series— service members and their families can become better versions of themselves. Teens can even take advantage of FREE auto skills classes held at Typhoon Motors as they transition into adulthood in front of their parent’s eyes. MCFTB is here for families during good times and bad— including deployments, which pose challenges unique to the
military for those left behind. While the parent is away, children can participate in offerings such as Parent Pillow Creation classes and Craft & Chat—where they can mingle with other families while creating crafts that can help them cope. And after a deployment, Stronger Military Couples workshops highlight important problem-solving and communication strategies to assist with the reintegration process. Encompassing programs such as Lifestyle, Insights, Networking, Knowledge and Skills (L.I.N.K.S.)—a mentoring program for Marine and Navy spouses in a social workshop atmosphere, the Volunteer Program, and more, MCFTB is here to ensure that all members of a military family thrive on Okinawa. For more information about these programs, email mcftbokinawa@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org or call 645-3689.
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MARINES + FAMILIES
Dive-in Movies A “Reel” Upgrade Let’s be “reel,” family movie nights with their bags of buttery popcorn, cozy couch snuggles and family friendly films are a great way to spend quality time together and build lasting childhood memories. Yet, the familiar impression and sag of the cushions are enough to make anyone feel the mundanity of movie nights at home. This summer, upgrade family movie night by swapping the sofa for a swimming pool at an MCCS Aquatic Center; float under the stars and catch a flick at one of their Dive-in Movies. You can head on over to Camp Foster Aquatic Center on July 23 or Camp Kinser Aquatic Center on July 30 from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. for family-oriented fun. So, sit back (or swim), relax poolside and enjoy the show! There will be FREE food and drinks while supplies last. For more information like locations, show times and scheduled movies, visit mccsokinawa.com/ aquatics or facebook.com/ mccsokinawa.aquatics.
Superhero Family Fun Night For the Littlest Heroes Look up in the sky! It’s a bird, a plane…well it’s actually just your kids heading for the buffet line faster than a speeding bullet! MCCS Clubs and Restaurants will honor your special little superhero with a special Superhero Family Fun Night. On Thursday, July 21 from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Ocean Breeze on Camp Foster, Tengan Castle on Camp Courtney and the Surfside on Camp Kinser, children and their parents are invited for an evening of food, games,
giveaways, crafts and fun. Kids are also invited to come dressed as their favorite superhero (or villain) to compete in the costume contest. Individual categories for the costume contest are 4 & under, 5–11 and over 12. There will also be a family category. Prices for adults are $12.95; children 5–11 eat for $6.95 and kids under 5 eat for FREE. For more information, call the Ocean Breeze at 645-3666, Tengan Castle at 622-9413 or Kinser Surfside at 637-3137.
Conflict = Opportunity Develop Better Relationships through Conflict Resolution Conflict. Many dread it and some even avoid it. However, regardless of how we feel about it, conflict arises in many parts of our lives—at home, in school or in the workplace. But did you ever think of conflict as an opportunity to learn more about another person? Successfully resolving conflicts—which involves both parties feeling heard and understood—can not only strengthen bonds and enhance communication, it also bolsters trust. You can become a better coworker, peer, friend and partner by bolstering your communication skills at Conflict Resolution Briefs hosted by the Family Advocacy Program’s Prevention & Education Branch. Learn valuable problem-solving skills to promote healthy relationships and gain a better understanding of how to not only better resolve conflict, but to prevent unnecessary and non-productive conflict from happening in the first place. Conflict Resolution Briefs are available via appointment to active-duty Marines and Sailors. To learn more about this offering, or to schedule a session, call 645-2915 or send an email to fapprevention@usmc.mil. JULY 2022 | OKINAWA LIVING 35
MARINES + FAMILIES
Coach Recruitment MCCS Youth Sports With the youth baseball and softball seasons right around the corner, MCCS Semper Fit Youth Sports is looking for volunteer head and assistant coaches to lead teams and mentor children ages 5 to 18. Volunteer coaching is a great way to engage with the community, be a positive role model for children and teenagers, share your experience and knowledge of a sport and even get some exercise, as demonstrating how to steal second base and field fly balls for an hour or two can certainly get the blood pumping. If you’re interested, and you think you’d be a responsible, positive addition to the MCCS Youth Sports community, download the application at mccsokinawa.com/coachescorner. Next, print the application, fill it out and drop it off at the Semper Fit Youth Sports office on
Camp Foster to register. Applications for volunteers 18+ (16+ for assistant coaches) are being accepted now until all vacancies have been filled. The baseball and softball seasons officially begin on July 18 and wrap up October 8. If, by chance, you don’t have much background in baseball or softball but you’d like to be a coach for another sport, keep an eye out for more coaching opportunities in the future. For information on how to become a volunteer, or if you have any questions, please contact youthsports@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org. Alternatively, you can call 645-3533/34 from a DSN or 098-9703533/34 if using a cell phone. For more general information, head to mccsokinawa.com/youthsports.
