ADMIRING MT. FUJI May 2021| Issue 279
KODOMO-NO-HI: CHILDREN’S DAY TRADITIONS
contents May 2021
16
COVER AND TOP RIGHT PHOTO COURTESY OF ANDREA RAMOS NASCIMENTO
8 56 out + about
features
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Admiring Mt. Fuji Explore the inspiration for countless poems, prose and pieces of art: Mt. Fuji.
Unlock Okinawa Learn to Dive Getting dive certified reveals Okinawa to be even more beautiful, dynamic and full of opportunity than previously imagined.
restaurant review 44
On the cover Open Water Diver training in action.
Dining & Bar CHURA SUN Just the Ticket These days, guidance restricts us to take-out more often than not; good thing CHURA SUN’s quality matches its to-go convenience.
56 Kodomo-no-Hi: Children’s Day Traditions Carp flags flapping in the wind and elementary school-aged samurai displayed around town can only mean one thing—Children’s Day is here!
contents May 2021
43 Mother’s Day Brunches She brought you into this world, and she may have mentioned (more than once) she can also take you out of it. Stay on mom’s good side and take her to a Mother’s Day Brunch at a participating MCCS Club or Restaurant.
kids + parents 49 Youth Sports Coach Recruitment Volunteer coaching is an incredible way to engage with the community and be a positive role model for children. Become a youth baseball or softball coach today!
51 Memorial Day Pool Bashes The official start of summer is just around the corner and MCCS Aquatics is ready to celebrate in true splashing style—with some Memorial Day Pool Bashes.
services 53
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Tsunami Scuba Memorial Day Sale Attention divers—prices for name-brand masks, fins, gloves, gadgets and more are descending during the Tsunami Scuba Memorial Day Sale. Stop by before they make a safety stop and re-ascend!
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fitness + fun
marines + families
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MURPH Challenge Fitness centers on all Marine Corps camps on Okinawa will host the MURPH Challenge in honor of LT. Michael Murphy’s life and service to the United States.
Mil Spouse to School House Charting a new educational course can be nervewracking. To help you gain your bearings, MCCS Education is offering the Mil Spouse to School House virtual brief.
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Camp Kinser Triathlon Gather your goggles, wheels and shoes and join Semper Fit for the Camp Kinser Triathlon.
Family Advocacy Program Explore the different branches of Family Advocacy Program and find solace knowing that MCCS is here to support you during the good times and the bad.
33 Sporty Staycation Goals Spend some time in the end zone on May 15 and 16 at the Camp Courtney Open Flag Football Tournament.
Beat the Heat As we find ways to keep cool this summer, don’t forget to keep your car’s engine cool, too; head to Typhoon Motors for their Radiator Flush Special so your engine can beat the heat.
extras 5 Mensôre
7 Feedback & Show Us!
69 Living on Okinawa
dining + entertainment 41 The Nineteenth Hole Is your fast-approaching tee time keeping you from grabbing a satisfying meal? Not anymore.
70 Marketplace Guide
MAY 2021 | ISSUE 279 COMMANDING GENERAL, MCIPAC Brigadier General William J. Bowers ASSISTANT CHIEF OF STAFF, MCCS, MCIPAC Edward S. Hutsell DEPUTY ASSISTANT CHIEF OF STAFF, MCCS DIRECTOR, MCCS, MCB CAMP BUTLER Michael S. Gieseck DEPUTY MCCS DIRECTOR MARINE & FAMILY PROGRAMS Carlos J. Saldaña DEPUTY MCCS DIRECTOR BUSINESS & SUPPORT Hyun Woo Chang CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER Jim Kassebaum EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Mike Daley MCCS ART DIRECTOR Henry C. Ortega OKINAWA LIVING ART DIRECTORS Margie Shimabukuro, Emeline Toole GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Giulia Pulvirenti, Mayar Mahmoud, Rebecca Lambertsen DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER Thomas Alan Smilie PHOTOGRAPHER Hillary Taylor EDITORIAL Alex Jusell, Angie Andrews DIGITAL & SOCIAL MEDIA Kathlene Millette, Lillion Hunt Hamilton CULTURAL RESEARCH SPECIALIST Ayako Kawamitsu ADVERTISING SALES & SPONSORSHIP MANAGER Roy Forster ADVERTISING SALES & SPONSORSHIP Yoshihiro Shinzato, Hiromitsu Horikawa Terumi Nagai, Crystal Rivas, Ronshanda Perkins MARKETING ACCOUNTS MANAGER Andrew Menges MARKETING ACCOUNTS Courtney Davis, Leah Scrybalo
mensôre “Welcome” to Okinawa Living
Happy Tsuyu-Iri! On Okinawa, the beginning of May oftentimes heralds tsuyu-iri, or the “beginning of the rainy season.” Although vital to the island—as Okinawa’s reservoirs are filled with fresh water prior to summertime dry spells—tsuyu showers can make outdoor activities a wet endeavor. Everyone with children will probably agree that rainy days spent inside with restless tykes can be a source of stress and chaos to say the least (not that everyone with kids isn’t used to this after the various levels of restrictions this past year has brought us). But don’t let the rain get you down; as the popular saying goes, “life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass…it’s about learning to dance in the rain.” Moreover, remember that without rain, there would be no rainbows! Not limited to creating beauty in the skies, rain also feeds Okinawa’s many rivers and fuels its many breathtaking waterfalls. After the rain passes, hit a few rivers and waterfalls to escape the sticky humidity that also comes with the season. But before you do, remember to fuel up with a Bulldogs Burger, a slice of Shisa Pizza, a hefty Sumo Burrito or some rotisserie chicken from Red Barn (or all of the above), and don’t forget to hydrate and slather on some sunscreen before heading out. If you prefer to spend your time marveling at beauty fully immersed in H2O, then how about getting certified to scuba dive? Believe us, there’s no better place than Okinawa to plunge into the deep blue sea! Learn more about that on p. 16. Whatever water-related adventure you choose, stay safe out there. As always, we would like to thank you for picking up Okinawa Living Magazine. Now, time to turn the page and let your journey begin!
DISTRIBUTION Brian Jones
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)
Mike Daley Editor-In-Chief
See our advertising rates at mccsokinawa.com MCCS MARKETING BRANCH MCB Camp S.D. Butler. Unit 35023, FPO AP 96378-5023
Okinawa Living is published by MCCS Marketing. Its purpose is to inform the military and civilian community about events and programs offered by MCCS or available in the local market. Dates and times may change. Copyright ©2021 by MCCS. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transferred in any form, by any means, electronic, photocopying, recording, or otherwise without written permission of the copyright owner. No federal or Marine Corps endorsement of advertisers and sponsors. MCCS is not responsible for editing content of non-MCCS ads. Okinawa Living Magazine is printed with
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feedback
from the ICE Program Please provide more vegetarian and/or seafood options on the menu at the Butler Officers’ Club, particularly veggie burgers. Thank you for your consideration! —via ICE Thank you very much for your suggestion; you’ll be happy to learn that beginning today, we will be offering the “Beyond Burger” as a substitute for all of our burgers on the menu at Butler Officers’ Club. We will also take into account your other suggestions concerning seafood and vegetarian options as we review the menu during our upcoming refresh. —Gerry Stokinger, Director, MCCS Food and Beverage (North)
@okilivingmag Show us your island adventures and favorite food finds!
