Hop on a ferry with MCCS Tours+ and explore pristine shores on the Tokashiki Island Beach Tour or go on an underwater expedition in azure waters on the Kerama Island Snorkeling Tour.
16
Plaza House Shopping Center
70th Anniversary - Celebrating the Legacy of Japan’s First Mall
Learn more about the iconic shopping center that remains a staple for multiple generations of both Americans and Okinawans, as they celebrate this milestone anniversary.
56
Ryukyu Glass
Turning Fire into Art
Artisans on Okinawa craft glass in its glowing, molten liquid stage and give it shape as well as color while it cools…transforming it into an object of lasting beauty.
restaurant review
42
UFO Burger & Sandwich CAFE
Although immediately identifiable, and not exactly qualifying as anything that’ll stay airborne for more than a few seconds, the fare served at UFO B&S CAFE is “out-of-this-world” delicious!
fitness + fun
27
Far East Bodybuilding Competition
Beasts of the East
See Grecian builds in real time at the Camp Foster Theater on Sunday, July 21 at 4 p.m.
Read more on how you can compete or purchase tickets as a spectator.
29
Hansen Open Kickball Tournament
Not Just School Yard Fun
Prepare your team for an unforgettable weekend of fierce competition at the Hansen Kickball Tournament on July 13 and 14 at the Camp Hansen softball fields. Register now, you don’t want to miss this intense event!
31
Splish, Splash at…
…Independence Day Pool Bashes
Dress in your best red, white and blue swimming attire and dive into Independence Day at participating MCCS Aquatic Center pool bashes island wide.
marines + families
37
Celebrate with Fellow Readers at…
…a Summer Reading Checkpoint Party
Celebrate your love of books with fellow readers as you craft, enjoy light refreshments, snacks and more when you join the Summer Reading Program Checkpoint Party at the Foster Library.
37
Coffee Chats
Conversate Over a Cup
Chat over a good ole’ cup of joe with a community of like-minded individuals as you share stories, support and more at this caffeinated get-together.
dining + entertainment
39
Chill Out
Beat the Heat with Sweet Treats at MCCS Clubs & Restaurants
Don’t fear the summer heat, beat it with a sweet treat! Ice creams, milkshakes and all your favorite desserts…you name it, we’ve got your guilty pleasures covered.
41
Grab One of Our Signature Burritos At Sumo Burrito / Bonsai Drive-Thru
kids + parents
45
Bring Toddlers to Socialize at… …Partners in Play at Camps Kinser + Foster Toddlers need someone on their level… someone who mirrors their lightning-fast strides, gorilla grip and insatiable appetite for curiosity, so why not take your little one out for Partners in Play to socialize with other little humans who match their energy!
47
Slime Making Workshop
Learn how to make slime in an imaginative, interactive environment with a variety of add-ins for tactile stimulation—the best part, you get to take home your creation! services
51
Declare YOUR Independence Get Licensed to Drive!
Haven’t had a chance to get certified to drive on the road? Let MCCS help you take that step with the Driver Education Program.
53
We Want You!
Join the MCCS Team
Learn about career-building opportunities and comprehensive benefits including NAF Pension Plan, 401(k) Plan with Employer Match, Flexible Spending Account (FSA), Tuition Assistance Program and much more! extras
5 Mensôre
7
Feedback & Show Us!
67
Living on Okinawa
70
Marketplace Guide 45
Next time you’re on Camp Foster and in a rush, try one of seven new signature burritos along with your favorite Bonsai Coffee beverage at the Sumo Burrito drive-thru.
JULY 2024 | ISSUE 317
COMMANDING GENERAL, MCIPAC
Major General Brian N. Wolford
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 DIRECTOR
Meghan Johnson
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
Alora Wilson, James Rieth, Airi Igarashi
DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER
Thomas Alan Smilie
PHOTOGRAPHERS/VIDEOGRAPHERS
Mia Cox, Azra Dolberry
EDITORIAL
Swetha Gogue, Laura C. Pita
DIGITAL & SOCIAL MEDIA
Tiara Supakit, Claire Wilkinson, Lauren Thobe
CULTURAL RESEARCH SPECIALIST
Ayako Kawamitsu
ADVERTISING SALES & SPONSORSHIP MANAGER
John Dailey
ADVERTISING SALES & SPONSORSHIP
Yoshihiro Shinzato, Hiromitsu Horikawa Ada Tovar, Tsutomu McCoy, Aimee Taira
MARKETING ACCOUNTS MANAGER
Andrew Menges
MARKETING ACCOUNTS
Amber A. Padilla, Laura Parada
DISTRIBUTION
Wataru Yamanoha, Shohei Ikene
We welcome your comments. Please send letters to editor@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org
See our advertising rates at okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/advertise
MCCS MARKETING BRANCH
MCB Camp S.D. Butler. Unit 35023, FPO AP 96378-5023
mensôre
“Welcome” to Okinawa Living
Your Guide to Okinawa
The 2024–2025 Okinawa Guide
There’s a lot to learn about Okinawa for newcomers. Although it is a welcoming and beautiful island, it can also be a bit intimidating to move here knowing very litle about the language, culture, where to shop and what to buy. If only there was some sort of handbook about the island that told you everything you needed to know. Some sort of manual that gave you all the information necessary to make the most of your time here. Oh, wait, there is—it’s called the Okinawa Guide and it can serve as your guide to Okinawa during your stay.
Te Okinawa Guide is an annual publication packed with comprehensive information on just about everything Okinawa, produced by the staf of Okinawa Living Magazine for newcomers and island veterans alike.
Te ‘Introduction’ chapter covers the basics—checking in, hospital info, schools on base, veterinary info and more. Japanese language, culture, holidays, festivals, eating etiquete, of-base grocery shopping and more are covered in the ‘Local Culture’ chapter, while driving tips, what to do in the event of an accident and info on local buses and taxis are covered in ‘Transportation.’ Te ‘MCCS’ chapter covers the vast amount of oferings available for service members and their families on Marine Corps camps. Additionally, both the “Camp Guide’ and the ‘Island Guide’ give an overview of military facilities and cover places to visit on Okinawa—beaches, waterfalls, resorts, malls—and are conveniently broken down into north, central and south sections both on and off base.
All this and much, much more is contained in the Okinawa Guide…and the best thing? Tis guide is FREE! Pick up your copy today at an MCCS facility near you!
Mike Daley Editor-In-Chief
feedback from the ICE Program and Facebook
We would like to personally thank MCCS Semper Fit Adult Sports for pulling together last-minute support for us to host a rugby tournament on May 18—an event that hosted over 60 players. The perfectly lined and sized rugby field (not an easy accomplishment), and multiple canopies, tables and chairs they provided were perfect to ensure the matches and administration went off without a hitch. Altogether, this event supported over 60 service members (from all camps) and Japanese players along with an equal number of visitors and fans. In addition, an AFN Pacific Update was filmed, morale was boosted and strong relationships were built across the island. Again, we cannot thank MCCS Semper Fit Adult Sports enough for making this happen.
—via ICE
I would like to give a shout out to TERRA for their delicious food as well as their exceptional and timely service. I was here when it first opened (after Macaroni Grill) and it has come a long way. I enjoy the variety of menu options and the unique flavors—from the sauces and garnishes to their refreshments (especially the cucumber lemonade) and desserts. Also, special recognition should be given to Ms. Somy who is always so pleasant on the phone and in person and gives great menu recommendations. For these reasons, TERRA has become a much more frequented location for lunch, work meetings and brunch/breakfast on the weekends. Thank you for all you do in supporting the Marines, Sailors and families that come to the island, it is much appreciated.