Target Education Goals Choosing a Major Workshop Some are lucky—for example, the high school math-whiz working towards an engineering degree, the passionate artsy kid studying for a successful career in the creative industry or even the science-loving kid who knew by the age of six they wanted to be a doctor. As for the rest, we weren’t keen on pursuing the role of astronaut or defending someone in a legal case. It took us more time to figure out what we were passionate about and what we excelled in; not to mention sorting and prioritizing multiple interests and selecting a career field and college major that aligns with those interests. If you’re a current or potential college student sharing these feelings of uncertainty, don’t worry, the MCCS Education Program is here to help with their Choosing a Major Workshop.
Explore your interests, motivations and values and how they relate to your educational goals—and subsequent prospective career choices—in these workshops. Then, once career choices are narrowed down, you can explore education programs that best support your plans. Choosing a Major Workshops are held from 8 to 11 a.m., and there are two scheduled for July. The first one is on July 13 at the Camp Hansen Education Center (Bldg. 2339), and the second is July 27 at the Camp Foster Education Center (Bldg. 5679). To register, call 645-7160, or send an email with your full name, phone number and the date you wish to attend to education@okinawa. usmc-mccs.org.
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DINING + ENTERTAINMENT
Bursting With Fun Foster Festival Wear a patriotic outfit and come celebrate Uncle Sam’s birthday at Camp Foster Festival—a two-day entertainment extravaganza complete with a fireworks display and bursting with family fun, carnival rides and a plethora of food options—on Saturday, July 2 and Sunday, July 3 from 1 to 9 p.m. both days. Festivalgoers can feast on savory, smoked meats including BBQ pork shoulder and brisket from Hickory House, freshly grilled American-style burgers from Bulldogs Burgers, cheesy pizzas and Miami-style inspired fare from 305 Latin Bistro. In addition, MCCS’ new food trucks—La Cocina and Chef Shack—will be on hand, serving authentic simplemente deliciosa street tacos and burritos and succulent sandwiches, respectively. Patrons 20 years of age and older can enjoy refreshing adult beverages from Kanpai Lounge. In addition, Bonsai Coffee, located inside the Community Center Auditorium, will be open for patrons to stop by for an ice-cold coffee or tea. You might want to choose the ice-cold beverage because this year’s entertainment will be sizzling-hot! Saturday will feature juggler
extraordinaire Tamanchu, J-Pop /J-Rock sensations What At Lazz, blues and traditional Okinawan music from Okinawa Americana and more. Sunday will feature an Okinawan karate demonstration by Uechi-ryu Kenkyukai, jazz by Backyard Funk, R&B/pop music by the Philip Woo Band and more! MCCS’ Fun Land amusement rides will be up and running with wristbands available to purchase for either $5 or ¥600. On Saturday, fireworks will light up the sky at 8:30 p.m. (weather permitting), and best of all, festival attendees can enjoy the fireworks from either in the water or poolside at Camp Foster’s Aquatic Center, which will be open until 9 p.m. Foster Festival is open to SOFA ID card holders, Japanese and Americans island wide. Non-SOFA access is through the flea market gate, and please be prepared to show a picture ID. Pets, outside alcohol, glass bottles and coolers are prohibited from festival grounds. For more information and the complete entertainment schedule, visit mccsokinawa.com/festivals. JULY 2022 | OKINAWA LIVING 39
DINING + ENTERTAINMENT
Evening, Elevated! Paint & Sip at Ocean Breeze
Drink S’more Coffee… at Bonsai The summer brings longer days, which means more daylight for the simple pleasures in life like reading a good book, roughing it on Okinawa’s coastline and drinking coffee (lots of coffee). With these things in mind, Bonsai Coffee has collaborated with the MCCS Libraries’ Summer Reading Program theme of Read Beyond the Beaten Path to concoct their latest limited time offer—the S’mores Latte. Graham crackers and marshmallows are dissolved with hot espresso, accompanied by a dose of chocolate, your choice of milk and
topped with whip cream, chocolate drizzle, a dusting of Graham cracker powder and mini marshmallows. This campfire classic comes hot, iced or blended, and if you have a little camper that loves s’mores, treat them to the espresso-free version: complete with a chocolate-dipped jumbo marshmallow. (Available only as a size small blended beverage.) What s’more could you ask for? Interested in working your way towards FREE drinks? If so, don’t forget to ask for a stamp card! To read more about the Summer Reading Program see p. 33.
