O K I NAWA N
November 2023 | Issue 309
contents November 2023
8
42 56
PHOTOS FROM LEFT KIRSTIN SPANU, KIRSTIN SPANU, MIA COX , AMERICANTARO - STOCK.ADOBE.COM
16 features
marines + families
services
8
33
49
MCCS Holiday Gift Guide Get the lowdown on upcoming specials and sales.
16
Marine Corps Birthday Appreciation MCCS Libraries will be expressing their appreciation for Marines and wishing them a happy birthday on November 10 with sweet treats throughout the day!
Sales Worth Celebrating Tsunami Scuba will be honoring Veterans on November 11 with their Military Appreciation Sale and celebrating the Marine Corps Birthday with surprise specials.
Uniquely Okinawan Gifts Score some unique gifts perfect for family and friends back in the States.
dining + entertainment
extras
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Fandom Fanatics The Universes We Love to Love Prep for Comic Con Okinawa coming up in December with a treatise on fandom—more specifically Marvel vs. DC Comics!
Holiday Meals-To-Go MCCS Catering makes serving up a taste of home easy as pie. Choose complete meals, à la carte selections or mix and match all of your favorites!
Mensôre
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67
restaurant review
A Little Taste of Fall Enjoy a slew of fall and holiday flavors at your nearest Bonsai Coffee Company—including the Pumpkin Bliss Latte, Peppermint Mocha and more!
Living on Okinawa
42 Brunch Bliss at Elk Exploring Pancake Delights and More Enjoy a delightful fusion of breakfast and lunch offerings at the ultimate hangout for brunch aficionados.
fitness + fun 27 Gobble…Gobble…Touchdown! We highly recommend not eating your Thanksgiving leftovers right before competing in this flag football tournament.
29 Kinser Half-Marathon Time to lace up your sneakers and gobble up the miles at Camp Kinser’s Half-Marathon.
kids + parents 45 Baby Boot Camp Taught by an expert team of counselors and nurses, Baby Boot Camp provides helpful information for expecting parents to prepare for the arrival of their baby through the first few months after delivery.
47 Dinosaur Tea Party The Camp Foster Library has invited a prehistoric tea party guest to take over their facility in what’s sure to be a dinomite event.
7 Feedback & Show Us!
70 Marketplace Guide
NOVEMBER 2023 | ISSUE 309 COMMANDING GENERAL, MCIPAC Major General Stephen E. Liszewski ASSISTANT CHIEF OF STAFF, MCCS, MCIPAC Edward S. Hutsell DEPUTY ASSISTANT CHIEF OF STAFF, MCCS DIRECTOR, MCCS, MCB CAMP BUTLER Michael S. Gieseck DEPUTY MCCS DIRECTOR MARINE & FAMILY PROGRAMS Carlos J. Saldaña DEPUTY MCCS DIRECTOR BUSINESS & SUPPORT Hyun Woo Chang CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER Jim Kassebaum EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Mike Daley MCCS ART DIRECTOR Henry C. Ortega OKINAWA LIVING ART DIRECTORS Margie Shimabukuro, Emily Wright GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Tiffany Kim, Alora Wilson, Meghan Johnson, James Rieth DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER Thomas Alan Smilie PHOTOGRAPHERS/VIDEOGRAPHERS Mia Cox, Kirstin Spanu EDITORIAL Dani Livesey, Swetha Gogue DIGITAL & SOCIAL MEDIA Roxine Ami, Tiara Supakit, Claire Wilkinson CULTURAL RESEARCH SPECIALIST Ayako Kawamitsu ADVERTISING SALES & SPONSORSHIP MANAGER John Dailey ADVERTISING SALES & SPONSORSHIP Yoshihiro Shinzato, Hiromitsu Horikawa Ada Tovar, Tsutomu McCoy MARKETING ACCOUNTS MANAGER Andrew Menges MARKETING ACCOUNTS Eduardo Sanchez Perry
mensôre “Welcome” to Okinawa Living
May your Days be Merry and Bright! The winter holidays, as merry as they can be, can also mean busy schedules, party planning (and execution), shopping, tension, financial uncertainty and a fair amount of stress. In addition, unfamiliar surroundings only compound it. Traditionally, the holidays are about sharing good times and festive meals with loved ones. However, for someone living a thousand miles away from family and friends, as well as familiar sights and sounds of home, the holidays can appear to be tinged a very different shade. Holiday blues, the feelings of loss or sadness that some experience during the holiday season, most often strike when people are away from those that they love. Even for those that are here with family, finances can be another source of stress—overspending during the holidays can increase tensions as people try to make ends meet while ensuring that everyone on their gift list is “happy.” Physical demands, including the strain of actual shopping and wrapping, attending social gatherings and preparing holiday meals can also wipe people out. Feeling exhausted increases stress, creating a vicious cycle. To help alleviate holiday stress and help chase away these blues, MCCS will once again be offering many activities to make Okinawa, mainland Japan, South Korea, Guam and even a deployment to Australia “Your Home for the Holidays.” Events include activities promoting healthy stress-free living, FREE athletic tournaments for Marines and Sailors, FREE events and food at SMP Centers throughout the holiday season and much, much more. Check out okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/holidays for a full listing of 2023-2024 Your Home for the Holidays offerings taking place this year and take advantage of these FREE events, entertainment and more to make your holiday season merry and bright.
DISTRIBUTION Wataru Yamanoha, Shohei Ikene
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
Mike Daley Editor-In-Chief
Okinawa Living is published by MCCS Marketing. Its purpose is to inform the military and civilian community about events and programs offered by MCCS or available in the local market. Dates and times may change. Copyright ©2023 by MCCS. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transferred in any form, by any means, electronic, photocopying, recording, or otherwise without written permission of the copyright owner. No federal or Marine Corps endorsement of advertisers and sponsors. MCCS is not responsible for editing content of non-MCCS ads. Okinawa Living Magazine is printed with
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feedback
from the ICE Program and Facebook My family has eaten at TERRA several times before, and we have never been disappointed. Tonight, my family ate dinner there, and we just adored our server. We tried hard to read his name tag but couldn’t quite make out the name. The receipt said his name was Dominic, and he was working the bar and tables nearby on 9/7/2023. This gentleman was so kind and pleasant, and he just seemed to be extremely responsive and respectful. My husband and I both commented how wonderful he was several times throughout our meal. We just wanted to make sure that he knew how appreciative we were to be greeted by someone who was genuinely kind and happy. Thank you, Dominic, for your wonderful service tonight. Your personality beamed kindness and light and we enjoyed our interactions and meal! —via ICE
@okilivingmag Show us your island adventures and favorite food finds!