—via ICE
The teachers and staff at Chimugukuru Child Development Center [on Camp Foster] are outstanding. They go above and beyond to provide wonderful field trips and the events they held throughout the Month of the Military Child [in April] were especially well organized. Many of these events offered parent interaction and were very meaningful for our entire family. Last, but not least, the customer service provided to families is amazing. The teachers and staff go out of their way to provide timely updates, insights and helpful information to parents. Thank you for providing great care and invaluable support of our community.
—via ICE
As a Marine and single mom, knowing my daughter is well taken care of at Kinser School Age Care (SAC) brings me peace of mind. The staff engage her with activities she loves, and the monthly events for parents and kids are fantastic. Ms. Carla [Gozon] and Ms. Jeanine [Weaver] are always approachable and ready to answer any questions I have. Kinser SAC will always be a part of our good memories on Okinawa.
—via ICE
Give MCCS Feedback—ICE Program & Facebook Let us know how we can better serve you or thank us for a job well-done. Go to okinawa.usmc-mccs.org and find the ICE link in the “MORE” section of the homepage or find us on Facebook to share feedback. Comments on this page may be edited for clarity or length.
Show us your island adventures and favorite food finds!
@c10_skyline
The rain made these shots turn out sick!
@ro0xay
Breathtaking views of Ogimi Village
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
Te main island of Okinawa features many beautiful beaches and snorkeling points catering to a variety of skill levels. And although you can snorkel and dive almost anywhere along the coast, many well-known “favorite” spots can quickly become crowded as the weather warms up. Even Sunabe Seawall can get a bit old afer you’ve visited enough times, and you’d rather not have to climb back up those steps at Maeda Point again. Well, have you ever been to the Kerama Islands? No? Well, you’re in for the treat of a lifetime!
Te Kerama Islands, which are located a scant 32 kilometers southwest of Okinawa’s capital city, may be close physically, but they are light-years away from Naha’s hustle, bustle, modern convenience and 21st century instant gratifcation. Made up of 22 isles and islets, four of which are inhabited, the Keramas are well known as a nearby paradise ofering the healing solace of nature, silence and simpler pleasures such as a cooling dip in emerald-green waters next to a sea turtle.
Tokashiki Island, located closest to Naha, is the largest and most populous (albeit 700 residents cannot be considered large) isle in the Keramas. Rugged and mountainous, the highest point of Tokashiki rises 200 m above sea level.
Better known for its beautiful beaches, two of the island’s most popular are Aharen and Tokashiku. Well populated with dive shops, equipment rentals and restaurants, Aharen Beach is very family friendly. A small uninhabited islet at the entrance to the bay enclosing the beach (which can be visited via banana
boat or small ferry) offers stunning underwater scenery with pristine white sand and coral heads teeming with sea life—including schools of blue damselfish, turtles, rays, octopi and more. Tokashiku, located a few kilometers north of Aharen, is a bit more remote and a popular hangout for sea turtles.
If you would like to visit this beautiful island, MCCS Tours+ offers excursions on their Tokashiki Island Beach Tour. Pack up your swimming and/or snorkeling gear and sunblock. Lunch is your choice between curry rice, Okinawa soba or a beef bowl and is included in the tour price. Remember to bring yen for lockers, personal flotation device (PFD) rental and spending (we definitely recommend a post-swim Blue Seal ice cream).
Want to snorkel without worrying about that awkward duck-waddle entry required when wearing fins? You can also explore the depths and beauty of the azure and emerald-green seas surrounding the Keramas with MCCS Tours+ on their Kerama Island Snorkeling Tour.
Tours include a boat ride to two snorkeling spots; all you have to do is relax, enjoy the ride and dive right in when the boat arrives at its destination! As the Keramas feature many examples of sea life in multitudes—clownf sh, anemones, turtles, reef sharks and f sh of every shape and color you could imagine—having an
underwater-capable camera is a must (visit your nearest Tsunami Scuba location to get yours)!
Grab your gear and get ready for some fun! Just don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a packed lunch, plenty of hydration, a snorkeling set (mask, snorkel, fns and approved PFD) and wetsuit (if desired).
For more information on upcoming Tokashiki Beach and Kerama Island Snorkeling tours, call MCCS Tours+ at 646-3502 or visit them online at okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/tours
On July 4, 1954, Plaza House Shopping Center opened its doors in Koza (now a part of Okinawa City), making history as Japan’s frst mall. Te mall was founded by Charles Shi Shon, a businessman from Hong Kong who, with special permission, operated a few diferent on-base businesses, including a restaurant, a tailor shop and a bakery.
Mr. Shon saw a lot of potential in the plot of farmland that sat where modern-day Rycom area is, with its proximity to the U.S. Ryukyu Command Headquarters. He set out to build an Americanstyle shopping center that he believed people would fock to. His frst step was visiting every single landowner to negotiate, but many did not understand his outlandish vision.
Although the shopping mall was located ofbase, patrons were mostly U.S. military ofcers and their families. It was one of the only places where upper-class military personnel could get a slice of home, as their market has always been imported goods and amenities. Tey sold electronics from General Electric (GE), cameras from Kodak, typewriters from Remington, most of which were unavailable on Okinawa at the time. Te shopping center featured ten businesses including Northwest Airlines, Japan Airlines, Pan American Airlines, Trans World Airlines, China Airlines, Bank of America, Tutle Book Store, Roger’s, as well as a record shop, a military-af liated doctor’s ofce and the Getsuen Hanten restaurant.
Tis July 4th marks the 70th Anniversary of both Plaza House Shopping Center and the Getsuen Restaurant, also established by Mr. Shon with the help of a few chefs he brought from Hong Kong. Te dedicated chefs made every dish as authentic and delicious as their esteemed skills allowed them. To this day, sauces are made in-house, using recipes that only employees are privy to, which allows them to create favors that are only available at Getsuen Restaurant.
“Our longtime customers are very aware of this and they come seeking our one-and-only cuisine year afer year. We frequently welcome customers who have been with us for two, three, maybe even four generations. Some families have decided that Getsuen Restaurant is where they celebrate their families’ special occasions. Many customers can only come here once or twice a year, and yet, they have fond memories of coming here as children for momentous occasions and want to pass on this tradition to their children and grandchildren,” shared Kiyoko Tokumine, a longtime employee.
Roger’s, on the other hand, is celebrating its 74th anniversary this year. Founded in 1950 by Roger C. Williams, the company’s frst retail store in Tokyo ofered a wide range of imported products including cosmetics, jewelry, readyto-wear clothing and shoes. Te store atracted the wives of senior military ofcials (including Jean MacArthur, wife of General Douglas MacArthur), royalty, business leaders, entertainers and many more. In 1954 it relocated to Plaza House Shopping Center.
Reversion in 1972, which returned Okinawa from America’s control to Japan, created a barrier between on and of base. Of-base became a part of the nation of Japan while on-base continued being a part of the U.S., which—in combination with the social unrest of some Okinawans who wished for independence from both nations— caused the of-base shopping experience of U.S. military personnel to change. Coupled with the celebration of the Expo ʻ75, a Worlds Fair held on Okinawa, Plaza House Shopping Center saw a major change in clientele, with tourists from mainland Japan coming in busloads. Plaza House had no choice but to shif their business model accordingly, which included transforming into a souvenir shop ofering duty-free items such as treasures from all over Asia.