One of the best parts of the week for many is the end-of-the-week catch up with good friends over a bottle of wine. While this is a great stress-relieving activity, how about elevating your evening while crossing something off your friendship bucket list by creating your very own painted masterpiece! Not confident in your painting abilities? No problem! Paint & Sip, which will be held at Ocean Breeze (inside the Northern Breeze Room) on Friday, July 8 starting at 5:30 p.m., will be facilitated by renowned local artist Arisa Miller, who will both inspire you as well as give you some tips of the trade. Paint & Sip will feature a cash bar (must be 21+). Registration will be via Eventbrite, and the entry fee covers supplies, instruction time and light hors d’ouvres. For more information on Paint & Sip at the Ocean Breeze, call MCCS Arts and Crafts at 098-970-1369, or email artsandcrafts@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org. For more on upcoming happenings, visit mccsokinawa.com/fosterartsandcrafts.
Habu Pit Final Fridays: Patio Luau Say “aloha” to Habu Pit’s newest event! Final Fridays! What’s Final Fridays? We’re sure glad you asked—it’s an event that happens the last Friday of every month and a perfect way to blow off some steam from the workweek while enjoying complimentary food and a sublime sunset view on Habu Pit’s accommodative outdoor patio (connected to the SNCO Lounge). This month’s event, the Patio Luau, comes with a festive twist like themed cocktails, games and activities. The Patio Luau is happening from 5 to 7 p.m. and luau attendees are invited to wear their best Hawaiian shirts or beach-themed attire, within dress code standards, of course. (Prizes will be awarded to the best dresser.) Mahalo. To find more of their latest happenings and hours of operations, visit mccsokinawa.com/habupit. If you have any questions, you can reach Habu Pit by calling 098-970-5555, then dialing DSN 636-3081. JULY 2022 | OKINAWA LIVING 41
RESTAURANT REVIEW
A Taste of Okinawa in Every Bite The Grill at Sheraton Okinawa Sunmarina Resort Text by: Roxine Ami Photography by: Mia Cox Location Sheraton Okinawa Sunmarina Resort 66-1 Aza Fuchaku, Onna-son, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa Grilled 7: The Summer Butcher’s Festival Saturdays, Dinner Only 5:30–9 p.m. (Last Order 8 p.m.) Price: ¥8,470 per person À la Carte Options Grilled Vegetables ¥2,057 Fresh fish grilled in foil with vegetables (flavored with getto leaves) ¥3,388 Strawberry and Coconuts Vacherin Glace ¥968 Contact Information 098-965-2497 (9 a.m.–6 p.m.) sheraton-okinawa.co.jp/en/
As a self-proclaimed foodie, one of my goals while traveling is to find food that has authentic flavors from the local area. And in my two years of living on the island, I am sad to admit that I have not had much of a chance to experience local Okinawan flavors—primarily due to Covid. But at last, after visiting The Grill, a restaurant located in the beautiful Sheraton Okinawa Sunmarina Resort in Onna Village, I can finally say that I got a taste of Okinawa at its finest. Grilled 7: The Summer Butcher’s Festival, currently available through the end of August, is artfully designed to include a variety of local Okinawan ingredients. Executive Chef Masayuki Ihi shares that his inspiration for the menu comes from nature and his dishes are his canvas. Sampling a few dishes from the menu was a delight to both my eyes and taste buds. Each dish was vibrant, full of color and absolutely delicious. First, I started with the Agu Bacon Greek Salad and