@coramdeophotos
“Living for that Golden-hour Glow! ” —kid on shoulders
I would like to extend my gratitude to the lovely pediatric physical and occupational therapists that I have had the pleasure of meeting through the EFMP and EDIS playgroup. I began taking my son to playgroup when he was about two months old to meet other moms and give my son the opportunity to interact with other children. What I didn’t expect when we began attending playgroup was how truly welcome the women hosting playgroup made us feel each week. My son was born with reflux, and it was extremely difficult for my husband and I. The issue became more concerning when he was still struggling to roll at 4 months old. I spoke with staff members about my concerns during playgroup and they were extremely kind and helpful. He’s now 10 months old, is meeting his milestones and is close to walking! We are so thankful for the amazing women we’ve gotten to know through the EFMP and EDIS playgroup, and their dedication to helping babies and parents! —via ICE The WARLORDS of 2D Battalion, 2D Marines are forever grateful to you, the MCCS staff, and the exceptional tour guide, Chris [Majewski], for an incredible visit to Hacksaw Ridge this past Thursday. It was an informative and unique experience that will no doubt resonate with them for the remainder of their lives. Chris was an extraordinary tour guide and his expertise and knowledge regarding all the battle site locations here on Okinawa helped portray the challenging and harrowing experience of those who came before us. We appreciate all the hard work and dedication that went into facilitating a truly memorable day for our Marines. Thank you again and please pass along our appreciation to Chris for doing such a fantastic job. —via ICE Awesome event! (Futenma Flight Line Fair Sept. 30 - Oct. 1). Thank you MCCS Okinawa. —via Facebook
@amandapongallo
“Who doesn’t love palm trees” -botanical gardens
@churavibes
“Dive into happiness” -snorkeling
Domo arigatou gozaimashita and thank you for your posts! We can’t wait to see what else you love about Okinawa! —The Okinawa Living Staff
Give MCCS Feedback—ICE Program & Facebook Let us know how we can better serve you or thank us for a job well-done. Go to okinawa.usmc-mccs.org and find the ICE link in the “MORE” section of the homepage or find us on Facebook to share feedback. Comments on this page may be edited for clarity or length.
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NAME/BIGSTOCK.COM
Share the beauty of your home-away-from-home with friends and family in the states. The Best of Okinawa Living, a substantial and comprehensive pictorial compilation of everything Okinawa, covers the island’s history, picturesque locales, interesting cuisine, cultural curiosities, art and artists, national and local festivals and holidays and much more. Omoide: Memories of Okinawa is a collection of images that will elicit fond memories of the island. The Best of Okinawa Living and Omoide: Memories of Okinawa make a perfect pair and are available island wide at Exchange retail facilities that sell books.
One of the best gifts anyone can receive is a break from the weekly grind. Gift them with an escape from their daily routine (and pre-holiday stress) with a local tour to some of the island’s top cultural attractions and beyond! Or, if you really want to wow with a gift, Tours+ has the perfect present—a trip off-island to visit an exotic locale such as Kyoto, Tokyo or beyond! For more information on upcoming tours, contact your nearest MCCS Tours+ office or visit them online at okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/tours.
‘Tis the season for shopping and gift-giving, and Tsunami Scuba is going to help you save some hard-earned bucks this year while doing so. Chances are you have a friend, coworker or family member who is either already an avid diver or snorkeler or aspires to be one on this gorgeous island. Or perhaps you fit into this category and should start dropping some hints about the underwater toys you hope to see under the tree this year. Either way, there’s no better place to find them than your nearest Tsunami Scuba! From BCDs, scuba lights, dive knives, masks and snorkels to steel and aluminum cylinders, rashguards, tons of accessories, hats, t-shirts and much, much more available, you’ll probably buy a few things for yourself as a reward for being such a great Santa. For more details, call 645-4206 or visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/scuba. For more information on Tsunami Scuba’s Veterans Day and Marine Corps Birthday Sales happening this month, turn to p. 49.
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Looking for a present for a golfer or someone who is thinking of taking up the game? How about picking up a new driver, putter, golf bag or golf accessory from the Taiyo Golf Club Pro Shop? Everything in the store will be on sale from November 24 until December 25 (for the ultimate shopping procrastinator). Storewide, discounts begin at 10% with selected items up to 40% off! For more information on the Taiyo Golf Club Holiday Sale, call 6222004. Visit Taiyo Golf Club online at okinawa.usmc-mccs.org /golf.
First up, how about giving them (and yourself, if you’re a regular passenger) welcome relief by getting their ride’s A/C a tune-up? Now’s the perfect time to set them up for this “totally cool” early gift with Typhoon Motor’s 25% off A/C Tune-Up Sale taking place throughout the month. Next, get them a gift that their ears will thank you for! Head to Foster Typhoon Motors November 24–30 for their Thanksgiving Special Sale—offering 10% off all head units. Perhaps their ride is in dire need of some TLC? Hook them up with an Auto Detailing Service appointment at Foster Typhoon Motors! With exterior, interior and combo packages available, they’ll feel like they’re driving a brand-new car! For more information on Foster Typhoon Motors Auto Detailing services, call 645-7169. For hours of operation and phone numbers for all Typhoon Motors locations, visit them online at okinawa.usmc-mccs.org /typhoonmotors.
Arts and Craft Centers on Camps Foster and Courtney offer the perfect gifts for the crafty as well as craft-lovers. What could be a better present than a handmade (by you, of course) Japanese kimekomi doll? Perhaps unleashing the creative powers of resin at their Resin Class could provide an answer? For that picky person that has everything and just wants guns…lots of guns, both Arts and Crafts Centers have the perfect gift—GOAT Guns! For more information on offerings at MCCS Arts and Craft Centers, contact them at 622-7492 (Courtney) or 645-3674 (Foster). Visit them online at okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/ courtneyartsandcrafts or okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/fosterartsandcrafts respectfully. Looking for a perfect customized gift? Well, head to the Foster Custom Shop! They specialize in plaques, trophies and engraving on a variety of materials such as acrylic and wood. They can even add custom logos and write in kanji to give gift items a unique Japanese feel! For more information on engraving services and other offerings at the Foster Custom Shop, call 645-0126, email customshop@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org or visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/customshop.
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It’s a gift that will pay dividends for a lifetime! Instead of (or in addition to) that video game, how about gifting your child with classes at Excellence Gymnastics Academy (EGA) this year? Gymnastics is an amazing sport for children—giving them increased discipline, self-confidence, flexibility, strength, coordination and social-emotional growth. Classes and training are offered at the competitive, recreational, preschool and adult level for students of all ages. Those looking for gear, accessories and apparel can visit the EGA Pro Shop which offers leotards, shorts, T-shirts, headbands and more in both children and adult sizes. For more info on EGA—including hours of operation, registration information, pricing, class descriptions, upcoming events and more—visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/gymnastics.
The Camp Foster Bowling Center Pro Shop will be holding their 12 Days of Christmas Bowling Sale December 1–12 that will <cough, cough> “bowl you over!” The Foster Bowling Pro Shop has everything a bowler needs be they beginners or advanced. They stock a wide variety of bowling balls, bags, shoes and accessories and also specialize in custom fitting, resurfacing and reconditioning balls. All items in the shop, including balls, of course, will be 10% off. Some select items will be marked down as much as 30%! For more information on this sale, call the Foster Bowling Center Pro Shop at 645-7205. Visit them online at okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/bowling.
MCCS Gift Cards, chargeable to the amount of your choosing, are the perfect stocking stuffer for the finicky family member. What can they use it for? How about a relaxing massage from Semper Fit followed by an evening of fine dining at Taiyo Steakhouse? MCCS Gift Cards can be used for this and more! MCCS Gift Cards are available for purchase and redemption at all MCCS Clubs, Restaurants and retail operations including all fast-casual dining facilities (Bonsai Coffee Company, Bulldogs Burgers, Shisa Pizza, Sumo Burrito and Red Barn), Taiyo Golf Club (including the Pro Shop), all MCCS Bowling Centers (including the Camp Foster Pro Shop), all Tours+, Tsunami Scuba and Typhoon Motors locations and more! For more information about MCCS Gift Cards, call 645-5809 or visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/giftcard.