@thespiritedwife Iris Fields #okilivingmag
I had an initial counseling with the Transition Readiness Program at their Camp Foster office. It was a great experience and our counselor was extremely helpful. She was very thorough and dedicated to the process. This encouraged me to ask more questions and seek more information, because she made me feel like she was genuinely interested and invested in my success. I am just writing to thank the employee. —via ICE For the past few days, I have been making trips to the Education Center on Camp Foster and the service I received from one of their staff members, Meghan Barnett, exceeded my expectations. She assisted me with signing up for classes and ensured my tuition assistance was squared away. I had many questions— some of which I thought were silly—but Meghan answered all of them, even reassuring me that my questions were great. I’m truly thankful for the staff at the Foster Education Center. —via ICE
@hikari_loveoki
Hotel Monterey Okinawa Spa & Resort #okilivingmag
I just signed my daughter up at the Foster Teen Center and the staff was very courteous. The manager explained all the available clubs and offerings with all the information I needed readily available. It was a good experience overall, and I hope my daughter enjoys spending time there with her friends. —via ICE I recently went to Typhoon Motors on Camp Courtney. My JCI was expired and I was in a panic to get it done right away. When I called, I spoke with Jason Kemler, the manager, and he was very professional and polite. He also allowed me to drop off my car that day, and provided outstanding service throughout the entire process. I just wanted to let you know that he totally made a difference, and I want to thank him for taking care of me. It’s so refreshing to meet employees that are so willing to go above and beyond. —via ICE Thank you for taking the time to contact us. We sincerely appreciate your kind compliment regarding the Courtney Typhoon Motors Auto Skills Center. “Jay” Kemler is quite the exceptional employee and we are proud to have him. I will be sure to pass along your thanks—along with ours—for his outstanding service. If you have any additional questions, comments or concerns, please feel free to contact me directly. Thank you. —Devin Novak, Typhoon Motors Program Manager
@growingupinokinawa Urban Explorer #okilivingmag
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.
MAY 2021 | OKINAWA LIVING 7
OUT + ABOUT
Even clouds amidst the firmament, Seeing the peak of Mount Fuji—so tall, so august— Tarry a while, daring not to pass overhead. Text by: Angie Andrews Design by: Rebecca Lambertsen
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OUT + ABOUT
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ne of Japan’s most sacred and revered sites spans three tectonic plates and stretches over parts of two prefectures. Featured on currency, postcards, murals and in famous works of art, the country’s tallest peak is a symbol recognized worldwide. Known for breathtaking sunrises and stunning scenery, this UNESCO World Heritage site is not one to miss. Serving as the inspiration for poems and literature throughout the ages, Fuji-san is woven into the individual narratives of an immeasurable number of people. As for me, my Mt. Fuji story is one of admiration and a sprained ankle. As captivating as this stratovolcano and its surrounding lands are, trust me, you don’t want to be the distracted tourist walking off a step instead of down it, limping away with only a silly anecdote and a few snapshots of such a beautiful place. Take your time, make the bucket-list worthy climb and craft your unforgettable Fuji story. Mt. Fuji stands alone, dominating its nearby landscapes at over 12,000 feet, but traditionally during the months of July and August (the open climbing season) over 200,000 people from all over the world answer Fuji’s beckoning call, trekking for hours to the summit and back. The 2020 climbing season was cancelled completely due to the outbreak of COVID-19, however hope still remains for this summer’s season.
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Okuma Beach Mother’s Day Weekend 8 - 9 May
Saturday, 8 May 2 - 4 pm • Crafts for Kids Let the kids create a special handmade card just for mom!
5 - 9 pm • Parent-Child Dance Spend Mother’s Day showing off your dance moves with your children. All parents and children are welcome!
Sunday, 9 May • 8 am - 2 pm Special Mother’s Day Brunch 14.95 • Adults | $7.95 • Ages 4 - 12 Free • Ages 3 & under Spend the day celebrating your amazing mom with a delicious brunch at Surfside Grill & Bar! The buffet will feature pancakes, sausage, French toast, fried chicken, sausage gravy, sautéed beef biscuits, bacon, sautéed fresh vegetables and more!
$
Memorial Day Weekend 28 - 31 May
Enjoy your long weekend relaxing and having fun in the sun. Whether you are looking to camp or enjoy the great outdoors Okuma is the go-to spot. We offer a wide array of land and water recreation. Don’t forget about the areas to play tennis, basketball, kayak, snorkel, golf, and much more. *Activities subject to change or be canceled due to weather.
Palm Grove Cabins Peak Season Weekend • $90 | Weekday • $80 Off Season Weekend • $80 | Weekday • $70 The Palm Grove Cabin comes with one queen bed and a sleeper sofa that unfolds into a double bed. It also has a TV, refrigerator, microwave, and BBQ grill. Maximum occupancy four people.
SUBJECT TO CHANGE Okuma Beach • 631-1990 | Surfside Grill & Bar • 098-962-1805 | Lodging Reservations • 631-1991 Located 51 miles north of Kadena Air Base KADENA AIR BASE
Okuma.KadenaFSS.com
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@okumabeach
OUT + ABOUT
The popularity of Mt. Fuji along with the large number of successful climbers can create the illusion that this feat is easy, but you do need to be properly prepared so you can enjoy your hours spent on Mt. Fuji to the fullest. Did you notice the word “hours” was mentioned a few times already? Be sure to allocate enough time for your Fuji experience. Taking anywhere from 6 to 16 hours to complete, many choose to split the trek into two days. Climbers have the option of four trails—Yoshida, Subashiri, Gotemba and Fujinomiya—and should familiarize themselves with their route in advance. Each trail has 10 stations that dot the foothills of the mountain to the peak, but most hikers begin their ascent at the fifth stations, where road traffic ends. Upon reaching the summit, you can also follow the Ohachi-meguri Trail, which will take you around the crater rim. Knowing your anticipated trail will help with time management and arm you with the knowledge of restroom, aid station and mountain hut locations. (Pro-tip: reservations are needed for all mountain huts.) After deciding your course of action, make sure you’re equipped with the right supplies. While you won’t need special rock-climbing or mountaineering gear, you’ll want sturdy hiking boots (waterproof ones are best), comfortable and weatherappropriate clothing, a light backpack and possibly a walking stick. The weather on the mountain is unpredictable and can turn without warning, so even after checking the weather before heading out, be ready with rain gear and layers to keep you warm. As you ascend the mountain, you’ll notice a drop in temperature and in the summer months, the summit can still get pretty cold with recorded temperatures dipping as low as 20° F. Recommended items to bring along include water, snacks, sunscreen, cash and a trash bag or two, as you’ll need to carry any trash back down the mountain. If you opt for a wooden walking pole, you can get it marked at each station, making it a tangible record of your expedition.
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OUT + ABOUT
As you prepare to make your dream climb a reality, take some of the stress out of planning by booking with Tours+. Itineraries for Tours+ Fuji trips typically include round-trip flights, hotel stays, airport transfers, bus transportation and two days of unscheduled leisure time in Tokyo. Stop by any Tours+ location or visit mccsokinawa.com/tours for more details. One special note: off-season climbing any time other than July and August is incredibly dangerous and not recommended. Mt. Fuji remains icy and snow-capped during these times, and all restrooms, mountain huts and first aid stations are closed. Anyone attempting to climb during the off season (again, not recommended) is required to submit detailed climbing plans to the Yamanashi or Shizuoka Prefectural Police Departments in advance. This year’s unique circumstances brought about by the ongoing pandemic as well as Tokyo being the host city for the Olympics may alter climbing opportunities, but Fuji-san’s place in the hearts of many will always remain unwavering. For the most current information, head to Fuji’s official website at fujisan-climb.jp.
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MAY 2021 | OKINAWA LIVING 17
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o t “There are two types of people: those who get certified early and dive their brains out and have a blast, and those who get dive certified late and kick themselves in the butt for not getting certified sooner.” Wise words from Gary Joyce, the program manager of Tsunami Scuba, and in my case, he’s exactly right. After I got certified about two years into living on Okinawa, I had a recurring thought: “Why did I wait so long?”