Grilled Vegetables as appetizers. I was pleasantly surprised by the taste of gōyā, considering it was my first time trying the iconic “bitter melon.” The Greek salad includes tender pieces of bacon from Okinawa’s native agu pork drizzled with an addictive, tangy shīkwāsā dressing that I just could not get enough of. Following the appetizers was a healthy portion of fresh-caught fish grilled in foil with a variety of vegetables. When Chef Ihi cut open the foil, I saw the large getto leaf (shell ginger) that gave off a sweet fragrance with a hint of spiciness. The fork-tender fish was perfectly seasoned and the star of the dish; I would definitely eat it again. The Tenderloin Steak was a big hit at our table, as was the tray of the chef ’s four special sauces selected to
enhance the flavor of all the grilled dishes. My favorite was the Awamori Sauce—an original Japanese soy sauce based with the flavor of Awamori (an Okinawan spirit). The steak was accompanied by locally sourced shiitake mushrooms, more gōyā, and the cutest little baked potato with the classic toppings of sour cream, bacon and chives. I have zero regrets going back for seconds, thirds and more until the plate was completely empty. A perfect meal always ends with dessert, and the desserts that arrived to the table looked too pretty to eat but again, no regrets because they were both heavenly. The first dessert was a refreshing Passion Fruit Mousse Mango Confiture with sponge cake hidden in the center. The delightful flavors perfectly fit the tropical setting framed by the turquoise water just outside the restaurant. Instantly, I was reminded of how lucky I am to live in paradise. To finish off our meal, Chef Ihi served his take on a classic French dessert—the Strawberry and Coconut Vacherin Glace (which also wins as my favorite). This dessert, comprised of berry and vanilla ice cream, custard and coconut crumb cookies topped with sticks of meringue cookies, was an explosion of flavor that shouts “summer” like an orchestra’s crescendo. It was very evident to me that the five years Chef Ihi spent in France to formally train has carried on with him in all of his dishes along with his love for the island. Every dish from The Grill is artfully presented, flavorful and infuses a taste of Okinawa in every bite. And what makes it more of a perfect setting for your evening summer feast is the astonishing golden sunset view and glimmering East China Sea.
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KIDS + PARENTS
Summer Swim Lessons Learn to Swim! Although swimming is a fun way to exercise, it’s also an important life skill. According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are about 10 unintentional drownings a day in the U.S. alone, and unfortunately one in five people who die from drowning are children younger than 14. However, knowing how to swim can also open doors for opportunities such as boating, kayaking, snorkeling and more, or can even land you a job like lifeguarding! So if you don’t know how to swim or you’d like your children
to learn, MCCS Aquatics is here to help with Learn to Swim—a program designed to have participants swimming with confidence in no time. Sessions are held year-round; the next session, Summer Session 3, will run July 18–27. Those interested must register to attend. Prices are $50 for parent/ child lessons and $75 for regular lessons. You can sign up online via the MCCS Aquatics Learn to Swim website until July 14 at 11:30 p.m. For more information or to register, visit mccsokinawa.com/ learntoswim.
