Okinawa Living January 2022

HAPPY NEW YEAR! January 2022 | Issue 287

OHANAMI ENJOYING THE FLOWERS OF WINTER RISINGEEL KNIVES EXPLORING CULTURE’S SHARPEST EDGE

contents January 2022

16

8 56 out + about 8 Hatsumōde With the dawn of the New Year, normally serene temples and shrines are boisterous and crowded as many make their first visits of the year.

features 16

On the cover Happy 2022—also known on Okinawa, in Japan and in many other Asian nations as the Year of the Tiger!

Ohanami: Enjoying the Flowers of Winter On Okinawa, flowers can be enjoyed yearround—even during the dead of winter when sakura, ume-no-hana, sunflowers, cosmos and tulips abound.

56 RisingEEL Knives Exploring Culture’s Sharpest Edge Meet Mr. Yasuto Yaseyama, blacksmith and owner of RisingEEL Knives, and learn more about the fascinating world of creating knives by hand using techniques forged over centuries.

contents January 2022

47 fitness + fun 27

Lord of the Tengan Bust out your favorite running shoes and catch the gorgeous views of Courtney Beach with 5k and 10k races.

29

Time. To. Spike.

Calling all setters, blockers, spikers and liberos! It’s time for the Schwab Open Volleyball Tournament.

marines + families 31

The Building Blocks of Life Having a box of LEGO® blocks gives you almost god-like abilities to create anything! Join in for a build-off at Camp Foster Library.

33

Get Artsy!

Gather your friends and create your own masterpieces at MCCS Arts and Crafts Paint Nights hosted by local artist Arisa Miller.

35

Virtual Education Fair Learn about choosing, funding and completing your higher education with the MCCS Education Program.

dining + entertainment 37

Comic Con Artwork Exhibition Linger a little longer in celebration of all things “super” as you admire original artwork from finalists in the Comic Con Art Contest.

39

Family Friendly Outings from Tours+ January doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do on Okinawa—gather the clan and head to Shuri Castle and Kokusai Street, the Urashima Dinner Theater or Izumi Mikan Farm (for tangerine picking)!

kids + parents 45

Join the Club Head to Camp Foster Library for STEM Club!

There’s no better place for students to expand

their knowledge of science, technology, engineering and mathematics curriculum.

47

Swim Team Youth tryouts for the Okinawa Dolphins Swim Team are open to competitive swimmers ages 7 to 18.

services 51

APPtitude for Life on Okinawa There’s an enormous amount of information out there about this relatively small island.

Fortunately, it’s organized and readily available through the MCCS Okinawa Liberty app!

extras 5

Mensôre

7

Feedback & Show Us!

69

Living on Okinawa

70

Marketplace Guide

JANUARY 2022 | ISSUE 287 COMMANDING GENERAL, MCIPAC Brigadier General William J. Bowers

mensôre “Welcome” to Okinawa Living

ASSISTANT CHIEF OF STAFF, MCCS, MCIPAC Edward S. Hutsell DEPUTY ASSISTANT CHIEF OF STAFF, MCCS DIRECTOR, MCCS, MCB CAMP BUTLER Michael S. Gieseck DEPUTY MCCS DIRECTOR MARINE & FAMILY PROGRAMS Carlos J. Saldaña DEPUTY MCCS DIRECTOR BUSINESS & SUPPORT Hyun Woo Chang CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER Jim Kassebaum EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Mike Daley MCCS ART DIRECTOR Henry C. Ortega OKINAWA LIVING ART DIRECTORS Margie Shimabukuro, Emeline Toole GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Giulia Pulvirenti, Mayar Mahmoud, Rebecca Lambertsen DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER Thomas Alan Smilie PHOTOGRAPHER Mia Cox EDITORIAL Angie Andrews DIGITAL & SOCIAL MEDIA Kathlene Millette, Roxine Ami, Jaci Mullally CULTURAL RESEARCH SPECIALIST Ayako Kawamitsu ADVERTISING SALES & SPONSORSHIP MANAGER Roy Forster ADVERTISING SALES & SPONSORSHIP Yoshihiro Shinzato, Hiromitsu Horikawa Terumi Nagai, Crystal Rivas, Ronshanda Perkins MARKETING ACCOUNTS MANAGER Andrew Menges MARKETING ACCOUNTS Leah Scrybalo, Bethany Ramirez Latoya Cardona, Deanna Berg DISTRIBUTION Brian Jones CONTRIBUTING WRITER Kiara Klein

We welcome your comments.

Please send letters to editor@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org For advertising | 広告掲載のお問い合わせ (日本語可) 098-970-2245 (phone) | 098-970-0975 (fax) sales@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org (email) See our advertising rates at mccsokinawa.com

Happy New Year!

As the clock strikes midnight on December 31, many will reach for party poppers and glasses filled with Champagne. However, as we celebrate the end of 2021 (which for some, seemed like an extension of 2020) and welcome the New Year with a boisterous ten-second countdown and a half-shouted rendition of “Auld Lang Syne,” the people of Okinawa and Japan are celebrating a bit differently.

For many here, the New Year is greeted with solemn silence. The New Year’s holiday, known as Oshōgatsu, is observed over three days and is a time for quiet reflection and subdued celebration with the family. And while many around the world this year will return to a more boisterous form of celebration, the only sounds heard at midnight on Okinawa and in Japan on January 1 will be the ritual ringing of temple bells.

In the days leading up to New Year’s in Japan and on Okinawa, it is tradition to thoroughly clean homes and offices, buy new clothes and attempt to clear all debts before the year’s end. These and other chores are completed to give people a sense of “starting clean” and welcoming the New Year with an unpolluted spirit.

We here at Okinawa Living Magazine hope that your 2022 is a year of renewal—a clean slate on which you can scribe many new happy memories exploring this beautiful island with family and friends.

As always, we thank you for picking up this issue of Okinawa Living Magazine. Now, time to turn the page and let your journey begin. 

