Okinawa Living Weekly

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February 5, 2015 • mccsokinawa.com

okinawalivingweekly Whale Watching Tour

Valentine’s Day at the Clubs

Clockwise from the top right: julzz2003/bigstock.com

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ach year, humpback whales make an annual voyage from Alaska’s Aleutian Islands to the warm waters of the East China Sea—a journey that takes them right past Okinawa. See these behemoths up close on a ferry to the nearby Kerama Islands with MCCS Tours+. Humpbacks can weigh 25 to 30 tons and typically give birth in subtropical waters in the winter after feasting in polar waters all summer. These whales were once hunted to near-extinction by the aggressive whaling industry but are now protected thanks to international laws.

Humpbacks are a wonder to see—known for breaching and flipper-slapping out of the water, they are the most acrobatic of the whales. If the prospect

inside

of a 50-foot-long, 60,000-pound animal jumping out of the water isn’t exciting enough, these curious creatures have also been known to approach and circle whale-watching boats. In addition to whale watching, you’ll enjoy the beautiful scenery and ocean breeze.

After a morning on the sea, the tour will stop in Naha for lunch and shopping.

Book your slot now for this popular tour on February 28. The tour lasts from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and includes time after the boat trip in downtown Naha, where you can shop to your heart’s delight. Please note that the frequency and number of visible whales may vary.

For more information, call your local Tours+ office or visit mccsokinawa.com/tours.

Living at Large: Flea Markets | 3 Culture Corner: A Japanese Best Friend | 5 Japanese Phrase of the Week | 5 Off Base Events: Okinawa International Orchid Show | 7

hare a special evening with that special someone on Valentine’s Day. The clubs are cooking up a fantastic spread to set the mood for romance.

At the Butler Officers’ Club, cocktails start at 6:30 p.m. and dinner at 7 p.m. at Be Mine Tonight, a sevencourse meal for $60 per person with music and dancing. Tickets are on sale at the Butler Officers’ Club.

At the Ocean Breeze on Camp Foster, the Veranda Valentine’s Day Dinner will be from 5 to 9 p.m.

Enjoy live music and a four course meal for $35 (adults) and $15 (children up to 14). Complimentary photos will be taken and framed for you to take home to remember the special evening.

If you’re in the mood for teppanyaki, the Habu Pit on MCAS Futenma is having a Cupid’s Dinner for two from 5–9:30 p.m. for $75 per couple or $45 per person. All ladies receive a free gift.

The Tengan Castle on Camp Courtney is having their Be My Valentine dinner from 5 to 9 p.m. with each lady receiving a rose. Prices range from $25 to $34 per person.

Reservations are required. For more information please visit mccsokinwa.com/clubs or the MCCS Okinawa Clubs and Restaurant Facebook page.

Photo of the Week | 7 Spotlight: Vendors Wanted | 9 Movie Schedule | 11 Health Tip of the Week | 11

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livingatlarge

CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER | Jim Kassebaum MANAGING EDITOR | Ryan Anastoplus ART DIRECTORS | Hector Nieves, Karie Morton GRAPHIC ARTS MANAGER | Henry Ortega GRAPHIC DESIGNERS | Margie Shimabukuro, Lisa Miyagi, Kelli Davis, Corrinne McKenna EDITOR-IN-CHIEF | Mike Daley EDITOR | Courtney Rick PHOTOGRAPHER | Thomas Alan Smilie AD/SPONSORSHIP MANAGER | Roy Forster AD SALES | Aya Chilcote, Yoshihiro Shinzato, Yoriko Yamashiro, Lola Cardenas, Carina Fils-Julien DISTRIBUTION | Gideon Juko MARKETING ACCOUNTS MANAGER | Andrew Menges ACCOUNTS & RESEARCH | Amy Schultz, Kelly Longo, Phylicia Callahan, Lindsay Roegge, Katherine Melrose, Amanda Bakun CULTURAL RESEARCH SPECIALISTS | Ayako Kawamitsu

Flea Markets

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urn unwanted items into cash at an MCCS flea market. The flea market rotates between Camps Courtney, Foster and Kinser each weekend so there are many different opportunities to make the most out of your unwanted possessions. Vendors must sign up one hour prior to opening and space is available on a first-come, first-served basis. The fee is $15 and the market opens to sellers at 6 a.m. on Camp Courtney and 11 a.m. on Camps Foster and Kinser. There are rules about what can and cannot be sold at MCCS flea markets, so please visit mccsokinawa.com/fleamarket to view the full guidelines.

The flea market opens to the

public at 7 a.m. on Camp Courtney and at noon on Camps Foster and Kinser. Bring the whole family and great ready for a fun day of deals

and bargaining. For information on this week’s flea market, please visit mccsokinawa.com/fleamarket for a monthly schedule.

mccsevents&happenings L.I.N.K.S. 4 Kids February 13, 5:30–8:30 p.m.