Head to the Library… …for Learning, Relaxation (AND the A/C) There’s plenty to do for the whole family at your local library (in addition to escaping the summer heat, of course). Get lost in a good read or plug into an audiobook. MCCS Libraries are home to hundreds of books, periodicals, graphic novels and multimedia. Rent DVDs and video games for Xbox, PlayStation and Wii, or hop on a computer and explore various eResources, including language learners, encyclopedias, FREE online classes and much more. All locations offer free Wi-Fi, computers, iPads for check-out and professional military reading titles as well. Each library also has special programs and events offered throughout the year
including book clubs, survival language courses, crafts and presentations and more. The libraries also offer programming geared toward younger patrons including weekly Lapsit (2 and younger), Preschool Story Times, Tales for Tots, quarterly Family Storytimes and teen events. The library on Camp Foster is also home to the Innovation Lab, a collaborative space where creativity meets technology. After spending a relaxing weekend there, you’ll probably find yourself spending a lot more time at your local library throughout the year! Check out mccsokinawa.com/libraries for more details on all their offerings. JULY 2022 | OKINAWA LIVING 47
OKUMA BE ACH Fourth of July Celebration
Saturday, 2 July Okuma will provide rest, relaxation, and fun! Free family-oriented programming and live entertainment from four bands. Enjoy backyard BBQ classics at Surfside Grill & Bar while celebrating Independence Day.
Good Vibes
Saturday, 13 August • 5 - 8:30 pm Bask in the gentle tropical breeze while you enjoy live entertainment and festive music. Savor the wide array of delectable island food dishes at your fingertips such as Kaula Pork, Garlic Shrimp, Island BBQ Chicken, and so much more! After-party in the Lounge from 9 pm to midnight. Surfside Grill & Bar: 098-962-1805
Saturday, 16 July
8:30 am • Register at Hillside Campground 10 am • Race starts 20 • Per person (Cash only)
$
Price includes registration fee, a T-shirt, and a doggy bag (poop bags and treats).
Join us for a 2K fun run/walk with your furry buddies as you get blasted with colorful chalk powder! Pet-friendly camping and West Beach access from 15 - 17 July for you to enjoy all weekend. Spaces are limited and will be first come, first served. Restrictions may apply.
Surfside July Special
The Rancher Pizza • $15.95 A savory combination of caramelized onions, ground beef, and mozzarella cheese, all topped with a ranch drizzle.
Okuma.KadenaFSS.com facebook.com/theokumabeach @okumabeach Okuma Beach • 631-1990 Lodging Reservations • 631-1991 Surfside Grill & Bar • 098-962-1805 Okuma Outdoor Recreation • 631-1815 Located 51 miles north of Kadena Air Base
Various Dog Contests start at 9 am. Prizes awarded to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place participants.
Pets must be properly immunized, and proof of vaccination records are a must to enter the site. Pre-registration available
Outdoor Recreation Equipment Rental okuma.odr@kadenafss.com
Volunteers needed
SERVICES
MCCS Flea Markets Flea and FREE If you’ve ever wondered how flea markets got their name, one theory suggests it’s because of the literal translation of marché aux puces, or “market of fleas,” the name given to a market in Paris. But also notable is that in katakana, two words are written the same: flea and free. Good thing, too, because the on-base furii marketto are both flea markets and they are FREE for shoppers to attend. Whether you’re shopping for something that’s new-to-you, or interested in turning some of your belongings into cash, here’s what to know—MCCS Flea Markets on Camp Foster are held on the 1st and 3rd weekends of the month from noon to 3 p.m. For the 2nd weekend of each month, Camp Courtney hosts the flea market
from 7 to 10 a.m. (no flea markets are held on the 5th weekend if applicable). Booths for sellers are available to SOFA ID card holders island-wide and are granted on a first-come, first-served basis. To reserve a booth, arrive on-site an hour early and pay the $15 cash fee. SOFA and non-SOFA shoppers are welcome, so sellers should plan to make change in both dollars and yen. Aside from finding your next treasure or going home to a cleaner closet, flea markets help reduce trash, which is great—especially since Okinawa spends an estimated ¥10 billion in waste disposal each year. Flea markets do have certain rules and requirements, so be sure to review these policies at mccsokinawa.com/fleamarkets.
