Under 21 Magazine 2010 by John Burgreen

Summertime on Okinawa: whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

hot

UNDER21

2010/2011

Sw im with th e Dol ph i n s

Aquatics PAG E 4

Skat in g & Su rfi n g

Extreme Spor ts PAG E 1 2

H ungry? Bored ?

Hot Spots & Eats PAG E 1 4

w h a t ’s

hot

You’re not quite an adult, but you’re definitely not a kid anymore—you’re “under 21.” These memorable times can be pretty trying, especially when living in a foreign country. Without even knowing it, you are an ambassador of the U. S. of A. Locals look to you as a representative of our entire nation. That’s a huge responsibility. But, being responsible doesn’t have to be boring. Rather than focusing on the things you can’t do, think about all the things you can do.

Under21 magazine is split into two sides: cool and hot. Spring and summer on Okinawa can get really HOT. Here are some fun ways THOMAS ALAN SM IL IE

to stay cool when school’s out. In the fall and winter, flip it over and enjoy the publication all year long!

cover photo by THOMAS ALAN SMILIE

Sponsored by:

Adolescent S ubstance Ab u s e C o u n s e l i n g Se r v i c e ( ASAC S ) Dedicated to giving students, ages 12 to 18, a confidential place to speak with an understanding and supportive counselor about the challenges that come with being a teenager. Kubasaki High School I 645-3153/6878 Lester Middle School I 645-0598

TGL

s BEACH SCENE

EXTREME SPORTS

A Q U AT I C S

H OT S P OT S & E AT S

SUMMER HIRE

S H I N TO S H I N & N A H A

SNORKELING

A M E R I CA N V I L L AG E

GOING PLACES

FA S H I O N

nde

r 2 1 sta

M anag in g E di to r

H f

Michelle Volkmann • Cindy Ramos Rachel Veit Thomas Alan Smilie • Ashley Yaggi • Nathan Fisher

A rt D ire c to r & desig ner Ph oto g rap hers

Jim Kassebaum Mike Daley MCCS Art D irec to r Henry C. Ortega MCCS S eni o r Grap hic Art is t John R. Burgreen III Co ntributin g g ra p hi c designers Gabriel Archer • Michael Boughton • Jeanny Pidgeon • Margie Shimabukuro • Mina Furusho ACCO U N T EX ECU TIVE Maria Quintana Teen R esearc h S p ecialis t s Bonita Ramos • Nicole Lee • Michael Boughton Ph oto g ra p hy IN TERN Advis or Charles Fisher PH OTOG RA PH Y IN TERNS Vicente Pamparo • Jennifer Jones Wri ter Intern A dv isors Heather Mendoza • Cindy Ramos Wri ter Interns Alaina Grade • Kyle Harthausen • Emily Ishikawa • Kevin McKay • Audry Padgett • Mary Schweers • Lia Chiarotti • Cris Ayalin • Christal-Summer VanEtten • Elizabeth Rowe Co ntributin g Writers Richenda Sandlin-Tymitz • Megan Weatherly • Mina Furusho • Carley Jobes Mo deling Co nsultant Lia Chiarotti Chief M ar k etin g Officer

MCCS Manag in g Edi tor

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beach scene P H O T O G R A P H Y T E X T

B Y

E L I Z A B E T H

T H O M A S R O W E

A L A N

S M I L I E

C I N D Y

R A M O S

On Okinawa, paradise is right outside your window. With beaches literally at every corner, the island offers paradise to beach bums, sun-bathers, and water-sports enthusiasts alike. Want to meet new Japanese and American friends while helping the environment? Throughout the year, environmental organizations like the Okinawa Ocean Culture & Environment Action Network, or O.C.E.A.N., conduct beach clean-ups to maintain the island’s coastline. Check them out at www.iloveokinawa.org.

w h e r e ’ s

y o u r

BU RG RE JO HN R.

EN III

Araha Beach Chatan

Araha Beach is the perfect place to sit in the sun and get your feet wet. The beach has a calm swimming area and a paved walking path. Had too much fun in the sun? There are also covered picnic tables and booths serving up frozen treats to keep you cool and refreshed. The beach is located across the street from San-A outside of Camp Foster’s Commissary Gate.

JO HN R. BU RG RE EN

BU RG RE JO HN R.

EN III

III

Camp Schwab

ASH LEY YAG GI

Tropical Beach

Ginowan

Sunset Beach

This beach has free access and attracts all sorts of activities. You can pretty much rent whatever you need to enjoy a day at the beach. Head south on Highway 58 from Camp Foster’s Commissary Gate, and take the right fork at the light before Highway 81. The Okinawa Convention Center will be on the right; look for the torii gate entrance.

After some serious shopping in American Village in Mihama, stroll out to Sunset Beach, just down the street from Mihama Cineplex. The man-made, sandy beach is at the foot of a giant windmill and offers a spectacular view of the setting sun. The water is quite shallow and calm, perfect if you just want to get your feet wet.

Okuma Beach Recreation Facility

Mihama

MIKE DALE Y

Oura Wan Beach

Can anyone say, “spring break?” In the States, it’s Cancun or Cabo, but on Okinawa, the most popular spring break destination is Okuma. Call 632-4FUN for more information or to make reservations. Okuma is nearly two hours away. Take Highway 58 north past Nago and the Motobu peninsula. Make a left at the JAL Okuma sign, and Okuma Beach is beyond the JAL resort.

Torii Beach Torii Station

Oura Wan Beach and Boating offers a swimming area, snorkel gear, kayaks, one 13-foot personal watercraft, scuba charters, limited scuba gear, and fishing trips (reservations required). There are also volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, and covered pavilions. Every summer, Marine Corps Community Services Semper Fit Aquatics sponsors a beach clean up here. For more information, call Oura Wan Boating at 625-3683. An easy way to get there is to take The Green Line.

Another favorite for beach parties, Torii Beach is the spot for bonfires, beach camping, barbecues, and more. The huge water slide is a Torii Beach favorite. Don’t forget sports sandals or water shoes—the sand is full of coral that can injure bare feet. To get there, head north on Highway 58 through Kadena Circle.Watch the blue signs for Highway 6 and turn left at Iramina Intersection. Torii Station is about 4 km on the left, and the beach is at the bottom of the hill.

(See HOT p. 10)

u21â&#x20AC;˘2010/2011

aquatics

Get involved in the community, make new friends, and stay in shape with the Okinawa Dolphins Swim Team (ODST). GOT Q U E S T I O N S ? Email the swim team coach at luebbersm@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org or visit www.mccsokinawa.com/swimteam.

swimmer

P H O T O G R A P H Y T E X T

B Y

M E G A N

W E A T H E R L Y

R I C H E N D A

B Y

M CC S

S A N D L I N - TY M I T Z

wa n t t o j oin

ou’ll practice on the ad ult tea ou’re 18, y 7 (if y m). A 1 o complete two 25 t . y l f r After tryouts, you can pra ll you h 7 e t Membe t u e b g r a -mete o ave to do is c ti ce rship is open to any youth r swim troke, s with t k week for free to c . a n o s b s using a he team , e s e k s e e if e o r h t the crawl stroke, breastst r for one o f you li 5 fee ke it. O nce you officially join, there’s a $3

what

you g et

f friends, great workouts , a nd w group o the o , a ne t r i h compete in inter s pportu ertified professional coac c T A C a S A r f o n a ti o n nity to h l o Y e e o w e u o s t ’ l , s l p g i a e c t a m i w sw t r al me h e o p x several hundred h t e o c e n a a r h n e c a varsity ave co ets in c have the swimm letter ached n ities like Tokyo. And you’ll get the e v e in sw ers ov ’ll imming er the ye s, you . ars. For high school student

s w i m eve nts meets, MCCS Aq u a ti c

ed of both on- and off-base events. I n add inform s r e n ocean swims, polar ition to imm ODST is cl u di n g o p e b n regular swim i e r great about keeping their sw a a r s hos swim aqu athlo n s ( ru n ts seve the ye s, pet p t u o h -swim g r a u lunges, l o r w h a t t s e t r n r e e v l a e t e d -run c ompeti tions) and triathlons.

