Okinawa Living Magazine May 2024.3

8

Okinawa’s Best Hangouts*

*Teen Version

Our Marketing-Intern-Extraordinaire Austin Martinez will be graduating this summer! Join him as he shares a few places on Okinawa where he and his friends spent the majority of their high school years.

16

Eat Your Way through Okinawa Memories from Food + Sights

Have family visiting Okinawa? Here’s a miniguide featuring sight-seeing destinations around the island with breakfast, lunch and dinner recommendations!

56

Māsu—A Gift from the Sea Japan, and especially Okinawa, are meccas for producing mineral rich māsu, or salt, through a variety of harvesting methods.

restaurant review

44 La Cocina

The famed food truck now has a new brick-andmortar location and is serving up simplemente deliciosa dishes that will surely satiate your appetite.

+ fun

27 Honor the Fallen at…

...The Foster 5K Memorial Run

If you’d like a Memorial Day tradition of your own, one that combines both remembrance and fitness, lace up your running shoes for the Memorial 5k Run.

29

Foster Open Rugby Tournament

Hear that rumbling sound? It’s the sound of “ruggers” from all over the island stampeding to Camp Foster to battle for rugby supremacy at this month’s rugby tournament.

marines + families

35

May is Physical Fitness Month

National Physical Fitness and Sports Month is commemorated nationwide to promote the benefits of physical activity, and this month your MCCS Health Promotion Team is here to help you celebrate.

37

Retrain Your Brain

Re-Train Your Brain is a 4-week class that will help you deal with feelings of anger, improve your communication skills, find balance and work on effective coping skills.

dining + entertainment

41

Kitchen Warriors…

…Let’s Get Cooking!

Once again, 12 teams of two will gather at the Butler Officers’ Club to cook head-to-head, but only one team will be crowned champions. This year’s competition will feature special guest judge Chef Dorian Hunter—winner of MasterChef season 10.

43

Mother’s Day Brunches

In honor of mom, we celebrate her beauty, grace and sacrifice each year in May as a special token of gratitude for all that she did—and continues to do—for us. On Sunday, May 12, give mom the morning off and take her to an MCCS Club or Restaurant for a hearty Mother’s Day Brunch…it’s the least that you can do!

kids + parents

47

14th Annual Ages & Stages

The 14th Annual Ages and Stages Open House is intended to increase awareness of how children develop and grow. Many community resources that serve expectant parents and families with young children will be available as well.

47

Batter-Up for…

…Youth Baseball & Softball Registration

It’s once again that time of year—time to get the kiddos off the couch and signed up for another season of fun on the diamonds.

services

51

Get Your Ride Summer Ready!

All month long, Typhoon Motors on Camps Kinser, Courtney and Hansen will be offering a Radiator Flush Special that features 40% off a complete radiator flush to ensure your car’s engine stays cool all-summer-long.

53

The MCCS Liberty App

It’s like having a whole platoon of information about being stationed on Okinawa—and right at your fingertips no less! The MCCS Liberty App will give you access to command information (including PCS details and base policies), liberty tools (including important phone numbers), transportation options and much more.

extras

5 Mensôre 7

& Show Us!

69

MAY 2024 | ISSUE 315

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

Emily Wright, Meghan Johnson

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Alora Wilson, James Rieth

DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER

Thomas Alan Smilie

PHOTOGRAPHER/VIDEOGRAPHER

Mia Cox

EDITORIAL

Swetha Gogue, Laura C. Pita

DIGITAL & SOCIAL MEDIA

Tiara Supakit, Claire Wilkinson, Lauren Thobe

CULTURAL RESEARCH SPECIALIST

Ayako Kawamitsu

ADVERTISING SALES & SPONSORSHIP MANAGER

John Dailey

ADVERTISING SALES & SPONSORSHIP

Yoshihiro Shinzato, Hiromitsu Horikawa

Ada Tovar, Tsutomu McCoy, Aimee Taira

MARKETING ACCOUNTS MANAGER

Andrew Menges

MARKETING ACCOUNTS

Amber A. Padilla, Laura Parada

DISTRIBUTION

Wataru Yamanoha, Shohei Ikene

MARKETING INTERN Austin Martinez

We welcome your comments. Please send letters to editor@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org

For advertising | 広告掲載のお問い合わせ (日本語可) 098-970-2245 (phone) | 098-970-0975 (fax) sales@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org (email)

See our advertising rates at okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/advertise

MCCS MARKETING BRANCH

MCB Camp S.D. Butler. Unit 35023, FPO AP 96378-5023

mensôre

“Welcome” to Okinawa Living

Children are Golden

It is no secret that the people of Okinawa and Japan love their kids—much like everywhere else in the world. For centuries, holidays have been dedicated to the success and happiness of the nation’s children; parents take great pains in ensuring that their kids atend the best schools, and great efort goes into choosing the perfect names for their children—all the way down to the number of brush strokes it takes to write them.

In Japan, several holidays and observances are specifcally designated for children. While some traditional anniversaries, such as Hyaku-nichi-sai—a special ceremonial visit to a local Shinto shrine commemorating baby’s 100th day on earth—are held informally by individual families, some holidays and festivals are actual national holidays. Every year, a holiday called Kodomo-no-Hi, or Children’s Day, is celebrated on May 5 as a part of the series of Japanese holidays called Golden Week.

Many may have already noticed the carp streamers fying in blues skies throughout the island since late April. Tese fags, called koinobori, now represent all children in the household. In ancient times, koinobori were only fown above homes with sons.