Bldg 5677, Camp Foster 645-3689 FREE Federal Government Employment Process Workshop February 17, 8:30–11:30 a.m.

MFP-R, Camp Kinser 645-2104 FREE L.I.N.K.S. 4 Spouses February 18, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Bldg 5677, Camp Foster 645-3689 FREE

Family Care Plan Workshop February 18, 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

Education Center Camp Courtney 645-3749 FREE Career Assessment Workshop February 18, 1–4 p.m.

MFP-R, Camp Foster 645-2104 FREE Resume Writing Workshop February 18, 1–4 p.m.

MFP-R, Camp Courtney 645-2104 FREE

Camp Foster

Clockwise from the top right: Nectarina/bigstock.com

NAF Warehouse Sale

Wednesdays, 8–3 p.m.

Warehouse 5601 Computers, furniture, weights and recreation equipment will be for sale. Open to DoD ID card holders from 8–11 a.m. and island-wide from 11:30 a.m.–3 p.m.

MCCS Supply 645-3636

Questions? Comments? Please e-mail OLW@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org To advertise in Okinawa Living Weekly, call 645-2245, fax 645-0975, or email sales@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org. MCCS is not responsible for designing and editing outside ads.

No Department of Defense, U.S. Marine Corps or Marine Corps Community Services endorsement of commercial advertisers or sponsors implied.

JSO: Tips for PCS February 19, 9 a.m.–12 p.m.

Bldg. 5677, Camp Foster 645-3689 FREE

We Make Okinawa Home

Other FREE Media:

Credit Report & Credit Score Analysis February 19, 4–7 p.m.

Bldg. 6300, Camp Shields 645-2104 FREE S.T.A.R.S.-Spouse Transition and Readiness Seminar February 20, 8 a.m.–12 p.m.

Bldg. 439, Camp Foster 645-2104 FREE

Channel 15 & 118

This publication printed with

Camps Foster and Courtney

Spin-A-Thon

Saturday, February 14, 8:30–11:30 a.m.

We are promoting heart health with this three-hour spin workout. You may sign up for one, two or all three sessions.

Health Promotion 645-3910/3484

Camp Foster

Camp Foster

February 13, 2–5 p.m.

Kishaba Youth Center Enjoy making Valentine’s crafts with a spooky twist and participating in Fear Factor games. Spooky snacks will be prepared by the cooking club.

Kishaba Youth Center 645-8012

February 13, 3:30–4:30 p.m.

Ashibina Child Development Center Each classroom will have an age and developmentally appropriate activity or craft for Valentine’s Day. Parents are invited to come share their love with the children.

Ashibina CDC 645-5072

Spooky Valentine’s Party

Share Your Love

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japanese phrase

culturecorner

of the week

D

Ima nanji desu ka?

What time is it?

Clockwise from the top right: Grisha Bruev/bigstock.com, Gualberto107/bigstock.com

For details about FREE Japanese language classes, please call Marine & Family Programs– Resources at 645-2104/2106.

A Japanese Best Friend

uring the 20th century and a return to nationalism, Japan sought to preserve their pure canine breeds. The government declared six dogs natural treasures. A few characteristics of these breeds included small curled ears, angular eyes and a bushy tail.

The second largest dog, but most commonly recognized breed, was named for the prefecture where it originated. The Akita was favored by the Shogun and Imperial leaders as companions and guardians for centuries. Today the Akita is popular in the United States as well, known for their dignified and reserved bearing.

Those with families may consider the Shiba Inu, similar in appearance to the Akita but a more convenient size—less than 25 pounds. These medium-sized dogs are energetic, but will get along with most children if they are raised with them.

The Shiba remains one of the most common pets in Japan.

If you prefer the lap dog variety, cuddle with a Chin. The Chin, or Japanese Spaniel, is the smallest native breed. It is lively, affectionate and extremely devoted to its master.

Weighing up to nine pounds, the Chin may be the perfect companion to tote around. These dogs were a favorite gift between China and Japan

about 2,500 years ago and became popular with the ladies of the court and upper class.

Less popular, but largest is the Tosa Inu. The Tosa was bred with western mastiff type dogs such as the Great Dane or St. Bernard to increase size and prowess. Averaging between 100 and 200 pounds, they are referred to as the “sumo wrestlers” of the dog world.

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off-base events get out and explore.

Okinawa International Orchid Show February 8–11, 8:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

Ocean Expo Park Tropical Dream Center, Motobu Village Tickets: Adults ¥670, Children (6–15) ¥340 Trick Art Exhibition February 5–15, 11 a.m.– 8 p.m.