MCCS MARKETING BRANCH MCB Camp S.D. Butler. Unit 35023, FPO AP 96378-5023

Okinawa Living is published by MCCS Marketing. Its purpose is to inform the military and civilian community about events and programs offered by MCCS or available in the local market. Dates and times may change. Copyright ©2022

by MCCS. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transferred in any form, by any means, electronic, photocopying, recording, or otherwise without written permission of the copyright owner. No federal or Marine Corps endorsement of advertisers and sponsors. MCCS is not responsible for editing content of non-MCCS ads.

Okinawa Living Magazine is printed with

Mike Daley Editor-In-Chief Take us on the road Enjoy Okinawa Living Magazine on your favorite mobile device!

Visit mccsokinawa.com/ol for the latest issue. Also, visit issuu.com/mccsokinawa to see back issues of the magazine.

ATTEND A WEBINAR TO LEARN HOW UMGC PROGRAMS ARE MADE FOR YOU Register to attend at asia.umgc.edu/webinars or scan the QR code below and get answers about earning a degree from UMGC. If you apply for admission within 30 days of attending an Intro to UMGC Asia or Graduate Programs Webinar, your $50 application fee will be waived!

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feedback

from the ICE Program and Facebook Absolutely amazing experience every time I come to Typhoon Motors on Camp Hansen. I have very minimal knowledge when it comes to vehicles, but John, Rich and Adam always provide answers and assistance to the many questions I have about my vehicle. Service is always expeditious, and I have never had to return for the same problem. Great job, staff, and thank you!

—via ICE I wanted to take some time to recognize Ocean Breeze and more specifically Catering Manager Laura Kight and the head chef. Laura has saved the day on numerous occasions, but really impressed me when she made a critical family event in support of the III MEF Chief Petty Officer (CPO) Association’s promotion season possible. As Petty Officer (PO)1 Sailors are subjected to eight weeks of PME (Professional Military Education), this is one of the best events for them and their families to meet the III MEF Chief Mess and socialize during this stressful time. Dates were always changing and Laura was very patient and supportive throughout the process. She and the catering team made the event one that the new CPO selectees would remember and appreciate. The management and catering team at Ocean Breeze are some of the best I have had the pleasure of working with, and I cannot express how thankful I am for their support and hospitality! MCCS is getting this right time and time again.

—via ICE

@okilivingmag Show us your island adventures and favorite food finds!

@_simplynikkie

Two donuts down, one hundred & forty eight to go

@its.kuma.dood

We LOVE EGA [Excellence Gymnastics Academy] and all the coaches, especially Tiffany and Coco. They have been so encouraging and professional every day.

Even when I had a concern, Coach Tiffany met with me personally and explained everything. She then took time out of her busy personal schedule to meet with my daughter just to encourage her to keep trying. When it comes to professionalism and gymnastics, EGA is the real deal!

—via ICE Can you please consider offering youth sports on Camp Hansen for the upcoming soccer season? There are a lot of families that live between Ishikawa (in Uruma City) and Camp Schwab that would greatly benefit from practices being held on Hansen instead of having to choose between Camps Courtney or Foster. For our family specifically, we have continually had to choose to either register our son or skip entire seasons based on traffic and my husband’s work schedule (he works on Schwab and we live north of Hansen). With the completion of the turf field and no other availability issues, I think the opportunity to serve the northern-based families is there.

I’m looking forward to hearing from you!

—via ICE Thank you for contacting MCCS Semper Fit Youth Sports and sharing your suggestion. You raise a valid point and we will consider your suggestion for future youth sports seasons. The addition of Camp Hansen as a location for youth sports activities will depend on facility availability, participation and volunteer coaches. We will explore this option when planning future seasons. If you have any additional comments, questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me via email at youthsports@okinawa.usmc-mccs. org. Thanks again for sharing your suggestion.

—Natalie Steele, Program Manager, Semper Fit Youth Sports

I love Okinawa as much as Okinawa loves me!

@kellyhurtado_

All the Oki things…

Domo arigatou gozaimashita and thank you for your posts! We can’t wait to see what else you love about Okinawa!

—The Okinawa Living Staff

Give MCCS Feedback—ICE Program & Facebook Let us know how we can better serve you or thank us for a job well-done. Go to mccsokinawa.com and click on the ICE link at the bottom of the homepage or find us on Facebook to share feedback. Comments on this page may be edited for clarity or length.

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OUT + ABOUT

Text by Mike Daley Design by Giulia Pulvirenti

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NAME/BIGSTOCK.COM

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OUT + ABOUT

FITNESS + FUN

Lord of the Tengan 5k & 10k Run Has it been too long since you’ve enjoyed a beach day splashing around and soaking up the sun? You can still enjoy Okinawa’s beautiful coast from the shore! And, what better way to do so than on your own two feet?

On Sunday, February 6, bust out your favorite running shoes for the Lord of the Tengan Run on Camp Courtney. With a course starting and finishing at Ironworks Fitness Center, you’ll head past the food court, the NCO Club and Tengan Castle to catch the gorgeous views of Courtney Beach during this multi-distance race.

Competing in either the 5k or 10k races, participants will run either one lap or two.

Plan for an early morning as check-ins are from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m. with a mandatory brief at 7:35 a.m.

Both races (5k and 10k) start at 8:05 a.m. and are open to SOFA ID card holders ages 12 and older.

All registered participants will receive T-shirts, but make sure to wear your lucky socks and carb-load the night before because awards are going to the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place finishers in all gender and age categories. In addition, the overall male and female runners in both the 5k and 10k distances will be awarded.

Registration is available via Eventbrite until 11:30 p.m. on February 2 for $40. On-site registration is also available on race day for $50. For more information, visit mccsokinawa. com/adultsports and if you have any questions, please email adultsports@ okinawa.usmc-mccs.org. 

Tsunami Scuba Charters Upcoming Boat Dives Calling all certified divers! Looking for a break from your favorite main island dive spots? Join Tsunami Scuba for two unique dive charters this month that will take your breath away (not literally, of course). Each trip includes two dives and divers will meet up at each boat’s departure port.

First up on January 8, head to the Kerama Islands—which are designated as a national park due to their massive coral gardens. You’ll be off to explore the vast variety of sea life (including turtles, manta rays, fire dartfish, sea anemones and much more) that calls the spectacularly clear waters around the Keramas home. Besides the high visibility and calm currents, the winter months make a visit to the Keramas especially unique because humpback whales will start congregating around this time—if you’re lucky, you might even hear them singing a tune!