Similar to Hina Matsuri in March, which features special dolls for families with daughters, Kodomo-no-Hi celebrations also feature a special doll decorating the homes of families with sons. Called Gogatsu Ningyo, they can take many forms but the most popular version resembles a legendary character from folktales known as Kintarō (Golden Boy) astride either a great brown bear, a golden carp or a white warhorse.

Kintarō is still a popular fgure in modern Japanese culture, with variations appearing in video games, manga comics and as a part of advertising campaigns that need a personifcation of strength to push their products. However, every year on the ffh day of the ffh month, this mythical character fnds a place in the hearts of mothers throughout Japan, with high hopes for a fortuitous future for their children.

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!

Mike Daley Editor-In-Chief

feedback from the ICE Program and Facebook

Thank you so much for providing vegetarian and vegan options at the Brunch with Bunny Buffet [at Butler Officers’ Club]. I am vegetarian, and all the food was labeled and there was so much to choose from. The food was delicious, and the staff was so wonderful. I can’t wait to go back!

—via ICE

The teachers in my daughter’s pre-toddler class [at Chura Warabi CDC on Camp Courtney] are all outstanding beyond belief. As a parent, I cannot imagine having to deal with multiple children at that age with different backgrounds. But all the teachers are genuinely ecstatic to see my daughter (and the other children as well) every single day. When I drop her off, they are always engaged in some activity, and nobody seems to be only going through the motions. They all are happy to do what they are doing and follow safety rules explicitly. I was there for a parent’s involvement day and the level of detail for each step of each activity was incredible. I never worry about my daughter when she’s in class and I am excited to see how much she learns every day. Her teachers are all amazing, but I have had the most interactions with Imee, Kaoru, Denese, Angela, Jennie. I am so happy that my daughter is able to experience such a great group of teachers.

—via ICE

I would like to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Typhoon Motors Camp Hansen for going above and beyond in taking care of a flat tire for me. I had been driving around Okinawa for a few days when I noticed that my tire was flat. I was worried because it was close to closing time and I wasn’t sure if anyone would be able to help me. But when I arrived, I was greeted by a friendly and helpful staff who immediately took care of my tire. Even though it was close to closing time, they didn’t hesitate to take care of me and ensure that I was able to get back on the road safely. Their dedication to providing excellent customer service is truly admirable and it is clear that they genuinely care about their customers. Not only did they fix my tire, but they also took the time to explain what had happened and how I could prevent it from happening again in the future. I cannot thank them enough for their help. Their generosity and kindness will not be forgotten, and I will be sure to recommend Typhoon Motors Camp Hansen to anyone who needs automotive services in the Okinawa area. You have my utmost respect and appreciation.

—via ICE

I came to Hansen Bowling for the first time in a year. The manager and staff have changed, but the atmosphere is still great. One disappointing thing is that it is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Hopefully, it will be open every day and be a place where we can have fun.

—via ICE

Give MCCS Feedback—ICE Program & Facebook Let us know how we can better serve you or thank us for a job well-done. Go to okinawa.usmc-mccs.org and find the ICE link in the “MORE” section of the homepage or find us on Facebook to share feedback. Comments on this page may be edited for clarity or length.

Show us your island adventures and favorite food finds!

@xxmia_shaixx ocean eyes

@_daphneyj It’s a Vibe all the time

@brits_wanderlist_fit_life camera roll: a glimpse into island life

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

Coach Recruitment

MCCS Youth Sports

ball 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 shag fy balls for an hour or two can certainly get the heart 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 okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/coachescorner. Next, print the application, fll it out and drop it of at the Semper Fit Youth

Sports ofce at Bldg. 5952 on Camp Foster to register. Applications for volunteers 18+ (16+ for assistant coaches) are being accepted now until all vacancies have been flled. Te baseball and sofball seasons ofcially begin on July 18 and wrap up October 8. If, by chance, you don’t have much background in baseball or sofball 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 098-970-3533/34 if using a cell phone. For more general information, head to okinawa. usmc-mccs.org/youthsports.

May is Physical Fitness Month

Get Up, Get Moving, Get Healthy!

During the month of May, National Physical Fitness and Sports Month is commemorated nationwide to promote the benefts of physical activity, and this month your Health Promotion Team is here to help you celebrate. It’s no secret that physical activity is a major component in both physiological and mental wellbeing. Geting up and moving your body reduces stress, lowers your risk for chronic ailments and can help mitigate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Keep a look out for more information on Physical Fitness month at okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/healthpromotion, on their Facebook at facebook.com/mccsokinawa.semper ft or in any of your Semper Fit facilities.

Looking for a way to get active outside of the gym? Tink about joining one of the many Semper Fit happenings this season such as bike races, soccer and sofball tournaments, rugby and more! If you’re interested in fnding more information on any of the above, you can visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/adultsports or okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/semperft.

If you’d like a way to ease into more physical activity and want to make a big impact on litle lives at the same time, consider becoming a youth sports coach. Coaches may fnd themselves running up and down the sidelines cheering on their team, demonstrating drills and leading stretches by example. It’s a great way to add a couple of active hours to your week. To fnd out more, go to okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/youthsports.

Memorial HITT Workout

Honor those Who Served and Sacrificed

Memorial Day marks a very special time of year when we stop to refect and ofer gratitude to the people who have made tremendous sacrifces for us.