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Well, maybe not. But just because it ALMOST never snows on Okinawa doesn’t mean the holiday season isn’t approaching at breakneck speed. Although many agree that the best gift isn’t something that can be purchased in a store—something as simple as a phone call letting a family member know that their favorite kid is healthy and happy is simply priceless—getting something to shred the wrapping paper off is always nice as well. Following are a few gift ideas that will show friends and family back home just how unique your beautiful home-away-from-home is. Happy hunting!
Next to lacquerware, pottery and textiles, Okinawan glassware is probably one of the most popular and widely purchased Okinawan crafted gifts (and souvenirs). Post-WWII Okinawan glassware was created exclusively with used cola bottles; today however it is known for its brilliant color, unique shapes and exquisite craftsmanship. There are many sites located throughout the island where glass is blown into art, and a few where you can witness it firsthand.
The many pottery kilns located throughout the island produce many fine examples of jōyachi (glazed) and arayachi (unglazed) wares including exquisite cups, plates, jars and vases. Prices range from artist to artist—a coffee cup shaped by a neophyte could cost around ¥500 while a master artisan’s mug may cost as much as ¥20,000.
Bokunen Naka is an Okinawan woodblock artist renowned throughout Japan. His beautiful prints—most of which depict scenes from the island—are inspired by nature and make great keepsakes. Prints of various sizes can be purchased at the Bokunen Museum in American Village. NOVEMBER AUGUST 2022 | OKINAWA LIVING 17
Crafted by Desmond Liang of Oki Social (okisocial.com), these items showcase quintessential Okinawa-themed artwork. From majestic whale sharks and the traditional sanshin banjos to the iconic red-tile roofs, hanagasa hats, and the distinctively Okinawan gōyā, to beloved locations such as American Village and Cape Zampa, these creations capture the essence of Okinawa’s vibrant culture and beauty.
Shīsā, or lion dogs, stand guard against evil spirits on rooftops, gate posts and at the doorways of many Okinawan homes. They come in many shapes and sizes with sometimes humorous expressions and make excellent gifts including the Yamori (gecko shīsā
from Ryūtōkōbō in Onna Village), Yonekoyaki (psychedelic shīsā from Ishigaki island), or hewed from raw limestone at Studio de-jin. You can also experience making your own at Tsuboya or Yomitan Pottery Village.
Chinsuko is a traditional Okinawan biscuit-style sweet that has been cherished since the days of the Ryukyu Kingdom. This timeless treat, known for its delicate, slightly sweet taste and crumbly texture, has become an iconic Okinawan dessert. With a wide array of flavors to choose from, chinsuko is not only a delightful taste of history but also a beloved and sought-after omiyage (souvenir) among visitors to Okinawa.
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Hotaru Ishi, also referred to as Hotaru Glass, stands as one of Okinawa’s iconic souvenirs. This unique piece of jewelry is crafted using a special technique that blends silver foil with glass, earning its nickname “firefly glass” due to its ability to shimmer and gleam like a radiant firefly when light reflects off the silver foil.
Beniimo, Okinawa’s cherished purple sweet potato, makes for the perfect holiday gift! These tarts, resembling small boats brimming with delightful swirls of sweet purple goodness, make for a visually appealing and delicious present. You can easily find beniimo tarts in a variety of supermarkets, snack shops and souvenir stores, making it a convenientyet-unique gift option to share the flavors of Okinawa with your loved ones during the holidays.
This traditional dyeing technique, exclusive to Okinawa, offers an exceptionally unique gift that is nearly impossible to come across anywhere else in the world. Bingata designs decorate many pieces of apparel including hats, clothing and even wallets, bags and change purses. These can be found in any major department store on island—including AEON and San-A malls.
The term teshigoto embodies the concept of “handiwork,” and this essence is precisely what you’ll discover in the enduring craftsmanship of these versatile, canvas bags. Handcrafted on Okinawa, these bags marry a timeless vintage aesthetic and are offered in various styles and colors. Experience the artistry at TESHIGOTO, located in the iias Okinawa Toyosaki Shopping Mall (2F) in Tomigusuku.
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Show your support for the Ryukyu Golden Kings—Okinawa’s victorious professional basketball team who recently clinched the B League Championship—in style. Score a team jersey and other apparel at the Arena Shop inside Okinawa Arena (okinawa-arena.jp/arenashop). Go Kings!
Discover a wide array of Okinawa-themed graphic tees, including options like a Velvet Underground-inspired gōyā or Shīsā Village design, available at T-SHIRT-YA.COM, either online or in-store at Kokusai Street, AEON Mall Rycom, and PARCO CITY.
While Hi-Chew may be easily found in the states, you might not be aware that Okinawa boasts exclusive flavors that tantalize the taste buds in a uniquely tropical way. This exceptionally juicy and mouthwatering confection comes in a variety of flavors, but the Okinawaexclusive ones—mango, pineapple and shīquāsā (Okinawan citrus)—will give your recipient a good taste of Okinawa’s vibrant fruit offerings.
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SuiSavon, crafted from Okinawa’s natural ingredients of plants and fruits, offers a delightful range of handmade soaps that serve as an ideal gift for those longing for the island’s essence or yet to explore its wonders. You have the option to buy individual bars or select a set box featuring an array of captivating scents and vibrant colors, making it a thoughtful and aromatic present for any occasion. Visit their shop in American Village or check them out on Instagram at @suisavon.
Since 2013, Arakaki Tile Factory has been crafting Red Tile Coaster LACE, aromatic stones fashioned from the same material as the iconic red tiled roofs adorning many of Okinawa’s abodes. Elevate your space with the essence of Okinawa by adding a few drops of KAVA aroma therapy scents to create a soothing atmosphere. Arakaki Tiles are available in their shops located in American Village and on Kokusai Street.
Gifting skincare during the holiday season is a thoughtful way to promote self-care and well-being. Spoil your loved ones with luxurious skincare treasures from Okinawa, such as Ryukyu Kucha, the island's beauty secret renowned for its deep pore-cleansing and natural exfoliating properties. Alternatively, consider a Lululun face mask, which promises a radiant, clear and transparent complexion.
Okinawa’s vibrant beverage scene offers the best of both worlds, with its exceptional coffee culture and soothing tea traditions. Gifting high-quality Okinawan coffee beans brings richness and warmth, while tea offers relaxation and health benefits. Sharing these flavors from Okinawa not only celebrates the island’s diverse beverage culture, but also adds a touch of wellness and serenity to the holiday season.
Petaluna, which originally opened in Naha in 2008, uses locally procured organic ingredients, some blended in-store to patrons’ specifications. Their offerings range from essential oils and diffusers, skincare, hair and body care and more. Petaluna’s exquisite, stress-relieving fragrances are available in American Village in Chatan and PARCO CITY Mall.
Give the gift that keeps on giving with a gift certificate from Thai Med Spa or Cocok Spa. A relaxing massage or mani-pedi will surely let your friends and family know you care about them...it’s the perfect gift to treat yourself too.
…your perfect gift to family and friends in the U.S., be sure to check out the “Prohibited and Restricted Items” list on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website (cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/know-before-you-go/prohibited-andrestricted-items) to ensure that it reaches its destination.
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FITNESS + FUN
Turkey Shoot …at the Golf Course!
Gobble…Gobble… …Touchdown! Gather your flock for some flag-football-style gridiron action—the annual Turkey Bowl Flag Football Tournament is back at Camp Foster’s athletic fields on Saturday, November 25 and Sunday, November 26. This Turkey Bowl is open to everyone island wide! Here’s how it’ll go down: Teams can have up to 20 players plus a coach (if the coach is playing, that counts against the 20-player limit) with a maximum of eight players allowed on the field at any given time. Moreover, teams that place 1st, 2nd or 3rd will receive awards.