Next, well-experienced divers (Advanced Open Water certified with Deep Diver certifications preferred) can join in for a trip to explore the USS Emmons, the WWII destroyer which rests in the waters off Kouri Island. As the last naval fighting ship commissioned before the United States joined WWII, the USS Emmons was damaged and sunk as a result of kamikaze attacks that occurred

on April 6, 1945, just a few months shy of the war’s end. Divers should exercise extra precautions when diving this memorial shipwreck because the site boasts depths of approximately 150 feet.

Safety measures for this excursion are based upon weather and sea conditions and therefore this dive could be rescheduled or moved to an alternate location if necessary.

For both trips, divers must furnish all necessary equipment (regulators, BCDs, exposure protection, tanks, fins, booties, snorkels and dive tools such as lights, knives and cameras). On the Keramas trip, water and hot dogs will be available aboard and for the Emmons trip, you can expect water and chips. While you are welcome to bring your own additional food, please refrain from bringing coolers due to space considerations.

Registration is available at any Tsunami Scuba location, but be sure to book soon!

There are only 12 spots available for each of these fabulous dive adventures. For more information and additional dive charter dates, please visit mccsokinawa.com/scuba and follow facebook.com/mccsokinawa.scuba. 

JANUARY 2022 | OKINAWA LIVING 27

FITNESS + FUN

Wanna Wrassle?

Prove You’re the Conqueror of the Mats

Time. To. Spike.

Camp Schwab Open Volleyball Tournament Calling all setters, blockers, spikers and liberos—it’s time to head north for a battle on the volleyball courts of Camp Schwab on January 29 and 30! Registration (via Eventbrite) for the Schwab Open Volleyball Tournament is due by 1 p.m. on January 24 for $150 per team.

This tournament is open to SOFA ID card holders ages 16 and older. Team sizes will be limited to ten players plus a coach, if the

coach is not participating as a player. Teams may score regardless of which team serves and all matches will be played as a best twoout-of-three games. Lastly, 1st, 2nd and 3rd place teams will go home with awards.

For more information, head to mccsoki nawa.com/adultsports or facebook.com/ mccsokinawa.semperfit. If you have any questions, email adultsports@okinawa.usmc-mccs. org or call 623-5558. 

Although some might associate wrestling with titans trading body slams and flying presses in a ring, it’s actually a sport that takes immense stamina, mental quickness and toughness, and skill sharpened with hours of practice and sweat. Did we mention that it has been an Olympic sport since the games held in Athens in 1896? That predates even Hulk Hogan and Andre the Giant!

Pin your competition at the Schwab Open Wrestling Tournament Saturday, January 22 at the Power Dome Fitness Center. Register by January 19 (11:30 p.m.) via Eventbrite for $20. This event is open to all SOFA ID card holders 16 and older. Individual awards will be given to the top three male and female finishers in each respective weight class. For more information, call 623-5558 or email adultsports@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org. 

Empower Your Unit HITT Small Unit Leaders Courses Do you encourage others in your unit during your workouts of the day? Are you pushing yourself and your fellow comrades to be better?

If so, you are the leader they need! MCCS Semper Fit offers HITT (High Intensity Tactical Training) courses to help you empower those around you.

By combining strength and conditioning workouts with practical leadership skills, you’ll learn how to improve the strength, power, speed and agility of all members of your unit, essentially making the whole group combat fit and ready. Interested? Two HITT Small Unit Leaders courses will be offered this month.

The first will be held at the Camp Schwab Power Dome HITT Center January 10 to 14, and the second will be held at Camp Kinser HITT Center January 24 to 28. Both courses are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and are open to active-duty Marines and Sailors, E4 and above. Participants will learn from two certified HITT instructors and gain the knowledge needed to improve their unit’s overall fitness.

HITT Small Unit Leaders courses are considered a temporary place of duty for the week and require approval from your command. To register, please email mccshealthpromotions@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org before January 2 to attend at Camp Schwab or before January 16 to attend at Camp Kinser. For more information, call MCCS Health Promotion at 645-3910. In addition, if your unit has at least five interested Marines or Sailors, a unit-specific course can be requested.  JANUARY 2022 | OKINAWA LIVING 29

MARINES + FAMILIES

Make a Difference in a Child’s Life Join the MCCS CYP Team

The Building Blocks of Life LEGO® Build-Off at the Foster Library LEGO® blocks…if you were lucky as a child, you had a box-full that gave you god-like abilities to create anything—from a giraffe to a full-fledged Death Star and everything in between. If you were unlucky as a parent, you’ve probably stepped on an errant block during a midnight restroom expedition at least once.

Join the Camp Foster Library as they celebrate LEGO® Day with a no-holds-barred

build-off on Saturday, January 29! Compete as an individual or as a team, or bring one of your best creations from home. For those not competing, there will be stations set up for everyone to enjoy LEGO® inspired activities.

Registration will be accepted until the maximum has been reached. Interested?

Send an email to libraryprogram@okinawa. usmc-mccs.org. 

MCCS offers a variety of challenging, career-building opportunities with a priority on hiring qualified family members of active-duty military and civilian employees stationed in foreign areas. Jobs are available in entertainment, sports, accounting, marketing, wellness, maintenance, IT, counseling and much more. However, one field that is as rewarding as it is important to the military community is with Child & Youth Programs (CYP).

Becoming a member of the MCCS CYP team comes with many benefits—both tangible ones as well as intangibles that will pay dividends in your future. Not only does CYP offer a positive work environment with opportunities to work with like-minded individuals who love what they do, you’re given the invaluable opportunity to make a difference in a child’s life.

Work-related training is provided with a set increase in salary upon completion. In addition, CYP team members receive a 50 percent discount on childcare, tuition assistance up to $10K annually to pursue higher education or certifications and much more!

When it comes time to PCS, finding your next job will be a snap— CYP Program Assistants (caregivers) are highly sought after at military installations around the world. In addition, spouses of active-duty service members can even request transfers to their next duty station through our local Human Resource Office.

Interested? Apply now at USAJOBS (usajobs.gov) or on the MCCS Careers website (careers.usmc-mccs.org). 