re a d y fo r the The fall season b e gins wa t e r ? in Oc year, practice to

nline (www.mccsokinawa.com r loo k o /swim ffice o team) o s er season usually begins in c m i t m u a for tryout da s u q e m A h e t h t i d - Ju tes. Head to d n a ne. Du , s are h to the pools and to your on-base h ber. The w nuary n r a ing the school o J i t n i a s t eld af n r i i g n ousin ter season be o p s n ter sch g area bus tra ool, and the te after practice. am even provides

u21•2010/2011

P H O T O G R A P H Y T E X T

B Y

T H O M A S

R I C H E N D A

A L A N

S M I L I E

S A N D L I N - TY M I T Z

N A T H A N &

C I N D Y

lifeguard

summer hire

When school’s out, you’ll have a lot of free time on your hands. Why not use that time to pocket some extra cash? We’ve highlighted some great opportunities, but for a current listing of available jobs on Okinawa visit MCCS, Kadena Services, or AAFES online: www.mccsokinawa.com/jobs www.kadenaforcesupport.com/hro/currentjobs.html http://odin.aafes.com/employment/default.asp

F I S H E R R A M O S

NATHAN FISHER

s Arts & Craft Attendant

Babysitter

Athletics Attendant

/hou $5.20–$10.31

ant Golf Attend

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20 hours/wee

y: Ho w to Ap pl or, visit

y: Ho w to Ap plawa.com/jobs

Call 645-3180awa.com/lifeguard www.mccsokin

ar www.commissnt_programs.cfm deca/HR/stude

urs : Av era ge Ho k

20 hours/wee

y: Ho w to Ap ple generally

MIK E DA LEY

N: DE SC RI PT IO ational uc The Student Ed ram is designed og Employment Pr job-related work to give students retail rtunities in the po op dy stu d nal an well as professio as , try us ind d foo t to or pp su e vid pro t career fields tha issary system. the military comm y: Ho w to Ap pl ies.com/inside_

/hou $5.20–$10.31

N SM ILIE TH OM AS ALA

www.mccsokin

AS HLE Y YAG GI

SEEP

N: DE SC RI PT IO youth between the e Designed to giv an opportunity to 23 ages of 14 and new rience and learn bits. gain work expe od work ha go lop ve de y the skills while y: av era ge Salar r

/hour $5.20–$10.31

urs : Av era ge Ho k

pe Must apply in ll information, ca ena), 634-3640 (Kad p Foster), or 645-3861 (Cam p Kinser). 637-3650 (Cam

MCB Butler e Summer Hir Program

N: DE SC RI PT IO play to patrons, Explain rules of golf carts, and n issue and assig . es schedule tee tim y: av era ge Salar

/hour $5.20–$10.31

y: Ho w to Ap pl rson. For more

Put yo d neighbors if Ask friends an ne who yo an they know ar e. ne ed s ch il dc

www.mccsokin

Lifeguard

ni Based on se

y: Ho w to Ap pl out there. ur name

y: Ho w to Ap plawa.com/jobs

www.mccsokin

urs : Av era ge Ho ority

Set your own!

20 hours/wee

y: Ho w to Ap plawa.com/jobs

Tips only

urs : Av era ge Ho

urs : Av era ge Ho k

20 hours/wee

N: DE SC RI PT IO an d pr ov id e s Ba g gr oc er ie ic e. rv cu st om er se y: av era ge Salar

Set your own!

/hou $5.20–$10.31

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N: DE SC RI PT IO services. It’s a re Provide childca the American e good idea to tak ter’s Training sit Red Cross Baby n call urse informatio Course. For co ster) or Fo p am (C 00 645-38 ena). 634-1294 (Kad y: Salar ge av era

N: DE SC RI PT IO r service to gymProvide custome sure equipment e goers and mak fely. You’ll also sa is being used , cu sto di al , an d al pe rfo rm cl er ic s. tie maintenance du y: Salar av era ge r

Applications ar ing in March. accepted beginn. Call 645-5429

THOMAS ALAN SMIL IE

N: DE SC RI PT IO s with their craft er u’ll Assist custom er questions. Yo needs and answ ities and classes tiv ac th also help wi of attendance. and keep track y: av era ge Salar r

sary) DeCA (Commis Bagger

u21•2010/2011

snorkeling

If you’re looking for an inexpensive way to spend your summer on Okinawa, get into the water. There’s plenty of it. Throw on a wetsuit, a mask, a snorkel, a safety vest, and some fins to open up a window to nature’s underwater playground. It’s easy and cheap!

gear up at t sunami scuba

Rent snorkeling gear for UNDER $15 at a Tsunami SCUBA near you. Equipment for purchase and expert instruction are also available. Camp Courtney622-9795 Camp Foster645-4206 Camp Hansen623-7717 Camp Kinser637-2027

P H O T O G R A P H Y

B Y

T E X T

J E N N I F E R

J O N E S

C I N D Y

R A M O S

B Y

go

r ber You Remem ! ests!! Safety V

Maeda Point

H o w to g e t t here – Exit Camp

Foster’s Commissary Gate (#5), and turn right onto Route 58. Continue to Route 6, and turn left. Proceed until you see a sign for Maeda Point, and turn left. Parking is available for a small fee.

Sunabe Seawall

H o w to g e t t here – Exit Camp

Foster’s Commissary Gate (#5), and turn right onto Route 58. Continue to the Family Mart intersection (just before Kadena’s Gate 1), and turn left. Proceed to the very bottom of the hill, and park alongside the seawall.

Kadena Steps

H o w to g e t t here – Exit Camp

Foster’s Commissary Gate (#5), and turn right onto Route 58. Continue past Kadena Gate 1 and Kentucky Fried Chicken. Just before the building with the green roof, look for Kaneku Road. At Kaneku Road, there is a stop light. Turn left and travel .4 km. This road stops at a “T” intersection.Turn left and drive for .3 km along the seawall (on your left). Park along the seawall.

here’s what you might

c lown fish

sea urchins

star fish

ze bra fish

coral

see water safety

Water safety might be common sense to most, but a few years ago, the number-one killer of SOFA-status people on Okinawa was drowning. Don’t become a bad statistic. Remember the following when enjoying Okinawa’s waters:

 Always bring a buddy. You’ll need someone to watch your back if something goes wrong.  The waves around Okinawa can grow strong enough to slam you into the rocks. Before getting in the water, check the sea conditions by visiting kadenaservices.com/weather.html. Check the tides. MCCS Tide Tables are available at any Tsunami SCUBA.  Most surfaces are slippery when wet. So, unless you want to take a nose dive into the sharp, unforgiving coral, take it slow. Drink plenty of liquids. You won’t stay hydrated by osmosis. Let someone know where you’ll be and what time you plan on returning. Always enter the water feet-first to avoid head injuries.  Beware: Box jellyfish are common around the island. Urine will not stop the stinging. Vinegar will.

u21•2010/2011

going places P H O T O G R A P H Y

B Y

T E X T

W E N DY

B Y

Without a driver’s license, getting around can be a challenge. The Green Line (TGL) and the Oki Bus are a couple of cheap and easy ways to get from point A to point B. TGL provides transportation for SOFA status individuals within and between Marine Corps camps across the island, and the Oki Bus is an inexpensive option for traveling anywhere off-base. o k i b us t i p s  A trip from Kadena to Naha costs a little less than ¥800.  Make sure you have a good amount of change (yen only) before taking the bus. The change-maker on the bus only accepts ¥1,000 bills or coins.  Local bus schedules are available at the Camp Foster Personal Services Center (Bldg. 445).  The Schilling Community Center (Bldg. 455, across from Keystone Theater) on Kadena provides information on how to use the Oki Bus.

B R A N DO N

C I N D Y

R A M O S

phone a cab From Camps Foster & Kinser I 637-5900 From Kadena Air Base I 959-7433 From Camp Courtney I 622-5900

Identify your current location and the name of your destination on the bus route (displayed at most bus stops).

Take a ticket upon entering the bus. The number on your ticket corresponds to how much you’ll end up paying.

An automated voice announces each stop. Listen for your destination. When you hear it, press the button along the window frame directly in front of or behind you.

TGL makes regular stops at Marine Corps camp libraries, PXs, The Spot, and other camp facilities everyday. It’s free and easy to use. Just remember to dress and behave appropriately. Departure schedules are posted at all shuttle stops. For schedule listing, route maps, and complete rules and regulations, visit www.mcbbutler.usmc.mil/greenline

When you reach your stop, a digital display board will indicate the total cost of your trip in yen. Drop your ticket along with the exact amount of change into the machine as you exit the bus.