Tis Memorial Day weekend, honor all who paid the ultimate sacrifce by gathering on Friday, May 24 for a FREE Memorial High Intensity Tactical Training (HIT) workout. Te Memorial HIT workouts will take place at Marine Corps camps island-wide from 5:30 to 6:30 a.m. and are open to all with base access. Registration is not required.

HIT is an excellent source for strength and conditioning that focuses on seven foundational movements essential for tactical readiness: squat, plank, lunge, push, pull, rotation and hinge. Each of these movements

are designed to mimic combat actions and are programmed to keep Marines and Sailors mission-ready year-round.

In addition to supporting this event, MCCS Health Promotion HIT instructors are available to assess the physical training needs of units or commands. In addition to workout sessions, HIT instructors ofer unit-specifc strength and conditioning programming, collaboration with command force ftness instructors, tactical ftness education, support for unit body composition programs and guidance for PFT and CFT performance improvement.

For more information about the Memorial HIT workouts, as well as other oferings from Semper Fit Health Promotion, call 6453910 or visit them at okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/ healthpromotion.

Spring/Summer Fit Camp

Stay Motivated While Getting Fit

Given that May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, you may be thinking “I want to get into beter shape, but where do I start?” Workout goals and plans may be readily available online, but there’s no accountability to keep you motivated. Well never fear—Fit Camp is here!

Fit Camp is a six-week program designed to help you build strength, confdence and motivation to keep you going with your ftness goals. With an emphasis on circuit-style workouts, you’ll quickly pick-up new exercises to incorporate into your longterm routines. What’s beter is that you’ll be joined in the program by a small cohort of fellow ftness friends whom you can lean on

for motivation to help you stay accountable to your goals. 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 and spring into action, the next Fit Camp runs May 13–June 26 and will be held on Camp Lester. Register before May 8 by visiting the front desk at Gunners Fitness Center on Camp Foster. Te fee for Fit Camp is $220 per person for 18 sessions and SOFA ID card holders ages 18 and older are eligible to participate. For more information about Fit Camp, contact Semper Fit Health Promotion at 6453910 / 098-970-3910 or visit them at okinawa. usmc-mccs.org/healthpromotion.

Re-Train Your Brain

Build a Better You!

Being an adult is hard and can be overwhelming with many responsibilities and expectations. Not only do we have to take care of ourselves, but if we have a partner, we also have them to consider. If we have litle ones, then there’s the added anxiety of meeting their needs. Let’s not forget the pressures we deal with at work and the countless aspects of life nobody prepared us for. Ultimately, we are all just trying our best— but there is always room for growth. Here’s your reminder that asking for help shows incredible strength, not weakness. If you have been struggling with anger, communication and stress, this course may be for you. Re-Train Your Brain is a 4-week class taught by Prevention & Education specialists at Family Advocacy Program / Behavioral Health. Tey cover topics like Interpersonal Efectiveness, Assertive Communication, Stress Management and Empathic Listening. Te goal is to learn how to deal with those feelings of anger, improve your communication skills in order to help you take care of your relationships, fnd balance and work on efective coping skills.

Re-Train Your Brain classes are open to all SOFA ID card holders island wide. Sessions are ofered on Camp Foster every Monday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and on Camp Hansen every Monday from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. For more information, and to register, email fapprevention@usmc.mil.

Mother’s Day Storytime

At MCCS Libraries

Looking for a fun way to spend quality time with your kiddos as Mother’s Day draws near? Do you read them book afer book at bedtime and they seem to never get enough? In anticipation of Mother’s Day, MCCS Libraries on Camps Kinser, Foster and Courtney will be puting together special themed Storytimes to celebrate the moms, aunties, grandmas and caregivers in the warm company of new friends and, of course, books!

Tese special Mother’s Day Storytimes will be taking place at the Courtney Library on May 7 at 11:30 a.m., the Kinser Library on May 8 at 10:30 a.m. and the Foster Library on May 10 at 11:30 a.m. Tey are open to families with children of all ages and will feature songs as well as Mother’s Day arts and crafs activities. MCCS Libraries also ofer a variety of themed

Storytimes like Kangaroo, where litle ones get to do lap-sit activities; Play to Learn, a fun and energetic storytime featuring speech and language games; Once Upon a Storytime, where kids get to process art through songs and stories; as well as Spanish Storytime.

Additionally, there is plenty of fun for all to be had at the library! If you haven’t signed up for a library card, now is the perfect time. Check out their physical catalog of books, graphic novels, video games, audiobooks, online resources and more. To learn more about Mother’s Day Storytime, as well as other library oferings, call 645-6055 / 098970-6055 or email libraryprogram@okinawa. usmc-mccs.org. You can also visit them online at okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/libraries or facebook. com/mccsokinawa.educationandlibraries.

The First Rule of Quilting Club…

...Is to have Fun!

And, the second rule of Quilting Club? It’s to most defnitely talk about the Camp Foster Library Quilting Club! Head to the Foster Library on May 19 from 1 to 3 p.m. and join like-minded quilters as they create wonderful things with fabric and imagination.

Quilting materials will be provided, and quilt-neophytes can learn to either quilt by hand, create their fabric masterpieces using provided Singer sewing machines, or even use the embroidery machine in the Innovation Lab for their fnishing touches. Although the embroidery machine is for in-house use only, sewing machines are available for checkout!

MCCS Libraries offer so much more than books. In addition to the embroidery machine, the Innovation Lab also offers FREE access to 3 D printing, robotics assembly, virtual reality and augmented reality equipment, vinyl cutting, large-format printing, 3 D modeling, computer-aided design and more. For more information on the Camp Foster Library Quilting Club, the Innovation Lab, and other oferings at MCCS Libraries island wide, visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/libraries or email your friendly neighborhood librarians at libraryprogram@ okinawa.usmc-mccs.org.

