MAIL: 374 FSS/FSK • UNIT 5119, BLDG 1295 • APO, AP 96328-5119
Submissions are welcome. All submissions are subject to editing before printing. All articles, artwork, and photographs become the property of the 374th Force Support Squadron Marketing & Publicity Department.
HORIZONS is published for United States Military and Department of Defense personnel and their family members living in or assigned to the Kanto Plain (Japan) region and Japanese Nationals and their families assigned to Yokota Air Base, Japan. Horizons is the official magazine of the 374th Force Support Squadron, Yokota Air Base, Japan. Opinions expressed in Horizons do not necessarily represent those of the 374th Airlift Wing or the United States Air Force. No Federal endorsement of advertisers or sponsors is intended. All facility programs, event hours, and dates are subject to change.
EDITOR’S NOTE
Take a deep breath—the smell of blooming flowers and freshly cut grass fills the air, and...wait, what is that? The thought of swinging a golf club on lush green grass with the warm sun on your face suddenly comes to mind! The season is here, and whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, there’s something for everyone at Yokota’s Golf Center, check out pages 8 & 9, where a PGA Pro Golfer and coach is ready to guide you on your golfing journey. And if that’s not enough, the excitement continues with Tama Hills’ super-hyped Interservice Tournament on the next page. On May 7, World Athletics Day celebrates movement, fitness, and sportsmanship, encouraging us all to get active. Whether you’re hitting the track or finding simpler ways to celebrate by flipping to page 12, this is the perfect time to embrace a healthy lifestyle with the Samurai Fitness Center.
For those who prefer staying away from the creepy crawly bugs and salty sweat in their hair, the Officers’ Club has an Island Party coming up to kick off the summer on page 5, featuring delicious island food, themed drinks, and live Hula dancers; try to name a better way to enjoy the season! Lastly, let’s not forget Mother’s Day! Celebrate this special day with what’s featured on page 7, perfect for honoring the amazing mothers in our lives.
Melanie Cruz Writer-Editor
Advertise With Us
Yokota374FSS.com
042-552-2510 Ext. 53308
OFFICERS’ & ENLISTED CLUBS
ALL WELCOME MEMBERS ONLY
OFFICERS’ CLUB
225-8526 • Bldg. 31
DINING
SEAFOOD NIGHT
Wed • 14 May • 5–9 p.m. • Chico’s Chop House
Reservations recommended
Select from a menu of your seafood favorites, clam chowder, snow crab, and more!
*Show proof of membership and receive 15% off!
BUTCHER’S CHOICE
Wed • 21 May • 5–9 p.m. • Chico’s Chop House
Reservations recommended
Featuring a choice of lobster, seafood, pork chops and steaks. A salad bar and buffet with delicious sides and assorted desserts are available for $5 for members and $10 for non-members, with a $15 minimum purchase.
*Show proof of membership and receive 15% off!
EVENT
CHEF LEO’S SPRING ELEGANCE
DINNER
Sat • 3 May • 6–8 p.m.
Chico's Chop House • Ages 20 & Up
Members: $55; Nonmembers: $60
*Limited to 40 people, reservations only
KIDS’ CLUB CARNIVAL
Wed • 7 May • 5–7 p.m. • Ballroom • All Ages
Members: $15 Ages 13 & Up, $10 Ages 3–12
Nonmembers: $20 Ages 13 & Up, $15 Ages 3–12
Enjoy fair food, fun games, and prizes!
ENLISTED CLUB
227-8820 • Bldg. 2066
DINING
SUNDAY BREAKFAST
Sun • 4 & 25 May • 9 a.m.–1 p.m.
$15.75 Ages 13 & Up
$7.50 Ages 5–12
Free Ages 4 & Under
MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH
Sun • 11 May • 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
$28.95 • Ages 13 & Up, $12.75 • Ages 6–12
Free • Ages 5 & Under • Ohsawa Ballroom
Celebrate Mother’s Day at the E’Club! Enjoy quality time with mom and let us handle all the cooking!