HOW TO USE A TAXI

The Green Line

Taxis are usually available on demand, especially in popular areas, like the PX and The Spot. There is a basic fee of ¥500 for the first 1.8 km plus ¥60 for every km traveled thereafter.

SURVIVAL PHRASES:

Take me to this address please:

Kono jyuusho made, onegaeshimasu. the airport: kuko made Kokusai Street: Kokusai Dori

For more information call 645-3843.

How much will it cost?:

Ikura kakarimasu ka?

Please take the next left/right: Tsugi hidari/migi ni onegaeshimasu

’

Never surf alone and always take a few minutes to stretch. If you are surfing an unfamiliar area, you can study the main breaks while you’re stretching. Always

u21•2010/2011

study the weather conditions and tide reports prior to entering the water.

NATHAN FISHER

extreme sports P H O T O G R A P H Y T E X T

B Y B Y

N A T H A N K E V I N

F I S H E R M CK A Y

P A U L

C I N D Y

As teens seek ways to express themselves, click with certain groups, relax, or just have fun, they often look to sports. Extreme sports are popular on Okinawa; they provide an adrenaline rush and teach patience (and really, who doesn’t need a little help with that?). So the next time you’re bored or need to relieve some stress, head out to one of these places for some extreme action. Oh, and remember:

Safety first! S Ka t b o ard & b mx sa f e t y  Helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads are always required.  In all MCCS parks, skateboards and BMX bikes are allowed.  No drinks or food in the park.  Spectators need to stay outside the recreational area.  Must be age 10 for skaters and BMXers unless with a parent.  V erify protective equipment rules at each park. but only if run by shops.  S ome parks may charge a small fee parks may be limited to skateboarding only.  Off-base the Marine Corps Base Japan Order P11240.1C defines standards that each piece of protective gear must meet.

W H I T E R A M O S

’ s

S ur f S c ene The Sunabe Seawall is surf central for teens living on Okinawa. But before you grab a board and start riding the waves, it’s a good idea to test the waters by visiting local surf shops and getting involved with the surfing community. One place to start is Source Surf Shop in Sunabe. Open daily from noon to 9 p.m., the shop offers surfing lessons, surf gear and rentals, and current surf reports. For directions and more information, call 098-936-6466, or visit www.sourceokinawa.com.

NATHAN FISHER

Live out those shoote r games with paintb all. There are two main varieties of pai ntball: woodsball and speedball. Wo odsball is played in natural terrain while speedball is more intense and played in an obstacle cou rse. There aren’t too ma ny places to play paintball on Oki, but the game is less about where you pla y and more about who you’re pla ying with.

paintball

S k ate b oard&B M X Par k s The largest on-base skatepark. F o s t er R am p a g e

959

X S P L AT Near White Beach.

Kadena S c hillin g

A flat-ground rink with ramps, quarter pipes, and rails.

Offbase f

Kinser Tri c k Fli p s

Best for hard-core vert sessions.

Ba b a

Awesome! A beach, a park, and Sunabe Seawall nearby. Gushi k awa

Recommended for more experienced skaters. H ae b aru

Worthy for the pros. Small fee.

PAUL WHIT E

Great for vert and street tricks.

A skater's dream filled with obstacles and variations, a half pipe, fun boxes, quarter pipes, and rails.

959-281 1

H ansen Tru c k s t o p

S k a t e Plaza

632-4013 or 632-4014

For speed n ball and gear renta ls.

Watch and learn style and technique from others.

PAUL WHI TE

Onbase

se A rea ion’s l wars. l locat This woodsba y 1 man -281

www.mccsokinawa.com/skateparks

C o ur t ne y S k a t er ’ s W a y

One en

Kadena Ou t d o o R e c rea r tio

for directions, visit

O k inawa Ci t y

Has a simple half pipe, a bowl drop, and flat-ground area.

u21•2010/2011

hotspots &eats P H O T O G R A P H Y

B Y

A S H L E Y

Y A GG I

J E N N I F E R

T E X T

B Y

Carle y

J o b es

M ar y

As teenagers, we are naturally eager to escape the confinements of home; and on Okinawa, we have the opportunity to explore a culture entirely different from our own. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity is right outside our door! Even eating out on Oki is like a carnival, filled with many exciting elements. You have the typical bean bag booth for when you’re craving familiar American chow. Then you have the outlandish funhouse, where you don’t know what to expect when you bite into whatever unusual foreign food is before you. Whether you’re trying to satisfy your hunger or just sampling something new, Okinawa has a wide variety of hot eats and hot spots to choose from.

J O N E S

S c hweers

’ s

FR IE N DS

on BASE

si ng ing

off BASE

karao ke

GA M ES

Big Echo Karaoke Box

The Club

JUSCO

Schilling Community Center

Mihama 7-Plex Movie Theater

hot spots

AAFES Movie Theaters

Rent a private booth with a group of friends and sing your hearts out!

Located inside The Spot, The Club is chock full of fun. There are two pool tables, several computers, a DJ booth, lots of room for lounging, and a big dance floor with the requisite disco ball. The Club is open to teenagers 13–18 years old.

It’s the Japanese version of a mall in the States. Inside you’ll find many different shops and food stores certain to satisfy.

Willing to spend a little extra money to see a movie? American Village gratifies movie goers with its seven-screen movie theater.

M O V IE S

The Spot

Round 1

Sitting at the entrance of Camp Foster’s Gate 4, The Spot is the spot to be. Kill that sweet tooth with something from Dunkin Donuts or Baskin Robbins, or grab some grub at Pizza Hut or Subway.

This seven-story game palace is full of arcade games, archery, karaoke, batting cages, and more. Drive south on 58, and veer right soon after you pass Camp Foster’s commissary gate at the sign directing you toward the Convention Center. Continue straight until you see the huge bowling pin.

MCCS Bowling Centers

Sunabe Seawall

Chili’s Too

Ichibantei Sushi

For those bored on the southern part of the island, hang at the Foster Bowling Center. While bowling, quench your thirst, sweet tooth, and hunger pangs at the same time with a root beer float and curly fries from the A&W located inside.

A landmark that most teenagers on Oki are familiar with, this is a great place to sit and relax while enjoying the breathtaking view. You can find seawalls all over Okinawa, but the most popular one is Sunabe Seawall, outside Kadena Gate 1.

This sushi-go-round is also known as a kaiten-zushi (conveyor-belt sushi). It’s an interactive meal; simply grab whatever you’d like off the conveyor-belt as it passes by your table.

Foster PX Food Court

su sh i

Captain’s Inn

Enjoy the unique experience of having your food cooked right in front of you at this teppanyaki-style restaurant. Sometimes you can find coupons for free food inside Okinawa Living magazine.

h o t ea t s

Where there is food, teens will gather. You’re bound to run into someone you know at the food court. There’s a pretty good selection of food. Grab some Chinese food from Man Chu Wok or go for the classic burger and fries at Burger King.

Kadena BX Food Court

Sobaya Chirugwa

Platters and Breyers Ice Cream Shop

Mike’s Tex Mex

If you and your friends are totally indecisive when it comes to picking a place to eat, head over to the Kadena BX food court. It offers delicious, inexpensive grub with all the classic American fast food staples. And when you’re finished eating, catch up on some shopping.

Okinawa is famous for its soba. Indulge in noodle slurping at soba houses all over the island, especially this one. Exit Camp Foster’s Spot Gate and turn left. At the second traffic signal, turn left. Proceed to the bridge. Sobaya Chirugwa will be on the left corner.

JENNI FER JONES

Located inside the Schilling Community Center and decorated to make you feel like you jumped back into the ‘50s or ‘60s, the diner serves a variety of old-school specialties and ice cream.

Here’s where you’ll find the best Mexican food on the island. Exit Camp Foster’s Spot Gate and turn left. Turn left at the second traffic signal. Make another immediate left, and Mike’s will be on the right. There’s another one located just outside Kadena Gate 2.

Tee House Restaurant

CoCo Ichibanya Curry House

Located on the peak of Kadena’s Banyan Tree Golf Course, the restaurant offers tasty selections such as American classics and Panini sandwiches. The menu is affordable and has a fantastic view for you to enjoy with friends.

Famous for its unique taste and different levels of spice, you can find these popular curry houses all over Okinawa. It is a must-try for anyone living on Okinawa. Turn right onto Route 58 from Camp Foster’s Commissary Gate. You’ll see one on the left.