Tsunami Scuba Independence Day Sale Usually after their 5th or 6th wonderment-filled dive, the novice diver decides to make the transition from rental-gear-extraordinaire to high-tech-gear-owner hobbyist. Of course rental gear is helpful, cost-effective and convenient while just getting your toes wet; however, there’s something to be said for owning your own assortment of dive gear. And by investing in your own gear, you’re able to customize gear to your liking and to what’s the most comfortable for you, ergo, making each consecutive dive a more magical experience. To help you start your collection and live your best dive life, Tsunami Scuba is holding their annual Independence Day Sale from July 2 to July 4, where outlets on Camps
Courtney, Foster, Hansen and Schwab will be dropping their already low retail prices by 10%. Patrons can expect to see top-of-the-line diving brands—such as Aqua Lung, Suunto, Scubapro, Bare and more—on sale. Booties and educational materials will not be included in the sale, nor will rentals, services or air fills. For the divers who already have a growing collection and just want to upgrade a dive computer or check out the newest gear options available— now’s the time to do so! For more information, head to mccsokinawa.com/tsunamiscuba. For questions, email mccstsunamifoster@okinawa. usmc-mccs.org, or call 645-4206 from a DSN or 098-970-4206 from off base. JULY 2022 | OKINAWA LIVING 49
SERVICES
Share your love of Okinawa… …with your loved ones back home! Everyone who has visited Okinawa has a favorite spot, whether it’s a perfect place to watch the sunset, a beach that the family visited every summer, the steps to Nago Castle lined with sakura (cherry blossom) trees blooming brilliantly pink or even a stretch of beautiful coastline that is so breathtaking you have to stop the car every time you pass by to take a photo. With Omoide: Memories of Okinawa and The Best of Okinawa Living, both produced by the staff of Okinawa Living Magazine, you can share the beauty of your home-away-from-home with friends and family in the states. Omoide: Memories of Okinawa captures Okinawa’s beauty in a pictorial format. Broken down into geographic sections, this full-
color coffee table book contains images from Hedo Point on the northern tip of the island to Chinen Cape—the southern-most point of Okinawa. The Best of Okinawa Living, a more comprehensive compilation of everything Okinawa, uses words and images to cover the island’s history, picturesque locales, interesting cuisine, cultural curiosities, art and artists, national and local festivals and holidays and much more. The Best of Okinawa Living and Omoide: Memories of Okinawa are available at island-wide at Exchange retail facilities for $37.95 and $28, respectively. that sell books and select MCCS facilities.
Typhoon Motors Summer Sales Keeping you Safe…and Rocking to the Beat! With the chance of showers always looming on Okinawa—even when none are forecasted—slick roads are an ever-present source of danger. To ensure your ride is ready to take on this challenge, make sure the tread on your tires is deep enough to grip the road. An easy way to check for appropriate depth is with the penny test (if you can’t find one, head to the nearest post office). Stick a penny into the tread groove so that Abraham Lincoln’s head is upside-down. If you can see all of Abe’s head, it’s time to head to Typhoon Motors for their Summer Tire Sale—with 10% OFF new tires, mounting and balancing—throughout the month of July at Camps Foster, Courtney and Hansen. Another way to feel at ease with your car is to check its ins and outs with your own eyes. Without a lift, that can be hard to do, but
fortunately, Typhoon Motors is having an Independence Day Special, with $1 lift and stall rentals on Camps Foster, Kinser, Courtney and Hansen July 2–5. Now that your ride is road ready, you’ll want to check out one more sale. Happening only on Camp Foster July 1–8, the Summer Audio Sale will offer 15% OFF all audio speakers to dress up your car’s existing audio system (the sale does not include installation). You’ll love the improved bass range and newfound sound quality as you cruise around with your head bobbing to the beat. For more information, including services, hours and contact information for all Typhoon Motors locations, head to mccsokinawa. com/typhoonmotors.