Lastly, the field itself will be a whole 100 yards long (including end zones) and 40 yards wide, so it is highly recommended to not eat your Thanksgiving leftovers immediately prior to playing. Players must be 16 and older and must register through okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/ adultsports for $150 per team before November 20 at 1 p.m. For more information, head to facebook.com/mccsokinawa.semperfit. If you have any questions, please email adultsports@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org.
As families start to gear up for the holidays it can be hard for adults to find a little “me time” and get away from the pumpkin carving, gingerbread baking and family demands. Lucky for you, we’ve got just the justification you need to get out of orange-and-red fall-leaf finger painting and hit the greens. A FREE turkey! That’s right, you’re not selfishly taking a day to yourself for golf, you are attempting to bring home the best turkey that can be found on island and saving money in the process (wink wink). On Saturday, November 18, Taiyo Golf Club will host the Turkey Shoot Tournament with a 7:30 a.m. shotgun start. The tournament will be played in 2-player best-ball format followed with a holiday meal. The winner, of course, will go home with the best “birdie” of all—a Thanksgiving turkey. Register by November 15 for $40 by calling the Pro Shop at 622-2004 or 098-954-2004. For more upcoming happenings at Taiyo Golf Club, visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/ taiyogolf.
Black Friday Aerobathon Escape the Food Coma and Get Moving On Friday, November 24, after you’ve had a few helpings of a leftovers sandwich (two pieces of bread smeared with mashed potatoes on one side, mac and cheese on the other, and filled with turkey and cranberry sauce), clear your conscience by burning it all off at the Black Friday Aerobathon hosted by MCCS Health Promotion. That’s right, three whole hours of group fitness classes from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Camp Foster Gunners Fitness Center. Instead of working your way through hordes of shoppers in pecan and pumpkin pie induced sugar rushes, give your body a physical boost in a positive environment with a range of workouts that will leave you feeling energized and motivated to get all that holiday shopping finished (perhaps online and away from the crowds). The Black Friday Aerobathon is open to all with base access; children ages 12–17 may attend with a parent or legal guardian. For more information on Health Promotion’s Black Friday Aerobathon, visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/healthpromotion. NOVEMBER 2023 | OKINAWA LIVING 27
FITNESS + FUN
Kinser Powerlifting Competition Are You Tough Enough?
Kinser Half-Marathon Half the Distance, Double the Fun The story goes that way back in the day (around 490 B.C.), a Greek foot messenger sprinted from the battle of Marathon to Athens—roughly 25 miles—to share news of Greece’s victory over the Persian army. With no water stations, running gels or proper arch support in sight, the messenger promptly collapsed and died upon delivering the news. To honor this messenger’s deed, the marathon race was born—with the first official Olympic race being won by Spyridon Louis in 1896 in a time of 2:58:50. Fast-forward to 2019, when Elius Kipchoge (who many consider the greatest marathoner of all time) achieved something that many thought was physically impossible—he was the first human to break the 2-hour marathon barrier running 26.2 miles in 1:59:40 on a special course in Vienna, Austria under controlled circumstances. Currently, Kenyan runner Kelvin Kipton owns the “official” record at 2:00:35 set in Chicago in October
of this year. Although breaking Kipchoge’s or Kipton’s world records (or carrying messages to Athens, for that matter) may not be in the cards, you can still smoke the competition and break your own personal best on Sunday, November 19 starting at 8:05 a.m. at the Kinser Half-Marathon. This 13.1-mile race, which will wind around Camp Kinser, is open to runners island wide ages 12 and older. Prospective participants must register online for $40 via okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/adultsports before November 15 at 11:30 p.m. Check-ins will take place from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m. and a mandatory brief will take place at 7:35 a.m. The top female and male competitors will receive grand prizes while the top 3 performers in each gender/age category will likewise be awarded. For more information, head to okinawa. usmc-mccs.org/adultsports or facebook.com/ mccsokinawa.semperfit. For questions, email adultsports@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org.
Northern Commander’s Cup Basketball Tournament Slammin’ Up North! Participating in a Commanding General’s (CG) or Camp Commander’s (CC) Cup tournament is a great way for Marines and Sailors to help build comradery while having fun. The best part? They’re FREE! If you’re a Marine or Sailor stationed on Camps Schwab, Hansen and Courtney and are into basketball, rejoice! The Northern CC Cup Basketball Tournament will be held on November 25 and 26 at the House of Pain Fit-
Attention all swole warriors and musclebound folk! We interrupt your workout to bring you this very important message: the Camp Kinser Powerlifting Competition is back! If you’ve got the strength and mental toughness to call yourself a powerlifter, come stake your claim at Camp Kinser Surfside, where the strongest lifters on island will be in attendance on Sunday, December 3 at 9 a.m. The competition will consist of three events—squat, bench press and deadlift (in that order)—with three attempts allowed on each event. Participants will be divided into gender and weight categories, and at the end of the day when all of the scores are tallied, the top three lifters in each weight/gender category will go home with medals. The grand prize, however, will go to the best overall male and female lifters. The Kinser Powerlifting Competition adheres to International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) rules, so if you need to brush up, head to powerlifting. sport and click the “Rules” tab. Keep in mind, Semper Fit has tweaked some of the rules for accessibility purposes (i.e., you don’t have to wear a singlet to participate), but if you have any questions, feel free to email adultsports@ okinawa.usmc-mccs.org. This event is open to participants island wide ages 16 and older. Registration will be accepted via okinawa.usmcmccs.org/adultsports until November 29 (11:30 p.m.) for $40. Entry fee includes a T-shirt. For more information, call 637-1869 or head to okinawa.usmcmccs.org/adultsports or facebook.com/ mccsokinawa.semperfit.
ness Center on Camp Hansen and is open to eligible units on the camps mentioned above. Registration will be accepted via okinawa. usmc-mccs.org/adultsports until November 20 at 1 p.m. and prizes will be awarded to the 1st and 2nd place teams. For more information on CC/CG Cup events, or to register for either of the upcoming softball tournaments, visit okinawa.usmcmccs.org/adultsports. NOVEMBER 2023 | OKINAWA LIVING 29
HILTON CHATAN DOUBLE TREE BY H
FITNESS + FUN
Fall Fit Camp Fight Off Those Holiday Pounds Has the holiday eating season hit you with a wave of lethargy that has you feeling like a steaming bowl of extra-fluffy mashed potatoes? If so, consider signing up for Fall Fit Camp to motivate you to get off that couch and into a program that’ll lead to a fitter and happier you. Fit Camp is a six-week program designed to help you build strength, confidence and motivation to keep you going with your fitness goals. The next Fit Camp runs November 13 to December 22 and will
be held on multiple Marine Corps installations. Register before November 8 by visiting the front desk of the Semper Fit Fitness Center where you’d like to attend. Pricing for Fit Camp is per person, and costs $199. SOFA ID card holders ages 18 and older are eligible to participate. For more information, please visit okinawa.usmc-mccs. org/healthpromotion or call 645-3910 from a DSN or 098-970-3910 from off base.