Starbucks

Hokulea

Pay less for that irresistible cup of Starbucks coffee on-base. There’s one on Camp Foster, inside Captain D’s, and another on Kadena, inside Rocker NCO Club just down the street from Teen Center Millennial, and at Kadena’s BX.

Catch a great view of the sunset at this Hawaiian-themed restaurant, located on the fifth floor of Seaside Beach Hotel in Sunabe.

ASHLEY YAGGI

Located at the USO by Kadena Gate 2, you’ll find the small restaurant with the same famous Chili’s atmosphere. There are never long lines, and you don’t have to wait hours for your food. Perfect for teens on the go.

JUS TIN BRA DLEY

Located near the Kadena commissary, across from Keystone Theater, the center is a place where you have access to a game room, computers, and putt-putt golf. You can even do homework, eat, or just hang out. You must be at least 16 for membership.

A S H L EY YAGGI

Treat yourself to that movie you’ve been dying to see at your local AAFES movie theater. If you earn good grades at school, you can cash in your report card for free movie coupons. For locations and movie schedule, visit www.aafes.com.

ha with ng ou frien t ds people w atch

go shop

ping

all ab ou t the ice cream

try on a new look

u21•2010/2011

mem o ries t o shin in shin

shintoshin &naha P H O T O G R A P H Y T E X T

B Y

N A T H A N

Chris t al - S ummer

For years the main hangout for teens on Okinawa has been American Village, but Naha is an efficient alternative to ease boredom. The liveliest city on Okinawa, Naha offers many locations that can entertain and satisfy any visitor. While in Naha, you can find hot spot areas such as Kokusai Street and Shintoshin. Alongside Kokusai Street, Shintoshin rests within the heart of Naha’s shopping opportunities. Not only does Shintoshin offer shopping galore, but the area also offers skate parks, festivals, movie theatres, and more. There are many things in the area to fit the tastes of anyone, no matter how different. Chances are that after one day in Shintoshin, you’ll go home with a new favorite location to keep in mind for future visits.

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g et t i n g t h ere i s ea s y! From Camp Foster, find any bus stop along Hwy 330 between Plaza House shopping center and Camp Foster’s Legion Gate. Make sure you’re on the side that’s headed south. Take bus #223, #227, or #290 to the monorail station, which is its last stop—Omoromachi Ekimae Hiroba. Buses depart about every 20 minutes every day, including weekends. (See HOT p. 10 for directions on how to use the Oki bus.) Call the Personal Services Center at 645-2104/2157 for a current bus schedule.

From Kadena, bus #228 departs the Kokutai/ Iriguchi bus stop (outside Gate 1, to the left) approximately every hour. Take the bus to the monorail station, which is its last stop— Omoromachi Ekimae Hiroba. The Schilling Community Center is very helpful with providing bus schedule information. They even have a list of bus routes to popular destinations on-island, like Kokusai Street and Okuma. (See HOT p. 3)

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starbucks

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VICEN TE PAMP ARO

ferris wheel

taxi cabs

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ASHL EY YAGG I

u21â&#x20AC;˘2010/2011

seaside square

check it out!

sunset beach

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depot island

american vilage P H O T O G R A P H Y

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Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard to believe that nearly 20 years ago there was only ocean and sand where American Village stands. The area is now a living reef of both Americans and Okinawans on shopping sprees, eating, wandering around, or just plain chilling. Whether in daylight or after dark, Dragon Palace is a kingdom of neon and sound from the pounding drums of the internationally famous classic Taiko Master Taiko no Tatsujin to the spine tingling riffs of Guitar Hero.

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ASHL E Y YA GG I

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karaoke p.15

PURIKURA

INSET PHOTOS BY JUSTIN BRADLEY

In this age of the digital and cell phone camera, almost 2,700 photos are taken every second. Herds of tourists urgently snap picture after picture, like bands of desperate paparazzi, while giggling bunches of schoolgirls happily click-click away at just about anything with their fancy cell phone cameras. In the arcades, photos of singles, couples, and even groups of five or more can be captured on camera, decorated, and printed—all for a morethan-reasonable price of ¥400 using Japan’s favorite camera of all: Purikura, or “print club,” photosticker machine. Instead of strips of plain blackand-white mugs, customers can choose from facial to full-body shots and select various multicolored backgrounds and styles from romantic, elegant, plain, or glittery to unique backdrops and themes that include garbage dumps, outer space, the refrigerator, and even the toilet.

2 3

enter booth

strike a pose

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er Rememb ctful pe s re “ e c to practi t on the u o when buying” down as ur voice o y p e , and e K town. shoppers er other op’s th h o s b t e o th to n respect to r ve e b u can ha remem ourse yo c e f b O t . s u b item nds, your frie r e p ro p fun with o so in a sure to d manner!

fashion P H O T O G R A P H Y T E X T

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Finding the perfect look to meet your style can be challenging while living on Okinawa. But living here does not mean you should give up on keeping in style. The store selection on Okinawa is as diverse as the styles sported down the hallways at school. There are a myriad of different stores on and off base to fit your style. No matter how beachy or edgy your style may be, Okinawa has a store for you. And whatever you can’t find in-store you can always buy online.

Y A GG I

C H I A R OTT I

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beachy meets boho

innovator Are you always “in the know” when it comes to fashion? Do you consider yourself an expert, one who is a cut above the rest with style? Then you are an Innovator. Your look is original and always up to date with the latest trends. One of your favorite things about Okinawa is that the people are fashionable and you are constantly inspired by them. Girls, visit Pink Draculas, Candy Shop, and Amy, which are all in Araha. You should also try Vanilla Essence, which is located in American Village. Guys, you should definitely check out The Shop and Juke, which are both located inside Jusco. (see HOT p.18)

TIP Look through magazines like Glamour, Vogue, Nylon, or GQ for inspiration!

Sitting on the seawall, playing in the surf, and laying on the Okinawan sand are your favorite ways to spend the summer. Therefore, your wardrobe consists of laid-back bohemian and surfer pieces. You enjoy bright colors and light, airy material. The best part about living here is that your favorite brands (such as O’Neill, Roxy, Quicksilver, Reef, and many more) are located at your local AAFES BX/PX for a lower price than what you may find in the States. Also, cute accessories, board shorts, bikinis, T-shirts, and more can be found off base at places such as Outlet J, which is next to Dragon Palace, or Tappity and Collage, which are both inside Jusco. However, if you can’t find everything you’re looking for here, yo u c a n a l s o v i s i t www.pacsun.com and www.buckle.com for more choices.

Piercings are optional but fitted hats are not. To get the perfect jumps you are sure to wear shoes that have special traction to attract your board, and instead of belts you often use shoelaces. You model your outfits after the pros, including: Johnny Layton, Jordan Taylor, and Steve Berra. Your favorite brands include: Zoo York, Fallen, Volcom, Element, and Circa. Although it is often hard to find these brands here, you can be sure to find them on www.skatewarehouse.com. Also, there are many shops off base that sell affordable jeans with gnarly fades. At the concession mall on Foster, you can find an assortment of boards, sunglasses, sweatshirts, shorts, T-shirts, grip tape, wax, and more.

flirty Yo u r c l o s e t i s a menagerie of subtle colors, preppy pieces, and vintage accessories. Pe o p l e a re a l w a y s complimenting your effortlessly chic style and sweet attitude. Jackie O, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Lauren Conrad are a few celebrity style icons who inspire you. You frequent Jusco for your favorite shops: Honeys and Sc2. You also love Dragon Palace’s Joshua. UniQlo is another of your favorite stops for cute, affordable clothes.

TIP

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Yo u e n j oy we a r i n g bright colors and bold, chunky accessories. Shoes are one of your favorite accessories. Luckily for you, there are many stores off base to find fashionable looks. However, if you’re looking for bigger sizes you can visit www.amiclubwear.com and www.zappos.com for cute finds. Guys, hit up Atomics for a selection of awesome clothes and accessories. Girls, Shao Long in Dragon Palace is a great place to find clothes that fit your style.

TIP Girls, to add more spunk to your outfit try colorful tights! Guys, funky sunglasses are a great way to show your originality!

Don’t forget to wear your helmet, elbow pads, and knee pads while skating on all military bases on Okinawa!