TEXT BY: ALEX JUSELL | DESIGN BY: EMELINE TOOLE | PHOTOS COURTESY OF ANDREA RAMOS NASCIMENTO
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to There are plenty of fears to lean on as excuses, plenty of ocean-related phobias both real and imagined; there’s no shortage of nightmares in the unknown. But the benefits to diving on Okinawa far outweigh those (mostly) irrational fears. Choice among them:
Biodiversity Every time I dive, I see a fish I never knew existed. More than 1,000 species of fish populate Okinawa’s waters along with sea turtles, manta rays, sharks, whales and more depending on the season. Coral Globally, 50 percent of corals have died within the last 30 years due to ocean warming. While their cause is not lost, now is the best time to explore coral reefs before their decline continues. Luckily, Okinawa touts world-class reefs with many corals not only intact, but thriving. Accessibility Okinawa is special in that it has numerous dive sites for every experience level, which makes getting started headache-free, and skill-building fun and interesting. Price In addition to competitive pricing for tours and trips, Tsunami Scuba sells and rents out scuba gear and holds certification courses at reduced rates for the military community.
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Training Tsunami Scuba offers training certifications through PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors), all of which are recognized worldwide. Classes range from beginner to professional, so whether you just want to explore a few dive sites as an intermediate diver or seek out a new professional career such as underwater photography, scuba instruction or public safety diving, you’re able to get certified on island.
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where to start? Earning your PADI Open Water Diver certification is the first step; once obtained, you’ll be able to dive with another certified diver to a max depth of 60 feet.
To get certified, we recommend working through Tsunami Scuba—not just because they’re an MCCS program, but because they offer the presidential treatment in training. Their trainers are all PADI certified, they are a 5-star PADI training facility, everything you need to dive is available at the shop, and, as mentioned before, they are reasonably priced. The Open Water Diver Course costs $346.25, which is a hefty sum taken out of context, but a relative steal compared to certification costs in the States. Included in the course fee are a regulator, buoyancy control device, submersible pressure gauge, wetsuit, weight belt, weights and air tanks; all you have to have is a dive mask, snorkel, fins and booties (all of which are available for rent or purchase, except for the booties, which may only be purchased because sharing shoes is gross).
what’s next? Well, there’s a whole lot of ocean past 60 feet.
what to expect? The Open Water Diver Course is split into three parts: knowledge development,
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confined water and open water.
Knowledge development is the “classroom” portion in which you learn the principles of diving through reading, videos and quizzes. Currently the most popular form of knowledge development is Tsunami Scuba eLearning, which allows you to complete the academic requirements from the comfort of your own home. This also saves you valuable personal time, as attending the book and paper classroom sessions can add up to an additional eight hours of training. After completing the academic requirements, you’re off to the pool. Pool training (or confined water training) typically takes two evenings at an MCCS Aquatic Center to complete. In this portion, you’ll become acquainted with dive equipment, practice the fundamentals, take your first breath underwater and develop safe diving habits. After successfully completing the confined water training, you will then head out to the ocean and participate in four training dives over the span of a weekend, applying and demonstrating your newfound skills to earn your PADI Open Water Diver certification. Getting certified feels like unlocking Okinawa; this island that has grown so familiar suddenly reveals itself to be even more beautiful, dynamic and full of opportunity than previously imagined.
And what’s more, you are by no means a skilled diver by the end of the Open Water Diver Course. Only more diving—especially under the guidance of instructors—will help you achieve that.
The next step after Open Water Diver is the Advanced Open Water Diver certification, through which you’ll pick three adventure dives (in addition to a mandatory deep dive and underwater navigation dive) that will sharpen your diving competency. Adventure dives may include night diving, peak performance buoyancy, boat diving, fish identification, underwater photography and more. For me, this certification made diving—an already enjoyable activity—even more of a blast. I became more efficient with my air, more comfortable and more capable. After the Advanced Open Water Diver certification, you’re trained to dive to 100 feet and are eligible take the next step: PADI Rescue Diver. Rescue Diver teaches you how to assist a dive buddy (and yourself) if things go south on a dive and is highly recommended to boost one’s safety and confidence in the water. After this course, and if you are interested in a career in diving, you can climb the professional certification ladder from Divemaster to Instructor all the way up to Master Instructor. There are also plenty of specialty certifications to pick up along the way. Deep Diver allows you explore down to 130 feet, Tec 40 transitions you from recreational scuba diving to more technical diving and Search and Recovery Diver trains you to locate and retrieve items from the ocean. These courses (and many more) are all available at Tsunami Scuba.
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expand your diving horizons Throughout your dive training and adventures, you’ll have your fair share of awe-inspiring moments. A few of the many great dive sites that are replete with these moments are…
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The USS Emmons Available as a tour through Tsunami Scuba, diving the USS Emmons feels like swimming through history—which, as it turns out, is quite an emotional experience. The Emmons was the victim of several kamikaze planes in WWII; 60 crewmembers lost their lives and the damage to the ship was irreparable. As it began drifting off course—ablaze and with ammunition exploding—the US Navy decided to sink the ship to prevent it from falling into the Japanese military’s hands. It now rests 150 feet down off the coast of Kouri Island, with the highest point reaching roughly 120 feet. Diving this wreck is high up on many divers’ bucket lists, as it is one of only two US naval warship wrecks in the world within recreational diving limits (the other is the USS Arizona, which cannot be legally dived). After completing the dive through Tsunami Scuba, you will receive a commemorative coin. Yonaguni Yonaguni, the western-most inhabited island of Okinawa Prefecture, is beloved by divers for two reasons: hammerheads and the Yonaguni Monument. Every winter, schools of hammerhead sharks migrate through Yonaguni’s waters and are a joy to watch. As for the Yonaguni Monument, this underwater terraced structure is enveloped in mystery as its origins are unclear; to this day, no one knows whether it is man-made or a natural phenomenon, but this sense of mystery makes the dive especially alluring, as swimming alongside the monument feels like exploring an alien civilization.
Kerama Islands Charters out to the Kerama Islands have been some of the most satisfying dive trips for me, personally. The outrageously clear waters are teeming with life; turtle sightings are routine and mystifying, the fields of coral are bright and bountiful, and there are unique and dazzling fish everywhere you look. Humpback whales are also frequent visitors during the winter and early spring months.
If you’d like to start or continue your dive education, please visit mccsokinawa.com/scuba or stop by your nearest Tsunami Scuba location.
JANUARY MAY 2016 2021 || OKINAWA OKINAWA LIVING LIVING XX 25
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FITNESS + FUN
MURPH Challenge Hero Workout of the Day
Beyond HITTing the Mark Enhancing Your Unit’s Fitness Marines and Sailors are required to be combat ready at all times, which means enhancing unit performance is always a strong move. As a leader, you can push your unit beyond basic fitness expectations to optimal performance. Active-duty Marines and Sailors E4 and above who are interested in training their units can register for the next HITT (High Intensity Tactical Training) Small Unit Leaders Course. On May 17-21 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., participants will have the chance to learn from
two certified HITT instructors at Ironworks HITT Center on Camp Courtney. To register, email mccshealthpromotions@okinawa. usmc-mccs.org before May 7. This course is considered a temporary place of duty and requires approval from your command. If your unit has at least five interested Marines or Sailors, a unit-specific course may be requested. For more information, contact Health Promotion at 645-3910.