SIP
'N' PLAY
BUNKO NIGHT
Wed • 7 May • 6–8 p.m.
$5 entry with prizes
OPEN MIC NIGHT
Wed • 21 May • 6–8 p.m.
Sound Check: 5:30 p.m.
*Email time request and audition video to yokotaeclubevents@gmail.com
FAMILY GAME DAY
Sat • 31 May • 11 a.m.–3 p.m. EVENT
MAY THE 4TH BE WITH YOU
Esports Mini Tournament
Sun • 4 May • 12 –5 p.m. Yujo Community Center
*Game TBD
ADULTS ONLY WEEKLY EVENTS
ADULTS ONLY
WEEKLY EVENTS
Tuesdays: Ladies Mocktail Night • 5–9:30 p.m.
Thursdays: Trivia • 6–8:30 p.m.
Saturdays: Karaoke Night • 5–10 p.m.
Wednesdays: Wingman Wednesday & Trivia • 6–9 p.m.
Thursdays: Texas Hold ‘Em • 6–10 p.m.
Fridays: Karaoke • 6–10 p.m.
Saturdays: Tabletop Game Day • 9 a.m.–8 p.m.
ALL RANKS
All events listed below may only be attended by enlisted and officer club members.
KIDS EAT FREE
Tue • 6 May • 5–7 p.m. • Charlie T’s & Chico's
STATE ADMISSION DAY
Wed • 7 may • 5–9 p.m. • Charlie T’s & Chico's
South Carolina, Rhode Island, Wisconsin and Minnesota driver’s license holders receive a free dinner up to a $10 value.
KIDS $2 MEALS NIGHT
Tue • 13, 20, & 27 May • 5–7 p.m.
Charlie T’s & Chico's
RETIREES APPRECIATION DAY
Fri • 30 May • Breakfast or Lunch
Charlie T’s & Chico's
Retirees receive a 50% discount on their meal
ENLISTED CLUB
All events listed below may only be attended by enlisted personnel and their families.
FREE PIZZA
Thu • 1 May • 5–7 p.m. • Adults Only
OFFICERS’ CLUB
All events listed below may only be attended by officer personnel and their families.
FRIDAY SOCIAL HOUR
Fridays • 5–7 p.m. • Samurai Lounge
LAST FRIDAY SOCIAL HOUR
Last Friday of Every Month • 5–7 p.m.
Free • Adults Only Samurai Lounge /YokotaClubs
Vincent Kabaso PGA Pro Golfer
When you meet Vincent Kabaso, or Vinny, as he’s known by his peers, you instantly feel the energy he brings to the game of golf. Born in Zambia, Vinny made history as Zambia’s first elected member of the Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA) of America. As a PGA pro golfer, he is a trailblazer not just in his home country, but in the global golf community.
His dedication to the sport and to youth development has earned him recognition from the U.S. House of Congress and a spot in the PGA’s national leadership development program, designed to identify diverse future leaders in golf. He also founded the non-profit Raised by the World, which provides mentorship and life-skills programs to underserved youth in Zambia. And yes—he even wrote a book, Raised by the World: My Path to Becoming Zambia’s First PGA Golf Professional, which is currently being considered for a potential film adaptation.
Today, we’re lucky to have him right here at our Yokota Golf Center, where he teaches golfers of all ages and skill levels with patience, insight, and a heart for connection. When he talks about the highlights of coaching, his eyes light up. “Just putting a golf club in a child’s hand and seeing something change in them, watching how they react to it, is my favorite part of teaching golf,” said Kabaso.
His coaching style is unique because he adapts it to each player’s skill level. For beginners, he stays away from technical jargon and deep mechanics at first. “Instead, I focus on how the club should feel, or the body’s positioning. Once they connect with that feeling, the rest starts to click,” he said.