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The melody that resonates in the hearts and souls of the people of Ryukyu
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t usually only takes a half a moment to come to the realization that the people of the Ryukyu Archipelago have a deep and abiding love for melody and rhyme. And throughout history, the people of Okinawa have always found solace in the art melody regardless of genre. However, one specific variety of melody can be found in the heart of almost all Okinawans regardless of age—music named shimauta, or “island music.” Shimauta has provided comfort to the people of Okinawa for countless generations—during excruciatingly difficult times, augmenting joyous occasions such as weddings and festivals and offering amusement and diversion through long and sultry summer evenings. Local legends preach that the founder of classical Okinawan shimauta was an Omoro (a traveling prayer-chant priest/singer) by the name of Akainko. The roots of all Okinawan music can be found in the words of the Omoro—mostly in the form of prayers and supplications called negaiguchi. Negaiguchi, which almost always took the form of poetry, were appeals for abundant harvests, longevity, good health, prosperity, safety and happiness. These same legends state that during one fateful day after Akainko was awakened (and subsequently entranced) by the simple, rhythmic echoes of rainwater dripping from the roof to the ground, he constructed a rude stringed instrument from wood, using horsetails for string. He went from village to village with his instrument and added melody to negaiguchi and, as a byproduct, created the precursor to all modern shimauta. Even though history states that most classical Okinawan music actually finds its roots in China, Akainko’s achievement is still commemorated with a monument in Yomitan Village, where he was born. And, every year on the 20th day of the 9th month on the lunar calendar, Yomitan holds the Akainko Festival to honor the “Father of the Uta-sanshin”—which is the marriage of vocal song and that very special stringed instrument. Whether or not he actually “discovered” uta-sanshin, Akainko was in fact a real person. His name appears in the royal government-edited tome called the Omorososhi (a book that encompasses the greatest Ryukyu songs and verse) as an Omoro master.
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According to the Chūzan Sekkan, the first history of Ryukyu compiled by the royal court during the year 1650 AD, the Ming emperor of China dispatched 36 families from the Fukien Province to settle in the Ryukyu Kingdom. It is said that these families, which settled in what is now known as the Kume district of Naha City, brought with them the culture, music and etiquette of their homeland—which they in turn taught to the people of the island kingdom. Among the items that were imported were many new musical instruments such as the pipa (a small fourstringed lute), the erhu (a two-stringed upright fiddle), the yueqin (a four-stringed plucked instrument), the yangqin (a dulcimer-like instrument), the fue (a flute), the dora (gong), the taiko (drum) and the sanxien (the forefather of the sanshin). Out of all the instruments imported from China, the sanshin is the most beloved and familiar to Okinawans. The sanshin has many brethren throughout Asia, including in China, Japan and Southeast Asia. The Okinawan sanshin is a plucked instrument that consists of a long, polished, black-lacquered neck made of ebony. The neck pierces the top and bottom of a round body made of Chinese black pine, which is covered on both sides with snakeskin (usually python). The three strings of the sanshin were formerly made of silk, although tetron is now more commonplace. These strings are traditionally plucked (not strummed very often) with a plectrum made of water buffalo horn (nowadays acrylic is more popular) worn on the index finger. Although almost exclusively owned by nobility during ancient
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times, the sanshin ultimately became a popular instrument of the common folk (albeit, it went through many metamorphoses). The scarcity and expense of Indian python skin meant that the body would often be covered with tanned paper, and by the end of WWII, makeshift instruments known as kankara-sanshin were made from materials such as tin cookie cans, twigs, scrap wood and parachute fabric. Today, sanshin of quality are considered works of art created by master artisans and carry price tags to prove it. Differences of the neck and peg box, the angle of inclination of the head section, the curvature of the base of the neck and other distinctive variations are telltale signs of their creators. Named after their original makers, different sanshin-crafters include the Makabi—the most popular, Febaru, Chinen-deku, Kuba Shunden, Kuba-nufuni, Hiranaka-Chinen and Yunagushiku.