Plaza House prided themselves in bringing the latest trends from the U.S. to Japan, when it came to fashion, culture, music and food. At this time Okinawa was ahead of Japan. “If people from mainland wanted trendy items from the U.S., they would fy to Okinawa to acquire them; there was no need to fy to the U.S. We were the frst place to sell big brands like Chanel and Levis in all of Japan,” shared Yoshino Taira, president of Plaza House Inc.
In 1986, the ownership of Plaza House Inc. changed to the Taira Family, with Yukio Taira taking over Plaza House Shopping Center. Taira-san, in addition to owning the A&W franchise on Okinawa, was heavily involved in the construction of on-base housing, which gave him a glimpse at the afuent lifestyle Americans brought with them. He felt it was something Okinawans could aspire to and one day achieve through hard work, with the Japanese term akogare (aspiration) a core part of the brand’s identity to this day.
Te takeover coincided with the bursting of Japan’s economic bubble in the 1990s, making it a tough era to be in the retail industry, especially in the luxury market. It didn’t help that major retailers began to open department stores on Okinawa, which in addition to tenants coming and going, meant they were almost always on the brink. What made Plaza House stand out from the crowd back then is still benefting them in today’s oversaturated retail market, where more and more international retailers are making their way to the island and the convenience of online shopping is on the consumers fngertips.
“If you go to stores next door there are things for everyone and you can fnd everything, but if you come to our store, you can fnd things that are only for you and you can fnd nowhere else,” remarked President Taira. Tat is because the one thing that hasn’t changed in Plaza House’s 70-year history is their core concept, which is to ofer items that customers cannot fnd anywhere else on island.
“With a few exceptions, all of our products are imported from abroad. Our buyers, who themselves work the foor, atend international expositions and visit the creators in-person, meaning we are well acquainted with the people we do business with. Our direct-import strategy helps us pick the most unique and valuable [items]," explained Kiyoshi Nakamoto, Supervisory Board Member and Plaza House employee for 48 years. Teir intention has always been to introduce aspiring, up-and-coming artists and crafs artisans that are established in their home countries, but who are not well known in Japan.
Including their newest venture Roger’s Food Market—which ofers culinary items from around the world—Plaza House sells over 1,400 brands from 60 diferent countries. “We see ourselves as the gateway, the bridge between the world and Okinawa, not only with the states but also with European and Asian [countries],” shared President Taira.
Another way Plaza House is going against the grain is by staying away from technological advances in the retail industry and instead doing the opposite of what big stores are doing. Tey are keeping their customer service at a higher level by doing everything with heart and continuing to center the importance of the human touch, which technology cannot replicate. While walking through Plaza House Shopping Center, which includes the original strip mall as well as the annex, the three-story structure that was added in 1997, it’s impossible to miss the black and white images proudly displayed on the walls. In 2015, when AEON MALL Okinawa Rycom opened down the street, Plaza House felt the existential threat they posed but took it as an opportunity to refect on who they were, as well as what their identity was. Tey researched the history of Koza and contacted former tenant Keystone Photo Studio and its photographer E.G. Bradford, who was kind enough to lend them 8,000 original flm images.
Araha Deluxe Beach House
Araha No Ma
C-Side Annex Suite
Araha Loyalty
Araha Bali Sweet
“Plaza House’s identity became rooted in what we call ryubei bunka, which is the hybrid culture that was born from 1945-1972 when the U.S. occupied Okinawa. Tis new identity, new culture was born and we wanted to honor that,” added President Taira. Additionally, there is a photo gallery on the third foor called Rycom Anthropology with the catchphrase “Remember the Future,” which encompasses the fact that we are now living the dream the Okinawan people back then aspired to.
“One thing that companies from mainland Japan could never understand is the struggle, but also the aspiration, which is why we have the Okinawa we have today, the Plaza House we have today and that is how we honor the legacy of our forebearers. Our history is our strong point,” articulated Taira-san.
Plaza House Shopping Center will be celebrating this monumental anniversary with year-long festivities which include a stamp rally, music history events hosted by Peter Barakan—renowned British radio broadcaster in Japan, a special dinner at Getsuen Hanten, a fashion show in collaboration with Okinawan designer Kyoko Higa who will showcase her progressive brand INTERR-IN with a concept of genderless, ageless, borderless fashion as well as an extended version of Rycom Anthropology which will feature an immersive experience exploring 70 years of Plaza House, Koza and Okinawa City history through displays of never before seen photographs, curated fashion items, music and more!
“Okinawan people are known for being very open and welcoming, especially people from Koza. We believe we learned that from our contact with the Americans and in that same spirit we want to welcome everyone to Plaza House. Although we welcome our 70th anniversary, we plan on being here for a very, very long time,” concluded Taira-san.
Start Your Fitness Journey with…
…Summer Fit Camp
Need accountability to help you stay motivated to work out? Try Fit Camp, MCCS Health Promotion’s six-week ftness program designed to build strength, confdence and motivation to help you achieve your ftness goals! Participants will join a small group of like-minded individuals and be led by a personal trainer who will continuously monitor their progress. Fit Campers will also hold each other accountable by providing encouragement and support, while simultaneously gaining confdence and strength. By the end of week 6, you can expect to have a grasp on your ftness progress and the knowledge on how to move forward with your journey afer the camp is complete. Fit Camp is a fee-based program, ofered year-round with enrollment available every few months, but there’s no time like the present to get started! Ready to take the frst steps in your ftness journey? Te Summer Fit Camp will be taking place from July 15 to August 23 at the Camp Lester Fitness Center. Register before July 10 by visiting the front desk of Gunners Fitness Center on Camp Foster. Pricing for Fit Camp is $220 per person, which includes 18 sessions or $150 for 12 sessions. SOFA ID card holders ages 18 and older are eligible to participate. We encourage and support the participation of individual of all abilities. Please contact MCCS Health Promotion if reasonable accommodations are necessary. Call 645-3910 / 098-9703910 or email mccshealthpromotions@ okinawa.usmc-mccs.org. For more information on Fit Camp and other oferings, visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/ healthpromotion or follow facebook. com/mccsokinawa.semperft
Far East Bodybuilding Competition
Beasts of the East
Resistance training to build strength and muscle mass didn’t begin in modern gyms with high-tech machines and equipment, in fact it was quite the opposite, practitioners used stones of all shapes, sizes and weights to train in the early societies of Greece and Egypt.
It wasn’t until 1893 when the modern idea of “bodybuilding” came to fruition. Eugen Sandow of Germany was working as a strongman performer at the Chicago World’s Fair, where he unintentionally invented bodybuilding, as carnival goers were more intrigued by his chiseled physique than what he could actually do with his muscles. Spectators thought Sandow’s body encapsulated the “Grecian Ideal” model which mirrored the classical Greek and Roman sculptures. Tis ideal, which includes a small trim waist, tapered back, wide shoulders and highly detailed musculature throughout coupled with an overall balance is what bodybuilding judges have on their scorecards today.
Want to see Grecian builds in real time? Join MCCS Semper Fit as they host the Far East Bodybuilding Competition at the Camp Foster Teater on Sunday, July 21. Open to SOFA and non-SOFA personnel, showtime starts at 4 p.m. with doors opening at 3 p.m. Te registration deadline for non-SOFA competitors is 11:30 p.m. on July 5 and 11:30 p.m. on July 10 for SOFA competitors. Te entry fee for all competitors is $100 (payable via Eventbrite). Awards will be given to 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th place in each category. For spectators, tickets are $20 to witness some of the greatest beasts of the east.