Okinawa Outlet Mall Ashibina, Tomishiro City Tickets: Adults ¥600, Children (6–15) ¥300 Sunflower Festival in Kitanakagusuku February 7–22, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Sunflower Field near Kitanakagusuku Junior High School Kitanakagusuku Village FREE

tours+

adventure begins here.

Urashima Dinner Theater February 13, 5:30–9:30 p.m.

Adults $68 with half lobster, $52 without, Children (6–12) $38, (3–5) $34, (under 3) FREE Savor the varied flavors of Okinawan cuisine while being entertained by traditional music and dancers.

Choose between American or Okinawan menus.*

Pop Circus February 14, 8:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.

Adults $36, Children (3–15) $25, (under 3) FREE Come see an amazing and thrilling performance with the Juggling Flying Trapeze, Illusion, Serial Hoop, Dog Show and more.*

Ryukyu Kings Basketball Game February 15, 5–9:30 p.m.

Adults $34, Children (6–12) $28, (under 6) FREE Experience the exhilaration of a professional Japanese basketball game.

Watch the Ryukyu Kings battle the Ōoita Heat Devils at the Tomishiro City Toyosaki Gym.

Valentine’s Dinner Cruise February 14, 6–10:30 p.m.

Couples $149 Enjoy a mouth-watering roast veal and a seafood pie with live music as you watch the sunset over the open waters.*

Battle Sites Tour February 15, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Adults $28, Children (3–11) $18, (under 3) FREE Explore the Japanese Naval Underground Headquarters and end the day at Peace Prayer Park.*

Whale Watching Tours February 8, 21 and 28, 8 a.m.–3 p.m.

Adults $54, Children (4–11) $35 Watch these mammoth‐sized creatures surface around the Kerama Islands. After a morning on the seas, head to Kokusai Street for lunch and shopping.*

*Bring yen for additional food, drinks and/or purchases. For more information, contact MCCS Tours+: Camp Foster 646-3502 | Camp Hansen 623-6344 | Camp Kinser 637-2744 | U.S. Naval Hospital 646-7013

Clockwise from the top right: servickuz/bigstock.com, Thomas Alan Smilie

photooftheweek

You can find oden at nearly any convenience store and they’re great for chilly days. Fill the light, soy broth with your choice of boiled eggs, daikon, fishcakes or tofu to name a few.

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spotlight

Vendors Wanted

A

StockPhotosArt/bigstock.com

n event or party is nothing without a long line of game booths and food for customers to pick and choose from. MCCS is looking for food, game and fun vendors for this year’s Comic Con Okinawa. This event will take place on Saturday, October 17 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Fieldhouse and Ocean Breeze on Camp Foster.

Commercial and private busi-

nesses, non-profit organizations and individuals are all welcome to participate as an event vendor. Whether you want to sell BBQ food or provide games to play for prizes, MCCS has a booth waiting for you. Please call 6454366/5828 for more information.

If you or your business is interested in being a vendor for this event, submit your application at MCCS Special Events (Bldg. 5677).

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upcoming semperfitevents movieschedule Proud sponsor of MCCS Youth Sports Athletics/Adult Sports 645-3521/3522 Aquatics 645-3180 Courtney Ironworks 622-9261/7297 Futenma Semper Fit 636-2672 Gunners Fitness Center 645-3985/2235 Hansen House of Pain 623-5558/4831 Health Promotion 645-3484/3910 Kinser Fitness Center 637-1869/1114 Schwab Power Dome 625-2654/2442 Taiyo Golf Club 622-2004 Tsunami SCUBA 645-9500

Open Ultimate Frisbee February 20–22 Camp Courtney Bowl Field Register by 1 p.m. at any MCCS fitness center on February 16 for $80 per team. This event is open to participants island-wide. Awards will be given to first, second and third place finishers. Tournament brackets and bylaws will be e-mailed to each coach. Details: 622-7297/9221.

Open Round Robin Softball February 20–22 Camp Hansen House of Pain Register by 1 p.m. at any MCCS fitness center on February 17 for $120 per team. This event is open to participants island-wide. Team and individual awards will be given to first, second and third place finishers. Tournament brackets and bylaws will be e-mailed to each team.

Details: 623-5569/5558.

King & Queen of the Pins Bowling Tournament February 28 Camp Foster Bowling Center Register by 1 p.m. at any MCCS fitness center on February 28 or on-site from 9–10 a.m. for $20. This event is open to participants island-wide. Awards will be given to first, second and third place winners in each division.

The on-site, mandatory participants brief is at 10:30 a.m.

Details: 645-3985/4866.

CAMP KINSER | 637-2177

CAMP COURTNEY | 622-6101

Thursday, February 5 Project Almanac (PG 13) 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, February 5 CLOSED

Friday, February 6 Jupiter Ascending (PG 13) 6:30 p.m.