It is said that the original Omorosōshi collection of music consisted of over a thousand folk and court songs and was very diverse in content. It was written under court supervision, and the content was originally only intended for use during formal occasions and rituals. However, today this treasure is accessible to all. Although modern times have brought many changes to Okinawan music—the most obvious evolution being the use of more Japanese language in verse, as opposed to the use of dialects from different islands—the original songs of the Omorosōshi are kept pure and are still performed at formal functions. Among the most popularly heard Omorosōshi pieces today are the Gujinfu, which consist of five famous traditional Ryukyu songs originally played only for the king and visiting dignitaries. The first, and most popular of the five, is known as Kagiyadefu. Kagiyadefu was always the first song performed when Gujinfu was played and is almost always performed today at traditional Okinawan weddings—probably because of its
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lyrics detailing joy and happiness. The late Buntaro Taira, an Okinawan-born English professor at the University of the Ryukyus, translated the refrain of Kagiyadefu as follows: “What can we compare today’s joyous occasion to? It’s like a flower bud touched by morning dew, waiting to burst into bloom.” Okinawa is the only part of Japan that experienced ground warfare during WWII. And, it is historically documented that roughly one out of four Okinawans lost their lives during the “typhoon of steel.” Even after the last bombs fell, the hardship continued, and people began searching for something to ease their pain and forget their losses. And like many found the blues in the US during times of suffering and adversity, many Okinawans rediscovered shimauta. The sound of Okinawan classical and folk songs, which had been enjoyed before the battle, reverberated throughout the devastated island driven by powerful voices and crass, rudimentary instruments. Today the music still echoes throughout the islands, and the moniker “the isles of songs and dance” is still a perfect way to describe the Ryukyu Archipelago. On Okinawa, feelings of joy, sorrow and, at times, love are still conveyed through sanshin music. To this day, the soul of the Okinawan people can still be pretty much summed up in an observation by a particularly wise Okinawan: “When you enter a house on Okinawa and view the tokonoma [where precious or sacred objects are displayed in the home], you’ll notice that a great many tokonoma aren’t decorated with an expensive piece of art, or an instrument of destruction such as a katana… they’re decorated with something far more precious—a sanshin.”
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LIVING ON OKINAWA
Yakitori
(Skewered grilled chicken) Yakitori is a popular snack that is often seen at festivals on Okinawa. Although many different parts of the chicken are used, the following recipe features one of the most common versions called negima. Ingredients 4 medium-sized chicken thighs (boned and skinned) 2 medium-sized negi (Japanese leeks) 3 tbsp. soy sauce 3 tbsp. mirin (sweet cooking wine) 1 tbsp. sake (rice wine) 1 tbsp. granulated brown sugar 1 tsp. honey or maple syrup 12–14 bamboo skewers * These are available at the commissary and most major grocery stores off base. Method of Preparation 1. Mix together the soy sauce, mirin, sake and sugar with the honey or maple syrup, in a saucepan and bring it to a rolling boil. Set aside to cool. 2. Soak bamboo skewers in cold water for at least 30 minutes. 3. Cut the chicken thigh meat and leeks into bite-sized pieces (approximately 1-inch squares for the chicken and 1 1/2 inches long for the leeks). 4. Place the chicken in a few tablespoons-worth of sauce and let it marinate in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours. Pour the remaining sauce into a cup. 5. Alternately spear pieces of chicken and leeks on skewers—four pieces of chicken and three pieces of leek usually leaves enough room to flip the yakitori over while cooking. 6. Place yakitori on a partially banked hibachi grill and alternate flipping with dipping into sauce until chicken is done—be careful not to leave on the grill too long as the skewers will catch fire. 7. Serve with a tall refreshing beverage of choice.
Tanabata Love is grand or so they say; now imagine only being able to see your loved one once a year. In Japanese folklore, there is a story about this acutely poignant kind of situation. Every year, many in Japan celebrate a festival called Tanabata (or star festival) on July 7. On this day, two stars that are usually apart (Vega and Altair), approach each other in the night sky. It is said that these two stars are star-crossed lovers of ancient Japanese folklore. Once upon a time, there was a princess known as Orihime (Vega) who was responsible for weaving the clothing of the gods. She was very skilled, and her textiles were extremely popular among the divine. One day, one of the gods introduced Orihime to Kengyu (Altair) who watched over the celestial herds. Orihime and Kengyu fell in love, and like many other couples in the same situation throughout the universe, enjoyed spending all of their waking hours 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, she still couldn’t perform her duties because she couldn’t see past the rivers of tears streaming down her cheeks. Over time, the gods finally relented and allowed the couple to meet once a year if they worked hard enough.
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 write wishes on these colored strips with hopes that these wishes come true through diligence and hard work.
Uchinâguchi Corner English
Japanese
Uchinâguchi
Cheers!
Kanpai!
Karii!
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