In addition to the competition, spectators will also marvel as guest poser Charles “ Te Defnition” Grifen—who has held the title Mr. Olympia three times—takes the stage.
For more information on the Far East Bodybuilding Competition, visit okinawa. usmc-mccs.org/bodybuilding . For any questions you may have, email adultsports@okinawa. usmc-mccs.org or call 645 - 3521
Hilton Okinawa Chatan Resort
Bufet Restaurant “SURIYUN” (3F)
Weekdays
11:30am - 3:00pm (L.O. 2:30pm)
Adults ￥3,500 / Children (6-12) ￥1,800
Weekends & Japanese Public Holidays
11:30am - 4:00pm (L.O. 3:30pm)
Adults ￥5,950 / Children (6-12) ￥2,100 LUNCH
5:30pm - 10:00pm (L.O. 9:30pm)
Adults ￥4,800 / Children (6-12) ￥2,300
Hansen Open Kickball Tournament
Not Just Schoolyard Fun
Gather your team, hone your leadof skills and prepare for an unforgetable weekend of ferce kickball competition at the Hansen Kickball Tournament on July 13 and 14 at the Camp Hansen sofball felds. Tis thrilling event is open island wide to both SOFA and non-SOFA participants ages 16 and older.
Tis highly anticipated kickball tournament promises intense competition and a fantastic sporting atmosphere. In addition to the thrill of the games, there are exciting incentives up for grabs! Te top three teams will be awarded trophies recognizing their remarkable performance throughout the tournament. So, don’t miss your chance to showcase your skills and compete against some of the best teams on the island.
Sign up online before Monday, July 8 at 1 p.m. to secure your spot for $125 per team. For more information, head to okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/adultsports or email adultsports@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org for additional questions.
Courtney Cornhole Tournament
Tossing for the Win!
Te exact origins of cornhole remains a mystery. Some would say it was invented by Mathias Kuepermann in Germany during the 14th century, while others may argue it was conceived in the U.S. by the Native American tribe Blackhawk, who used animal bladders flled with beans. Another theory with more concrete evidence credits Heyliger de Windt’s patent for “Parlor Quoits,” a similar game to cornhole, but with a square hole as opposed to cornhole’s round one.
Whatever the case may be, it has become an American backyard staple during barbecues, get-togethers or in casual hangouts with just a couple of buddies. Has it been a while since you’ve tossed a bag, but you still feel like you’ve got the champ in you?
Well then, brush of your shoulder and prove your skills in a cornament! On Saturday, July 13 and Sunday, July 14, show that you’re a bag-tossing champ when you participate in the Courtney Cornhole Tournament at Camp Courtney’s Ironworks Fitness Center. Tis tournament is open to participants island wide for only $20 per person. Register online by 1 p.m. on Monday, July 8 and bring your A-game as awards will be given to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners.
For more information on this event, call 622-7297 or email adultsports@okinawa.usmcmccs.org. You can also visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/adultsports or facebook.com/mccsokinawa. semperft for more on upcoming sporting events.
Kinser 6V6 Soccer Tournament
Strap your shin guards and lace up your cleats as you and your team bring the heat this summer at Camp Kinser’s 6 V 6 Soccer Tournament happening on Saturday and Sunday, August 3 and 4 at the Camp Kinser athletic fields! Join Semper Fit as they host a friendly fútbol competition where you can show off your best bicycle kicks, hattricks and sliding tackles while competing against players from all over the island. This tournament is open island wide to everyone ages 16 and older.
What are you waiting for? Hit the pitch and brainstorm those strategies to defeat your opponents because you don’t want to miss out on this event! Gather up your roster and register your team online by July 29 (1 p.m.) for $175 per team. Awards will be given to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place teams.
For more information on this tournament, visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/adultsports or facebook.com/mccsokinawa.semperft. If you have any questions, email adultsports@okinawa.usmcmccs.org or call 637-1869.
Futenma Open Flag Football Tournament
Flag Football Warriors…Assemble!
It’s going down once again, as fag football warriors from all over the island will gather to batle for the fag football crown at the Futenma Open Flag Football Tournament on Saturday and Sunday, July 27 and 28, at the MCAS Futenma athletic felds.
Team rosters will consist of 20 players plus a coach (unless the coach plans on playing) then they counts towards roster numbers. Eight players from the team will be allowed on the feld at any given time, with games consisting of two 20-minute halves. To qualify to compete, teams must show up 30 minutes prior to their game start time in approved atire—shorts without pockets and tucked in T-shirts (which must remain tucked in for the
duration of the game). As for footwear, the only cleats prohibited are metal ones (if you don’t own a pair of cleats, a good pair of running shoes should sufce). And make sure to bring your ‘A’ game, as prizes will be awarded to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place teams.
Tis tournament is open to everyone island wide ages 16 and older. Prospective participants can register their team by July 22 (1 p.m.) via Eventbrite for $175 per team. For more information, head to okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/adultsports, or follow Semper Fit on Facebook for event updates and future happenings at facebook. com/mccsokinawa.semperft. For questions and a list of the bylaws, email Adult Sports at adultsports@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org
Splish, Splash at…
Independence Day Pool Bashes
Ready to let loose and have some fun under the sun? Gather your family and friends in their red, white and blue summer atire and dive into 4th of July by cooling of at the pool! Join us at one of MCCS Aquatics’ Independence Day Pool Bashes taking place on Tuesday, July 4 from noon to 3 p.m. at Aquatic Centers on Camps Kinser, McTureous, Hansen and Plaza Housing. Tere will be FREE food, drinks (served while supplies last) and entertainment.
Te Independence Day Pool Bashes are open to all. We encourage and support the participation of individuals of all abilities. Please call 645-3180 / 098-970-3180 or email mccsaquatics@ okinawa.usmc-mccs.org if you need any assistance or require an accommodation. For more information on this and other MCCS Aquatics events visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/aquatics. See you at the pool!
Olé, Olé, Olé
Retrain Your Brain
Self-Improvement is a Lifelong Journey
Adulting can be hard—with family, work, health, fnances and a million other things that seem to pop up regularly to roll us under waves of stress. Admit it; we could all handle things a litle bit beter—especially during stressful situations. Te need for self-improvement is a lifelong journey with every step guiding you to becoming a beter you.
For those interested in self-improvement, atend Re-Train Your Brain, a 4-week class taught by Family Advocacy Program Prevention & Education Specialists at Family Advocacy Program/Behavioral Health. Topics will include managing stress, coping with feelings of anger and communicating efectively—all things that make us beter adults. Individuals and couples are also encouraged to take this class to improve their reaction to negative triggers, communication and stress management.
Sessions are open to Marines, Sailors, DoD and SOFA personnel ages 18+. Tis month, the class will be meeting on Wednesdays from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Camp Foster and in August it will be meeting on Mondays from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Camp Hansen. For more information and to register, email fapprevention@usmc.mil.
Find Help…
Struggling with substance abuse? If your use of said substance has been negatively impacting your life, including your health, relationships and fnances, it may be time to talk to someone. Tere are strategies to cut back on your consumption in order to reduce your risk of more signifcant substance-related problems and professionals are there to help you every step of the way. It takes strength, intelligence and bravery in knowing when to work on it yourself and when it is time to seek outside support.
Te Substance Abuse Counseling Center (SACC) has a variety of prevention programs and workshops to help Marines, Sailors and family members seeking assistance. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, don’t hesitate to reach out to SACC by calling 645-3009, sending an email to mcb_butler-sacc-prevention@usmc.mil or visiting them in person on Camps Foster (Bldg. 440), Hansen (Bldg. 2631) or Schwab (Bldg. 3000). …At SACC
Stay Safe!