Mother’s Day Sea Adventure & Lunch Buffet

With MCCS Tours+

Kitchen Warriors…

…Let’s Get Cooking!

If you can stand the heat, sign up to participate in the Kitchen Warriors Competition! On June 8, 12 teams of two are going to cook head-to-head at the Butler Ofcers’ Club, but only one team will be crowned champions. During this two-round competition the teams will receive mystery boxes containing a variety of ingredients and will have 60 minutes to cook a dish inline with the round’s theme. Afer each round, three judges will evaluate dishes based on a combination of serving and cooking criteria, with eliminations taking place afer each round.

Tis year’s special guest judge will be Chef Dorian Hunter! Chef Dorian made history as the winner of MasterChef season 10, becoming the frst African American female winner and the oldest contestant to win. Specializing in elevated Southern cuisine, she impressed judges and fans alike with her traditional yet innovative favors. If you can’t stand the heat…don’t worry because spectators are invited as well! If watching chefs be put through the ringer on TV is more your vibe, you can register to be part of the Kitchen Warriors live audience. Come cheer on your favorite team and indulge in a tasty dining experience. Registration for competing teams may have ended on April 30...but hopeful spectators can register on Eventbrite beginning on May 1. For more information on this event visit okinawa.usmcmccs.org/kitchenwarriors. If spending time outdoors basking in Okinawa’s beautiful scenery is your preferred way to celebrate holidays, then we have got the perfect activity for you! Te best part? If you join MCCS Tours+ on May 12 for their special Mother’s Day Sea Adventure & Lunch Bufet tour, you don’t have to plan a thing! Just hop on the bus at 9 a.m. at the Foster Bowling Center, sit back and enjoy the views as you make your way up the coast to Nago. Te frst stop of the tour is the Busena Marine Park where you will get to experience Okinawa’s only underwater observatory. A short walk over the pier and down a spiral staircase will transport you to 5 meters underwater where you’ll get to witness an explosion of color, without geting wet! Trough various portholes you will get to

see a 360-degree view of a coral reef and the creatures that inhabit it. Ten it’s time to board the glass botom boat for a tour around the bay, where you’ll get an even better glimpse at life under the East China Sea. After you’ve worked up an appetite it’s time to head down the road to the Oriental Hotel Okinawa Resort & Spa to enjoy their sumptuous lunch buffet. Their international qwachi (feasts) feature Japanese, Okinawan and Chinese dishes made with a variety of local ingredients. Make sure you bring yen for any other expenses. Tickets are available via Eventbrite (price includes sea adventure and lunch buffet), and a discount is available for mothers attending with their children; visit okinawa.usmc-mccs. org/tours for more information.

Chef Shack is…

Te MCCS Chef Shack Food Truck is about to bowl you over—with bowls of hearty goodness! Choose from tender, thinly sliced beef, boneless marinated chicken or a plant-based Korean bulgogi-style beef substitute. Top your selection with Asian-style BBQ, sweet teriyaki, spicy Sriracha mayo or tangy lime mayo sauce, then dig in! Whichever you choose, it’ll be served over rice and garnished with glass noodles, green cabbage and shredded carrots.

All bowls are $8, but if you’re feeling really hungry, you can double your meat for only $4! Chips are also available to accompany your bowl for $1 50. For dessert there are macadamia or chocolate chip cookies for $2 Sodas and botled water are available à la carte for $1 to help you wash down your bowl.

For more information about Chef Shack—including its availability to support command, unit or other special events on Marine Corps installations island-wide—send an email to mccsfoodtrucks@okinawa. usmc-mccs.org. To see where you can pick up a bowl from Chef Shack next, visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/chefshack to see their schedule.

Mother’s Day Brunches

…Because SHE Deserves the Best

Your mom is your rock, your foundation, your strength and your greatest champion. She stayed up nights with you when you were sick, helped you with homework and put a bandage on your “owies.” She brought you into this world, and she may have mentioned (on occasion) she can also take you out of it.

In honor of mom, we celebrate her beauty, grace and sacrifce each year in May as a special token of gratitude for all that she did—and continues to do—for us. On Sunday, May 12, give mom the morning of and take her to an MCCS Club or Restaurant for a hearty Mother’s Day Brunch…it’s the least you can do!

Te Butler Ofcers’ Club on Plaza Housing (645- 7530) will be serving brunch on a grand scale from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Prices are $21 95 for adults, $10 95 for children 5–11 and

FREE for children under fve. In addition, both Tengan Castle on Camp Courtney (622-9413) and Surfside on Camp Kinser (637-3137) will be ofering scrumptious vitles for mom from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at their mid-morning bufets. Prices are also $21.95 for adults, $10.95 for children 5–11 and FREE for children under fve.

For an extra-special experience, head to Taiyo Steakhouse. Mom will most certainly enjoy the cool spring breezes along with a selection from their à la carte brunch menu. Doors open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. with seating available on the balcony (weather permiting).

Reservations are required for all brunches and are available via Eventbrite. All events are subject to change.

For more information on Mother’s Day breakfast and brunches, visit okinawa.usmcmccs.org/clubs

…Here to “Bowl” You Over!

La Cocina

When one door closes, another door opens; and with the closure of Red Barn at Camp Kinser Surfside, La Cocina has moved in. Te new brick-and-mortar location is serving up simplemente deliciosa dishes that will surely satiate your appetite.