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MARINES + FAMILIES

It’s Back!

Tip the Scales

Warhammer 40k at MCCS Libraries

In Favor of Your Health January is Healthy Weight Month, but that doesn’t necessarily equate to gaining or losing an arbitrary amount of muscle or fat. Understanding your body’s healthy weight is key.

Many factors are involved when it comes to each individual’s weight, but making positive choices such as eating nutritional foods and exercising regularly will affect not only the number on the scale, but your overall health.

Keeping a healthy weight can help reduce your risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers and other conditions such as high blood pressure.

Stay tuned to facebook.com/mccsokinawa. semperfit for healthy weight updates and keep your eyes peeled for information available at MCCS Fitness Centers. If you are looking to improve your nutrition and fitness habits, you can also join our next Crews Into Shape challenge by emailing mccshealthpromotions@ okinawa.usmc-mccs.org. For more information, contact Health Promotion at 645-3910 (DSN) or 098-970-3910 (off base).

And, remember, if you have concerns about your weight and health, you should consult your doctor. 

Get Artsy!

MCCS Arts and Crafts Paint Nights Gathering with friends for some stimulating conversation is always fun, but how about taking it to another level—like grabbing ten of your besties for an evening of painting? What could be more fun than catching up with the latest goings-on with your friends while creating your very own masterpiece?

Don’t know how to paint? No problem!

MCCS Arts and Crafts Paint Nights are facilitated by an artist that will both inspire you as well as give you some tips of the trade.

Renowned local artist Arisa Miller will host January’s classes. Arisa is a passionate painter from Okinawa City; her murals and black light paintings are known locally and in the U.S. Setting up a Paint Night session is easy; call an MCCS Arts and Crafts Center on Foster

or Courtney with your preferred date (as well as a back-up date) and they will contact the artist—just don’t forget to gather your ten friends as there’s a ten-person minimum for sessions! If you would prefer to hone your personal skills first, so you can wow your pals at Paint Night, you can sign up for individual classes as well.

For more information on MCCS Arts and Crafts Paint Nights or individual painting classes, call Courtney Arts and Crafts (DSN: 622-7492 / from off base: 098-954-7492) or Foster Arts and Crafts (DSN 645-3674 / from off base: 098-970-3674). For more on upcoming happenings, visit them online at mccsokinawa. com/courtneyartsandcrafts or mccsokinawa.com/ fosterartsandcrafts respectively. 

It’s the turn of the 42nd millennium and human civilization is still on the verge of collapse—we’ve got aliens, skeleton androids, Orks and more to thank for that. The question is, will you be humanity’s savior…or its ruin?

The time has come once again to wage tabletop war!

The most popular war game in the business is back on the tables of MCCS Libraries on Camps Hansen and Foster. The Warhammer 40k action will begin on January 2 at the Hansen Library. On January 22, the Foster Library will enter the fray. If you’ve never played before, this is the perfect time to get started, as all game supplies—battlefields, terrain, model warriors and vehicles—will be provided. Not to mention, these events are FREE and are held on an ongoing bi-weekly basis.

If Warhammer 40k isn’t your bread and butter, there will be other board games available to play as well, so drop by, roll some dice and get to know the wonderful tabletop community on island.

SOFA ID card holders are invited to participate, or just hang out and pick up some tips from Warhammer veterans. For more information about these events, head to mccsokinawa. com/libraries or facebook.com/ mccsokinawa.educationandlibraries. If you have any questions, please email libraryprogram@okinawa.usmc-mccs. org or call 645-6055.  JANUARY 2022 | OKINAWA LIVING 33

MARINES + FAMILIES

I Resolve to… …Learn a Craft!

New Year’s resolutions, while usually worthwhile, aren’t always both fun and worthwhile. This year, resolve to change that by learning a craft! Start by visiting Courtney Arts and Crafts to take the woodshop orientation, or Foster Arts and Crafts to take a DIY frame class—or both. The helpful staff at either location will teach you everything you need to know so that you can create your own DIY projects while finally following through on a resolution!

Framing Classes are offered the second Saturday of every month at Foster Arts and Crafts—be sure to bring your own 5 x 7 or 8 x 10 photo, DIY artwork or “Employee of the Month” certificate for the project. You’ll learn how to measure and cut molding, matte board and glass, as well as how to assemble your frame in no time!

Once you complete an orientation class at Courtney Arts and Crafts Center’s woodshop, you will be able to stop by anytime during normal business hours to work on your project—be it a stool, table, chair, cutting board or even a birdhouse!

While some successful resolutions mean a lower number on the scale or not gasping for breath after going up (or even down) three

flights of stairs, learning a new craft has one added benefit—you can glance over and see your beautiful work hanging on the wall while sitting on your comfortable chair—all made by you!

For more information on starting on your journey as a master artisan, call Courtney Arts and Crafts (DSN: 622-7492 / from off base: 098-954-7492) or Foster Arts and Crafts (DSN 6453674 / from off base: 098-970-3674) today! Visit them online at mccsokinawa.com/courtneyartsandcrafts or mccsokinawa.com/ fosterartsandcrafts respectively. 

Anger Management

Virtual Education Fair

YOU Control the Response

Choose, Fund and Complete Your Education

Anger is a normal (and can even be a healthy) emotion. However, if it gets out of control—especially on a regular basis—it can be destructive to your state of mind, health, relationships and more.

The good news is that you can learn how to take control of your emotions.

Learn strategies to effectively manage anger and build conflict resolution skills in the Century Anger Management (CAM) Class—a four-consecutive-week psychoeducational workshop taught by MCCS Behavioral Health Family Advocacy Program’s Prevention & Education Team.

CAM Classes, which teach you how to properly manage stress, cope with feelings of anger and communicate effectively, can be taken either on Wednesdays on Camp Foster or Thursdays on Camp Hansen. Both classes will run from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Those interested must register to attend. To register, email FAPPrevention@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org , call 645-2915 or scan the QR code below.

For more information, including locations, visit mccsokinawa.com/ behavioralhealth. 

In the early years of school, many of us are taught to make educated guesses based on information known at the time an answer is required. When it comes to continuing or furthering your education, college is not something anyone wants to guess about. Learn about choosing, funding and completing your education with the help of the MCCS Education Program.