For a cute twist, try adding vintage pieces found in friends’ closets or thrift stores!

retro is edgy

TIP

Pair name brands with less-known brands to create your own look!

sporty

skater

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Whether you’re kick’n it on the soccer field or shootin’ hoops at the gym, your style reflects that of an athlete. Shoes are your main accessory and your favorite brands include: Nike, Adidas, P u m a , a n d J o rd a n . For that comfortable, yet ready-to-play look, you are known to wear T- s h i r t s a n d j e a n s. Off-base you can visit Himalaya and ETWS for all your sporting goods and accessories. You can also find items online at sites such as www.dickssportinggoods.com and www.eastbay.com. However, many of your favorites can already be found at your local BX/PX.

TIP Many in-theknow athletes wear titanium necklaces to enhance their abilities. They’re said to help relieve stress and make for a very cool fashion statement!

whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hot! Have a random question? Canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t find the answer? Stop busting your brain and visit the Under 21 website for details on the hottest things to do while living on Okinawa.

T H O M A S

A L A N

S M I L I E

check it out on the web at.........

www.u21magazine.com S U N S E T / S U N R I S E

P H O T O

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whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cool!

J O N E S

Read, flipped and still want more to read? Give your brain a rest and visit the Under 21 website (no flipping!) for info on the coolest things to do while living on Okinawa.

J E N N I F E R

P A M P A R O

check it out on the web at.........

www.u21magazine.com T E E N

P H O T O S

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C o lo r M e G re e n

Culture PAG E 2

S hisa M a ssa c re

Music Scene PAG E 8

S ur v ive Ok ina wa

UNDER21

Teen Scene

2010/2011

PAG E 18

Wintertime on Okinawa: whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

cool t

w h a t ’s

cool

Under21 magazine is split into two sides: cool and hot. Fall and winter on Okinawa can get really COOL. Here are some ways to keep the school year fun during these cool NATHAN FISHER

months. In the spring and summer, flip it over and enjoy the publication all year long.

co v er p hoto by N AT H A N F I S H E R

T hin k you ’ v e g ot a cool set of wheels ? W here ’ s your fa v orite beach on O k i ?

W hat do you thin k about U nder 2 1 ma g a z ine ? E m a i l

y o u r

i d e a s

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t h e y

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Under21@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org, f e a t u r e d

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U n d e r 2 1 !

C U LT U R E

SOCIAL LIFELINES

SPORTS SCENE

1 0 0 Y E N S TO R E S

EXPRESS YOURSELF

DRIVING & LICENSING

MUSIC SCENE

TEEN SCENE

MUSIC SOURCES

COLLEGE BOUND

M Kendra Andrews Vince Angelico Lance Attao Cristopher Ayalin Alexis Berg Abby Berg Forrest Bibeau Cole Browning Brant Casteel Lia Chiaroti Angela Cole Christine Comia Justin Crabtree

Colt Crosby Niko Deguzman Masato Dickerson Danny Fisher Nathan Fisher Mina Furusho Claire Getes Evan Godwin Elina Gonzalez McKenzie Gordon Alaina Grade Manny Guerrero IV Preston Harris

Blake Hurdle Andre Jackson Joshua Jackson Josh Jensen DaShawn Johnson Veronica Johnson Chelsea Jones Jordan Kelker Drake Kosmoski Justis Kosmoski Armond Little Sakura Maeda Jessica Malouwsek

Karen-Amethyst Mascarinas Tsutomu McCoy Kevin McKay Lisa Miyagi Melanie Moore James Nichols Tylan Olonan Deyllano Olton Amber Overton Deshawn Overton Vicente Pamparo Jan Pante Kaito Porter

Stanley Powell Chris Prieto Keinna Printup Darvil Rodriguez Miri Romero Elizabeth Rowe Morgan Rowley Megan Roy Mike Santivasci Mary Schweers Bryan Simpson Romy Soares Ronald Soares

Lamar Stevens Ahdriana Stiefel Russell Stulir Carrie E. Thompson-Davis Griffin Urbano Christal VanEtten Allie Volz Abigail Wall Chelsey Warner Vanessa Wester Jordan Williams Britney Wise Ashley Zapp

Caramel Corn

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loveinng grteea... all da!y long

Oi Ocha Green tea on the go. No teapot needed.

The green tea Kit Kat is a staple for college students during exams.

culture P H O T O G R A P H Y T E X T

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Living on Okinawa involves recovering from some serious culture shock, from adjusting to driving on the opposite side of the road to getting used to the distinct timetable of Okinawa, known as Okinawan time. Once you have opened your eyes to the numerous treasures of Okinawa, you will be surrounded by new sights, sounds, and tastes of the island. Okinawa holds a distinct culture covered in green from agriculture to the Japanese staple of green tea. Once the culture shock starts to fade and Okinawa time settles into your system, get ready for an enriching cultural experience.

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Green tea is said to fight acne, prevent stress, and suppress your appetite.

Toppo Sticks The Japanese company, Lotte, introduced green tea flavored mochi ice cream.

Meiji Takenoko No Sato

Matcha is finely ground green tea, used to flavor green tea products.

A cup of steaming hot tea will warm your chilly bones.

Japanese E xercises

Farmers & MA R KET S

Japanese Game Shows

Green T ea Everythin g

For many Okinawans, fitness and community are important. Radio Taisou are daily Japanese calisthenics that last about five minutes. These are no ordinary exercises, as they combine and incorporate both fitness and community into the everyday lives of Okinawans. The taisou are not very strenuous and require a minimal amount of movement, but they do help Okinawans maintain their strength and flexibility. Taisou also draw the community together to participate in an activity as equals. They are usually performed in the morning and late afternoon, around 3 p.m. At these times, a community recording comes on the radio. Groups of people line up into straight, neat rows, appointing a leader to lead the exercises, play the recording and begin the workout. Many offices and construction workers gather daily to do their taisou. Whether an outdoor or indoor business, radio taisou is a requirement for all workers.

Driving around Okinawa, it’s not long before one comes across sugar cane, rice, fruit, or vegetable fields. The fields are divided into perfect squares and scattered with egrets and scarecrow-looking figures. These are the hard-working farmers who maintain the fields. Elderly men and women make up the majority of Okinawan farmers. They are well-prepared for their daily tasks and dressed practically—straw hats, loose, long-sleeved cotton shirts, pants that can be tucked in, rubber boots, and gloves with a rag wrapped around their face or neck. This keeps the bugs out but allows the wind to pass through and cool the body. It’s very common for farmers to run markets near their fields. Typically, farmers do not use pesticides, so you may find a worm or two in a bushel. After a morning of hard work in the fields under the hot sun, it’s not unusual to find farmers kicking back and taking a welldeserved nap in their vehicles.

Flipping through the channels on Okinawa, you may come across a few shows that spark your curiosity. One of these will most likely be the infamous Japanese game show. These silly shows usually feature Japanese celebrities, who are paid to be a part of the program. The humor is completely slapstick. The object of the game is not to win, necessarily, but to get a laugh. Contestants are usually placed in bizarre and sometimes dangerous scenarios, such as being encased in cement or slapped by a hand-slapping machine. Many shows are based on popular video games and board games, like Tetris and chess, played with humans and life-sized game pieces. In order to play, the celebrities are often required to dress up in hilarious costumes. During the show, captions run across the bottom of the screen whenever there is an especially funny moment or phrase to highlight.

Not only is Okinawa covered in green, a variety of the island’s foods and drinks come in green as well. Matcha is powdered green tea, the same kind that’s used in Japanese tea ceremonies. Matcha is an acquired taste with its sweet, grassy flavor. Some of the foods and drinks that are available in green-tea flavoring are bread, cookies, tempura, soba noodles, rice cakes, ice cream, and even Kit Kats and Starbucks Frappuccinos—only a few of the numerous green-tea products available on our green island. So many Japanese enjoy green tea and its flavor that new products are being flavored with green tea all the time. Many Japanese drink plain green tea cold during the day and hot after their evening meals because of its health benefits. It is full of antioxidants, a n d s o m e eve n believe that it aids in losing weight!

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sports scene P H O T O G R A P H Y

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Okinawa is an ideal location to get out and get fit. With an abundance of opportunities, beautiful weather, and friendly people, there’s no reason to sit around indoors, and who would want to? It’s summer all year ‘round on this tropical island, allowing most sports to flourish. Almost any outdoor activities can be done any time of the year, and for those occasional rainy days, there are gyms on all bases to accommodate athletes. There is always an opportunity to be active while living on Okinawa; all you need to do is get out there.