Along with the newly opened dine-in facility came a menu expansion. La Cocina’s signature burritos, street tacos, cinnamon crispas and salsas are here to stay, while additional mouthwatering oferings like cheesy protein packed quesadillas, loaded nachos, hearty fresh salads and caramel fan have arrived to serve you even more authentic Mexican options.

A favor bomb explosion, the quesadillas will leave your belly satisfed with their hefy size. Choose your protein of choice, from succulent braised pork carnitas, lean grilled chicken or juicy char-grilled steak, accompanied by cheese and borracho beans (tender pinto beans simmered along with bacon, spices and beer) stufed in between two tortillas. All quesadillas are served alongside fresh pico de gallo and guacamole— for the perfect bite that will elevate your quesadilla.

with a salsa roja ranch to dress your bowl—there’s no denying taste here. Te combination of meat, veggies, salsa and toppings will defnitely make it your go-to salad. Who says you have to sacrifce favor in the name of health? Tere’s no need for that!

Don’t forget the sides...have it your way with sour cream, guacamole, perfectly seasoned borracho beans and two salsas, verde—a green tangy sauce comprised of tomatillo, aromatics and seasonings, or roja fre roasted tomatoes blended together with aromatics, seasonings and chile de árbol for a slight kick. Tey are the perfect accompaniment for your chips as well as your tacos, burritos, nachos, salads or quesadillas. For the lovers of all things picante, jalapeños are available.

Afer all those bites of deliciousness, wash it all down with a refreshingly bubbly Jarritos Mexican Soda.

Want to make it a combo? For only $2, pick between borracho beans & rice with a fountain drink or chips & salsa with a fountain drink.

Location Building 1202

Camp Kinser

Hours of Operation

Monday–Thursday, 10:30 a.m.–9 p.m.

Friday–Saturday, 10:30 a.m.–1 a.m.

Sunday, Noon–9 p.m.

Phone Number

637-3137

For something to share (or quite frankly, not), the loaded nachos are an entrée themselves. Piled high over crispy tortilla chips, your choice of protein, beans, queso, pico de gallo, guacamole and fresh cilantro are sure to bring your tastebuds on a ride through various twists and turns bursting with crunchy, velvety and meaty textures pleasing your palete and ending those hunger pangs.

Looking for a healthier alternative without relinquishing favor? Te answer is their generously portioned salads! Your choice of char-grilled steak or cantina chicken sit on a bed of fresh greens, cheese, pico de gallo, crunchy tortilla strips, zesty guacamole,

Now, it’s time for dessert. You know you want something sweet—choose from their cinnamon dusted crispas, served with a white icing dipping sauce, or their decadently rich caramel fan.

Te La Cocina food truck will still be operational and continue to visit Marine Corps installations island-wide. For more information on the La Cocina food truck—including its availability to support command, unit or other special events—email mccsfoodtrucks@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org.

Visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/lacocina-kinser to see the complete menu and hours of operation for Kinser La Cocina. To see the food truck schedule and menu visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/lacocina

Text by: Swetha Gogue | Photography by: Mia Cox

Batter-Up for…

…Youth Baseball & Softball Registration

Nowadays children are being raised in a time of instant gratifcation and non-stop mental stimulation from smartphones, social media and video games. Tis makes participating in youth sports more important than ever, because organized sports provide invaluable life lessons along with healthy outdoor activity. Tey are a great way to build friendships, self-esteem and a sense of community. Baseball and sofball in particular teach players things like patience, focus, linear thinking and teamwork as well as how to learn from failing. Tey are also equal opportunity sports because they do not require players to be tall, powerful, fast or agile, which is good news because Semper Fit Youth Sports encourages and supports the participation of individuals of all abilities!

Baseball and sofball practices will begin July 15, with the season’s opening scheduled for July 26. Each team will play games once or twice a week on Camps Courtney, McTureous, Lester, Foster, MCAS Futenma or Kinser, with the season ending October 5. Team-specifc schedules will be announced by individual coaches.

Registration is open to SOFA-status children ages 5 – 18 island-wide, including 4-year-olds turning 5 before the season ends on October 5. Register your child for $70 at okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/youthsports ; deadline is May 31 at 11 : 30 p.m. If you have any questions or require accommodations, feel free to “touch base” with Semper Fit Youth Sports by calling them at 6453333 / 34 , emailing youthsports@okinawa. usmc-mccs.org or visiting their office inside Bldg. 5952 on Camp Foster.

14th Annual Ages & Stages

Supporting and Educating Families

Parenting is a profound journey characterized by empathy, communication and bonding— an enormous responsibility with no defnitive guidebook. Te New Parent Support Program (NPSP) is here to support parents of children in all ages and stages of development.

NPSP is comprised of a team of nurses, licensed counselors and social workers designed to be a reliable resource of information and answers for parents. Tey ofer free home visitations, classes, groups that promote positive parent-child bonding and atachment as well as balancing family and military life.

In addition to NPSP’s regular oferings—which include Baby Boot Camp, Parents in Uniform, Infant Massage and Play Morning—they will be hosting the 14th Annual Ages and Stages Open House on May 18, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Camp Foster Community Center Auditorium. Tis event is open to all families and is intended to increase awareness of how children develop and grow along with the availability of community resources that serve expectant parents and families with young children. Approximately 20 resource groups will be in atendance with oferings and information to provide a fun, family friendly event aimed at increasing protective factors towards the prevention of child abuse. Tere will also be activities, arts and crafs stations as well as on stage interactive entertainment.

