Check out http://www.japanupdate.com/?p=topic&topic=even for current upcoming event info

Japan Update Event Schedule

Jun 26 – Shinya Mayonaka “Toshibii Live” – 7 p.m. at Kaze-wa Minami Kara, Itoman City, tickets ¥1,000
Jun 26 – Toururunten – 8 p.m. at Taurus, Koza Music Town, Okinawa City, tickets ¥1,500
Jun 26 – Atsuto Takara – 9 p.m. at Gibson, Kume, Naha City, tickets ¥1,500
Jun 26 – NID-DEI – 9 p.m. at Groove, Urasoe City, tickets ¥1,000
Jun 26 – Kino (jazz vo.) – 8 p.m. at Kam’s House, Kokusai Street, Naha City, tickets ¥1,000
Jun 26 – Mari Miyagi – 8 p.m. at Live House MODs, Mihama, tickets ¥1,000
Jun 26 – Mihanagumi – 7 & 9 p.m. at Kalahai, Mihama, tickets ¥1,500
Jun 26 – Open Stage – 7 p.m. at Bantar House, Okiei Street, admission free
Jun 26 – Keiko Mizukoshi – 7 p.m. at Hotel Nikko Naha Grand Castle, Shuri, Naha City, tickets ¥6,000 include food and drinks
Jun 26 – Amateur Jazz Session Day – 8 p.m. at Green Ants, Izumizaki, Naha City, tickets ¥1,000
Jun 26 – Machu “Solo Piano Jazz Live” – 20:30 p.m. Aria Cara Lounge at Nikko Alivila Hotel, Yomitan Village, admission free
Jun 26 – Eru Jahana (jazz) – 7, 8 & 9 p.m. at Poolside BBQ & Beer Garden, Laguna Garden Hotel, Ginowan City, admission free (barbeque & all drinks set ¥5,000)
Jun 26 – Song Day Week Party – 8 p.m. at Seikatsu-no Gara, Sakaemachi, Naha City, admission free
Jun 26 – Madhura – 8 p.m. at Coconut Moon, Onna Village, tickets ¥1,500
Jun 26 – Ryukyu Dance – 6 p.m. at Tembus Hall, Kokusai Street, Naha City, tickets ¥1,260
Jun 27 – “Rain of Love Songs” Concert – 7 p.m. at Ashibinaa Theater, Korinza Mall, Okinawa City, tickets ¥2,000 in advance, ¥2,500 at door
Jun 27 – Nicotine – 7 p.m. at Sakurazaka Central, Naha City, tickets ¥1,500 in advance, ¥2,000 at door
Jun 27 – Jupiter – 8 p.m. at Taurus, Koza Music Town, tickets ¥1,500
Jun 27 – Kadena Carnivals – 9 p.m. at Gibson, Kume, Naha City, tickets ¥1,500
Jun 27 – Song Day Eve Party – 8 p.m. at Groove, Urasoe City, admission free
Jun 27 – Tom Inagawa (pf)/ Etsu (dr)/ Hideki Takao (b)/ Sawako – 9 p.m. at Jazz Jungle, Park Avenue, Okinawa City, tickets ¥1,500 in advance, ¥2,000 at door
Jun 27 – Sorami/Hidefumi Komura/Tsuyoki Ito/Katsuya Ikehara (jazz) – 8 p.m. at Kam’s House, Kokusai Street, Naha City, tickets ¥1,000
Jun 27 – Keiko Mizukoshi – 8 p.m. at M frog, Goya, Okinawa City, tickets ¥2,000 in advance, ¥2,500 at door
Jun 27 – Yukihiro – 8 p.m. at Live House MODs, Mihama, tickets ¥2,000 in advance, ¥2,300 at door
Jun 27 – Okinawa Southern Band – 8 p.m. at Top Note, Omoromachi, Naha City, tickets ¥2,000 in advance, ¥2,300 at door
Jun 27 – Tink Tink – 7 & 9 p.m. at Kalahai, Mihama, tickets ¥1,500
Jun 27 – Koza Music Town 1st Anniversary Friendship Concert – 7 p.m. at Koza Music Town, Goya, Okinawa City, tickets ¥3,500 in advance, ¥4,000 at door
Jun 27 – Soprano Concert – 7 p.m. at Nago City Civic Hall, tickets ¥500
Jun 27 – Evening Folk – 8 p.m. at K-mind, Nagata, Ginowan City, tickets ¥1,000 in advance, ¥1,300 at door
Jun 27 – Joketta (Masako Oshiro) with Element of the Moment – 8 p.m. at Green Ants, Izumizaki, Naha City, ticets ¥1,500
Jun 27 – Lua Cheia “Guitar & Vocal Jazz Live” – 20:30 p.m. Aria Cara Lounge at Nikko Alivila Hotel, Yomitan Village, admission free