J O N E S M cKay

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ASHLEY YAGGI

The skills learned from sports are also useful to military kids who move from base to base. Participating in different sports activities allows you to meet new people quickly and make connections that last.

DECEMBER

NOVEMBER

OCTOBER

SEPTEMBER

AU G U S T

J UN E

INSET PHOTOS BY JENNIFER JONES

M AY

February

M AR C H

F E BRUARY

J ANUARY



October

A P RIL

January through June

BASK E T BAL L & CHE E RL E ADI NG October through 

Baseball & S oftball June through 

Soccer SEASON

Get O ut, Get Fit Getting involved in sports has many health and social benefits. A good personal image boosts self-esteem. When you look good you feel good, which ties into a more fulfilling social life. Sports also teach teamwork, discipline, and responsibility, which are keys to success as adolescents and in the “real world.” Likewise, good physical habits will continue through to old age, which boosts a person’s energy to enjoy life fully. Sports not only teach these life skills, the strict code of conduct athletes should follow also keeps you disciplined—and out of trouble.

For more information call 645-3533/3534.

J ULY

Semper Fit Youth S ports

From toprocks to windmills, headbands to helmets, breakdancing has been a popular activity for teenagers all over the world. Practiced and performed by local Okinawans, you can find breakdancers captivating crowds with intricate footwork and hypnotizing headspins in public places like American Village. Popular in Japanese society, the Hip Hop Movement proudly identifies breakdance as one of its many elements. But this dynamic style of dance wasn’t always present in Okinawa. Like many parts of modern Okinawan culture, this dance originated somewhere else, and its birthplace is New u21•2010/2011

York City, where it was pioneered by teenagers in the late ‘70s. Since breakdancing is not limited by ethnicity or gender, it has been accepted worldwide.

express yourself

U nited S erv ices O r gani z ation (US O) Located at the entrance of Kadena Air Base Gate 2 959-5370 | www.uso.org/okinawa

lear n   how to play the guitar, piano, or other musical instrument  how to speak and write Japanese  traditional Okinawan karate  traditional flower arrangement

Expression is the essence of our being. How you express yourself is what makes you unique. If you’re looking for ways to express yourself, or you want to learn different ways how, here are some options.

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ear piercings  Every first and third Saturday of the month  Walk-in appointments are from 2–4 p.m.  $30 fee includes earrings & after-care gel …all at the USO! Call for details.

P A M P A R O

C R I S

A Y A L I N

wear

how to be a b-boy or a b-girl

Nikes o r Adidas Baggy je ans Headba nds

listen to est A Tribe Called Qu N.E.R.D. Sugarhill Gang

nickname yourself ogaloo azy Legs • Jr. Bo Kilo • Dnoi • Cr

hang

Americ an Villa ge Sunab e Sea wall Dance studio s

out at

Be c r af t y Want to try something that gives you a sense of pride and accomplishment while allowing you to express your creativity? Camps Foster and Courtney Arts & Crafts offer tons of classes, from Japanese calligraphy, obi-making, and origami to beaded jewelry, oil painting, and pottery. For class listings visit www.mccsokinawa.com, or call an Arts & Crafts Center near you.

D o LI VE t h e ater Pacific Okinawa Players is dedicated to providing quality live theater to Okinawa. POPs is always looking for new members. Even if you’re not interested in acting, you can still help with behind-thescenes stuff like lighting or set design. To become a member, visit the POPs website and complete an application.

have fait h If you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for anything. Faith helps you stay grounded. There are many places to practice faith. The easiest way to find a place is by asking friends or other people you respect. It helps to stick to your faith when you’re surrounded by those you like. Join a youth group, and make new friends; better yet, start your own youth group with the friends you have.

Camp Courtney 622-7492 Camp Foster 645-3674

www.pops-okinawa.org

Camp Kinser 637-1148 Camp Foster 645-7486 Camp Lester 643-7248 Kadena Air Base 634-1288

okibum

a teen who s Okinawa and is most likely going to stay on Oki...forever.

T he diet ) ha (jasmine tea inc np sa • e ric • d ience store) foo en nv (co ini nb • co rice) onigiri • cha han (fried or apple tea • carton of Café g chicken in a ba • Lawson’s fried n, or pizzaman ma rry cu , an um • nik • Pocky ee HOT p. 15) • Coco’s curry (S • kochaden tea

OK IBU M PH OT OS BY MI NA FU RU SH O

T he L oo k the Oki towel worn either tied like a bandana on the head or slung casually over the shoulders bermuda shorts or jeans flip flops for that laid-back islander look, comes with the flip-flop tan cell phone the one electronic device no true Oki bum is ever without inside your wallet you’ve got Purikura of you and your friends in your wallet

OTHER • chill spots: you’re a regular at Sunabe Seawall (See HOT p. 15) and Dragon Palace (See HOT p. 18) • shopping: Jusco is your hot spot • cars: you dig box cars and avoid driving behind white pickup trucks with yellow license plates like the plague • summer plans: beaches and sleeping • partying: it’s either the beach or karaoke

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music scene P H O T O G R A P H Y T E X T

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The ability to perceive sounds and capture them within the human mind is something people do every day, yet rarely do they consider the sensation. It is this feeling that captivates the heart when music is played. It is abundant with emotion and creates feelings well beyond recognition. The art of music is fascinatingâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;from the act of performing, the act of creating, and the act of listening. It is relatively difficult to appreciate the different music on Okinawa, in part because of the language barrier. However, the beauty of music is that it can still be appreciated and loved through what you hear and feel, not only through what you understand. Open your mind to the sounds of the island. Here are some places where you can be exposed to the music scene on Okinawa.

S M I L I E

H A R T H A U S E N

MA K I N G M U S I C

Shisa Massacre Earl Standerford I Brandon Nix Eddie Allshouse I Sean Kelly Shisa Massacre does not simply conform to a particular genre, but experiments with all types of music, creating a diverse sound every time. Here is what they have to say about making music on Okinawa.

Elizabeth Rowe: When did you start Shisa Massacre and how did you guys decide to come together and start a band?

Christian School International). Earl and I were seniors and he [Eddie] was a freshman and Sean was a junior.

Brandon Nix: Started in March 2009. We all went to OCSI (Okinawa

ER: How would you describe your music? Shisa Massacre: Post-hardcore; it is more experimental. We’ll do more

mellow sounding and then really hard and different kind of music.

ER: How would you describe the people that listen to your music? Earl Standerford: Overall, people who appreciate rock. Rock enthusiasts, metal. It is a wide range.

BN: We want not just the hardcore metal heads in our fans but also everybody. We want to expose people to our music.

ER: What advice would you give to other teens on

Okinawa wanting to play music?

ES: Never stop trying. BN: Keep on practicing, even if you don’t have a gig coming up. Just

enjoy the music.

ER: What does the name of your band mean or what was the inspiration behind it?

SM: [all laugh] Brandon wanted something with something Okinawan in

it, so I [Eddie] said Shisa Massacre. We all laughed and then didn’t talk about it and then a week later we were at a gig and they asked us what our name was and we just stuck with it. The whole thing is an inside joke.

ER: How does your name reflect the image/music of the band? SM: The shisa part of it is more peaceful and massacre is when we just want to play the heavy stuff. You get a little bit of both.

ER: Do you guys have any upcoming plans for the future? SM: We have a CD coming out in October at Tower Records in Naha.

ER: How do you guys deal with inter band dilemmas? SM: You have to talk about it. It is not like you have a problem you don’t

go ‘oh, I hate you, you are out of the band.’ We have gone through problems too. You just have to go through it; it’s part of life.

JENNIFE R JONES

III JOH N R. BUR GRE EN

koz a mu sic tow n

e a m e ric a n vi lla g

At any time throughout the year, the plaza square located in American Village is home to many local acts, like SOUTH, that entertain passersby. These small-scale music events are usually held late in the afternoons and throughout the evenings, during which crowds gather to watch.The shops in American Village always have stacks of flyers with information about upcoming shows.

THOMA S ALAN SMILIE

sh isa ma ssa cre

“never stop trying.“

Located at the Goya intersection on Kadena Gate 2 Street, Koza Music Town is an established venue with a stage, a floor plaza, restaurants, and a piano store. It is known for its great sound, huge concert stage, and affordable recording studio. Large-scale music events are often held there.