All SOFA and DoD ID card holders, active-duty service members, veterans and their family members are invited to attend the Virtual Education Fair.

This FREE online event will be running through Webex from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on January 12. Interested participants may join in at any time throughout the day (or attend the whole day). Registration is not required; to attend, sign in using the Webex access code 27635238518 and password (fair).

The day will start off with a brief introduction to MCCS Education Center Counselors followed by information about which colleges are available here on island. Other topics include taking the first steps towards college, choosing a pro-

gram for the career you want and tips for succeeding in online and blended classes.

In the afternoon, participants can learn about funding for their education, writing and test-taking tips as well as opportunities for military spouses. The event will close with a question and answer session so that you’ll be ready to make the best decision for you—no guessing involved!

For more information, visit mccsokinawa.com/education. If you have any questions, please call 645-7160 (DSN) or 098-970-7160 from off base. 

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DINING + ENTERTAINMENT

Comic Con Artwork Exhibition Let the "Super" Celebration Linger The end of last year sure zoomed by faster than most of us could ever imagine.

There was much to celebrate: holidays, cooler weather and, of course, Comic Con Okinawa. If you find yourself wishing Comic Con Okinawa could have lasted longer, or— GASP!—you are one of the unfortunates who actually missed the big event, now is your chance to linger a little longer in celebration of all things anime, manga, superheroes, comic books and favorite fictional characters.

Each year, Comic Con Okinawa includes an Artist Alley area decked out with original artwork to wow fans and the community at large. Art included in Artist Alley is part of a contest and the finalists from this past year’s Comic Con Okinawa offered up some of

the most unique creations yet. Ten of these fabulous works of art are currently on display at the newly reopened Camp Foster Library.

Contributors and contest winners are comprised of artists of all ages, including several submissions from members of the Camp Foster Teen Center. On display are imaginative works depicting anime characters, Cat Woman, Alice from Alice in Wonderland, dragons and Royal Sage from The Elder Scrolls: Legends and more. These creations are composed from digital media, graphite or ink on paper and acrylic paint, so you are sure to view lots of varying styles as you celebrate the artists of our community.

Each piece on display is titled and will include the artist’s name and brief biographic information. When you visit the Camp

Foster Library to view the collection, most items will be on exhibition panels near the main entryway, but be sure to explore the library as a whole to discover all of the great updates and library features incorporated in the recent renovation.

The Comic Con Okinawa Art Exhibition will be displayed through January 3. If you have any questions about the art, the Camp Foster Library staff will be happy to assist you. You are also welcome to contact the Foster Arts and Crafts team (organizers of the art contest) at artsandcrafts@okinawa. usmc-mccs.org. 

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DINING + ENTERTAINMENT

Winter Outings Family-Friendly Offerings from Tours+ January on Okinawa doesn’t mean there’s nowhere to go or nothing to do—there’s actually plenty to see and experience including fantastic outings to enjoy with the whole family.

First, gather the clan and celebrate the New Year with a traditional ceremony on the grounds of Shuri Castle and enjoy shopping on Kokusai Street. This tour will take place January 2 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Continue the New Year’s cultural revelry at the Urashima Dinner Theater New Year’s Celebration on January 7 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. The family will love the cuisine—either Okinawan or American menu choices are available—while

being entertained by traditional Okinawan music and dance.

Round out your January with something healthy and delicious!

The Tours+ Tangerine-picking Tour will take you and your family to the beautiful Izumi Mikan Farm up north in Motobu Village.

While one doesn’t typically associate January with fruit-picking season, Okinawa’s subtropical climate allows the tankan, or Okinawan tangerines, to ripen in the winter months; December and January are an explosion of orange at Izumi Mikan Farm, so expect to find more tangerines than you can hope to carry. The tour, which takes place on January

22, departs at 9:30 a.m. from the Camp Foster Bowling Center and will return at 2 p.m.

Tangerines are sold by the kilo at the farm, so bring yen if you would like to take some tankan home.

What are you waiting for? Grab the kids and bundle them up, relax (as driving and Google Maps are not necessary) and let Tours+ take you and your family on a trip to remember. For more information on these outings or to reserve a tour, head to mccsokinawa.com/tours. 

JANUARY 2022 | OKINAWA LIVING 39

KIDS + PARENTS

Join the Club The STEM Club!

The Camp Foster Library offers a variety of other creative and innovative resources to support a STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) curriculum, including several new text additions in the technology genre, a professional-grade die cut machine, a fully equipped Innovation Lab with 3D printers and a highly knowledgeable staff. There’s no better place for students looking to expand their STEM world!

Beginning this January, the Foster Library will be offering Kids STEM Club, which will provide hands-on opportunities to broaden their horizons. Broken up into two groups based on age, the first meeting of the Kids STEM Club ( Jr.) will take place January 13 at 4 p.m. Example topics that may be introduced include magnetism,

electronic circuitry and coding. Kids STEM Club ( Jr.) will be geared towards early elementary students (K–3).

The first meeting of Kids STEM Club geared towards older students (grades 4–8) will take place on January 27 also at 4 p.m.

Example topics that may be introduced include electronic circuitry, 3D modeling and coding.

Registration for STEM Club is required and space will be limited, so call the Foster Library at 645-7178 to save your kids a slot. For more information, give them a call or email them at fosterlibrary@ okinawa.usmc-mccs.org. For more upcoming happenings at MCCS Libraries, visit mccsokinawa.com/libraries or follow them on Facebook (MCCS Okinawa-Education and Libraries). 

Need a Little Help with your Homework?

Ahhh homework—the bane of every schoolchild’s existence. All jokes aside, homework is very important in the development of a child. In addition to developing good study habits, homework can teach a child to be independent and it is vital in imparting the importance of taking initiative. Completing assignments also teaches them responsibility and can help children to develop a sense of self-discipline.

And, although completing homework at home does help children to practice working alone without asking for help from their classmates and teachers, sometimes a little bit of help can go a long way.

Teaching kids to ask for help also comes with the added benefit of imparting the vital lesson that there’s nothing wrong with asking, and they’ll always be supported when they do ask.