For more information on the New Parent Support Program, or the 14th Annual Ages and Stages Open House, please email NPSPokinawa@usmc.mil. Ages & Stages is an event you don’t want to miss!

Trifecta of Fun

TriKids, MiniKids & Women’s Only Triathlons

Running, swimming and biking are all classic endurance sports. Combining them into one challenge proves to be a trifecta of fun. Get ready to splash, pedal and race to the fnish line at TriKids, MiniKids and Women’s Only Triathlons at MCCS Aquatics Centers on Camps Kinser and Foster. Join in bright and early (checkin begins at 6 a.m.) on May 4 at the Camp Kinser Aquatic Center and May 18 at the Camp Foster Aquatic Center. Distances for the TriKids and Women’s Only events are the same and include a 100m swim, approximately 4 km bike ride and end with a run just shy of 1 5 km. Children ages 7 to 14 and women ages 13 and older may participate. For the MiniKids race, children 9 years of age and younger will complete a 25 m swim, bike about 250 m and run approximately 100 m.

Both TriKids and MiniKids triathletes should pass the 2024 MCCS swim test before participating or wear a Coast Guard approved PFD during the swim. For the MiniKids race only, an adult may choose to swim with their child, and should stay within arm’s reach. Non-swimmers in these age groups are still invited during the bike and run portions of the race only. Participants in all age groups should have bikes in safe operating condition and wear appropriate safety gear while riding.

Finisher’s certifcates will be presented at a small awards ceremony afer the races. SOFA ID card holders may register for FREE before May 1 for the Kinser event and May 15 for the Foster event at okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/aquatics. For any questions, please email mccsaquatics@ okinawa.usmc-mccs.org.

Celebrate Growing Families at…

….The Military Baby Shower

Living overseas can be overwhelming in a lot of aspects…but especially daunting for young couples expecting their frst child. Being away from extended family and support systems and having to start anew in another country, coupled with those quintessentially unique military experiences like deployments, make the experience even more challenging. As you prepare to welcome your litle bundle of joy, the New Parent Support Program (NPSP) has an extensive list of services and information about community resources available to you for FREE.

On May 17 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., NPSP will be celebrating expecting families (and those with babies under six months) by hosting a Military Baby Shower with Heidi Murkof, renowned author of the What to Expect When You’re Expecting series. Te event will feature an informative session on what to expect when you’re expecting, a Q&A with the author, baby shower games, rafe giveaways and a delicious lunch. Tere will also be an informal reunion at 1 p.m. for atendees of the author’s past events.

Te Military Baby Shower will take place at the Camp Foster Community Center Auditorium and is open to SOFA ID card holders, active duty members from all military branches and civilians that are expecting or have a baby under six months old. Tickets are available via Eventbrite and the deadline to register is May 9 at 11:59 a.m. For more information on this event or to learn more about other NPSP oferings call 645-0396 or visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/npsp.

Get Your Ride Summer Ready!

Te May rainy season marks the transition from spring to summer on Okinawa. Before you know it, the days will clear up and the sun—along with the heat and humidity—will be here to stay. Summer can be a challenging season for your ride, as it’s more difcult for it to keep it’s cool. But never fear, the professionals at Typhoon Motors are here to help! All month long, Typhoon Motors on Camps Kinser, Courtney and Hansen will be ofering a Radiator Flush Special that features 40% of a complete radiator fush to ensure your car’s engine stays cool all-summer-long.

Over time, rust (which thrives in the Okinawa weather, by the way) and scale build up in the radiator, combining with old coolant fuid and this clogs the car’s cooling system. Properly maintaining your vehicle’s cooling system is important because it ensures the

Beautiful Gifts

For Sharing the Island Life

engine runs smoothly and doesn’t overheat, which could lead to either pushing your car to a service station or waiting for an expensive tow truck—all while outside in the summer sun. Yuck.

In addition to their Radiator Flush Special, Typhoon Motors will be ofering additional specials for Memorial Day. From May 26 to 28, locations on Camps Kinser, Courtney and Hansen will be offering $1 lif and stall rentals for those that are into automotive DIY. Additionally, Typhoon Motors on Camp Kinser will be ofering 20% of subwoofers from May 27–31, so that your ride’s audio system is also ready for a season of Okinawa adventuring. For more information on these special deals and other Typhoon Motors oferings, visit them online at okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/typhoonmotors

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

Omoide: Memories of Okinawa is f lled with the most spectacular island views any camera lens could capture. It’s perfect for reminiscing about favorite places and beautiful scenes you’ve witnessed during your time on island.

If it’s insights about the island, historical tidbits and local artists’ perspectives you’re looking for, look no further than Te Best of Okinawa Living, which shares text along with photos.

With both books, sharing Okinawa is one of the best gifs you can give—especially when you’re already on the hunt for a special gif for family back home. Did any of the times you were out and about remind you of your mom and dad? Tink about how happy they would be to see (and learn more about) your gorgeous home-away-from-home. Now you have a gif they’re sure to appreciate. So, go ahead, add one or both to your gif list and then complete your shopping at almost any Exchange retail facility on island that sells books.

For more information on Te Best of Okinawa Living and Omoide: Memories of Okinawa, visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/publications

Typhoon Motors Sales

The MCCS Liberty App

Your One-Stop Shop for Staying in the Loop!