Vinny is quick to point out a common pitfall for new players: expecting their swing to look like what they see in online videos. “There’s often a disconnect between how people think it should look and what actually happens when they play,” he says. “That’s where I come in, I help them understand their limits and play within them.” He noted that anyone can play and that the sport can be a challenge at any level.
What sets him apart isn’t just his experience or accolades—it’s how deeply he invests in the people he coaches. He’s seen kids transform through golf, growing from shy and reserved to confident and outgoing, building friendships and learning life skills along the way. “With kids, I take on a mentor role, even a father figure at times. I care just as much about the kind of person they’re becoming as I do about their golf swing,” he says. This connection is what makes his loyal customer base thrive.
For Vinny, golf is a lifestyle, and a bridge to connection. “I laugh and joke with the families I work with. It’s more than just golf, it’s about building relationships and creating moments together.”
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or picking up a club for the first time, Coach Vinny brings knowledge, warmth, and world-class experience to every lesson. Come meet him at Yokota Golf Center and see for yourself what makes his approach so special.
By Melanie Cruz & Willow Rose
SPORTS & RECREATION
USFJ INTERSERVICE GOLF TOURNAMENT
Sat–Sun • 7–8 Jun • 8 a.m.–1 p.m.
Tama Hills Golf Course & Atsugi Naval Air Station
Day 1: Tama Hills Golf Course
Day 2: NAF Atsugi Golf Club
Saturday Event Price: $40 plus golf fees
*Half off green fees for AGF Members from other bases.
Green fee:
E4 & Under: $14/Day
E5 & Up: $25/Day
Riding fee: $11/day
TAMA HILLS
GOLF & RESORT
Recreation • 227-5248
/TamaHillsGC
CABIN BBQ TO-GO
Grilled Chicken Breast–$16
Reservations/Lodging • 227-5230
BBQ Pork Half-Slab Ribs–$25
Eating BBQ in the cabins has never been so easy!
Allow Kiji Dining to do the cooking for you so you have more time to relax. Call in your order before 4 pm and we’ll have it ready for you to pick up at Tama Lodge between 5-8 pm. Meals include three sides.
APEX EVENT CENTER
$80 First Day
$40 Additional Days
Host your next conference of up to 72 people with tables and chairs, or 100–150 people in a cocktail style standing room for weddings, retirements or promotions. On a budget? No problem! Your rental includes use of our industrial size kitchen and equipment for you to prepare your own cuisine!
TAMA HORSE STABLES
Wed–Sun
$40 Trail Ride
$50 Riding Lessons
$7 Pony Ride
Climb into the saddle at Tama Hills! Enjoy a relaxing trail ride or improve your riding skills with a lesson. Pony rides are also available for younger children. Please call Tama Outdoor Recreation for more details.
*Reservations required, call Tama Hills Outdoor Rec. at 227-5248.
Fiesta Week
Food & Beverage Specials
Hillcrest Lounge
Wed–Sun • 30 Apr–4 May
2 p.m.–8 p.m.
Celebrate this fun week with the Hillcrest Lounge or Kiji Dining Room and enjoy a menu muy delicioso that will make you say “Te amo Tama”!
Mother’s Day Weekend
Kiji Dining Room
Fri–Sun • 9–11 May
4 p.m.–8 p.m.
Celebrate your fabulous mom with a fabulous meal in the Kiji Dining Room and enjoy the weekend!
PAINTBALL BATTLEZONE
WORLD ATHLETICS DAY
Celebrate World Athletics Day with the Samurai Fitness Center on Wednesday, 7 May! This day is all about promoting fitness, sportsmanship, and a love for athletics across all ages that was created by the World Athletics Organization.
While dieting isn’t necessary for every person, being physical is! The less we use our muscles and joints, the faster they will deteriorate–so get moving! Whether you're pushing your limits on the track at the Samurai Training Grounds, or simply going on a walk. Taking one of the many classes our gym offers like yoga, strength training, jiu jitsu, or Polynesian dance, is another great way to celebrate this day!