Jun 27 – Asia Sun Rise – 9 p.m. at Kotobuki Diner, Makishi, Naha City, tickets ¥2,000
Jun 27 – The Jammers – 7, 8 & 9 p.m. at Poolside BBQ & Beer Garden, Laguna Garden Hotel, Ginowan City, admission free (barbeque & all drinks set ¥5,000)
Jun 27 – Free Mie – 9 p.m. at Sound Café B-up, Nago City, tickets ¥1,000
Jun 27 – “Kariyushi” Okinawan Entertainment – 7 p.m. at Prefecture Hometown Theater, Higashimachi, Naha City, tickets ¥2,000 in advance, ¥2,500 at door
Jun 27 – Ryukyu Minyo Concert – 1-8 p.m. at Nishihara Central Community Hall, admission free
Jun 28 – 80’s Rock Band Live 2008 – 8:30 p.m. at Rock in Okinawa, Kokusai Street, naha City, tickets ¥2,000
Jun 28 – FM Okinawa & Tower Records Presents SOFFet New Standard Tour 2008 – 6 p.m. at Sakurazaka Central, Naha City, tickets ¥2,000 in advance, ¥2,500 at door
Jun 28 – Song Day Carnival 2008 – 4 p.m. at Nishihara Marine Park Stage, Yonabaru, admission free
Jun 28 – Taisho Koto Student Concert – 2 p.m. at Uruma City Theater Akashi Hall, Gushikawa, admission free
Jun 28 – Kaguyahimo – 9 p.m. at D-set Café, Kokusai Street, Naha City, tickets ¥2,000
Jun 28 – Sunokichi Matsuda – 7, 8:30 & 10 p.m. at Live House Shimauta, Kokusai Street, Naha City, tickets ¥2,000
Jun 28 – 2side1Brain – 6 p.m. at 7th Heaven Koza, Goya, Okinawa City, tickets ¥1,500 in advance, ¥2,000 at door
Jun 28 – Dear Prudence – 9 p.m. at Gibson, Kume, Naha City, tickets ¥1,500
Jun 28 – Fleur Saxophone Ensemble – 9 p.m. at Green Ants, Kumoji, Naha City, tickets ¥2,000 in advance, ¥2,500 at door
Jun 28 – Club Groove & Okinawa Pop Underground – 8 p.m. at Groove, Urasoe City, admission free
Jun 28 – Sommersault Kick 126 – 6:30 p.m. at Human Stage, Ginowan City, tickets ¥1,500 in advance, ¥2,000 at door
Jun 28 – Guitar Panda – 9 p.m. at Jazz Jungle, Park Avenue, Okinawa City, tickets ¥2,000
Jun 28 – Yuko Kamazawa – 8 p.m. at Kam’s House, Kokusai Street, Naha City, tickets ¥1,000
Jun 28 – Madhula – 8 p.m. at Live House MODs, Mihama, tickets ¥2,000
Jun 28 – Keiko Mizukoshi – 9 p.m. at Musica, Nishimachi, Naha City, tickets ¥2,500 in advance, ¥3,000 at door
Jun 28 – Tink Tink – 7 & 9 p.m. at Kalahai, Mihama, tickets ¥1,500
Jun 28 – Acoustic Mind – 8 p.m. at Bantar House, Okiei Street, Naha City, tickets ¥1,000 in advance, ¥1,300 at door
Jun 28 – Piano & DEKO Harmony – 2 p.m. at Okinawa City Civic Hall, tickets ¥2,000
Jun 28 – Meiji University Mandoline OB Concert – 2 & 6 p.m. at Progress Center Hall, admission free
Jun 28 – Ajisai Music Summer Festival – 11 a.m. (12:30-1:30 p.m. Cleaning Campaign) at Shiokawa Beach, Motobu Town, tickets ¥3,000
Jun 28 – Kazue Kohama – 8:30, 9:40 & 10:50 p.m. at Aria Cara Lounge, Hotel Nikko Alivila, Yomitan, admission free
Jun 28 – Asia Sunrise – 9 p.m. at Juhachiban Yokojo, Yomitan, tickets ¥2,000
Jun 28 – Sir Demon Kogure’s Ryukyu-Yamato Music Summit – 7 p.m. at Izena Industry Support Center, Izena Island, tickets ¥4,000 in advance, ¥5,000 at door
Jun 28 – Sunconscious – 8 p.m. at Ondoh, Okinawa City, tickets ¥1,000
Jun 28 – Summer Garden – 7:30 p.m. at Kazeno Sato, Sashiki, Nanjo City, tickets ¥2,000
Jun 28 – Mami Yonetake – 7, 8 & 9 p.m. at Poolside BBQ & Beer Garden, Laguna Garden Hotel, Ginowan City, admission free (barbeque & all drinks set ¥5,000)
Jun 28 – Hawaiian Paradise Show – 7:30, 8:30 & 9:30 at Paraiso, Kumoji, Naha City, admission free