E arl Standerford

If yo u ca n ’ t f ind a good place to ex perience the Okinawan music scene , try looking to your pee rs.

The young musicians that populate Okinawa are rich in talent and diversity. These musicians form a tight kinship that spreads their message to all of their friends and peers. This collaboration of ideas and overall sensibility can help you appreciate local music.

u21â&#x20AC;˘2010/2011

music sources

Whether you are a musician or you just like listening to your favorite bands, music is an essential part of everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life. Finding music on Okinawa is easy because there are so many places to look. From off-base music stores to the Internet, rest assured that all of your musical needs can be metâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;you just have to know where to go.

Music Websites www.last.fm

You know what music you like, but you want something new. Last.fm is a cool way to listen to your favorites for free and introduce yourself to new artists.

www.absolutepunk.net

Absolutepunk is another website that you can use to find new music. Any budding artist can make a profile, and website visitors can find more information about the band, including tour dates and band news.

P H O T O G R A P H Y

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Pad g ett

w h e r e

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Return the form to a sales associate.

A sales associate will call you when the item is available.

Although CD ’69 is a used CD and records shop, you can find some very interesting music in this secondhand store. The store has old American records and current CDs, along with a selection of Japanese and Okinawan music. If you’re looking for something different for a cheap price, CD ’69 is a good place to stop. Go straight out Kadena’s Gate 2 and take the third left. Stay on the right side of the street and walk for about five minutes. It’s a salmon-colored building.

Although the only CDs Bunkyo Harmony offers are classical, this piano store located in Koza Music Town has everything any piano player wants. From metronomes and sheet music to piano stationery and clips to hold your music in place, the Bunkyo Harmony piano store provides many useful items, although they are a bit expensive. If you’re looking to purchase a piano, then stopping at Bunkyo Harmony is a wise choice. They have a variety of different piano styles, from upright and grand to electric.

Teruya offers a great selection of instruments: keyboards, guitars, basses, drums, and more. If you want to play one of the instruments, they have a soundproof room for your convenience. Teruya also has a wide range of CDs with genres like blues, techno, rock, pop, jazz, classical, flamenco, and more. From local Okinawan flavor to American hits, you will find some great music at this store. While Teruya offers some extras like guitar strings, they mainly provide CDs and instruments. Go past CD ’69 until you reach the one-way street, and turn right. Teruya should be on your left.

Fukahara

AUDRY PAD GET T

Teruya

AUDRY PAD GET T

CD ’69

AUDRY PAD GET T

Bunkyo Harmony Koza

JENNI FER JONES

The Exchange

The Exchange is a practical and convenient option when looking for musical instruments, music to listen to, or electronics to play your music. If you’re looking for If you want a CD that the BX instruments, Kadena’s BX has or PX doesn’t various synthesizers and electric have on the pianos, while the concessionaire shelves, they next to Foster’s PX includes a can still order guitar store with both electric and it for you. acoustic guitars. Both exchanges Here’s how: are a smart place to shop if you’re looking for some new music. 1 Find any sales associate and Besides offering iTunes cards ask them for a so you can buy and download “Customer Order Form.” virtually any album or individual track, each boasts a large selection it out with of CDs. From country to R&B, the 2 Fillyour name, exchanges provide customers with address, telephone number, and new releases and popular albums item description. that usually cost $12.95 each.

Outside Kadena Gate 2, Fukahara has everything a musician needs. This three-story building is easy to find and hard to leave. The amazing selection of instruments and CDs makes any music enthusiast want to stay forever. The first floor of Fukahara is for music listeners and showcases hundreds of CDs the store has for sale. The second floor is for musicians. Crammed with all sorts of instruments, amplifiers, equipment, sheet music, staff paper, accessories, and everything else, Fukahara is a one-stop music store. The third floor of Fukahara is used for piano lessons.

u21â&#x20AC;˘2010/2011

social lifelines

The Internet is vital in the lives of teenagers, especially those that live overseas, away from friends and family members. Teens today have many more options to keep in touch without ever having to dial the numbers on a phone or hand-write a letter that could take several weeks to reach a contact. Here are some of the options you have when you feel like instantly connecting with anyone, anyplace, anytime.

S BY T PH O TO I AL L IN SEAS H LE Y YA G G

P H O T O G R A P H Y

B Y

JEN N I FER

JO N ES

& VI CE N TE

PA MPA R O T E X T

B Y

A S H L E Y Y A GG I

A L A I N A

G R A D E

D escri p tion

Instant Messaging

Online Journals & Blogs

Social Networking Sites

Voice Over Internet Protocol

Twitter

magicJack

Easily connects you to other users in real-time. Offered by Internet service providers. Some can be downloaded for free!

A l l o w s u s e r s to express thoughts or daily happenings and post.

Online communities where users connect with friends and meet new ones who share similar interests. These sites have become a staple for those who wish to be in constant contact with pals and relatives from all over the world.

Software that enables free video and voice calls, instant messaging, and file sharing with other users. Also make lowcost calls to landlines and mobiles, but it’s not a replacement for your traditional telephone service and can’t be used for emergency calling.

A micro-blogging site that allows users to connect with others through “tweets,” or updates. The short messages allow users to see what their “followers” are up to. Twitterati, or Twitter enthusiasts, can even follow their favorite celebrity’s updates!

A USB device that contains software allowing users to make free long distance calls to the U.S. and Canada. A USB phone is required and the software provides the phone (when overseas) with a stateside phone number of the user’s choice.

Allows you to upload a ny p h o to g ra p h s that you’ve taken and share them with the photosharing community or friends and family members. You can organize your pictures in any way and connect with others who share the love of photography.

Instant Messaging: Chat directly with friends and family in real-time. Calls & Video Calls: Equip your computer with a mic, speakers, and a webcam (for video calls) to hear and see friends and family. File Transfers: Instantly send photos or files with just the click of a mouse!

Blog: Express and write whatever you want in your own personal online journal. Keep friends updated, stay in touch with family members, or make new friends online who share similar views or thoughts. Comments: Leave comments on other members’ blogs as a way to express your thoughts on their writing or as an easy way to make friends.

Comments: Leave a short and sweet online note to any of your contacts without the hassle of searching through your address book. Just click, type, and post. Messages: More than a comment, messages are like emails but a bit less formal. Facebook allows users to view a history of all their messages sent and received by other users.

Instant Messaging: Send short messages between you and other users. It’s an inexpensive and often free way to communicate. Calls: Calling buddies on Skype is just like using a real phone. All you need is a mic and speakers. You can even purchase special VoIP handsets that connect to the Internet. Video Calls: Add a webcam for face-to-face interaction.

Tweet: Update friends and family on day-to-day, hour-to-hour, or minuteto-minute happenings in 140 characters or less. Quickly see what your contacts are up to. Post updates through Twitter applications on your social networking site or blog, and let all of your friends know exactly what you’re doing.

Call: Plug in the USB magicJack device to your computer, along with a USB phone, and call anyone in the states for a small fee. Some military families can get the magicJack free for an entire year! Visit the USO for details.

Share: Upload pictures and share them with friends and family or simply get feedback for your work from fellow photo/design enthusiasts. Tag: Family and friends can identify pictures that they’re in. Leave Comments: Leave text on pictures that you’re in. Comment on photos that you enjoy or you think could use some constructive feedback.

Beware of links that randomly appear as messages from other users. This may happen if other users have a computer virus. Keep your system virus-free by investing in antivirus software like Norton or avast! (free at avast.com) and scanning large files before opening them.

Avoid unnecessary “hesaid, she-said” drama, and don’t publicly post anything that should be kept private. What you post today can come back to haunt you later, so think twice.

Some advertisements on networking sites can link to counterfeit sites that attempt to obtain passwords and other personal information. MySpace notifies you when accessing sites outside of MySpace. Stay within the realms of the site to connect safely and happily.

Keep your credit card and other personal information safe. When making online payments, review the site’s privacy policy and only pay through secured pages. Never agree to meet anyone you’ve met over the Internet.

If you’re planning on giving out personal information (i.e. where you are, who you’re with) make sure your updates are private and only available to followers that you want to know this information.

Never give out your phone number to anyone that you don’t want calling you. As silly as this sounds, it happens all too often.

To prevent other users from plagiarizing your pictures, simply put a watermark over pictures that you don’t want anyone using for unintended purposes.