LT. Michael P. Murphy was an officer for the Navy SEALs who lost his life in 2005 serving our country. In honor of LT. Murphy’s life and service to the United States, the fitness centers on all USMC installations island-wide will host the MURPH Challenge on Friday, May 28 from 5:30 to 6:30 a.m. and from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This workout, one of LT. Murphy’s favorites that he had named “Body Armor,” is a beast; participants will run one mile, complete 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, 300 squats, and then finish up with another one-mile run—all while wearing a 20-pound vest (15 pounds for women). So stop by your closest Semper Fit Fitness Center during one of the aforementioned time slots to start Memorial Day weekend with a Hero Workout to remember. For more information, please call Health Promotion at 645-3910.
National Physical Fitness Month MCCS Health Promotion Imagine a pill that could reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer and illness all while improving mental health, mood, sleep, strength, bone density, motor skills and more. It would be the most sought-after pill in the world. Bad news: it doesn’t exist. Good news: these benefits are well within your grasp—through physical fitness. No one has ever regretted getting in shape, and if you find yourself wanting to get fit, this is the perfect month to do so; May is National Physical Fitness Month, and Health Promotion is here to help you get in shape. This month, keep an eye out for Health Promotion’s fitness-related resources at fitness centers on Camps Kinser, Foster, Courtney, Hansen, Schwab and MCAS Futenma, and stop by a fun fitness activity like Sunset Yoga on the Beach, a HITT class, the MURPH Challenge and more. Also, you can call 645-3910 for more information or check facebook.com/mccsokinawa. semperfit for periodic updates. MAY 2021 | OKINAWA LIVING 29
FITNESS + FUN
Camp Kinser Triathlon Goggles, Wheels and Shoes
Camp Foster Dolphin Sightings ODST Swim Meet Your goggles aren’t playing tricks on you— Dolphins are splashing around at the Camp Foster Aquatic Center…members of the Okinawa Dolphins Swim Team (ODST), that is! Why not suit up and join them for a swim meet? On May 15, SOFA ID card holders of all ages are welcome to compete in up to three races ranging from 25 to 400 m. Swim team members will race in events selected by their coaches, whereas non-members may choose
their own events. All events are seeded by entry times as opposed to age or gender. Warm-ups begin at 7 a.m. and all competitors should be ready to race by 8:05 a.m. Register for FREE before May 12 by emailing mccsaquatics@okinawa.usmc-mccs. org with your name, age, gender and desired events. Estimated entry times for each of your chosen events may also be included. For more information, visit mccsokinawa. com/swimteam.
On Sunday, May 23, gather your goggles, wheels and shoes and join Semper Fit for the Camp Kinser Triathlon. SOFA ID card holders ages 12 and older may swim (400 m), bike (15 km) and run (5 km) Kinser’s course, which starts at the Kinser Aquatic Center and cuts its way across base in a series of long straightaways perfect for gaining speed and breaking away from the pack. It is bound to be a beautiful spring Okinawan day, but the competition will be heated, with awards going to the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners in each division and age category. Head to Eventbrite and register by May 19 (11:30 p.m.) for $40. For more information, head to mccsokinawa.com/adultsports or facebook. com/mccsokinawa.semperfit. If you have questions, please email adultsports@ okinawa.usmc-mccs.org or call 637-1869.
A Sport with Two Names A Game with One Goal Whether you call it fútbol or soccer, MCCS Adult Sports is racking up all of the assists when it comes to the big goal: weekend fun. On May 29 and 30, show off your fancy footwork and get your kicks at the Southern Camp Commanders Cup 6v6 Soccer Tournament. Teams may have up to 12 players and a coach, but coaches who choose to play count against the 12-player limit. Before heading out to the Camp Foster Soccer Field, grab your shin guards, appropriate footwear and approved shorts (metal cleats and shorts with pockets are not permitted). And don’t forget your ‘A’ game because 1st and 2nd place teams will receive awards and the top eight teams will advance to the Commanding Generals 6v6 Soccer Tournament. Eligible units from Camp Kinser, MCAS Futenma and Camp Foster are invited to play. Register through Eventbrite before 1 p.m. on May 24 for FREE. For more information, visit mccsokinawa.com/ adultsports. For questions, email adultsports@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org. MAY 2021 | OKINAWA LIVING 31
FITNESS + FUN
Gear Up and Game On MCAS Futenma Open 6v6 Soccer Tournament
Lace up those cleats and go find your shin guards: the MCAS Futenma Open 6v6 Soccer Tournament has arrived. On Saturday and Sunday, May 15 and 16, join Semper Fit at the Futenma Soccer Field and see how your squad stacks up. SOFA ID card holders ages 16 and older may participate and must register by May 10 (1 p.m.) for $150 per team. You may have between 6 and 12 players on your team plus a coach, with six players allowed on the field at any given moment (you are allowed unlimited substitutions). If your coach is also playing, that counts towards your 12-player limit. At the conclusion of the tournament, 1st, 2nd and 3rd place teams will receive awards. For more information, please visit mccsokinawa.com/ adultsports or facebook.com/ mccsokinawa.semperfit. If you have any questions, please email adultsports@okinawa.usmc-mccs. org or call 636-2672.
Super Scramble Taiyo Golf Club to the Rescue Taiyo Golf Club is here to save your weekend (May 29–31; 8 a.m. shotgun start) with the Super Scramble. In this four-person scramble, players will change teams (A, B, C, D format) every day. There will also be prizes galore—up to $10,000 in prizes available based on a full registration—awarded daily and at the end of the tournament. And as if that wasn’t enough, delicious food will be offered at the conclusion of play. To sign up, register by May 26 at the Pro Shop for $100 per person. To ensure great prizes, green and cart fees are not included in the entry fee. If you have not established a handicap with Taiyo Golf Club, please talk to our friendly and professional staff to get set up. For more information, visit mccsokinawa. com/golf, and if you have any questions, please call 622-2004.
Sporty Staycation Goals Destination: The End Zone Don’t let your calendar fill up without adding a staycation or two into the mix. For football super fans, is there any better place to be than the end zone? Score some touchdowns on Saturday and Sunday, May 15 and 16, at the Camp Courtney Open Flag Football Tournament. Fill your lineup with 20 pigskin fanatics plus a coach, but remember, if your coach plans to play, they will count against your 20-player limit. Each game will have two 20-minute halves and a five-minute halftime. Overall 1st, 2nd and 3rd place teams will receive awards. The tournament is open to SOFA ID card holders ages 16 and older and kicks off at the Camp Courtney Bowl. Registration is $150 per team and available through Eventbrite until 1 p.m. on May 10. For more information, visit mccsokinawa.com/ adultsports or facebook.com/mccsokinawa.semperfit. Questions may be emailed to adultsports@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org. MAY 2021 | OKINAWA LIVING 33
MARINES + FAMILIES
A Gift for Expectant Parents Showering You with Knowledge Baby showers are fun for both the expecting family and guests in attendance. They’re complete with party food, games, lots of chatter and, of course, an abundance of gifts. Many of these new gifts come with instructions—the crib has assembly directions, a breast pump includes a user guide and car seats and strollers have safety manuals. But the best gift of all, your new bundle of joy, is not arriving with such detailed information. Good thing MCCS’ New Parent Support Program offers four FREE classes to shower you with knowledge. Start preparing for baby with the Journey Through Pregnancy class. Offered on Camps Kinser (Wednesdays), Foster (Thursdays) and Courtney (Fridays), this 12-week series can be joined at any time and is designed to help you feel confident during your baby’s birth. Topics covered during each one-hour session include pregnancy, birth and mother and new baby care. Keep the parenthood party going with Baby Boot Camp, which focuses on care for your baby in the first months after delivery. Crib, home and car safety topics, along with important skills like diapering,
bathing and soothing your baby, are discussed. You’ll also gain valuable knowledge about feeding or breastfeeding, self-care, nutrition and overall baby health. Baby Boot Camp is offered once a month on Camp Foster and even includes FREE prizes and giveaways. We also have a Japanese Baby Boot Camp (upon request) which covers all of the same subjects, but is presented during in-home visits by one of our staff members who is fluent in Japanese. Last but not least, attend our Parents in Uniform class to help you navigate Marine Corps family policies. Learn about legal requirements, housing, DEERS processes, on-island child care options and more. Joining this small-group program will put your mind at ease, as it’s never too soon to tackle family readiness issues. The New Parent Support Program celebrates your growing family while strengthening your parenting skills. To register for one of our classes or for more information on how we can support you, please call 645-0396 from a DSN or 098-970-0396 from off base or email npsp@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org.