July is Injury Prevention Month
At long last, you’re fnally developing the much-needed habit of making regular visits to the gym to get ft. And, out of the blue it strikes—you’ve pulled a muscle in your back! Other than making just about everything that you do exponentially more difcult, experiencing an injury can have many long-ranging efects such as missed school or work. An injury can impact many aspects of the quality of your life, your fnances and can even lead to the development of chronic illnesses.
So, how can we avoid this in the frst place? If you’re just starting to exercise, geting a medical check-up (or comprehensive health assessment) is a good idea to see where you stand. Once you’re cleared, start with stretching—stretching exercises can improve the ability of muscles to contract and perform which reduces the risk for injury. Afer your exercise, take the time (at least twice as long as warm-ups) to cool down correctly. Especially when exercising outdoors, stay hydrated; drinking plenty of water can help prevent dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Most importantly, know your limits and pace yourself. When you’re tired, rest, and don’t exercise when you are tired or in pain. Remember—good mobility, fexibility, muscle strength, endurance, motor control training as well as rest and recovery are the keys to progress.
Learn more about how you can prevent injuries by contacting MCCS Health Promotion at 645-3970 or emailing mccshealthpromotions@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org. For more information visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/healthpromotion or follow facebook. com/mccsokinawa.semper ft.
Coffee Chat
Conversate Over a Cup
Ahh, there’s nothing like a good cup of joe…the smell of roasted cofee permeating the air as your hands hug a mug, afer that one sip you’re instantly warm, fuzzy and cafeinated. Why not conversate over cofee with like-minded individuals? Well, you can when you join the Cofee Chat taking place at Bonsai Cofee inside the Torii Station Library on July 25 from 2 to 3 p.m.
Cofee Chats are hosted by EFMP Army Systems Navigator and the MCCS EFMP Outreach Specialist. Tey are open to SOFA personnel with the hope of bringing together military families living on Okinawa to share experiences and testimonies about living overseas. Engage in Cofee Chats to learn about provided support, insights and further your community fellowship with those navigating a similar journey, ofering both practical assistance and emotional reassurance. No registration is required to atend. For more information, call 645-9237, email EFMP@okinawa.usmcmccs.org or visit okinawa. usmc-mccs.org/efmp.
Become a Lifeguard with…
…MCCS Aquatics
Ensuring the safety of others is a noble job, but if you’re looking to become a lifeguard, you’ll need some certifcations frst—all of which MCCS Aquatics is ofering in monthly courses at the Foster Aquatic Center. Tis Lifeguarding Full Course will teach SOFA ID card holders ages 15 and older the skills to handle aquatic emergencies, as well as how to provide care for breathing and cardiac-related emergencies while waiting for medical services to arrive.
Upon completion of the course, participants will receive American Red Cross certifcates— valid for two years—for Lifeguarding, First Aid, CPR, AED and Administering Emergency Oxygen. Moreover, participants will receive a Bloodborne Pathogens Training certifcation, which is valid for one year. While successful completion of the course does not guarantee a job with MCCS, those who complete the
course may apply for a lifeguarding position online at okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/jobs.
Te frst day of the course will include a skills evaluation in which you must swim 300m continuously, tread water for two minutes using only your legs and complete a timed object retrieval. Te August session will run from the 6th to the 8th from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with classwork taking place at the Aquatics Classroom in Bldg. 5677 on Camp Foster. Please bring a swimsuit and a towel for every session, including the skills evaluation.
To register, head to okinawa.usmc-mccs. org /lifeguard and sign up by July 23 ( 11 : 30 p.m.). For more information, visit facebook. com/mccsokinawa.aquatics . If you have any questions, please email mccsaquatics@ okinawa.usmc-mccs.org .
Celebrate with Fellow Readers at… …Summer Reading Program Checkpoint Party
It’s July…which means we are halfway through the Summer Reading Program! It’s been a month of reading on the beach or poolside and, most importantly, keeping track of your minutes through the Beanstack App because the more you read, the more you can win! Readers who log 300, 600, 900, 1,200 and 1,500 minutes before July 31 can redeem their minutes for prizes, while those that read for more than 1,500 minutes will get entered into a rafe drawing to win one of four grand prizes (one each for ages 0–4, 5–12, 13–17 and 18+). In addition, those reading 3,000 and 6,000 minutes will get additional tickets for even more chances to win! Join the Foster Library as they host a Summer Reading Program Checkpoint Party on July 13 from 2 to 4 p.m. Celebrate your love of books with fellow readers as you craft, enjoy light refreshments, snacks and more! For more information on the Summer Reading Program and other offerings at MCCS Libraries island wide, visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/libraries , follow facebook.com/mccsokinawa.educationandlibraries or email your friendly neighborhood librarian at libraryprogram@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org
Chill Out
Beat the Heat with Sweet Treats at MCCS Clubs & Restaurants
Now that rainy season has passed us, the sweltering summer heat has arrived. Brows will be sweaty as thermostats hover in the high 80s, making us question the temperature with a double take. Step outside and the symphony of cicadas will drown out all sound and thought, and once the efect of air-conditioning wears of , your whole body will be dripping in sweat. Time to cool of !
One of the best things about summer involves enjoying something delightful and cold to cool you down from the heat slapping you in the face. Now we all know the importance of staying hydrated… sure, a cup of cool water does wonders at replenishing the body, but it doesn’t satisfy the need for a sweet treat like one of the many cold desserts available at MCCS Clubs and Restaurants will!
We scream for ice cream, and at Tradewinds, you can elevate a regular scoop with a brownie sundae—hot fudge, chocolate syrup drizzled over your choice of ice-cold vanilla, chocolate or strawberry ice cream with a dollop of cool whip cream and a maraschino cherry on a bed of brownie.
For a change of pace from the traditional ice cream, La Cocina with its new brick-andmortar restaurant located inside Camp Kinser’s Surfside ofers creamy, cool and decadent fan that will transport you back to Mexico with their simplemente deliciosa favors.
Looking for something cool, refreshing, healthy and quick? Visit Bonsai Cofee at the Torii Station Library for one of their LifeJuice yogurt-based smoothies such as their Berry Bang comprised of strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, pineapple juice
and coconut water or their Morning Break which features banana, whole grain oats and honey. Going post-gym workout? Power up your smoothie with BCAA Powder or Whey Protein!
At Bulldogs Burgers, sip on a classic milkshake available in chocolate, vanilla, strawberry and cofee favors that will bring back cool nostalgic memories with the family.
Inside Globe & Anchor, choose from one of their delectable desserts like the Warm Apple Crisp Á La Mode, with freshly sliced apples baked with a cinnamon oat crumble and topped with vanilla ice cream.
Don’t fear the summer heat, beat it with a sweet treat! For more information on MCCS Club and Restaurant oferings, hours of operation, locations and more visit okinawa. usmc-mccs.org/clubs.
What’s for Lunch?
How About a Burger?
Have you made your lunch plans yet? How about a burger? For many, there aren’t very many truly viscerally enjoyable eating experiences as biting into a good burger. Burgers transcend “comfort” food and tread in the dangerous land of guilty pleasures.
A delicious burger for lunch will make for an afternoon of delight with good vibes lasting into the evening. So, where do you get a good burger? Head to Bulldogs, of course! Besides being reliable and consistent, Bulldogs Burgers is just plain satisfying. For the famished, there’s the Double Stack—two beef paties, all the f xings and a special sauce. For those intrigued by global pops of favor, there’s the Bacon and Bleu Cheese, and for vegetarians/vegans looking for the occasional indulgent eats, there’s the Beyond Burger.