Sure Wikipedia is great…but don’t you wish it had specifc info on your current duty station? Like, what’s the current heat index fag condition on Camp Hansen?

Well, wish no more! Te MCCS Okinawa Liberty App is like having a whole platoon of information about being stationed on Okinawa— and right at your fngertips no less. You’ll have access to command information (including PCS details and base policies), liberty tools (including important phone numbers), transportation options and much more to keep you in the know.

Tere are also icons to help you fnd events galore. Multiple program calendars are included under “Events,” and, in addition, you can fnd where to shop, eat, visit and stay—both on and of base—if you tap the “ Tings to Do” icon. If you

need a ride back home afer participating in an event or an outing, the app has you covered there! Te latest update brings an expanded listing of on-base and of-base taxi and daiko services along with USMC Mess Hall menus and Subsistence-in-Kind dining options. Te app even includes a yen rate calculator, heat fag and sea conditions, typhoon readiness information (TCCOR) and English-to-Japanese translations of some common phrases. Last, but not least, a total ftness tool is included to help you fnd wellness resources and track your health when it comes to four ftness factors: mind, body, spirit and social. Best of all? Te MCCS Okinawa Liberty App is FREE! Visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/liberty for details or download yours from either the App Store or Google Play.

With the MCCS (e)Newsletter

Do you feel a bit behind the times? Are you ofen the last among your friends to hear about a festival or fun event? It might be because you haven’t subscribed to the MCCS newsleter yet! MCCS has hundreds of events per year, and with such a constant fow of dates, times and locations, it’s nice to have all of this event information organized in one convenient place so you can stay up to date. Head to okinawa. usmc-mccs.org/newsleter and sign up to gain access to events and activities ofered by MCCS Okinawa—from FREE workshops and classes, special sales, giveaways and holiday events to updates about festivals, entertainment, sporting events and more. By the way, in the previous list, did the word “giveaways” catch your eye? Tat’s right, we frequently have FREE giveaways tucked into our newsleters. Why? Te more you read our newsletter, the more aware you will be of what’s going on, which increases the chances of you coming to MCCS events. Te more events you come to, the more a part of the community you become, which can directly improve your quality of life. As it is MCCS’ mission to enhance the quality of life of Marines, Sailors and their families, this newsleter is a stepping-stone towards making you a happier (and more informed) camper, and us completing our mission. So sign up today!

Japan—being an island country surrounded by beautiful ocean waters—was bound to have a prolifc salt industry. However, for most of the 20th century, production was tightly controlled by the Japanese government. Teir product was a simple salt containing 99% sodium chloride with no nutritional value. It wasn’t until a public outcry from citizens and the medical community that the government decided to relinquish control, prompting artisanal salt makers to pop-up all over Japan’s coastlines.

As an island nation, Japan is blessed with fve seas, each one resulting in salt with distinct characteristics due to diferences in geography, climate, marine life, mineral content and salinity. Tat, along with a wide variety of harvesting methods, resulted in a myriad of salt products with varying textures, consistency, colors, favor and even aroma, which correlate to their ideal use in the kitchen.

In Japanese culture shio is considered a sacred, cleansing and purifying substance, rooted deep in the country’s mix of Shinto and Buddhist beliefs. It makes an appearance in all manner of life events from childbirth, weddings, funerals and even sports—sumo wrestlers, who essentially perform an elaborate Shinto rite, throw handfuls of salt into the ring to drive of malicious spirits. Traditional businesses will also place piled salt in a small dish by the entrance as a wish for success and to atract good patronage.

Besides being an essential part of the country's religions, salt, along with f sh and seaweed, make up the “holy trinity” of oferings from the ocean that are staples in Japanese cuisine. Salt is also a key component for both soy sauce and miso, Japan’s greatest fermented condiments. It also plays a major role in the production of dried f sh and the pickling of vegetables.

On Okinawa, commercial salt production has been going on since the 1600s. Māsu—meaning salt in Uchinâguchi—is one of the specialty products Okinawa is very proud to produce. Te warm waters surrounding the archipelago are loaded with minerals and have been found to produce some of the best salt in the country. Minerals like calcium, potassium and magnesium, among others, are prevalent in Okinawan salts. Te hot, sunny climate of the subtropical islands also enables the harvesting and processing of salt by using natural resources.

Te Mid-Sea Road (Kaichū Dōro) spans almost 5 km connecting the remote Yokatsu Islands—which include Henza, Hamahiga, Miyagi and Ikei—to the Katsuren Peninsula. Te islands are home to two salt factories that take advantage of the untouched waters of the Pacifc Ocean in their contrasting methods of salt processing.

Masuya

If you’re looking for a one-stop shop for Okinawan-made salts we recommend Specialty Shop for Salt Masuya. They have two locations on Kokusai Street and Naha Airport. Additionally, they offer salt products from Japan and other countries around the world as well as sweets—like yukishio (snow salt) soft-serve ice cream—and an array of beauty products made with salt. For more information and hours of operation visit ma-suya.net and follow them on Instagram @ma_suya_tsuhan

Located through a quaint Okinawan village over a narrow and bumpy road hidden behind brush on Hamahiga Island, you will fnd Takaesu Seienjo’s humble salt factory; known for using a traditional salt production method from the known as “fowing salt feld.”

ey collect seawater at high tide from the coast adjacent to the salt workshop and pump it up a three-story structure made of wood and bamboo e water trickles down the branches to the ground where it fows from the lef side of eld to the right, through an arrangement of red clay tiles, before moving back into a tank and taken through the process again.

is is where the power of nature comes into e sun and wind work together to evaporate the water, leaving behind a brine of concentrated seawater that has higher salinity, which is later moved inside the salt workshop and cooked down Tere are pros and cons to this traditional method—the upside is that it is cient, but on the downside, ected by weather. Te “fowing eld” is out in the open which means the process cannot be done on rainy days, so the staf has

to pay close atention to the weather and stop the pump if rain is in the forecast. During typhoons, the structure must be dismantled completely; thankfully the salt factory is surrounded by a hill and trees that protect it from the harsh winds. Te season also afects production. In the winter the water is only circulated for 24 hours, while in the summer the process takes a few days due to the high levels of humidity.