MCCS Libraries on Camps Courtney and Foster are here to help!

Beginning January 10, these libraries will be inviting young patrons

needing a bit of homework help to stop by Mondays and Wednesdays from 2 to 4 p.m. on Camp Courtney and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2 to 4 p.m. on Camp Foster. Appointments are booked in 15-minute time slots but more than one time slot can be booked if availability permits.

Sign-ups start at 2 p.m. at each library and will be honored on a first-come, first-served basis. Libraries are also seeking volunteers to help out with kids’ homework. For more information on Homework Help and volunteering, call 622-9280 (Courtney) or 645-7178 (Foster) or email libraryprogram@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org. For more upcoming happenings at MCCS Libraries, visit mccsokinawa.com/ libraries or follow them on Facebook (MCCS Okinawa-Education and Libraries). 

JANUARY 2022 | OKINAWA LIVING 45

KIDS + PARENTS

Swim Team Youth Tryouts Competitive swimmers looking to join the Okinawa Dolphins Swim Team (ODST) are invited to try out at the Camp Foster Aquatic Center. Tryouts are open to SOFA swimmers ages 7 to 18.

Tryouts take approximately ten minutes and interested participants will swim non-stop for 50 meters freestyle, 25 meters breaststroke and 25 meters backstroke. A short rest of 20 seconds or less is permitted between the breaststroke and backstroke. Parental interaction during tryouts is not permitted.

Practices are offered four days a week (Monday– Thursday), and all ODST members are invited to participate in monthly swim meets.

Dates and times for the next tryout will be announced at mccsokinawa. com/swimteam, and if you have any questions, feel free to email mccsaquatics@ okinawa.usmc-mccs.org. 

Winter Wonderland Storytime at the Libraries Winter’s chilly weather is the perfect time to get cozy indoors—ideally with a good book! Join in on January 14 at 5:30 p.m. for family-friendly Winter Wonderland Storytime events at the libraries on Camps Kinser, Foster and Courtney.

With read alouds, sing along songs and crafts, you and your littles will find yourselves lost in a blizzard of wintry vocabulary, enchanted by literacy and dazzled by creativity.

You can keep the literacy going at home, too. A few fun winter-themed books to look for are The

Mitten by Jan Brett, The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats and Snowballs by Lois Ehlert. Each time you read with your child, you’ll help them with bookhandling skills, print recognition, fluency and their background knowledge.

To register or if you have any questions, please contact the library branches directly. For contact information and more details, visit mccsokinawa. com/libraries. 

New Year, New Activities Learn to Swim The beginning of the year is perfect for starting new activities. If swimming is on your resolution list, Semper Fit Aquatics offers Learn to Swim (LTS) lessons that serve as an introduction for novices and skill builders for anyone looking to improve.

For children 6 months to 3 years of age, parent and child classes are structured so one parent is always with the child in the pool. Beyond this, there are several levels of lessons for preschoolers (ages 4 to 6) on up through adults. These lessons are comprised of skills that build on each other. Lessons available during each LTS session depend upon instructor availability and schedules.

Upcoming LTS lessons will be held January 18 to 27 (register online January 10 to 13) and February 7 to 16 (register online January 31 to February 3). For full

class descriptions and to register, visit mccsokinawa. com/learntoswim. If you have any questions, please email mccsaquatics@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org.  JANUARY 2022 | OKINAWA LIVING 47

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とまりん

Open : Mon.-Sat. 10:30a.m.-6:00p.m.

Wed. 10:30a.m.-12:00a.m.

Closed : Sundays & announced days

E-mail

2-

2 -1

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To Naha （ ） Airport

（3F a, J naw ）Maej ima Naha City, Oki

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Please let us k now if you a re br i ng i ng a ny chi ldren w ith you.

SERVICES

APPtitude for Life on Okinawa Access at Your Fingertips Life is better when you’re in the know. And you’ve probably noticed there is an enormous amount of information out there about this relatively small island. Fortunately, it’s all organized and available in one place for you—the MCCS Okinawa Liberty App—and access has never been so easy.

The home screen of our FREE app is enough to get you started, with plenty of categories to choose from depending on your needs.

On the hunt for a fun activity? If you tap the “Events” icon you’ll have instant access to links for calendars from MCCS, Navy MWR, the Single Marine Program and the USO. Included in “Things To Do,” you can find both on- and off-base places to eat, shop, visit and stay. The “Liberty Tools” will set you up for success with access to command regulations, off-limit establishments and important phone numbers.

Last, but not least, is the “Total Fitness Tool,” complete with an anonymous self-assessment geared towards helping you monitor your mental, physical and spiritual health.

There’s even a social fitness section focused on both individual and community health.

And don’t forget that little menu bar along the bottom. It has goodies such as basic phrase translations and a “Today” feed with TCCOR, sea and flag conditions plus a yen rate calculator. For more information, scan the QR below or head to the Apple Store or Google Play to download the Liberty App today. 

MCCS Gift Card NEW Year, Same Great Gift Idea!

Show them how much you care with an MCCS Gift Card for that 2022 special occasion!

What can they use it for? We’re so glad you asked!

How about a relaxing massage from Semper Fit followed by an evening of fine dining at Taiyo Steakhouse? Or, how about immortalizing a child’s prized 3rd grade drawing with a frame from Foster Arts and Crafts? The MCCS Gift Card is the most versatile gift, made for everyone—good for logoed merchandise and performance apparel for golfers from the Taiyo Golf Club Pro Shop, a customized ball from the Camp Foster Bowling Pro Shop for bowlers, an oil change for their ride from Typhoon Motors, snorkeling and diving gear from Tsunami Scuba for ocean fanatics or even gymnastics retail items for budding Olympians—the list is endless.

MCCS Gift Cards are available for purchase and redemption at all MCCS Clubs and Restaurants including Taiyo Steakhouse, all fast-casual dining facilities (Bonsai Coffee Company, Bulldogs Burgers, Shisa Pizza, Sumo Burrito and Red Barn), Taiyo Golf Club (including the Pro Shop and Taiyo Café) all Bowling Centers (including the Camp Foster Pro Shop) and all Tours+, Tsunami Scuba and Typhoon Motors locations. In addition, the MCCS Gift Card is redeemable at just about every MCCS facility—including Special Events bouncer and Semper Fit Outdoor Recreation rentals, at all staffed Semper Fit Fitness Centers (including retail and LifeJuice purchases, martial arts and other classes as well as event and athletic tournament fees) and much, much more!