With appetizing and satiating options for everyone, Bulldogs Burgers is a one-stop-shop that’ll fulfill all your summertime burger cravings. All Bulldog Burgers are available as a combo that includes a choice of French fries, sweet potato fries or onion petals and a fountain drink. For a full menu, hours of operation, phone numbers and a listing of all Bulldogs Burgers locations, visit okinawa.usmc-mccs. org/bulldogs
Grab One of Our Signature Burritos
At Sumo Burrito / Bonsai Drive-Thru
Sumo Burrito has opened back up on Camp Foster next to the Bowling Center and their popular B.Y.O.B. (Build Your Own Burrito) offerings are back. Best part? The re-opening came with two new additions! Bonsai Coffee is now sharing a space with Sumo which offers a drive-thru option, where you can grab a cup of joe and one of seven signature burritos if you’re in a rush.
The seven signature burritos include Carnitas Green Chile, Bacon Chicken Club, Fajita, Barbacoa, Poblano, Crunchy Mango BBQ and No-Meato for the plant-based eaters. All burritos are $8 50 and come with either cilantro or Mexican rice, plus a variety of toppings like cheese, corn, black beans, jalapeños, pico
de gallo and a few different sauces. Hungry for more? Get chips and a fountain drink when you make it a combo for only $2 more.
The Sumo Burrito / Bonsai Drive-Thru is open 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. with breakfast offerings (including sandwiches, bagels, burritos) and sweets (including croissants, cinnamon rolls, cookies and more) available from 6 to 10 a.m. After 10 a.m. the menu switches to the lunch/dinner menu until 9 p.m. Coffee, teas and frozen blends are available all day. For more information on Sumo Burrito and Bonsai Coffee, including other locations, and to see their menus visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/ sumoburrito or okinawa.usmc-mccs. org/bonsaicoffee .
UFO Burger & Sandwich CAFE
C.
Of Route 58, up an unassuming street between a cultural center and a gas station lies a retro American townscape with a cluster of 60 buildings that will transport you back to the 1960s. Te neighborhood, known as Minatogawa Stateside Town nowadays, used to be an area of approved military rental housing in the post-war era. Around the 2000s, roughly half of these American-style houses got a new lease on life as they were converted into a variety of eating establishments and shops selling miscellaneous goods—each building trimmed with a signature color. Te streets were also renamed afer a handful of U.S. states and charming metal signs displaying the state, house number and business names welcomes you at every street corner.
perfectly grilled burger of your choice. Not sure which way to go? You can’t go wrong with their signature dish, the UFO Triple Cheeseburger, which was named afer the restaurant. Te fan-favorite burger features a saucer (as in fying) of crispy natural cheese along with a checkered slice of cheddar and gouda that will send your tastebuds into orbit! And that’s just the tip of the iceberg (letuce)… Nakauchi-san has created a number of outstanding burger combinations that you won’t fnd anywhere else on island!
Location 55, 2-9-10
Minatogawa, Urasoe Okinawa 901-2134
Hours of Operation
Weekdays
11 a.m.–3 p.m. (L.O. 2 p.m.)
Weekends & Japanese Holidays
11 a.m.–5 p.m. (L.O 4 p.m.)
Mondays
Sometimes Closed
(Check their Instagram page in advance)
Phone Number
098-988-3658
Website ufoburger.jp
Instagram
@ufo_burger_and_ sandwich_cafe
Te weekend is the best time to visit, as most shops are open to both local and international visitors seeking a taste of the swingin’ sixties. Afer you’re done wandering the streets and exploring the countless options Minatogawa Stateside Town has to ofer, we recommend continuing on the Americana trend by grabbing some mouthwatering burgers. It doesn’t get more all-American than that!
UFO Burger & Sandwich CAFE is located on the backend of the neighborhood on Arizona Street and ofers an assortment of hearty burgers as well as a café menu. Owner Keisuke Nakauchi, a Tokyo transplant who relocated to Okinawa with the dream of opening up a hamburger restaurant, made his dream come true in 2019.
Walking into these repurposed military housing cafés—complemented by the eclectic décor which in this case includes mix-and-match chairs, plants, wall hangings featuring a combination of art, photography, extraterrestrial elements and band merch—ofers the sense of being welcomed into someone’s home. UFO B&S CAFE serves burger paties made in-house using 100% Okinawan Kuroge-Wagyu (with no binding agents) along with crisp iceberg letuce and a slice of fresh tomato sandwiched between buns that are baked fresh daily. Burgers are accompanied by potato wedges.
Bite into the deliciously juicy, steaming-hot and
Other unique oferings include the American Cherry Burger (yes, you read that right…it actually has a cream cheese and cherry topping, color us intrigued), Teriyaki Cream Cheeseburger, Pulled Pork Burger (which includes both a beef paty and pulled pork) as well as an Agu Burger with a paty made from Okinawa’s famous Agu Pork.
On the menu you will also fnd classic oferings like the Hamburger, Hawaiian Burger and Avocado Burger, the later of which is extremely popular with American customers, according to Nakauchi-san. What can we say… we like our sweet-and-savory combinations that cause our palate to burst with explosive and elevated favors, as well as adding the rich & creamy taste of avocados to just about anything. For the non-meat eaters, indulge in their Vegan Burger made with a soy paty that is equally guilt-free and delicious. And for those die-hard carnivores, they can satisfy those meaty cravings devouring the “Meat Meat Meat Burger,” which forgoes the buns and instead has the letuce and tomato sandwiched between two meat paties.
Afer your burger, cool down from the Okinawa heat with a refreshing smoothie. We recommend the colorful and unique Aurora Smoothie, a mango smoothie layered with buterfy pea dyed carbonated water showcasing majestic colors that make it (almost) too prety to drink.
Worried about parking? Don’t fret! UFO B&S CAFE has seven FREE parking spots in front of the restaurant and Minatogawa Stateside Town has a number of coin parking lots starting at ¥100 per 30 minutes, so make sure to bring yen along with your appetite.
Welcoming a new baby into a family is an exciting adventure, f lled with joy and anticipation. For military parents, there are many aspects to this adventure to consider that are unique to their situation, including understanding Marine Corps policies, navigating the birth registration process, and preparing for long TDYs and deployments. Te New Parent Support Program’s (NPSP) Parents in Uniform brief is here to provide these parents-to-be with valuable knowledge and resources to prepare for the arrival of their bundle of joy.
NPSP ofers a small, group-based brief once a month for expecting parents, which they recommend taking during the early stages of pregnancy but can be taken at any stage. Te NPSP professional staf will provide information and educate expecting parents on Marine Corps policies which include housing information, legal requirements, on-island childcare options, DEERS enrollment, as well as other family readiness issues. Te NPSP team is here to answer any questions and help guide participants through this stressful time with their extensive list of services and information about community resources available for FREE.