Schwab Open Wrestling Tournament Full Nelsons for 5,000 Years Did you know that the sport of wrestling dates back 5,000 years ago to the time of the Sumerians and is considered one of the oldest sports, second only to track and field? In fact, the earliest recorded poem, the Epic of Gilgamesh (which was written in cuneiform, the oldest known written language) refers to an epic wrestling match between the hero and his bestie; yet the first recorded real-life tournament wouldn’t occur until 1888. Luckily, you won’t have to wait that long for a tournament because the Camp Schwab Open Wrestling Tournament is here! If you want to partake in this ancient display of strength and skill, then air out that singlet and start practicing those takedown skills because the tournament will be held Saturday, December 2 at the Camp Schwab Power Dome Fitness Center. The competition starts at 8 a.m., but check-ins will run from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m. This community competitive event is open to wrestlers island wide ages 16 years and older. Awards will be given to those who place 1st, 2nd and 3rd in each weight category. Those interested in rassling must register by Wednesday, November 29 (11:30 p.m.) online at okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/adultsports via Eventbrite for $20. Please email adultsports@okinawa.usmc-mccs. org with any questions about the event. NOVEMBER 2023 | OKINAWA LIVING 31
MARINES + FAMILIES
Marine Corps Birthday Appreciation Happy Birthday Marines! MCCS Libraries want to express their appreciation to the Marines and wish them a happy birthday on November 10 by offering sweet treats throughout the day. They’re inviting all our Marines, active-duty, reserve and retired (because, once a Marine always a Marine), service members and their families to visit any library (except on MCAS Futenma) to enjoy these delicious treats any time after 11 a.m. While you’re there, you might take a look around and see all that’s being offered at our libraries. The libraries offer professional military reading titles, popular periodicals, DVDs, PS5 and Nintendo Switch games and audiobooks for professional, recreational and educational purposes to check out. The library also just got new PS5s and Nintendo Switches for patrons to use while at the library. If there’s something you want but can’t find, items unavailable at MCCS Libraries on Okinawa can often be obtained from other USMC
Libraries and other service libraries (travel time varies based on the lending library’s location). All libraries in the MCCS Okinawa Library Program also have 3D printers and makerspace equipment, but the library on Camp Foster is home to the original Innovation Lab, a collaborative space where creativity meets technology. The Innovation Lab gives patrons FREE access to 3D printing, robotics assembly, virtual reality and augmented reality equipment, vinyl cutting, large-format printing, 3D modeling, computer-aided design and more. There’s so much to do and much fun to be had, so don’t forget to stop by for that Marine Corps birthday treat and a great read. For more information visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/libraries or email your friendly neighborhood librarians at libraryprogram@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org.
Holiday Jams and Cocoa Cookies, Crafts and Carols Galore! Get ready for a holiday party the whole family can enjoy. This November 29, from noon to 1:30 p.m., the Foster Library is partnering with the III MEF Band to pull out all the stops in a festive celebration that’s not to be missed. Holiday Jams and Cocoa will be an event filled with laughter, fun and music—not to mention a delectable selection of hot cocoa and treats. Families can expect to be completely immersed in the holiday spirit as the joy of seasonal music uplifts the bookshelves of the library in a way that only Christmas carols can, while they sip on the official drink of the holiday season. Folks can also bring presents from home and use the libraries gift-wrapping station and supplies to turn a chore into family fun. The creative geniuses also known as librarians will also have holiday craft activities for everyone to enjoy, so the savvy kid might be able to create a Christmas craft and then wrap it as a Christmas present while their parents are in a cocoa coma and distracted by the finest playing found across the seven fleets. For more information about the Holiday Jams and Cocoa, reach out to your friendly neighborhood librarians at the Camp Foster Library in person, by phone at 645-7178 or by email at fosterlibrary@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org. For more upcoming events hosted by the library team check out okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/libraries, and for more information on holiday activities across Camp Butler this season, visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/holidays. NOVEMBER 2023 | OKINAWA LIVING 33
MARINES + FAMILIES
Volunteer to Coach Confessions of a First Time Coach Around this time last year, I decided to try my hand at coaching. Practices were a bit of an eye-opener as I learned what my peewee team needed and how best to structure things, but they were fun, and I almost always laughed a little too hard at something one of my kids said or did. The morning of our first game, I was ready, prepared with a spreadsheet to help me remember what players went in at what time so that everyone had equal game play, but that went right out the window with bathroom visits, trips and falls on the field, and one tear-filled plea of exhaustion. The game was a whirlwind of little feet, filled with fervent reminders that they were running the wrong direction. By the time we ended the season, we were no longer running toward the wrong goals, and were dribbling and passing pretty well. We even managed to score a couple of goals and win a game. At our last practice as I handed out awards to each of the players, I could see how much each of them had grown, and I was proud of the work we did together. It’s an experience I’ll never forget. The youth soccer season runs February 5 to May 11, and if you’re ready to try your hand at making a big impact on little lives, you can sign up to coach now by visiting okinawa.usmc-mccs. org/youthsports. Hopefully I’ll see you on the field! —DL
Tobacco-Free Living Month/Smokeout Try a Breath of Fresh Air Are you thinking about quitting smoking but not sure you’re ready to take the plunge? Maybe the Great American Smokeout is for you! It’s an opportunity to join millions of other smokers in saying “no thanks” to cigarettes for 24 hours. Held the third Thursday in November every year, the Great American Smokeout is sponsored by the American Cancer Society. The purpose of the event is to help smokers quit cigarettes for at least one day, in hopes they will quit forever. More people quit smoking on this day than any other day of the year. The rules are simple: On Thursday, November 16, you simply don’t smoke for 24 hours. The wonderful thing is that you won’t be alone— you can swap advice, jokes and groans with other “quitters,” nonsmokers, and Semper Fit Health Promotion staff who will be cheering
you on (along with your lungs). Need a couple reminders as to why you might want to quit? Remember that smoking harms nearly every organ in the body, is the leading cause of preventable disease, disability and death in the U.S., and smokers spend an average of $2,000 per year on cigarettes (or about $100,000 in a lifetime not counting medical expenses). Smoking also leaves an odor-causing residue on your clothing and negatively affects your dating life, as 9 out of 10 people say they would prefer not to date someone who smokes. For more information about the Great American Smokeout or Tobacco Cessation classes, contact MCCS Health Promotion at 645-3910 or send an email to mccshealthpromotions@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org.