For more information about MCCS Gift Cards, call (DSN) 645-5809 or 098-970-5809. 

JANUARY 2022 | OKINAWA LIVING 51

OKUMA BEACH 3rd Annual

Family Fun Miniature Golf Miniature Golf Tourney Saturday, 15 January Golf Shack Registration opens at 9:30 am

3.50 • Per person | Open to ages 11 & over Enter into our 3rd Annual Miniature Golf Tourney! Prizes for first, second, and third place in two age groups, ages 11 - 17 and ages 18 & over, will be awarded.

Complimentary pastries and refreshments available! $

Sunday, 16 January • 10 am - Noon

10 • Per family | Registration opens 9:30 am A perfect event for the whole family! Compete in teams of up to five. The winning team will receive a free activity discount pass ($10, $15, $20 per person)! $

Group Reservations Now - 31 March 2022

Okuma Group Reservations offers a lodging discount for five or more rooms Sunday through Thursday. A perfect time to schedule those annual meetings, family reunions, weddings, retreats, functions and more!

You name it, we’ve hosted it! For more details, contact the Group Reservations Office at 631-1806 or 080-6489-8619 on Monday - Friday from 8 am – 5 pm

Okuma Beach • 631-1990 Lodging Reservations • 631-1991 Surfside Grill & Bar • 098-962-1805 Okuma Outdoor Recreation • 631-1815 Located 51 miles north of Kadena Air Base

Okuma.KadenaFSS.com facebook.com/theokumabeach @okumabeach

JANUARY 2022 | OKINAWA LIVING 57

It was my pleasure to meet Mr. Yasuto Yaseyama, a blacksmith with his own business here on Okinawa, who opened my eyes to one more fascinating slice of Japan’s culture: handmade knives.

Yasuto-san shared that knife forging is a very traditional skill with a long history. Originally from Osaka, he has firsthand knowledge from a region rich with this longstanding craft. As a hub for smiths for at least 600 years, the city of Sakai (even known as the “City of Knives”) boasts a knife museum and claims of producing approximately 90 percent of Japan’s handcrafted knives.

In the neighboring prefecture of Nara, the Shōsō-in treasury houses some of the earliest knife artifacts dating back to the Heian period. During this time, special hōchō-shiki (knife ceremonies in which fish were sliced using only a knife and chopsticks; the chef ’s hands may never touch the food) also derived thus adding to the knife skills required of culinary experts.

Next came the rise of samurai warriors which created a need for skilled swordsmiths, who eventually turned their skills to knife making—modeling the smaller blades after the former formidable weapons. And then with the introduction of tobacco to Japan approximately 500 years ago, there was even more demand for high-quality knives for cutting and processing tobacco crops. Today, Japanese knives are acclaimed the world over by professional chefs and home cooks alike. But to truly appreciate any handcrafted item, it’s best to first get to know the artisan themselves.

JANUARY 2022 | OKINAWA LIVING 59

After college, Yasuto-san spent his time as an apprentice at a cutlery factory in Osaka where products were made with a combination of traditional hand-craftsmanship and machines which utilized advanced modern technology. All of the products were finished by hand, however, and this is how he built up his skill base.

Relocating to Okinawa as he began his own family, he combined the vision of having his own brand (something he desired all throughout college) and an aspiration to provide authentic products for gifts and souvenirs in order to establish his business. RisingEEL was born!

As a brand, the name RisingEEL comes from the direct translation of two words that together make a Japanese business expression. Unagi nobori (literally “climbing eel”) actually means something which rapidly succeeds. So, it’s understood as a business that keeps getting better and is doing well—something Yasuto-san certainly strives for with

RisingEEL. His desire to offer high-quality products that can be used every day helped him create his slogan “delivering experience to daily life.” The cutlery he provides is similar to that used by professionals, which will in turn elevate your own expertise.

Yasuto-san commented about understanding that sometimes it can be disappointing when visitors to Japan think they are purchasing an authentic Japanese knife only to later find out their purchases were not actually made in Japan.

With his booths located at the various base Exchanges, he can ensure military families are able to obtain genuine Japanese knives.

During his business startup, he used a room in his own home to create a small office for his work until about five years ago when he was able to expand and have his current workshop in Okinawa City. This expansion is what afforded him the opportunity to start creating custom-order knives.

JANUARY 2022 | OKINAWA LIVING 61

Yasuto-san shared that many customers looking to purchase custom-crafted knives already have an idea in mind of what they would like, but there are several aspects he always makes sure to discuss. Finding out how the knife will be used is what determines its shape. Then, various materials could be selected for the final product: stainless steel or high carbon steel for the blade, synthetic or natural materials for the handle and considerations for the knife’s sheath (wood or leather). He can also add etchings with an electronic engraver. After narrowing down all of these preferences, he will create a pen and paper sketch of the item.

After the sketch comes the real fun! RisingEEL knives are made in one of two ways: stock removal or forging. Stock removal refers to a process where the blade of the knife is cut from a manufactured sheet of metal using a band saw. Next the blade is refined further with a belt grinder—an abrasive process in which the machine acts as a whetstone. The final part of the process would be using a jolt drill press to add the holes where the pins can secure the handle to the blade.

Forging is what might come to mind when you think of a blacksmith—the metal is heated at extreme temperatures and pounded to form the intended shape of the blade. For this, Yasuto-san has a separate room in his workshop with a propane furnace. Traditionally the fires for forging would be fueled by charcoal, however propane is necessary (for safety reasons) due to the space he has available. For high carbon steel, the metal is forged at around 830°C (over 1,500°F) and stainless steel is treated at 1,100°C (or over 2,000°F)! The metal is then pounded and dipped in oil or water (it differs based on which type of metal is being used) and the process is repeated several times.

As you can imagine, each knife requires quite a bit of time and effort. Yasuto-san estimated that it would take him around four days to complete one project…if it was the only thing he was working on! Turnaround time for custom orders actually takes a bit longer because after working at his booths, the time available at his workshop is limited to three hours or less most days. But, you can be sure the final products are worth the wait.