Parents in Uniform classes take place once a month at the WestPac Inn Conference Room on Camp Foster from 2:30 to 4 p.m.; this month the class will be taking place on July 11. Registration is required for all NPSP services. To register for the upcoming brief or for any additional information please call 645-0396 / 098-970-0396 or email npspokinawa@usmc.mil. To see the schedule on upcoming Parents in Uniform briefs and/or to learn more about other NPSP oferings visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/npsp
Bring Toddlers to Socialize at…
…Partners in Play at Camps Kinser + Foster
Trying to keep up with a toddler leads to never-ending games of playing imagination, hide-and-seek and 21 questions, to name a few. It seems like when you’ve fnally caught your breath, they’re one step ahead of you doing something equally mischievous, dangerous and cute—or worse, asking for a rerun of all the aforementioned games. Afer all, a toddler needs someone on their level… someone who mirrors their lightning-fast strides, gorilla grip and insatiable appetite for curiosity, so why not take your litle one out for Partners in Play to socialize with other litle humans who match their energy! Open to all SOFA personnel with children under the age of three, this playgroup provides a fun and engaging environment for your child(ren) to explore, learn and develop essential skills
in a safe and supportive environment facilitated by early interventionist experts and the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP). All minors must be accompanied by parent(s), guardian(s) or a trusted adult for the duration of the event.
On July 16, join the playgroup at the Camp Kinser Chapel from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. If you can’t make it there, head to Camp Foster on July 23, where the playgroup is being hosted at the Foster Library from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. No registration is required to atend.
What are you waiting for? Give yourself a break and give your child(ren) the opportunity to connect with kids their age. For more information, call 645-9237, email EFMP@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org or visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/efmp
New to Island?
Get Beach/Pool Ready With…
…Summer 3/4 Swim Lessons
Gear up for summer on Okinawa and gain peace of mind during all of your upcoming beach and pool days by signing your litle one (and/or yourself) up for swim lessons with MCCS Aquatics. All swim lesson registrations are for eight 30-minute-long weekday classes, taken Tuesday–Friday for two weeks. Te goal? To help swimmers become more comfortable and safer in aquatic environments. Swimming lessons are divided by age/skill level and will be taking place at Aquatic Centers on Camps
Kinser, Foster, McTureous and Plaza Housing. Registration can be done online via EventBrite. The Summer 3 Swim Session will be taking place from July 16 to 26, registration opens July 8 and closes July 11. The Summer 4 Swim Session will be taking place from July 30 to August 9 ; registration opens July 22 and closes July 25. To see the Swim Level Chart and Level Placement, or to learn more about the program, visit okinawa. usmc-mccs.org/learntoswim
Slime Making Workshop
Take Home Your Creation
Has your kid been bugging you about creating slime at home, but you don’t have the time to pick out all the supplies needed to create that gooey, shape-shifing and squishy substance? Fret not, for there is a Slime Making Workshop on July 17 from 1 to 2 p.m. happening on Camp Foster at Building 445 Room 205! Learn how to make slime in an imaginative, interactive environment with a variety of add-ins for tactile stimulation. As you let those creative juices flow, socialize and
bond with your family as well as old and new friends. At the end of the workshop, participants will take home their slime. All minors must be accompanied by parent(s), guardian(s) or a trusted adult for the duration of the event.
Te event is open to all SOFA personnel and their families. Register via Eventbrite by July 17. For more information, visit okinawa. usmc-mccs.org/efmp, email EFMP@okinawa. usmc-mccs.org or call 645-9237
You’re Invited to… …Camp Kinser’s Ice Cream Party
Tere’s nothing beter than ice cream on a hot summer day…even if you have to be quick about eating it. On July 16, the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) will be hosting an Ice Cream Party outside their ofce (Bldg. 1316) on Camp Kinser at 1 p.m., while supplies last.
Jump in the car for a fun-f lled outing, where you can connect with other families in the community while you enjoy a cool and refreshing treat as well as support the EFMP program. Te event is open to all SOFA individuals, regardless of branch af liation or EFMP enrollment. Minors must be accompanied by parent(s), guardian(s), or trusted adult for the duration of the event.
For more information on EFMP and how they support military families with special medical and/or educational needs in order to improve quality-of-life, please call 645-9237, email EFMP@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org or visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/efmp.
Typhoon Motors Sales
Independence Day Specials All Month Long
With so many extras for your ride from dark tint to block out the burning Oki sun, mufers to drown out the noise emiting from your exhaust and roof racks to lug around all your outdoor gear—the options are endless to upgrade your vehicle, but what is something that always touches the ground when driving and completely necessary on the road? Tires! And not just any old tire from the junkyard… new tires that improve your vehicle’s handling and stopping power as well as providing more grip on slippery terrain. Afer all, Okinawa is Japan’s rainiest prefecture—we know that torrential downpours arrive instantly without a warning sign in sight.
All month long, receive 10% of new tires at Typhoon Motors on Camps Kinser, Hansen and Courtney. If you’ve already got new tires waiting to be swapped out, Typhoon Motors is also ofering 10% of mounting and balancing so you don’t have to do any of the work!
In celebration of Independence Day, the aforementioned locations will also be ofering $1 lif and stall specials so you can give old reliable the TLC it deserves with a litle bit of DIY elbow grease.
With summer in full swing, belting out those jams is a must…is your stereo still going strong? Kinda…sort of…not really? Typhoon Motors on Camp Kinser will be ofering 15% of all automotive audio products during their Audio Super Summer Sale from July 1 to 8 to keep your ears as happy as your wheels. For more information, visit Typhoon Motors at okinawa. usmc-mccs.org/typhoonmotors .
Declare YOUR Independence
Get Licensed to Drive!
In 2023, MCCS launched a brand-new program tailored towards Marines, Sailors and their family members stationed on Okinawa—the Driver Education Program. Tis program is geared towards aiding active-duty personnel and their family with POV licensing needs, which include American Driver and Trafc Safety Education Association (ADTSEA)/AAA certifed courses with 39 hours of classroom instruction and six hours of behind-the-wheel instruction for those in need.
First-time driver classes are 45 hours long and open to adults/teens ages 16+ and take place at the Driver Education Ofce located in Bldg. 5677 on Camp Foster. Students enrolled in the frst-time driver’s course must score 80% or higher in order to schedule the behind-the-wheel portion of the course. Classes are conducted Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for active-duty personnel and 5 to 8 p.m. for teens and adults. Refresher courses are also available for service members.
Students who complete the Driver Education Program will receive their SOFA driver’s permit which can be used throughout Japan (yes, you can rent a vehicle in mainland Japan with a valid SOFA permit). In-person classes are held on both Camp Foster and Kadena Air Base. Please note that behind-the-wheel instruction is contingent and scheduled based on instructor and student availability.
Prices for the program’s course are $300 for active-duty members, teens and adults. Refresher courses are ofered at $75
To find necessary registration forms and the full course schedule, visit okinawa. usmc-mccs.org/drivereducation . For any questions you may have, send an email to driver. education@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org or call 645 - 5823.
MCCS Flea Markets
It May be Junk to You
A wise person once said “waste not, want not…” However, try as we might, we always seem to end up with stuf that we really don’t need (and some items we can’t even remember buying such as that exercise bike now being used as a clothes rack). Te answer to your problem isn’t busting your gut hauling it to the curb as garbage; turn your unwanted items into cash at an MCCS Flea Market!
Whether you’re interested in turning some of your belongings into cash, or you’re a gluton for punishment shopping for more newto-you items, here’s what to know. MCCS Flea Markets on Camp Foster are held from noon to 3 p.m., and Camp Courtney hosts a fea market from 7 to 10 a.m. For a full schedule of upcoming dates and maps to fea market locations, visit okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/feamarket.
Booths for sellers are available to SOFA ID card holders islandwide and are granted on a first-come, first-served basis. To reserve a booth, arrive on-site an hour early and pay the $15 cash fee. Both SOFA and non-SOFA shoppers are welcome, so sellers should plan to make change in both dollars and yen.