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DINING + ENTERTAINMENT
Holiday Meals-To-Go We’ll Do All the Work! A well-executed holiday feast usually involves days, if not a week or more, of prep time. That’s a lot of effort for one meal—even one as special as Thanksgiving. Why not serve up a little convenience along with your traditional spread this year? Holiday Meals-To-Go—an annual MCCS offering—makes ordering, picking up and serving a taste of home easy as pie (more on pies, later). This catering option gives you the choice of ordering complete meals or à la carte selections. For a crowd-pleasing meal, choose one of two Traditional Holiday Packages—the Classic 20–22 lb. Turkey Package with Holiday Sides or the Deluxe 9 lb. Glazed Hickory Smoked Ham Package with Holiday Sides. Looking for a taste of both? Go for the Holiday Feast Combination Package, which also comes with double sides and two pies. To accompany the whole-roasted turkeys and glazed hickory-smoked hams, MCCS chefs are cooking up plenty of side dishes as well, including mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, candied yams, green beans and herb-seasoned bread stuffing. And, of course, the aforementioned pies for dessert! Choose from apple, pumpkin, or pecan to complete your feast. All of the items mentioned above are also available on the à la carte menu, so go ahead and mix and match all of your favorites. These seasonal meals are available from Surfside on Camp Kinser, Ocean Breeze on Camp Foster, Tengan Castle on Camp Courtney and The Palms on Camp Hansen. Ordering is available Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. from November 3 to December 25. Pickup dates stretch from November 17 to December 30, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to feast! Place your order at least five days before you want to pick it up, then complete your payment at least two days prior to your scheduled pickup date. For more information, visit okinawa. usmc-mccs.org /catering. And, from everyone here at MCCS, we wish you a safe and happy holiday season! NOVEMBER 2023 | OKINAWA LIVING 39
DINING + ENTERTAINMENT
Stuffed like a Turkey Thanksgiving at the Clubs If visions of perfectly roasted turkey, glazed ham and gravy ladened mashed potatoes are dancing in your head, it can only mean one thing—you forgot about all those dreamy fall pies! Thanksgiving is approaching, and you are invited to celebrate the holiday at participating MCCS Clubs and Restaurants. Banquets and à la carte feasts will feature your favorite holiday fare, so take a break from your kitchen and the mountains of dirty dishes and give thanks for the MCCS Chefs. Plus, it’s way more fun to pick out a holiday outfit to wear out in public than the one you’ll wear to your own dinner table (we recommend some stretchy pants with some give, as you’re definitely going to be stuffed like a turkey from this year’s feasts). On Thursday, November 23, Butler Officers’ Club (Plaza Housing) and Tengan Castle (Camp Courtney) will serve a banquet-style feast from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Reservations will be available via Eventbrite. Or, opt for a sumptuous repast from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Palms Ballroom (Camp Hansen). Save your seat in advance, as reservations are recommended. Prefer to have your Thanksgiving spread a little later? BeachHead (Camp Schwab) and Surfside (Camp Kinser) have you covered; their celebration meals run from 4 to 8 p.m. Camp Kinser patrons can make reservations via Eventbrite. Thanksgiving holiday meals at all locations above are $21.95 per adult, $10.95 for children ages 5 to 11, and kiddos under 5 dine FREE. Additionally, Thanksgiving-afficionados can gorge on luxurious à la carte fare at Taiyo Steakhouse; brunch is available from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. (reservations recommended) and dinner from 6 to 9 p.m. (reservations required). To make your reservations or for inquires find aforementioned clubs’ contact information at okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/clubs.
A Little Taste of Fall …at Bonsai Coffee
Everyone on island knows that it’s not officially fall until Bonsai releases their Pumpkin Bliss Latte each October, as its awesome pumpkin spice flavor brings a bit of fall feeling to this subtropical island. But did you know that the Pumpkin Bliss has three fall-weather friends? Bringing in the back-up so you can maximize your fall experience and imagine you’re apple-picking instead of driving past Pineapple Park are Bonsai Coffee Company’s limited time offerings—Peppermint Mocha, Apple Spice and Chai Apple Spice drinks. If you’re searching for a sip to take you back to that familiar apple cider flavor of childhood, try the Apple Spice made with real apple juice, hints of vanilla and topped with whipped cream. Seasoned with cinnamon, it’ll make you feel warm from inside out. For a slightly more caffeinated cider callback, try the Chai Apple Spice which boast all the delights of the Apple Spice, plus chai tea concentrate. Looking for those good autumn flavors, but need something to cool you in this Oki heat? You’re in luck because both the Apple Spice and Chai Apple Spice come hot or iced. For the chocolate lovers of all seasons, Bonsai is bringing back a sweet treat that heralds the holidays, the Peppermint Mocha. Made with an espresso shot, decadent chocolate sauce, peppermint syrup and topped with whipped cream sprinkled with peppermint candies, it’s the beverage sugar plum fairies dream of. For more info on these offerings, as well as locations and hours of operation for your nearest Bonsai Coffee Company, visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/bonsai. NOVEMBER 2023 | OKINAWA LIVING 41
RESTAURANT REVIEW
Brunch Bliss at Elk Exploring Pancake Delights and More By Roxine Ami | Photography by Mia Cox | Translation by Yoshihiro Shinzato
How to get there ELK New York Brunch Urasoe PARCO CITY Store Address: San-A Urasoe West Coast PARCO CITY 3F, 3-1-1 Nishisu, Urasoe City, Okinawa Prefecture Hours of Operation 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Last Order for Pancakes: 1 hour before closing Last Order for Other Food and Drink: 30 minutes before closing Phone Number 098-943-9799 Payment ¥, credit cards Website: cafe-elk.com
Many folks claim that breakfast takes the crown as the day’s most important meal as it kicks off the day, but I like to keep it simple: breakfast is awesome at any time. If you’re anything like me, on weekends that first meal doesn’t happen until after 9 a.m.—thus brunch. Yes, there’s nothing like that tasty blend of sweet and savory; it hits the spot for those who like to sleep in (or have an early hankering for lunch). As a bona fide millennial, to me, brunch is more than just a meal—it’s a full-blown social event involving friends gathered at charming, Instagram-worthy spots. One such spot is ELK New York Brunch in the PARCO CITY Mall in Urasoe City (next to Camp Kinser). Here, they dish out a delightful fusion of breakfast and lunch offerings amidst a backdrop that seamlessly marries rustic charm with contemporary aesthetics. It’s the ultimate hangout for us brunch aficionados, capturing that quintessential vibe we all adore. ELK’s menu boasts a diverse array of breakfast and lunch delights, with a standout item being the musttry-when-in-Japan fluffy pancakes. Embarking on my brunch journey, I kicked things off with the Pancakes Eggs Benedict. This dish featured impeccably poached eggs with a tantalizingly runny yolk perched atop a fluffy pancake, all ensconced in a velvety hollandaise sauce. With a slice of pastrami to complete the ensemble and add a savory twist, it was a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that left a lasting impression. Next on the menu was the Grilled Sausage meal, a true delight featuring three fluffy pancakes generously adorned with a trio of irresistible fondue cheeses. Before delving into the dish’s other components, let me share the journey of the three-cheese fondue pancake, which secured the title of “my favorite of the day.” The cheese sauce added a savory, gooey complement to the pancakes’ inherent sweetness, and a slice of melted cheese on top delivered a crescendo of flavors that prompted a symphony of “oohs” and “yums” around the table. Mia, our
staff photographer, couldn’t contain her excitement, dubbing it “a wild experience in my mouth” and even Yoshi (our advertising and sales specialist who was on-hand to provide translation), gave it a resounding two-thumbs up even though he’s not a pancake enthusiast. The sausage itself was juicy and paired nicely with greens, vegetables and a dollop of tomato sauce. My pro tip: dip the sausage into the luscious cheese on the plate for a perfect bite. Wrapping up our delightful meal was a dessert pancake that was nothing short of a sweet revelation. We opted for the Brand Matcha Black Pancake—three generously stacked black bamboo charcoal pancakes adorned with a delicate dusting of matcha powder. This delightful creation came with a generous portion of matcha whipped cream along with shiratama (mochi) and azuki (sweet red beans). In terms of sweetness, it struck a harmonious balance that adhered perfectly to Japanese standards. For those with an even sweeter tooth, they thoughtfully provided sweet, condensed milk for drizzling. I must admit, I’ve never been a red bean enthusiast, but this dish managed to pleasantly surprise my taste buds. The azuki bean, combined with the flawlessly soft shiratama, formed a delightful duo that left me more inclined to explore this unique flavor profile. As a delightful bonus, the menu touted the detoxifying benefits of bamboo charcoal, which is reason enough for me to eagerly anticipate ordering this dish again on my next visit. Next time you find yourself at PARCO CITY for a day of shopping, make sure to carve out some time for a visit to ELK. Even if breakfast isn’t your thing, fear not— they offer a range of delectable non-breakfast items too. You can sink your teeth into their juicy, thick burgers, savor some crispy French fries, indulge in delightful ice cream sundaes or sip on refreshing boba tea drinks. ELK has something to satisfy every craving, making it a mustvisit spot for all types of food enthusiasts.