Mil Spouse to School House Virtual Brief Despite being a small tropical island in the middle of the Pacific, Okinawa is as good a place as any to continue your higher education, especially with so many colleges and universities committing to full online learning. Charting another educational course can be nerve-wracking, though, so to help you gain your bearings, MCCS Education is offering a virtual brief for spouses of active-duty service members and veterans called Mil Spouse to School House, which will equip participants with the tools to identify degree programs, utilize military benefits, navigate the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and more. There will be two chances to catch this brief: 10 a.m. on Wednesday, May 5 or Wednesday, May 19. To register, email education@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org with your name and email address. MCCS Education will then respond with the link and password on the day of the brief you wish to attend. For more information, head to mccsokinawa.com/education. For questions, please call 645-7160. MAY 2021 | OKINAWA LIVING 35
MARINES + FAMILIES
Up Your Home-Buying Game Personal Financial Management Workshops If you’ve ever played the board game LIFE, you might be caught by surprise when it comes time to actually buying your first house. This milestone event isn’t as simple as picking a home (from a board game deck or from the actual housing market) and handing over some cash. When you start encountering interest rates, closing costs, choosing a real estate agent and securing a loan, things become a bit more complicated. Up your home-buying game with the Personal Financial Management Program. Join us virtually or in person for our Home Buyer’s Workshops on May 4 (virtual event) or May 20 on Camp Kinser (Bldg. 1220). Both workshops are from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Registration is open and available through mccsokinawa. com/personal_finance_management. Please register no later than the day prior to the workshop you would like to attend.
Family Advocacy Program MCCS Behavioral Health Think of MCCS Behavioral Health as a garden. In this garden, the trees represent programs. You have the Community Counseling tree, the Substance Abuse Counseling tree and then the Family Advocacy Program tree. This last tree is big, with a bunch of branches, or subprograms, that serve different, targeted aspects of families’ needs. Let’s take a look at those branches. One branch is the Family Advocacy Clinicians. If you are a Marine, Sailor or family member experiencing or witnessing domestic violence, child abuse, neglect or problematic sexual behavior in children and youth, the clinicians will aid you during this difficult time. In general, the clinicians offer intervention, assessment, advocacy and prevention services through counseling. Two very close branches to the clinicians are Family Advocacy Case Managers—who work on non-clinical cases and help form Incident Determination Committees—and Victim Advocates. Advocates provide emotional support to victims of abuse and to the non-offending parent of a child who is experiencing abuse. They are available 24/7 at the helpline 645SAFE (7233) or 098-970-7233.
Another branch is Prevention & Education. The specialists here provide briefs, trainings and classes on topics such as stress management, anger management and healthy relationships. The last branch, New Parent Support Program, offers parenting education for families with children under the age of six. Classes include Baby Boot Camp, which teaches soonto-be parents the baby-care basics needed from birth through the first few months after delivery (this class is also available in Japanese); Parents in Uniform, wherein all the logistics of having a child while serving in the military are sorted out; and Journey Through Pregnancy, a 12-week series that boosts parents’ overall confidence with topics such as “understanding pregnancy” and “understanding birth.” New Parent Support Home Visitors are available for one-on-one home visitations as well. The Family Advocacy Program (Bldg. 439) on Camp Foster is open to all SOFA ID card holders Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. For more information, please visit mccsokinawa. com/behavioral_health. For questions, please call 645-2915.
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DINING + ENTERTAINMENT
The Nineteenth Hole The Perfect Start (and End) to Your Game
No, Taiyo Golf Club didn’t break all the norms and decide to make an extra hole on its course, but it did add a delicious, accessible snack bar. Strategically placed near the 1st and 18th holes to simultaneously serve both arriving and departing golfers, The Nineteenth Hole offers breakfast and lunch options every day from 6:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. And whether you choose breakfast or lunch, service is fast and all the offerings are to-go friendly, so you won’t have to wait around too long or worry about handling some sort of messy meal while you’re trying to get your game going. On the breakfast side of the menu, there are four options including the ever-popular Breakfast Burrito, with eggs, chorizo, potato hash, pepper jack cheese, onions and tomatoes wrapped in a flour tortilla, as well as the Country Sausage Breakfast
Sandwich, comprised of a sausage patty, eggs and American cheese on a warm telera roll. These are accompanied on the menu by the City Bacon Breakfast Sandwich, with bacon, eggs and cheese on a roll, and a true island favorite: the Spam Musubi—a steamed rice ball topped with a slice of grilled Spam. Meanwhile, on the lunch side of things, The Nineteenth Hole sells both flatbreads and regular sandwiches. For the former, choose from the Cheese Flatbread—mozzarella cheese and organic tomato sauce on crispy naan; the Pepperoni Flatbread, with tomato sauce, five cheeses and pepperoni on naan; or the California BBQ Chicken Flatbread, a delicious display of shredded roast chicken, mozzarella cheese and BBQ sauce on naan. Sandwich-wise, The Nineteenth Hole has plenty to offer. Try the Shaved Ham, which
showcases Cure 81 boneless ham, shaved and stacked with cheddar cheese and mustard mayonnaise on a fresh telera roll. Looking for something spicy? Roll with the Jalapeño Jack Turkey, which delivers tasty turkey and jalapeño jack cheese with honey mustard on a roll. Veggie lovers will adore the Grilled Vegetable, which features fresh grilled veggies and Havarti cheese with pesto mayonnaise on ciabatta bread. And if you have a hankering for something simple yet delicious, go for a Hot Dog—a 100 percent all-beef frank, served in a freshly baked brioche bun. The Nineteenth Hole also sells chips, cookies, candy bars and Kind Bars if you’re really cutting it close to your tee time. For more information or if you have any questions, please call 622-2004 from a DSN or 098-954-2004 from off base or visit mccsokinawa.com/taiyosteakhouse. MAY 2021 | OKINAWA LIVING 41
DINING + ENTERTAINMENT
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 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 9, 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 you can do! The Butler Officers’ Club on Plaza Housing (645-7530) will be serving brunch on a grand scale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Prices are $19 for adults, $9.50 for children 5–11 and FREE for children under five. Both Tengan Castle on Camp Courtney (622-9413) and Surfside on Camp Kinser (637-3137) will also be offering scrumptious vittles for mom from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at their mid-morning buffets. Prices are $17 for adults, $8.50 for children 5–11 and FREE for children under five. Last but not least, mom will most
certainly enjoy the cool spring breezes along with a selection from the à la carte brunch menu at Taiyo Steakhouse. Doors open from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. with seating on the balcony (weather permitting). Mother’s Day Brunches at MCCS Clubs are sponsored by Moon Ocean Ginowan and Tamaru Camping Park. Dine with us for a chance to win one of many fabulous prizes. Reservations are required and events are subject to change. For more information on these offerings, visit mccsokinawa.com/clubs.