This day is a great reminder of how sports bring people together, build confidence, and inspire healthier living. So lace up your shoes, soak up the spring sun, and celebrate the spirit of movement with the Samurai Fitness Center!
By Melanie Cruz & Willow Rose
Akyeampong
Comic of the Month by Kweku
MURPH Challenge
Mon • 26 May • 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
Samurai Training Grounds
Put your willpower to the test in this challenge! In honor of Lt. Michael P. Murphy, participants will begin by running one mile, followed by 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, 300 squats, and finish off with another one-mile run.
1 MILE RUN
100 PULL-UPS
200 PUSH-UPS 300 SQUATS
1 MILE RUN
FSS TRAVEL
UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE – HIMEJI CASTLE WITH NARUTO WHIRLPOOL
THU–SAT • 19–21 JUN
Himeji Castle is considered the finest example of a Japanese castle. Also known as “Shirasagi-Jo” or “White Heron Castle,” it is famous for its brilliant white appearance and is widely regarded as Japan’s most spectacular castle due to its size, beauty, and well-preserved condition. The castle is both a National Treasure and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Unlike many other Japanese castles, it was never destroyed by war, earthquake, or fire and remains intact today. The current castle complex was completed in 1609, though its history dates back to the 1330s. Kobe City is the sixth-largest city in Japan and the capital of Hyogo Prefecture. Nestled between the sea and the Rokko Mountain Range, Kobe is considered one of Japan’s most attractive cities. Osaka, Japan’s third-largest metropolitan area, has been the economic center of the Kansai Region for centuries. A historic port city, Osaka was once the merchant capital of Japan. Visitors often note Osaka’s friendly atmosphere, a contrast to Tokyo’s reserved culture. The Naruto Whirlpools, or “Naruto no Uzushio,” occur in the Naruto Strait, created by powerful tidal currents moving between the Seto Inland Sea and the Pacific Ocean. This phenomenon, combined with the unique underwater geography of the narrow strait, makes it a spectacular natural sight.
LEGEND
—Eating Facilities Available —Bring ¥ for Shopping & Snacks —Wear Comfortable Shoes & Clothes —Lots of Walking
Your Camera
COST BY AGE GROUP:
$700 (6 & Up) Single Occupancy
$630 (6 & Up) Per Person / Double Occupancy
$610 (6 & Up) Per Person / Triple Occupancy
$380 (3–5) Seat Only / No Bed / No Meal
ITINERARY:
Day 1
Depart 4: 15 a.m.
Himeji Castle 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Kobe City 5 p .m.
Day 2
Naruto Sightseeing 10: 30–2 p.m.
Osaka City 4: 30 p.m.
Day 3
Osaka City 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Return 9:3 0 p.m.
Tour cost includes bus transportation and transfers, roundtrip airfare, 2 nights’ accommodation, 2 breakfasts, Himeji Castle admission and Naruto Whirlpool Cruise.
Naruto Whirlpool is a natural occurrence and may not always be visible. There will be a lot of walking on this tour.
for Families!
for Couples!
For updates on all things ITT, visit /YokotaTravel or scan the QR code.
For detailed information on ITT’s upcoming tours, visit Yokota374FSS.com/ITT. 227-7083 • Bldg. 327
Naruto Whirlpool
Osaka’s Famous Kushiage
Osaka City
OUTDOOR RECREATION
225-4552 • Bldg. 564
/YokotaFSSTravel
MAY
/Yokotafss_travel
PARAGLIDING AT ASAGIRI KOGEN
Sat • 17 May • 5:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
$120 • Ages 13 & Up
Sign up by: 9 May
Includes: Transit, One Tandem Jump & Insurance
*All participants must weigh between 90 and 220 pounds.