JANUARY 2022 | OKINAWA LIVING 63

With over 500 different knives, RisingEEL has a knife for every occasion. In fact, Yasuto-san shared that one of the differences between Western knives and Japanese knives is Western knives are more likely to be for multiple uses and therefore only have a few standard choices. Japanese knives are specialized and each knife is used for a specific purpose.

Each style of knife can be various lengths as well.

Petty knives are used like utility knives. They are similar to paring knives and are generally pretty small. Deba knives are fish-filleting knives which range in size to tackle cleaning the biggest tuna on down to the smallest sardines.

Sashimi knives’ sole purpose is to cut raw fish. You’ll need some of these if you plan on enjoying DIY sushi nights. For vegetables, you’ll want nakiri knives. But, there are a few multi-purpose knives to check out, too. Santoku knives are the most versatile ones you could pick and are great for all of your mincing, dicing and slicing needs. Also falling in the multi-purpose category are gyuto knives (or chef ’s knives).

These are great for slicing meat—and while we’re on the topic of slicing, did you know that Japanese knives are used with a different motion than Western knives?

They’re built more for an up-and-down slicing motion, which Yasuto-san explained more like pulling. With Western knives, you push down and use a rocking motion. He also shared that Japanese knives are more delicate and lighter than their Western counterparts, so you don’t have to apply as much force.

So far as care of the knives, he offered up a few tips: Always hand wash your knives and dry them well to avoid rust. And if you do spot any rust, it’s best to take care of it right away by buffing it out. For regular home kitchen use, he recommends sharpening your knives—which he will show you how to do—about every six months or once a year and keeping them stored in their original box when not in use (away from humidity and moisture).

Between the many types available and the materials used to make them, the knowledge base Yasuto-san has grants him an amazing advantage when forging a strong bridge of understanding about authentic Japanese knives with the everrevolving community that passes by his booths. Whether you decide to stop by (he is most often at Kadena or Foster), or opt to pay a visit to his workshop for a behind-the-scenes peek, he will be welcoming and happy to chat with you. For his schedule and more information, search for his Facebook page (Risingeel Knives).  JANUARY 2022 | OKINAWA LIVING 65

TROY’s Military and Family Scholarship caps the cost of tuition at $250 per credit hour for active-duty military. Also, your spouse and dependents receive up to 50% in tuition savings.

CONTACT THE PROGRAM COORDINATOR NEAREST YOU FOR MORE INFORMATION.

KADENA AB kadena@troy.edu DSN 634-7464

OSAN AB osan@troy.edu DSN 784-8151

MISAWA AB misawa@troy.edu DSN 226-3748

CAMP HUMPHREYS humphreys@troy.edu DSN 755-3534

troy.edu/pacific

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Troops Center

TERM III, 2022 Jan. 3 - Mar. 6, 2022 Registration Begins: 11/22/21 TERM IV, 2022 Mar. 14 - May 15, 2022 Registration Begins: 02/21/22 TERM V, 2022 May 23 - Jul. 24, 2022 Registration Begins: 05/02/22 TERM I, 2022 Aug. 8 - Oct. 9, 2022 Registration Begins: 05/09/22

LIVING ON OKINAWA

Chawan-Mushi (Steamed Egg Custard) Serves four Ingredients 4 eggs 2 cups dashi (a broth made from dried bonito flakes) 3/4 Tbsp. salt 1 Tbsp. soy sauce 1 tsp. sake (rice wine) 1 1/4 Tbsp. mirin (sweet cooking rice wine) 3 oz. fresh spinach leaves (parboiled) 4 small shrimp (uncooked, shelled and deveined) 4 shiitake mushrooms (stemmed and quartered) 8 snow peas (parboiled) Method of Preparation 1. Crack eggs into a bowl. Add the dashi, salt, soy sauce and mirin; beat well.

2. Allow the mixture to stand for a few minutes, then strain to remove all air bubbles and lumps.

3. Divide the shrimp, snow peas and shiitake mushrooms between four individual heatproof custard cups with lids (or heat-resistant coffee cups with saucers or foil for lids).

4. Pour the egg mixture into each cup until two-thirds full and cover with the lid. Place the cups in a preheated steamer and steam over high heat. When the surface of the custard turns white (about three minutes), reduce the heat to low and steam for an additional 15 minutes.

5. Once you are able to stick a bamboo skewer into the custard and the liquid runs clear, it is ready to serve.

Pork & New Year’s Pork is an essential part of many Okinawans’ diets, and although almost all of the pig is enjoyed, visitors to the island shouldn’t leave without trying rafute, san-mai-niku or sōki. Rafute is made from pork belly, which is popularly referred to as the side of the hog. Although this cut is often shunned because of its high fat content, on Okinawa it is prized.

Rafute is prepared by taking pork belly cut into cubes (without removing the skin) and simmering it for hours in a sauce made from dashi (a soup stock made from dried bonito flakes), soy sauce, sugar, garlic, ginger and awamori (Okinawan rice wine). Rafute was once reserved for royalty and visiting dignitaries. Today, everyone on Okinawa can enjoy this dish.

San-mai-niku, which translates into “meat with three layers,” is a stewed cut of pork belly—sort of a smaller, thinner version of rafute.

San-mai-niku is similar to a thick (between 50–150mm) slice of bacon flavored with the same sweet soy sauce glaze as rafute. Modern-day Okinawa soba is often topped with a few slices of san-mai-niku, and many homes feature it as a part of gochisō—or “festive meal”—served during special occasions such as New Year’s.

Sōki are short pork ribs, usually marinated in soy sauce and sugar and simmered until extremely tender, that are likely to be seen topping a healthy serving of Okinawan sōki soba. Many families boil sōki without soy sauce and use the stock to make the accompanying broth, or dashi, for their toshi-koshi (“year-crossing”) soba noodles as well. 

Uchinâguchi Corner English

Japanese

Uchinâguchi

Good Morning

Ohayô Gozaimasu!

Ukimi Sôchi!

JANUARY 2022 | OKINAWA LIVING 69

Commercial Ad Directory

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