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RESTAURANT REVIEW
Dining & Bar CHURA SUN Just the Ticket
Text by: Angie Andrews | Photography by: Hillary Taylor | Translation by: Hiromitsu Horikawa
Location 1-6-6 Shirahama Ishikawa Uruma City Hours of Operation 6 p.m.–2 a.m. *Last Order: 1 a.m. Closed Tuesdays. Closing at 8 p.m. during restrictions. Payment ¥ Only Contact Information 098-911-0025 Instagram: chura_sun0711
If you get excited to try new-to-you restaurants, how about new-to-everyone restaurants? Having made its debut in February, Dining & Bar CHURA SUN is just the ticket for your next foray into the wide world of eateries on Okinawa. In a conversation with Ms. Kikuno Chinen, the restaurant owner, she shared how all of the meals available are based on experiences she had when living and working in Tokyo, so you are sure to have your fill of authentic Japanese cuisine. Personally, I didn’t need much more than my favorite ingredient, beni shōga (pickled red ginger), to win me over, so I was hooked from my first bite of CHURA SUN’s delicious yakisoba (fried noodles). And while my love affair with any and all types of noodles has been a lifelong one, I had no reservations about setting them aside as soon as I tasted the mouthwatering shōga yaki. I relished every bite—so much so that I ordered another serving. In general, shōga means ginger, but this stir-fry meal has several other intriguing ingredients worthy of further investigation. First, as a whole, this is a pleasantly tart, rice-based selection that includes thinly sliced pork and vegetables. Tucked away in each corner of my tray, I found umeboshi (pickled plums) and shibazuke (pink cucumber), both welcome and tangy additions. Their bright colors come from red perilla leaves, or shiso, used during the pickling process. Shiso, sometimes called “beefsteak plant” due to its coloring (which resembles juicy, rare beef), belongs to the mint family and is
packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties—a healthy enough reason to assuage my already minimal guilt about doubling my shōga yaki portion. On the meatier side of the menu, pork spareribs, yakitori (grilled chicken on a stick) and curry rice should all make your must-order list. With meat that almost falls right off of the bone, the spareribs are so tender because they are cooked twice: first boiled with soy sauce, mirin, sugar and sake, then grilled and finished with a top-secret sauce. In the spirit of convenience, they come partially sliced to provide easy access to each bite. The tare-glazed yakitori is, of course, classic, and includes three skewers per pack, making them great for sharing. When it comes to the curry rice, you can select from chicken, beef or pork for your protein. The curry itself is warm, earthy and the perfect blend of savory and semisweet thanks to its robust spices. Located midway between Camps Courtney and Hansen, Dining & Bar CHURA SUN is a central spot for almost any outing on island. After all, dinner is the best way to end a full day of soaking up and admiring the restaurant’s namesake: “beautiful sun.” To support COVID-mitigation guidance, you can get all of these dishes to-go. But, if you’re looking to turn your to-go box meal into an evening picnic instead of heading straight home, nearby Ishikawa Beach is also a perfect spot for viewing Kin Bay in socially distanced bliss.
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TROY’s Military and Family Scholarship caps the cost of tuition at $250 per credit hour for active duty military. Also, your spouse and dependents receive up to 50% in tuition savings.
for
Troops Center
TERM V, 2021 May 24 - Jul. 25, 2021 Registration Begins: 05/03/21 TERM I, 2021 Aug. 9 - Oct. 10, 2021 Registration Begins: 05/03/21
CONTACT THE PROGRAM
TERM II, 2021 Oct. 11 - Dec. 12, 2021 Registration Begins: 09/20/21
FOR MORE INFORMATION
TERM III, 2022 Jan. 3 - Mar. 6, 2022 Registration Begins: 11/22/21
COORDINATOR NEAREST YOU
KADENA AB kadena@troy.edu DSN 634-7464
OSAN AB osan@troy.edu DSN 784-8151
MISAWA AB misawa@troy.edu DSN 226-3748
CAMP HUMPHREYS humphreys@troy.edu DSN 755-3534
TERM IV, 2022 Mar. 14 - May 15, 2022 Registration Begins: 02/21/22 TERM V, 2022 May 23 - Jul. 24, 2022 Registration Begins: 05/02/22
troy.edu/pacific
Okinawa Living 7.9375 x 5.625 2019-2020 Term 0 - Edit.indd 1
5/6/0.
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KIDS + PARENTS
Kids are Natural All-Stars Registration for YS Baseball and Softball When it comes to stepping up to the plate and having a ball, kids are natural all-stars—and Youth Sports’ upcoming baseball and softball season is the perfect chance for fun in a team sports setting. So whether your kid is looking forward to their first at-bat or is ready to beat their stats from last season, it’s time to play ball! Typical schedules include practice twice a week on either Mondays and Wednesdays or Tuesdays and Thursdays. Practices last approximately one hour and are held sometime between 5 and 8 p.m. This year’s practices begin on July 19 and games begin on July 31. Games are usually once or twice a week and locations rotate between Camps Courtney, Foster and Kinser.
SOFA-status children ages 5 to 18 are invited to participate. Children who are currently 4 years of age may also participate if they turn 5 before the season ends on October 9. Registration for youth baseball and softball is open from May 1 to June 30 and available online or in person at any staffed MCCS Fitness Center. For more information, please visit mccsokinawa.com/youthsports. After registering, players will receive their schedules for the season from their coaches. For any questions, reach out to us at youthsports@okinawa.usmcmccs.org, call 645-3533/ 34 or stop by our office on Camp Foster (Bldg. 5952). Positions for volunteer coaches and assistant coaches are also available and a great way to join the fun (read more on that below).
Coach Recruitment MCCS Youth Sports With the youth baseball and softball season right around the corner, Youth Sports is looking for volunteer head coaches and assistant coaches to lead teams and mentor children ages 5 to 18. Volunteer coaching is an incredible 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 modeling how to steal second base and fielding 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. Applica-
tions are currently being accepted and will be so until all vacancies are filled. The first meeting for coaches is July 6–8 and team practices start July 19. The baseball and softball season then officially begins on July 31 and wraps up October 9. 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 coach, or if you have any questions, please contact our office at 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 mccsokinawa.com/youthsports. MAY 2021| OKINAWA LIVING 49
KIDS + PARENTS
Memorial Day Pool Bashes A Splashing Good Time
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 finish line at TriKids, MiniKids and Women’s Only Triathlons. Join us bright and early (check-in begins at 6 a.m.) on May 22 at the Camp Kinser Aquatic Center. Distances for the TriKids and Women’s Only events are the same and include a 100m swim, an approximately 4km bike ride and a run just shy of 1.5km. 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 25m swim, bike about 250m and run approximately 100m.
Both TriKids and MiniKids triathletes should pass the 2021 MCCS swim test before participating or wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket 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 to participate during the bike and run portions of the race only. Participants in all age groups should have bikes in safe operating condition and wear helmets while riding. Finishers’ certificates will be presented at a small awards ceremony after the races. SOFA ID card holders may register for FREE before May 19 at mccsokinawa.com/ aquatics. For any questions, please email mccsaquatics@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org.