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KIDS + PARENTS
Late Fall Learn-to-Swim ...in a Heated Pool! It can be hard to stay motivated and fit when the nights become longer, and the days become shorter. Finding an active outing for the whole family can be a challenge, so why not make a fun trip to one of MCCS’s heated pools for a fun bit of water play everyone can enjoy? Take the first step by testing the waters at Camp Foster Aquatic Center’s pool and enrolling in one of their Late Fall Learn to Swim (LTS) lessons to prepare yourself and your loved ones for a delightful aquatic adventure this fall season! This comprehensive program caters to adults and children, starting at six months. Individual lessons are priced at $75 from preschoolers to adults, while Parent and Child lessons are available at $50. Advanced swimmers can also opt for improvement/ refinement classes and use the opportunity to get ready for the Okinawa Dolphins Swim Team. Each LTS session consists of seven or eight weekday classes, subject to favorable weather conditions. The first session starts on November 13 and concludes on November 22. Register via Eventbrite by 5:30 p.m. on November 9 to secure a spot. The next session begins on November 27 and ends on December 7. Registration for this session can be completed on Eventbrite before 5:30 p.m. on November 23. Visit okinawa.usmc-mccs. org/lts for more information.
Baby Boot Camp Advice That’s Actually Helpful Preparing for a new baby is a time filled with both excitement and uncertainty. Friends and family will try to help with a scattershot of sometimes ill-timed advice, but as The Lovin’ Spoonful once said, “It’s like trying to tell a stranger ‘bout rock ‘n’ roll.” What new parents really need is not random words of wisdom parsed out in arbitrary moments, but a chance to sit down with experts and get some hands-on practical training on the day-to-day life with a newborn. Enter the New Parent Support Program and their Baby Boot Camp class. Recommended for parents to take in their third trimester and taught by the program’s expert team of counselors and nurses, Baby Boot Camp provides helpful information both through discussion and actual practice for expecting parents to prepare for the arrival of their baby through the first few months after delivery. Parents will learn the basics of infant development, self-care for parents, infant safety, newborn care, community resources and more. They’ll even get practice changing a diaper, bathing and dressing a newborn and specific information on what to expect when giving birth here on Okinawa. Other helpful offerings from the New Parent Support Program include Parents in Uniform offered monthly from 2:30 to 4 p.m. on Camp Foster, Infant Massage offered Thursdays from 10 to 11 a.m. on Camp Foster over the course of 4 sessions, and Play Morning Wednesdays from 10 to 11:30 a.m. on Camp Courtney. For more information on the New Parent Support Program, please email NPSPokinawa@usmc.mil. NOVEMBER 2023 | OKINAWA LIVING 45
KIDS + PARENTS
Dinosaur Tea Party Biscuits, Bowties and Brachiosauruses Welcome When I say “Tea Party” what do you think of? Angry citizens throwing boxes of English Breakfast from the East India Tea Company into the Boston Harbor, small children sitting around a table with their teddy bears, tiaras and imaginary scones or maybe even the ever-so-sassy ladies of Downton Abbey sharing some juicy gossip over cucumber sandwiches perhaps? Well, while the last two might be close to what we’re talking about, the librarians at the Camp Foster Library are once again up to their old tricks of taking an idea and making it a little bit more magical. On November 14, at 11 a.m. they have invited prehistoric tea guest to take over the library for what’s sure to be a dinomite event. Tea guest of all ages and sizes (from the Oculudentavis, the smallest dinosaur yet discovered to the extremely large sauropod known as
the Supersaurus) are encouraged to clomp, stomp and prance around in their best Jurassic attire, tutus or even their fanciest suits! Accessories like full-length gloves, top hats or jelly shoes are not required but would be completely appropriate and welcome. After all, what could be cuter than a T-Rex with a bowtie, monocle and top hat daintily holding a sugar biscuit? Along with serving light refreshments, the Dinosaur Tea Party will include a story time read-aloud and a real live guest Tyrannosaurus Rex (the inflatable kind, not the one who went extinct long long ago and may be tempted to eat more than cookies). For more information, visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/libraries.
Sign Up Today! Youth Sports Soccer Registration Participating in team sports at a young age has lasting positive impacts—both physically and emotionally. For starters, it promotes cooperative play, teamwork and sportsmanship. It can also help improve motor skills and self-esteem. Of course, playing soccer is also a great and fun way to make new friends. Soccer not only requires intelligence, fitness and agility, but it also builds stamina and improves cardiovascular health. And aside from being extremely health beneficial, soccer (among many other sports) also teaches children the valuable lessons of struggling and triumphing in the face of adversity. Weekend soccer matches can provide some of those tough, real-life situations, such as regrouping after an unfair yellow card or coming back and winning the next match after a disheartening loss.
Above all, soccer is a team sport where working together towards a common goal with teammates supersedes perceived differences between individuals. Registration for 2024 Youth Sports Soccer season is here, and all soccer players ages 5 to 18 are welcome to join. Children 4 years of age are also welcome as long as they turn 5 prior to the final day of the season. Registration will be accepted via Eventbrite November 1–30. Practices begin February 5, 2024, and the official season runs from February 17 to May 11, 2024. Your last chance to sign up your athlete is November 30, so make sure you head to your nearest staffed MCCS Fitness Center or visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org /youthsports.
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SERVICES
MCCS Driver Education Program Earn Your Independence
Sales Worth Celebrating Tsunami Scuba Veterans Day/Marine Corps Birthday Sale It was on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918 when rifles fell silent and an armistice was forged between Germany and the Allied Forces, putting an end to World War I. This day—November 11—was declared Veterans Day, a federal holiday dedicated to American veterans of all wars. It’s one of our nation’s most solemn holidays and is especially dear to those of us in the military community. Tsunami Scuba is honoring this occasion on November 11 with their Military Appreciation Sale. At the sale, patrons can expect 11 percent off all in-stock items except education materials and boots. So, if you’ve been holding off on purchasing that fancy dive computer that’ll make your dives more enjoyable by tracking the depth, time, ascent rate and much,
much more, now’s your chance to pick one up. You might also consider the 3mm wetsuit that’ll not only protect your skin from UV rays and stinging critters like fire coral and jellyfish, but will also keep you warm, comfortable and diving through this autumn season. As a special addition to this sale and in honor of the Marine Corps Birthday (Happy Birthday, Marines!) surprise birthday specials will be announced via Facebook at facebook.com/mccsokinawa.scuba. This incredible sale will be happening at all Tsunami Scuba locations. Visit our website for a directory that includes locations, phone numbers and hours of operation at okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/ scuba.
Are you tired of having good ol’ mom or pop drive you to the Exchange? Wouldn’t it be great to meetup with friends IRL whenever you so pleased? All this and much, much more is possible after earning your SOFA driver’s permit with the MCCS Driver Education Program. The Driver Education Program is tailored to aid active-duty personnel and families stationed on Okinawa with their POV licensing needs. This program features American Driver and Traffic Safety Education Association (ADTSEA)/AAA certified courses which includes 39 hours of classroom instruction and six hours of behindthe-wheel instruction for those in need. Students who complete the Driver Education Program will receive their SOFA driver’s permit in Japan. First-time driver classes—open to adult/teen students ages 16 or older— take place at Marine & Family Programs-Resources (Bldg. 445) and run Monday–Friday from 6 to 9 p.m. Refresher courses as well as classes for active duty are held at the Driver Education Office (Bldg. 5677). In-person classes are held on Camp Foster, while behind-the-wheel instruction takes place at both Camp Foster and Kadena Air Base. Additionally, please note behind-the-wheel instruction is contingent and scheduled on student and instructor availability. To find necessary registration forms and the full course schedule, head to okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/drivereducation. For questions about the Driver Education Program, send an email to driver.education@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org or call 098-970-5823 from a cellphone or 645-5823 from a DSN.