Teir “Hamahiga Salt” works perfectly to season as you cook and makes a great substitute for that mass-produced grocery store salt you currently have in your pantry. Tey recommend it for onigiri rice balls, grilled foods and pickling vegetables. Takaesu also ofers salt-making experiences using their concentrated seawater, a portable gas stove, a stone pot and a wooden spoon. Te best part? Te price includes your choice of salt crock to take the fruits of your labor home! While the tour and salt-making experiences are in Japanese, they have signage with English translations available. Reservations by phone are required. For more information on Takaesu Salt Works, visit hamahigasalt.com.

Just a quick island hop to Miyagi Island you will fnd Nuchimasu Salt Factory, which instead of utilizing nature to produce their salt, opted for a science-based method. Twenty tons of “dense” seawater gets pumped into their facility from the depths of the Pacifc Ocean daily. A warm air generator and a patented mist generator work simultaneously to evaporate the seawater, leaving behind a fne mist of crystalized salt and bitern (minerals) that fall to the ground like snow. Te accumulated salt is harvested every 10 days and it can have a paste-like consistency so it must be dehydrated for 16 hours, before it is sifed and manually inspected by staf prior to being packaged.

“Nuchi” means life in Uchinâguchi, which essentially makes their name “salt of life." Teir Guiness World Record-seting salt contains 21 minerals in total, many of which are not found in any other brand of salt. Some other notable features of its mineral content, when compared to regular salt, include 25% less NaCl (sodium chloride) and 200 times more magnesium—which plays a crucial role in muscle function, the nervous system and energy production. Additionally, it has 10 to 12 times more potassium—which is important for gut health—as well as zinc and iron which help balance female hormones.

Visitors to the factory can take a self-guided tour between 9 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.; make sure to grab an informational pamphlet at the entrance (English translation available) to learn more about Nuchimasu and their unique salt production method. Te facility also ofers free guided tours every 30 minutes between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.; note that the tour is in Japanese but guides have English-translated signage. If you’re looking to grab a bite to eat, a drink to cool you down or a sweet treat, visit their café on the second foor to try a variety of Okinawan plates and desserts, seasoned with their signature salt, of course. We recommend the umi-sora salt sof-serve ice cream, which uses spirulina (edible blue-green algae powder) to get its signature blue color.

Now it’s time to shop! Nuchimasu has a gif shop where you can purchase their salt in a variety of sizes, as well as other salt-related food products (like chinsuko salt cookies) and souvenirs. Tere is also an assortment of beauty products that you are welcome to try before you buy. Before heading out, make sure you explore the grounds and pay a visit to Kafuu Banta, also known as Happy Clif, a power spot featuring one of Okinawa’s most superb views. For more information on Nuchimasu visit nuchima-su.co.jp.

Tuna & Avocado Donburi

Serves Two Ingredients

1/2 lb. raw tuna, thinly sliced

1 avocado, cut into bite-sized cubes

1 sheet of nori (dried seaweed), cut into thin strips

2 bowls of steamed white rice

Marinade Mixture:

2 Tbsp. soy sauce

1 tsp. mirin (Japanese cooking wine)

Sauce:

1 Tbsp. soy sauce

1/3 tsp. wasabi paste

Method of Preparation

1. Marinate tuna slices in marinade mixture for at least an hour in the refrigerator.

2. Place marinated tuna and diced avocado on rice.

3. Sprinkle nori strips over tuna and avocado.

4. Pour sauce over nori.

5. Serve.

Okinawan Reversion

Some may wonder why quite a few residents of this island prefecture prefer calling themselves Uchinânchu, or “Okinawans,” over being called Japanese—even though they are very much citizens of Japan. Te reason for this lies in the island’s past.

Okinawa was overseen by the United States for 27 years afer the Batle of Okinawa until it was returned to Japan on May 15, 1972 Before reversion, the currency that was used on the island wasn’t yen, but the U.S. dollar. Automobiles drove on the right side of the road (this was switched to lef-hand side six years later) and people from mainland Japan needed to pack their passport to travel here. Of course, appropriate documentation and vaccinations were also needed when Okinawans traveled to mainland Japan. Because of this unique situation, most Okinawans were not treated as actual citizens of the country during this period.

Even before the war, Okinawa had only been an ofcial part of Japan for a relatively short time—until 1879, it was a sovereign kingdom called “Ryukyu.” Many aspects of the island’s traditional culture show infuences from several neighboring nations including Tailand, Vietnam, China, Japan and others. Modern Okinawan culture also shows heavy infuences from the United States—especially in

Uchinâguchi Corner

the central part of the island where several military installations still stand. Today, for quite a few islanders, their culture still defnes their identity, just as it did during the days of the Ryukyu Kingdom and they wear the title “Uchinânchu” with pride.

Uchinâguchi Gun’ Gwachi

Gogatsu