Swimmers, sun bathers, revelers and free-food lovers: after a cool wet spring, the weather is finally heating up, the sun is shining full blast and the official start of summer is just around the corner—which means MCCS Aquatics is ready to celebrate. How so? With some Memorial Day Pool Bashes. On Monday, May 31 from noon to 3 p.m., slap on some sunscreen (and a swimsuit, please) and stop by one of the aquatic centers on Camps Foster, Hansen, McTureous or MCAS Futenma to join in on the fun. In addition to the regular pool offerings, there will be a DJ and FREE food (while supplies last). SOFA ID card holders and authorized guests of all ages are invited. If your go-to pool is not on the list of aquatic centers hosting a Memorial Day Pool Bash, this is a perfect opportunity to check out what the other pools have to offer. Camp Foster Aquatic Center features a 50m pool and a slide; Hansen Aquatic Center has a 50m pool and a 25m military training pool; McTureous Aquatic Center is home to a 25m pool, a slide and a baby pool; and MCAS Futenma Aquatic Center features a 25m pool. Whichever location you choose, it’ll be a splashing good time. For more information on the Memorial Day Pool Bashes, head to mccsokinawa.com/aquatics or facebook.com/mccsokinawa.aquatics. For questions, email mccsaquatics@ okinawa.usmc-mccs.org. MAY 2021 | OKINAWA LIVING 51
SECTION SERVICES NAME
Tsunami Scuba Memorial Day Sale Did you know the first manta ray ever born in captivity was at Okinawa’s Churaumi Aquarium? These magnificent creatures can be seen in the Kuroshio tank, but imagine encountering them in the wild! Summer months on Okinawa are perfect for scuba divers to see manta rays, spawning coral and many of the other remarkable creatures that inhabit the islands’ tropical waters. The main island of Okinawa features many dive points, each more amazing than the last. You can hover above gardens of soft corals off Sunabe Seawall, gaze into the depths of the deepest azure off Maeda Point (and try to see the bottom 30+ meters below), or marvel at expanses of branch and table corals offshore from Onna Village. At most venues you can spy sea life in multitudes—eagle rays, clownfish and anemones, turtles, reef sharks and fish in every shape and color you can imagine and then some. Breathtaking glimpses of marine life thrill divers of all experience levels, so don’t miss your chance this summer. Kicking off the season, Tsunami Scuba locations island-wide will have their Memorial Day Sale, offering 10 percent OFF all in-stock retail items (as well as other in-store specials!) from May 29 to 31. Stop by between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. to outfit yourself with all of the gear you’ve had your eye on. With popular brands like AquaLung, Suunto and Bare available, you’ll be equipped in no time. Pick out the perfect mask, fins, gloves or wetsuit and grab some gadgets, too—regulators, dive computers and knives all belong in your gear collection. Although this sale excludes educational materials and booties, don’t let that stop you from signing up for your next certification course. Ask our staff about upcoming classes and fill your summer with the dives of a lifetime as your skills improve. You can also enhance your dive life with the resources available on our website which include Dive the Rock videos, a dive site map, dive descriptions and eLearning opportunities. For more details about Tsunami Scuba, visit mccsokinawa.com/scuba. MAY 2021 | OKINAWA LIVING 53
SERVICES
Memorial Day Sales Typhoon Motors This Memorial Day weekend, you’ll find no shortage of MCCS sales across MCB Camp Butler, and high on that list are the Typhoon Motors’ sales, which include discounts on subwoofers, lifts, stalls and radiator flushes (for more on the latter, see the adjacent article). Many drivers have original factory speakers in their cars because they just don’t realize the potential sound quality improvements they could be getting with some easy upgrades. A few tweaks to the bottom end of your current audio system can lead to significant improvements in sound clarity, quality and power. If the sound system in your ride is feeling weak, head to Typhoon Motors on Camp Foster from May 28 to June 6 to receive 15 percent OFF all subwoofers. A little bit of subwoofer goes a long way. As for lifts and stalls, the Memorial Day Lifts and Stalls Sale will tour Typhoon Motors on Camp Kinser on May 30 and 31, Camp Foster from May 30 to June 1, and Camps Courtney and Hansen on June 1. Stop by to find $1 lift and stall rentals. If you haven’t used them before, lifts and stalls present a fantastic opportunity to get better acquainted with your car. With a lift at Typhoon Motors, you are easily able to access your car’s undercarriage—that means changing or realigning your tires, fixing your suspension, changing your oil, installing a new muffler and much, much more, all by yourself. The stalls available at each Typhoon Motors also come stocked with tools so you don’t have to worry about forgetting your tools at home. Lastly, if you would like a stall without a lift to install those brand-new speakers you just purchased, those are available as well! For more information on locations, hours and services, head to mccsokinawa.com/typhoonmotors.
Beat the Heat With Typhoon Motors As summer on Okinawa approaches, one thought is stuck on repeat in many of our minds: how to beat the heat? So we crank up our A/C units, spend our days at the pool or beach and snag all of the ice cold drinks we can find. With all this focus on cooling off, don’t forget that your car’s engine needs to cool off, too. To get the job done, you’ll want to have a fully functional and efficient radiator. Get your car ready for summer and take advantage of Typhoon Motors’ Radiator Flush Special. Save 25 percent OFF throughout the month of May on complete radiator flush services and avoid the costly possibility of corrosion, fluid leaks or damage to your engine block, which can all happen if your car overheats too much. And as if that deal isn’t hot enough, stop by any of our locations island-wide from May 13 to 20 to shop our discounted automotive retail items. With this special sale, Typhoon Motors is joining in to pay tribute and say thank you to military members in honor of Armed Forces Day, the third Saturday in May. This day, which celebrates military service members from all branches of service, was established in 1949 and effectively replaced separate Army, Navy and Air Force holidays. We proudly support you and all of your car-care needs. Visit mccsokinawa. com/typhoonmotors for locations, hours, contact information and a list of complete services. MAY 2021 | OKINAWA LIVING 55
CHILDREN’S DAY TRADITIONS
MCCS PHOTO
Text by: Mike Daley Design by: Margie Shimabukuro
t is no secret that parents on Okinawa and in 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 their kids enter the best schools; and great effort goes into finding the perfect names for their children—all the way down to the number of brush strokes it takes to write them.
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In Japan, several holidays are specifically designated for children. While some traditional anniversaries, such as Hyaku-nichi-sai—a special ceremonial visit to a local Shinto shrine commemorating the baby’s 100th day on Earth—are held informally by individual families, some holidays and festivals are actual national holidays. Every year in Japan, a holiday called Kodomo-no-Hi (Children’s Day) is celebrated on May 5 as part of a string of Japanese holidays called Golden Week. Visitors to Japan will know Children’s Day is close when they begin to see two Kodomo-no-Hi mainstay traditions—koinobori (carp flags) flapping in the breeze above homes and fierce, elementary school-aged samurai warriors displayed prominently at department stores.