Aside from finding your next treasure or going home to a cleaner closet, flea markets help reduce trash, which is great—especially since an estimate of ¥10 billion is spent on waste disposal in Okinawa each year. Flea markets do have certain rules and requirements, so be sure to review these policies at okinawa.usmcmccs.org/fleamarket. For more information, call MCCS Special Events at 645 - 5829.
We Want You!
Join the MCCS Team
MCCS ofers a variety of challenging, career-building opportunities with the priority on hiring qualifed family members of active-duty military and civilian employees stationed on Okinawa. Jobs are available in entertainment, food & hospitality, sports, accounting, marketing, wellness, child development, maintenance, IT, counseling and much, much more.
In addition to career building, MCCS also provides many benefts for employees. On top of medical and dental insurance, options such as a NAF Pension Plan, 401(k) Plan with Employer Match, Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and a Tuition Assistance Program (which provides up to $10,000 per year for certifcations and college degrees up to a graduate level) are also available to advance your career while stationed on island. And, that’s not all—Leave Donation Program, Family Friendly Leave Act, Family Medical Leave Act, Employee Assistance Program and many more policies are in place for qualifed
MCCS employees. Becoming a member of the MCCS Child and Youth Programs (CYP) team comes with additional benefts such as earning the highest salary on island for CYP Program Assistants, work-related training with a set increase in salary upon completion, a 100% discount on childcare (and 50% discount for subsequent children) and more.
To start your job search, head to okinawa.usmc-mccs.org/jobs or keep up with the weekly “hot jobs” announcements sent directly to your inbox when you subscribe to our newsletter at okinawa. usmc-mccs.org/newsletter.
For those without internet access, visit one of your local MCCS Libraries or the MCCS Human Resources Ofce (HRO), located on the second foor of Bldg. 5966 on Camp Foster. For more information on becoming a member of the MCCS team, call 645-3052
cools…transforming it into an object of lasting beauty. Liquid glass glows with the energy contained within as it slowly transforms into its solid state. Te truly skilled artisan can capture this glow of resplendent vitality in order for its beauty and energy to remain long afer the glass cools…like a moment frozen in time.
Although the infancy of Ryukyu glassmaking was associated with eking out an existence during hard times by recycling
botles into souvenirs for tourists and making household items to sell to military personnel, today Ryukyu glassware is considered an ofcial traditional crafwork of the Okinawa Prefecture alongside potery, lacquerware and textiles. Many examples of Ryukyu glassware belong in the realm of true art; the craft was officially appointed as a Traditional Craftwork of the Okinawa Prefecture in 1998
war crisis that eventually led many to ruin.
Many believe that Ryukyu glass was saved by the arrival of multitudes of U.S. military personnel and their families on the island during the late 1950s. Te military camps produced a plentiful new source of raw materials—discarded soda, beer and liquor botles. Prior to this period, transparent glass was the primary medium used, but this new source of materials provided Okinawan glass artisans with an opportunity to repurpose colored glass. Te use of soda
lished in quick succession.
In the early 1980s, Okinawa had become a tourist’s mecca for moneyed mainland Japanese and glassmaking fourished. In 1982, six of the larger factories on the island—the Okuhara Glass Factory, the Ryukyu Glass Factory, Kokusai Glass Craf, Inc., Oyafuso Folk Craf Glass, Okinawa Kotobuki Glass Craf, Inc. and the Giyaman Kan—established the Ryukyu Glass Craf Association (which is now known as the Ryukyu Glass Craf Cooperative).
Although the origin of their art was based on selling their work, Ryukyu glassmakers were slowly accepted by artists and crafspeople working in other mediums. Today, masters such as Koei Oshiro (the very frst Ryukyu glass crafsman chosen as a “Master Crafsman of the Present Age” by the Government of Japan), Seikichi Inamine and others have taken “recycling” to previously unimaginable levels.
Upon being asked about the past, present, and future of Ryukyu glass, Koei Oshiro stated: “Potery and Bingata have a long history; they have been around since the times of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
But Ryukyu glass doesn’t have this prestige…no one was aware of it. Te craf was more about business…creating trinkets for tourists to make a living. Tat may be all well and good, but if the focus of Ryukyu glass remains solely on creating more and more expensive trinkets for collectors to fll our pockets, then our successors and our art will not grow. Tat is why I fought so hard for Ryukyu glass to be recognized as a traditional craf of the [Okinawa] prefecture. From the next generation on, I hope that our students will make Ryukyu glass into an art that is noticed throughout the world for its soul… this art’s history is just beginning.”
Yakitori
(Skewered grilled chicken)
Yakitori is a popular snack that is often seen at festivals on Okinawa. Although many different parts of the chicken are used, the following recipe features one of the most common versions.
Ingredients
4 medium-sized chicken thighs (boned and skinned)
2 medium-sized negi (Japanese leeks)
3 Tbsp. soy sauce
3 Tbsp. mirin (sweet cooking wine)
1 Tbsp. sake (rice wine)
1 Tbsp. granulated brown sugar
1 tsp. honey or maple syrup
12–14 bamboo skewers
* Ingredients are available at the commissary and most major grocery stores off base.
Method of Preparation
1. In a saucepan, mix soy sauce, mirin, sake and sugar with the honey or maple syrup, and bring it to a rolling boil. Set aside to cool for at least 30 minutes.
2. While sauce is cooling, soak bamboo skewers in cold water.
3. Cut the chicken thigh meat and leeks into bite-sized pieces (approximately 1-inch squares for the chicken and 1-1/2 inches long for the leeks).
4. Place the chicken in a few tablespoons-worth of sauce and let it marinate in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours. Pour the remaining sauce into a cup.
Tanabata
Love is grand or so they say, but imagine only being able to see your loved one once a year. In Japanese folklore, there is a story about this acutely poignant kind of situation. Every year, many in Japan celebrate a festival called Tanabata (or star festival) on July 7. On this day, two stars that are usually apart (Vega and Altair), approach each other in the night sky. It is said that these two stars are star-crossed lovers of ancient Japanese folklore.
Once upon a time, there was a princess known as Orihime (Vega) who was responsible for weaving the clothing of the gods. Orihime was very skilled, and the textiles she produced were extremely popular among the divine. One day, one of the gods introduced Orihime to Kengyu (Altair) who watched over the celestial herds. Orihime and Kengyu fell in love, and like many other couples in the same situation throughout the universe, enjoyed spending all of their waking hours together. However, this proved to be their downfall, because in the meantime they were seriously neglecting their duties.
Te gods were not amused and immediately separated them to the eastern and western sides of the Amanogawa or “River of the Heavens” (known by modern-day astronomers as the Milky Way). While Orihime now had plenty of time to weave, she still couldn’t perform her duties because she couldn’t see past the rivers of tears streaming down her
Uchinâguchi Corner
English Cheers!
Japanese Kanpai!
5. Alternately spear pieces of chicken and leeks on skewers—four pieces of chicken and three pieces of leek usually leaves enough room to flip the yakitori over while cooking.
6. Place yakitori on a partially banked hibachi grill and alternate flipping with dipping into sauce until chicken is done—be careful not to leave on the grill too long as the skewers will catch fire.
7. Serve with a tall refreshing beverage of choice.
cheeks. Over time, the gods fnally relented and allowed the couple to meet once a year—if they worked hard enough.
Many Japanese celebrate Tanabata by placing small bamboo trees decorated with ornaments and narrow strips of colored paper outside of their homes. Both children and adults write wishes on these colored strips with hopes that these wishes come true through diligence and hard work.