H a z ards

W ays 2 C onnect

t a

t e

f a

l y

Photo Sharing Sites

(See HOT p. 6)

o w

u21•2010/2011

brace

lets

shirt

one hundred yen P H O T O G R A P H Y

B Y

A S H L E Y

Y A GG I T E X T

J E N N I F E R B Y

M I N A

Frequented by bargain-addicted Japanese and admired by foreigners, no trip, visit, or stay in Japan is complete without visiting a ¥100 store. Different from the American dollar store in variety, and especially quality, ¥100 stores sell almost anything from Cup Noodles to cell phone gaming software. You can find quality objects for the bargain price of ¥100 plus a ¥5 consumption tax. Items that are not ¥100 are marked with tags specifying their price. To keep up with the demand for inexpensive yet extremely useful products, new ¥100 stores spring up all the time. Almost every mall and department store in Japan has at least one (or even several) ¥100 store(s) ranging in size from small street-side vendors to department-store size. And the best thing is that purchases don’t fall apart right away.

J O N E S

F U R U S H O

’

shades

r ing

tie

dressed

to im p ress

all fr om th e 1 0 0 yen store !

School Supplies

Pencils, pens, erasers, paper clips, thumbtacks, staplers, art supplies, and other essentials with a Japanese twist.

Girl Power

Make-up, manicure kits, temporary lashes, hair accessories, and other beauty aids that make prepping for prom a breeze.

Accessories

Key chains, cell phone charms, shades, bracelets, hats, belts, and other accessories.

Bath Products

Snacks & Sweets

Miscellaneous

Gifts

Bedroom Décor

Unique picture frames, CD/DVD organizers, tiny wastebaskets, mirrors of all shapes and sizes, and other furnishings.

Electronics

H I

Calculators, stopwatches, flashlights, and other small electronics as well as the batteries to run them.

Coin banks, Japanese wind chimes, ornaments, and other gifts as well as whatever you’ll need to wrap them.

Magnets, pet supplies, kitchen utensils, bath products, toys, mini sewing kits—you name it, they’ve got it.

Loofas, bubble baths, body washes, shampoos, scented lotions, and other items that are of surprisingly decent quality. Chocolate, Tohato caramel corn puffs, shrimp chips, Chupa Chups lollipops, and other Oki bum essentials (See cool p. 7).

u21•2010/2011

driving& licensing P H O T O G R A P H Y T E X T

B Y

C I N D Y

R A M O S

B Y

R I C H E N D A

N A T H A N

Ty p hoon M otors If you’re 16+, have a driver’s license, and love to work on your car, drive over to Typhoon Motors on Camps Foster, Kinser, Courtney, and Hansen. If you’re under 16, you’re welcome too; just make sure you’re accompanied by an adult. For only $3.50 per hour, you can rent a stall and use available hand tools and small power tools to work on your vehicle. (Stay away from any heavy equipment.) While there’s limited supervision, you’ll be expected to adhere to all safety regulations and rules. Typhoon Motors employees are available to give advice and some limited technical assistance, but for the most part, you’re free to tinker away.

F I S H E R

S A N D L I N - T Y M I T Z

t h i n k

y o u ’ v e

Sign up for Schilling Driving School on Kadena AB by calling 634-1387. It costs $175. Pass a written SOFA test at the Camp Foster Base Safety Office (Bldg. 5831).

driver’s license

Tests are administered Tuesday through Friday at 7:45 a.m. & 9:45 a.m.

Obtain your permit at the Camp Foster Base Safety Office. Bring your ID card, sponsor’s orders, accompanying sponsor/guardian, and Schilling registration paperwork or receipt of payment. They’re open Monday from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 11:15 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Complete the road test at Schilling Community Center for $25. Download a copy of the Road Test Score Sheet at www.mcbbutler.usmc.mil/info/driving. Click on “Safe Driving Tips” then “Road Test Sheet.”

Any questions? Contact Base Safety at 645-3183/7219, or visit www.mcbbutler.usmc.mil/info/driving.

If you’re looking for parts, head to the Auto Recovery Center on Camp Foster. Used parts are usually 70 to 80 percent cheaper than buying the part new. The best thing about working on your car at Typhoon Motors is that you can hang out with friends, develop your skills, and, who knows, maybe even learn enough to make a career out of it.

camp courtney

camp foster

camp hansen

camp kinser

622-9546

645-7169

623-7743

637-2191

Bu ild ing 4151

Building 59 7 1

Building 2 7 1 5

Buildi ng 6 1 1

u21•2010/2011

teen scene

Teens on Okinawa have it made. With membership at any MCCS Teen Center, teens have access to all-you-can eat snacks, sing-your-heart-out karaoke, the hottest new video games, raffles, prizes and giveaways, dances, and FREE transportation for field trips. During spring break, all Teen Centers compete in Teen Survivor, a 5-day event of extreme excitement including ice skating, kayaking, swinging through ravines, and more. How many teens do YOU know that can have this much fun all year ‘round?

ASACS

Ad o l e sce n t S u b sta n ce A b u se C o u n se l i n g S e r vi ce

Kubasaki High School 645-3153/6878 Lester Middle School 645-0598

P H O T O G R A P H Y T E X T

B Y

C I N D Y

R A M O S

B Y

R I C H E N D A

N A T H A N

Not every day on Okinawa is going to be full of sunshine and fun. Just as this island has its rainy season, you might, too. Whether you’re dealing with a serious problem or just feeling down, there’s a place where you can talk about it.

F I S H E R

S A N D L I N - T Y M I T Z

’

Stud ent 2 Student S tudents H elping S tudents www.militarychild.org/child-student/student-2-student

grilling out

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not always easy being the new kid in school. S2S makes the transition easier. For more information, ask your teacher or counselor.

friends volleybal

races

Teen LINKS

kayak build a shelter

Marine Corps Family Team Building offers group sessions that meet with a trainer to talk about the military lifestyle. The program gives teens a chance to learn about the Marine Corps and how to handle those typical military experiences, from moving every three years to dealing with a parent being deployed. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll also get to talk with other teens in the same situation. Other topics include getting involved in the community, building lasting friendships, managing your money, and much more.

-war

tug-of

forest adventure park

basketball

tee cent n ers

camp Kinser 637-1755 I Camp Foster 645-8015 I Camp Courtney 622-9709

u21•2010/2011

college bound High school graduation marks an important stage in anyone’s life. But, it doesn’t end there. Here are some options:

P H O T O G R A P H Y

B Y

C heah

T E X T

B Y

O nline Learnin g University of Maryland University College www.umuc.edu Central Texas College www.pfec.ctcd.edu Phoenix University www.phoenix.edu Troy University www.troy.edu Bowie State University www.bowiestate.edu C lassroom Learning Education Center: Camp Courtney 622-9694 Camp Foster 645-7160 Camp Kinser 637-1821 Kadena Air Base 634-1500

C hin - H on g

C I N D Y

R A M O S

BASE LIBRARIES Libraries aren’t just about books anymore… Borrow hundreds of music CDs, movie DVDs, and computer software for FREE! Camp Courtney 622-9280 Camp Foster 645-7178 Camp Kinser 637-1039 Kadena Air Base 634-1502

F R EE MONEY

useful phone numbers

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

Help Lines

Alcoholics/Narcotics Anonymous Crime Hotline Domestic Violence Post Rape Counseling Suicide Prevention Teen Substance Abuse

The easiest way to receive money for school. www.fafsa.ed.gov

Youth Employment Skills (YES) Program Air Force dependants can “bank” cash with this on-base volunteer program. Kadenaservices.com/teencenter.html | 634-3866

Ambulance 911 Off-base 098-893-7911 Emergency Room 645-7338 Off-base 098-893-1984 Poison Control 643-7338 Rape Emergency Pager 639-3762 639-3487

www.militaryscholar.org www.mccsokinawa.com/scholarships www.koscgiftcorner.com www.aid.military.com/scholarship www.pops-okinawa.org

Auto Accidents

24-hour Auto 090-3794-2556 Towing 622-9690 Camp Courtney Camp Foster 645-3423/7441 Camp Hansen 623-4165 Camp Schwab 625-2517 Kadena Air Base 634-2475 MCAS Futenma 636-3140 Torii Station 644-4715/4700

FUTURE PLANS

634-3333 645-2915 645-2915 634-1266 643-7722 645-3153

Emergencies

College Scholarships

645-3009