MCCS PHOTOS
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According to an ancient Chinese legend, a golden carp that had the courage to brave the numerous rapids and waterfalls of the Yellow River, and the strength to leap over the Dragon Gate at the river’s head, was rewarded for its perseverance by being transformed into a celestial dragon to spend the rest of its days flying majestically above the land. Many in Asia believe that because of this legend, the carp represents the epitome of courage, strength and perseverance. It is popularly thought that the custom of flying carp-shaped flags called koinobori during the holiday also finds its roots in this myth. Children’s Day (which was known as Tango-noSekku or “Boy’s Day” until 1948) falls on the fifth day of the fifth month in Japan, and was originally only a holiday for parents with sons, as parents with daughters would celebrate Hina Matsuri on the third day of the third month. Boy’s Day, which was also known as Shobu-no-Sekku (The Iris Festival) during ancient times, had close ties to the warrior class. Many in Japan postulate that Boy’s Day was originally set aside in commemoration of an allied samurai force defeating an invading army on the fifth day of the fifth month during the days of antiquity. As time passed, however, this holiday expanded to celebrate all children—a change that reflected parents’ wishes for their children to grow up strong and successful regardless of gender—and eventually became the holiday known as Kodomo-no-Hi. In Japan, it is said that the origin of the koinobori were the flags and streamers carried into battle by samurai warriors during medieval times. The design of
the streamers initially flown during Boy’s Day weren’t originally based upon carp (known as koi in Japanese); at first, the flags emulated the crests of notable samurai families. But because the carp encapsulated qualities admired by the warrior class, parents began to raise koinobori during Boy’s Day as far back as the Edo period (1600–1868 AD) in the hope that their sons would grow to acquire the attributes of the legendary golden carp. Today, during Kodomo-no-Hi, carp flags are proudly raised on tall poles in front of Japanese households where any child lives—with the desire that both boys and girls emulate the carp’s virtuous qualities of courage, perseverance and strength. A typical, modern-day set of family koinobori consists of a multi-colored streamer called a fukinagashi on top of the pole representing the tumultuous waters of the Yellow River; followed by a large black carp called a magoi representing the father of the family; a large red carp called the higoi representing the mother; then a number of smaller carp (usually colored blue, yellow, green, purple and other hues) representing the children. Koinobori are an inseparable part of Kodomo-noHi—even during the 21st century, as the carp itself is still an important creature in modern Japanese society. Sayings such as “koi-no-takinobori” (which literally translates into “koi climbing a waterfall”) are equated to “succeeding vigorously in life.” And, if reading the above reminds anyone of a Pokémon named “Magikarp” (which can evolve into a river dragon with enough TLC), they would be right on target as it was also inspired by the same legend.
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Like Hina Matsuri in March, which features special dolls decorating the homes of families with daughters, Kodomono-Hi celebrations feature special dolls called Gogatsu Ningyo, or “May dolls,” that typically decorate the homes of families with sons. Gogatsu Ningyo take many forms, a popular version of which resembles Kintarō (Golden Boy), a legendary character from folktales astride either a great brown bear, a golden carp or a white warhorse. Legends about this quasi-mythical figure dot both Japan’s history and its folktales, and many history tomes say Kintarō is based on an actual person named Sakatano-Kintoki, a faithful retainer of the 10th century warlord Minamoto-no-Yorimitsu (also known as Minamoto-noRaiko) who served the Emperor of Japan as a commander of a regiment. While Sakata-no-Kintoki can be found in history books, most people in Japan associate the name Kintarō with a popular bedtime story. Long ago in the capital city of Kyoto, there lived a brave samurai warrior named Kintoki.
As many do, he fell in love with a beautiful lady and married her. However, not long after this joyous day, he fell into disgrace with the court through the machinations of jealous rivals and was dismissed, dying shortly thereafter. Fearing her husband's enemies, Kintoki’s widow fled to the Ashigara Mountains, and there in the lonely forests, she gave birth to a little boy. She named the boy Kintarō. The child was born with great strength, a gift of the gods, and he grew stronger by the year. It is said that by the time he was eight, he could cut down trees as quickly as the local woodcutters, with whom he often traveled to help them fell trees. Unlike other boys, Kintarō grew up in the mountain wilds without kids of his own age to play with, so he became friends with all the animals and learned to communicate with them. One day, Kintarō went up into the mountains, followed by his friends the bear, the deer, the monkey and the hare. After some walking they reached a grassy plain—the perfect place for a sumo match. After much discussion, and a few preliminary
MAY 2021 | OKINAWA LIVING 63
MCCS PHOTOS
amazing boy?” he exclaimed. The other woodcutters replied, “That’s just Kintarō; he lives with his mom at the base of the mountain.” After walking his friends home to their respective dens, Kintarō arrived home to the greetings of his mother and found that she had a guest. Upon his arrival, the modest woodcutter revealed himself as Sadamitsu, a vassal of the powerful lord Minamoto-no-Raiko. “I have been under orders to travel the land in search of suitable candidates for samurai warriors; the disguise enables me to travel freely throughout the countryside, because my face is not unknown,” he said. “If you would like, I will take you to meet Lord Raiko.” Both mother and son were overjoyed, and agreed. Although Kintarō’s mother was very sad inside because she would be parting with her only son, she hid her grief because she knew it was for the best. Kintarō promised that as soon as he was a true samurai, he would build her a home and take care of her in her old age. Kintarō trained as a samurai and soon joined their ranks, amazing all with his stupendous strength. Kintarō rose to be one of the greatest heroes of his country, with great power, honor and wealth. He of course kept his promise and built a comfortable home for his mother, who lived happily with him in the capital to the end of her days.
tussles, it was decided that the two strongest would wrestle: Kintarō and the bear. After a titanic struggle, Kintarō threw the bear to the ground, victorious. Then after a bit of rest, the animals traveled back down the mountains, taking a different route, walking until they found themselves on the banks of a river flowing through a valley. Although they looked for a shallow point to cross, there was none to be found. The animals began to fret as the afternoon continued to wane. Kintarō suddenly perked up, struck by an idea. “I see a bridge!” Mystified, the animals cried that there was no bridge, only tall trees lining the river. The animals’ puzzlement soon turned to awe as Kintarō walked to the tallest tree and proceeded to rip it out of the ground with his bare hands. “There,” said Kintarō, “what do you think of my bridge? It is quite safe, so follow me," and he stepped across first, followed by the four animals. While this was going on, an old man dressed as a woodcutter rubbed his eyes in amazement at the incredible feat of strength. He happened to be passing by on his way down the mountain with two other woodcutters. “Who is that
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LIVING ON OKINAWA
Tuna and Avocado Donburi Serves two Ingredients 1/2 lb. raw tuna (sliced thinly) 1 avocado cut into bite-sized cubes 2 sheets of nori (dried seaweed) cut into thin strips 2 bowls of steamed white short-grain rice Marinade Mixture 2 tbsp. soy sauce 1 tsp. mirin (Japanese cooking wine) 2 tsp. soy sauce Sauce 1 tbsp. soy sauce 1/3 tsp. wasabi paste Method of Preparation 1. Marinate tuna slices in marinade mixture for at least two hours 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 and enjoy!
Reversion of Okinawa People may wonder why some island residents prefer calling themselves Uchinānchu (or “Okinawans”) instead of “Japanese,” even though they are very much citizens of Japan. In contrast, very few residents of other prefectures call themselves (at least formally) monikers such as “Osakan” or “Tokyoite.” The reasons for this lie in the island’s past—Okinawa was overseen by the United States for 27 years after the Battle of Okinawa until it was returned to Japan on May 15, 1972. Before this reversion, the currency used on the island wasn’t yen, it was the U.S. dollar. Automobiles were driven on the right side of the road (this was switched to the left-hand side six years later), and people from mainland Japan needed a passport to enter Okinawa. In addition, appropriate documentation and vaccinations were needed when Okinawans traveled to mainland Japan. Because of this unique situation, most Okinawans weren’t treated as actual citizens of Japan during this period. Even before WW II, Okinawa had only been an official part of Japan for a relatively short time—until 1879, it was a sovereign kingdom called “Ryukyu.” Because the Ryukyu Kingdom was a hub for trade between its neighboring Asian countries, many aspects of the island’s traditional culture show just as much influence from China as they do from Japan and other Southeast Asian nations. Today, Okinawan culture also shows heavy influences from the
United States—especially in the central part of the island where several military installations still stand. Today, for quite a few Uchinānchu, the country the island swears allegiance to doesn’t completely define their identities. The unique champurū (which means “harmonious mixture”) of Ryukyu culture still lives on inside their hearts—just as it did during the glorious days when the island was a kingdom.
Uchinâguchi Corner English
Japanese
Uchinâguchi
May
Gogatsu
Gun’ Gwachi MAY 2021 | OKINAWA LIVING 69
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