FAMILY
& BEGINNER FRIENDLY TROUT FISHING AT ONGATA
Sat • 24 May • 7 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
$65 • Ages 7 & Up
Sign up by: 21 May
Includes: Transit, Fishing Rod & Reel, Lures, License & Lessons
*All participants must watch the Mt. Fuji safety briefing on the web site, have properly fitting hiking boots/gear, or rent them in advance at Outdoor Rec. For safety tips, suggested items and other important information regarding this trip, please refer to the Mt. Fuji pamphlet on the web site or pick one up at ODR.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
HIKE MT. FUJI
You will need to carry a 10-kilogram backpack while climbing a high-altitude, low-oxygen alpine mountain with an elevation gain of approximately 1,450 meters. The Fujiyoshida Trail takes about 7 hours uphill and 4 hours downhill. The actual distance from the 5th Station to the summit is approximately 6 to 7 km.
Easy Hiking At Mt. Takao
Sun • 22 Jun • 7 a.m.–3 p.m.
$30 • Ages 12 & Up
$20 • Ages 6–11
Sign-up: 23 May–19 Jun
Includes: Transit & Guide
Necessary Equipment
• Hiking Boots with Thick Socks (No Sneakers)
• Backpack (25–40 Liters)
• Rainwear (Breathable Waterproof, No Ponchos)
• Quick-Drying Clothes (No Jeans) & Extra Layers (Fleece, Down Jacket)
• Quick-Drying Underwear
• Headlamp with Extra Batteries
• Trash Bag (Pack Out All Trash)
• Money (Approx. ¥10,000 for Stamps, Food, Drinks, and Toilet Fees)
• Drinks (1–2 Liters) & High-Calorie Snacks
• Other Essentials (Cap/Hat, Sunglasses, Sunscreen, Hiking Poles, Gloves, Gaiters)
Example Training Plan
(Starting Two Months Before Hike)
• Squats – 5 min. daily
• Mountain Hiking – once a week
• Swimming – 30 min. once a week
• Jogging – 30 min. once a week
• Stair Climbing (Up & Down) –30 min. once a week
• Knee Lifts – 5 min. daily
• Calf Raises & Toe Raises – 5 min. daily
• Planks (Full & Half) + Push-Ups –5 min. daily
• Sit-Ups – 5 min. daily
Scan the QR code for all things ODR.
TERMS & CONDITIONS
TRIPS & TOURS
All trips and tours are for SOFA personnel, dependents and guests, Reservist, National Guard, MLC, IHA and JASDAF with a valid I.D. Card. Trip destinations, details and prices may change due to varying factors including weather, road closures, base exercises, etc. Children must remain with their parents at all times. For additional requirements and information, please ask ODR staff for the trip itinerary.
RENTAL EQUIPMENT
Equipment must be reserved in advance by SOFA personnel, dependents and guests, Reservist, National Guard, MLC, IHA and JASDAF with a valid I.D. Card. Personnel not assigned to Yokota Air Base must have official TDY or leave orders.
Full terms and conditions will be provided at the time of reservation.
This striking deal is back for the summer! Kids can enjoy two games for free each day at the lanes all summer long, the perfect way to keep the energy high and the boredom low. Come and let the good times roll!
*Adults can purchase the family passes on the app or website if they would like to participate too! Register Now!
MONDAYS • 5 MAY–7 JUL • 5–7:30 P.M.
$8*/PLAYER/WEEKLY • TOMODACHI LANES
*Cost includes free shoe rental during the league
Teams of one adult and one child, aged 5–17, will hit the lanes for ten weeks of friendly competition, fun, and quality time together.
Bring in your pet for our top-of-theline grooming and bath services! These services include ear cleaning, nail trimming, blow drying, and anal gland expression. Grooming appointments can be made every third Thursday for the following month.
*Nail trimming is only $8! All dogs groomed in our facility must have a current valid Rabies vaccination.
To make a new reservation, please call one of our available lines or stop by our Front Desk.