Friday, February 6 Jupiter Ascending 3D (PG 13) 6 p.m.

Jupiter Ascending 3D (PG 13) 9 p.m.

Saturday, February 7 The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water (PG) 3 p.m.

Jupiter Ascending 3D (PG 13) 6:30 p.m.

Sunday, February 8 The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water (PG) 1 p.m.

Jupiter Ascending (PG 13) 3:30 p.m.

Jupiter Ascending 3D (PG 13) 6:30 p.m.

Monday, February 9 CLOSED Tuesday, February 10 CLOSED Wednesday, February 11 Unbroken (PG 13) 6:30 p.m.

MCAS FUTENMA | * Thursday, February 5 CLOSED Friday, February 6 Jupiter Ascending 3D (PG 13) 6:30 p.m.

Saturday, February 7 Project Almanac (PG 13) 4 p.m.

Jupiter Ascending 3D (PG 13) 7 p.m.

Sunday, February 8 The Boy Next Door (R) 4 p.m.

Jupiter Ascending 3D (PG 13) 7 p.m.

Youth Sports 645-3533/3534

Monday, February 9 American Sniper (R) 6:30 p.m.

classoftheweek

Tuesday, February 10 CLOSED Wednesday, February 11 CLOSED

HITT Training

CAMP FOSTER | 645-3465

Active dynamic warm-up, strength and power, speed and agility, flexibility and core stability are the major four components of HITT training.

Thursday, February 5 Black or White (PG 13) 7 p.m.

For a full class schedule, visit schedule mccsokinawa.com/wellness.

weeklyhealthtip Is high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) worse for you than sugar? To break it down, HFCS consists of 55% fructose and 42% glucose whereas sugar is a 50/50 blend. The only chemical difference between the two is that HFCS is unbounded, suspended in a liquid solution and sugar is bonded in sucrose. This makes no difference in how it is metabolized in your body.

Other than a slight variance in the fructose-to-glucose ratio, there is no difference between HFCS and sugar.

Source: http://examine.com/faq/is-hfcs-high-fructose-corn-syrup-worsethan-sugar.html

Friday, February 6 The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water (PG) 6 p.m.

Jupiter Ascending 3D (PG 13) 9 p.m.

Saturday, February 7 The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water (PG) Noon Jupiter Ascending (PG 13) 3 p.m.

Free Screening: McFarland USA (PG) 6 p.m.

American Sniper (R) 9 p.m.

Sunday, February 8 The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water (PG) 1 p.m.

Jupiter Ascending 3D (PG 13) 4 p.m.

Jupiter Ascending (PG 13) 7 p.m.

Monday, February 9 Jupiter Ascending 3D (PG 13) 7 p.m.

Tuesday, February 10 Top Five (R) 7 p.m.

Wednesday, February 11 The Imitation Game (PG 13) 7 p.m.

Saturday, February 7 The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water (PG) 3 p.m.

Jupiter Ascending (PG 13) 6 p.m.

Sunday, February 8 The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water (PG) 3 p.m.

Jupiter Ascending (PG 13) 6 p.m.

Monday, February 9 Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb (PG) 7 p.m.

Tuesday, February 10 CLOSED Wednesday, February 11 Jupiter Ascending (PG 13) 7 p.m.

CAMP HANSEN | 623-7118 Thursday, February 5 Project Almanac (PG 13) 7 p.m.

Friday, February 6 Jupiter Ascending 3D (PG 13) 6:30 p.m.

Jupiter Ascending (PG 13) 10 p.m.

Saturday, February 7 Jupiter Ascending 3D (PG 13) 6 p.m.

American Sniper (R) 9:30 p.m.

Sunday, February 8 Project Almanac (PG 13) 3:30 p.m.

Jupiter Ascending (PG 13) 7 p.m.

Monday, February 9 Big Eyes (PG 13) 7 p.m.

Tuesday, February 10 The Wedding Ringer (R) 7 p.m.

Wednesday, February 11 Unbroken (PG 13) 7 p.m.

CAMP SCHWAB | 625-2333 Thursday, February 5 CLOSED Friday, February 6 Jupiter Ascending 3D (PG 13) 6 p.m.

Jupiter Ascending (PG 13) 9 p.m.

Saturday, February 7 Jupiter Ascending 3D (PG 13) 6 p.m.

Jupiter Ascending (PG 13) 9 p.m.

Sunday, February 8 Big Eyes (PG 13) 4 p.m.

Jupiter Ascending (PG 13) 7 p.m.

Monday, February 9 Project Almanac (PG 13) 7 p.m.

Tuesday, February 10 Jupiter Ascending (PG 13) 7 p.m.

Wednesday, February 11 CLOSED

Movie schedule is subject to change. For the latest updates call your local theater. * No phone line currently available.