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Another reason that Marvel Comics resonates with me is the franchise’s ability to create a world that, though fictional, had connections to reality. Stan Lee and his collaborators were not afraid to address morality pieces—Marvel’s universe reflected the issues of the day from the Vietnam War and race relations to the rampant problem of illegal drugs. The messages were clear and although the whole issue may have not revolved around said subject, it was nonetheless commented on. This along with Marvel’s commitment to grounding their stories in real locations gave a layer of realism to fantasy. Growing up in New York City, it was easy for me to imagine the Fantastic Four holding off Galactus above midtown Manhattan, or Spider-Man evading the ever-encroaching arms of Doctor Octopus on top of the M7 bus, bringing my imagination to life in the world outside my own window.
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Marvel Comics, created for the most part by the legendary trio of Stan Lee, Jack Kirby and Steve Ditko, has always held a special place in my heart and helped shape who I was as a young man. To me, what sets Marvel apart from other comic book publishers, is their ability to connect with readers on a deeply personal level which is the reason perhaps, their body of work resonates with fans from around the world, not just myself. The creative genius of that small bullpen of talent brought to life a universe that rings true on multiple levels. They answered fan letters with a tone that never talked down to their readers, even though they ran the gamut from children to college students and middleaged adults. The team created an atmosphere that felt like a club that I got to be an exclusive member of, but also where anyone would feel welcome.
For my money, the Marvel Comics Universe has left an indelible mark not only on popular culture but also on my personal identity, because it goes beyond mere entertainment. It offers a reflection of our world while providing escapism into extraordinary realms. Whether you are young or old, there is always something within the pages that will resonate with you and leave an everlasting impact.
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For me, the characters created by Marvel are cultural icons because they reflect our own struggles and triumphs. They embody human flaws and virtues, making them relatable and inspiring at the same time; some characters are even distrusted, or at odds not only with a populace they were sworn to protect, but each other as well, due to their own ideas and agendas. Like us, they are compellingly multidimensional.
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My love affair with DC began as a little girl in the grocery store on Friday nights. My dad, faced with the prospect of entertaining a seven-year-old as he did the weekly shopping for my grandmother, prudently thought to outsource the entertaining, and so right after I climbed on the back of the grocery cart, we would cruise to the magazine racks where I would get my Superman comic. While my dad tried to talk to me about how to smell if a cantaloupe was ripe, I would read about battles between good and evil, and watch as Superman used his superior strength and moral clarity to save the day. When I got a bit older and outgrew the ability to ride on the back of a grocery cart, I started to notice that the real world lacked the moral clarity of comics. You could stand up for a friend in middle school and end up getting bullied just as badly; sometimes good people had bad things happen to them and there was no moral reasoning or lesson to be learned. Yet Superman always stood for Truth, Justice and the American Way. Sometimes there was kryptonite for sure, but good still triumphed over evil, and this was comforting to my adolescent self.
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This theme of complicated character development lives in other DC characters too, keeping me hooked as an adult. Batwoman faced the dilemma of fighting her long-lost sister who’s driven insane from the trauma of being kidnapped. Wonder Woman is forced to accept that the source of her power comes from a father she wants nothing to do with and Oracle must learn how to be a superhero from a wheelchair. These strong women face hard and real tests of character, but they persevere, leaning into values with that same moral clarity that’s been there since the first page of my first Superman comic, reminding me always, I can be strong and fight too.
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As I became a pricklier older teen, I started diving into the Green Arrow comics (after seeing the character on the show Smallville). His villains weren’t larger than life like Lex Luthor, but they were still nefarious. Green Arrow ran afoul of sex traffickers in the city and animal poachers in Africa. He cried when he stood next to an animal slaughtered for its ivory horn and held his sidekick when she received an HIV diagnosis. His issues were complex and real, and he faced them with a healthy dose of sarcasm along with his desire to be good. This was a world view I could echo in doing the right thing, but do it with snark and an eye toward social justice.
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Though Comic Con Okinawa will certainly have its fair share of entertainment for both DC and Marvel comic enthusiasts, it’s a celebration of so much more than just that. Like other Cons around the world and in the U.S. it’s a celebration of the worlds we love to love. No matter if your fandom comes from the world of manga, anime, sci-fi, horror, gaming, fantasy or superheroes, you can find something to enjoy. Traditional staples of Oki’s Con include an Artist Alley where a gallery of work submitted by local artists is displayed, a Cosplay Contest where you can show off not only the fandom you love but your combination of ingenuity and fashion, an exhibitor hall filled with
vendors of all shapes and sizes and, best of all, meetand-greet opportunities with representatives of all your favorite fandoms. Some of this year’s incredible talent includes voice actors from famous anime like Bleach, Attack on Titan and Demon Slayer; actors from movies like Aliens and The Terminator; and famous cosplayers as well as comic book writers and artists who have worked on projects for DC and Marvel alike! So be sure and mark your calendars for December 1–3, and don’t miss your chance to commune (and maybe debate) with those who share your passions. Check out okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/comiccon for more information.
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LIVING ON OKINAWA
Tempura Batter 1 cup of flour 5/8 cup of cold water 8 prawns, shelled and deveined 1/4 Japanese kabocha (squash), cut 1/4-inch thick 4 green bell peppers, cut into 1/4-inch strips 1 steamed sweet potato, cut into 1/4-inch thick Vegetable Oil Dipping Sauce 3/4 cup of dashi (soup stock) 2 tbsp. mirin (sweet rice wine) 2 tbsp. soy sauce Method of Preparation 1. Mix flour and water; add a dash of salt. 2. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer to 365 F. 3. Dip vegetables and prawns slowly into the batter, and then submerge in the oil to prevent splashing. 4. Fry until light golden brown, approx. 2-3 minutes. 5. Remove prawns and vegetables from oil using slotted spoon; drain on wok rack or paper towels. 6. Mix dipping sauce ingredients in a saucepan; heat thoroughly. Serve tempura with steamed white rice and miso soup.
Matsutake Mushrooms Many in Japan believe that autumn is the season for sports, reading and hearty appetites. Because of this, many tasty tidbits can be found in stores throughout Japan in the fall. Among all these foods, which include chestnuts, eggplant and saba (mackerel), the most well-known (as well as expensive) is probably the matsutake mushroom. Known as “pine mushrooms” in English and associated with affluence in Japan, matsutake are usually cooked with rice or grilled in foil. The strong aroma of this mushroom is equated to luxury, but not very many people can actually enjoy what is considered the “king of Japanese autumn food.” Why? Like caviar and foie gras, matsutake mush-
rooms are very expensive. One good-sized specimen can easily cost from ¥10,000 to over ¥200,000. Conditions for growing matsutake are very hard to reproduce artificially as they grow in mountainous regions with red pine forests. And, even in a natural environment, these sensitive mushrooms are difficult to find. Like the mushroom’s name suggests (matsu means pine tree, and take means mushroom), matsutake only grow under certain conditions. Once one is found in a mountainous area, the price of the land skyrockets, which is probably why these ‘shrooms are sometimes called “mountain diamonds.”
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