Jun 28 – Takumi Solo Live – 9 p.m. at Favorite Café, Paradise Street, Naha City, tickets ¥1,000
Jun 28 – Building Blocks – 3 & 5 p.m. at Okinawa Outlet Mall Ashibinaa, Toyozaki, Tomigusuku City, admission free
Jun 28 – I Scream – 9 p.m. at Club Ando, Chatan, tickets ¥2,500
Jun 28 – Yatai Festival – 4 p.m. at Sakaemachi Ichiba, Naha City, admission free
Jun 28 – Chidy Asian Night (Balinese music) – 7:30 p.m. at Restaurant Chidy, Oroku, Naha City, admission free
Jun 28 – Seisuke Shimabukuro (Okinawan Folk Music) Concert – 6 p.m. at Tedako Hall, Urasoe City, tickets ¥1,999
Jun 28 – Yaeyama Folk Dance – 6:30 p.m. at Okinawa Hometown Theater, Higashimachi, Naha City, tickets ¥2,000 in advance, ¥2,500 at door
Jun 28 – Okinawan Classic Music – 2 p.m. at Okinawa National Theater, Urasoe City, admission free
Jun 28 – Taiko Festival – 2 p.m. at Naha City Civic Hall, Yorimiya, tickets ¥1,000
Jun 28 – Ginowan Marina-Zamami Yacht Race – 8 a.m. start off Ginowan Marina
Jun 28 – Soccer: FC Ryukyu vs. Tochigi SC – 3 p.m. at Chatan Sports Park, Mihama, tickets adults ¥800, school students ¥600 in advance, add ¥200 at gate
Jun 28-29 – Bitina Piano Competition – 10:30 a.m. at Sugar Hall, Sashiki, Nanjo City, admission free
Jun 28-29 – Koza ZIBA Old Book Market – 10 a.m.-8 p.m. at Plaza House Shopping Center Fair Mall, Okinawa City, admission free
Jun 28-29 – Flea Market – 7-10 a.m. at Camp Courtney Commissary Area, admission free
Jun 28-29 – Ryukyu Folk Song (Minyo) Contest – 10 a.m. at Nishihara Central Community Hall, admission free
Jun 29 – Asian Kung-Fu Generation – 6:30 p.m. at Koza Music Town, Goya, Okinawa City, tickets ¥4,000
Jun 29 – Kazumasa Oda Tour 2008 – 5:30 p.m. at Ginowan Kaihin Park Outdoor Stage, Ginowan City, tickets ¥8,400
Jun 29 – Namiko – 8 p.m. at Koza Music Town, Goya, Okinawa City, tickets ¥2,000
Jun 29 – Sommersault Kick – 5:30 p.m. at Cyber Box, Kume, Naha City, tickets ¥1,500 in advance, ¥2,000 at door
Jun 29 – Free Evening – 9 p.m. at Groove, Urasoe City, tickets ¥1,000
Jun 29 – Asarato – 8 p.m. at K-mind, Nagata, Ginowan City, tickets ¥500 in advance, ¥700 at door
Jun 29 – Yukiko (Jazz Singer) – 8 p.m. at Kam’s House, Kokusai Street, Naha City, tickets ¥1,000
Jun 29 – Soluna – 8 p.m. at Live House MODs, Mihama, tickets ¥1,500 in advance, ¥2,000 at door
Jun 29 – Tink Tink – 7 & 9 p.m. at Kalahai, Mihama, tickets ¥1,500
Jun 29 – Dream of Heart Concert – 4 p.m. at Palette Kumoji Theater, Naha City, admission free
Jun 29 – Guitar Panda – 8 p.m. at Bantar House, Okiei Street, Naha City, tickets ¥2,000 in advance, ¥2,300 at door
Jun 29 – Ryukyu University Philharmonic Orchestra Concert – 12:30 at Tedako Hall, Urasoe City, tickets ¥800 in advance, ¥1,000 at door
Jun 29 – G&B Jazz Live – 20:30 p.m. Aria Cara Lounge at Nikko Alivila Hotel, Yomitan Village, admission free
Jun 29 – Asia Sunrise – 4 p.m. at Café Yabuhachi, Tamagusuku, Nanjo City, tickets ¥1,000
Jun 29 – Asia Sunrise – 9 p.m. at Hormon Yaki Sakura, Futenma, admission free
Jun 29 – Sunconscious – 8 p.m. at Ondoh, Okinawa City, tickets ¥1,000
Jun 29 – Garden of Summer – 5 p.m. at Leaf Moon, Onna Village, tickets ¥1,500
Jun 29 – Keiko Higa & Chubeez – 7, 8 & 9 p.m. at Poolside BBQ & Beer Garden, Laguna Garden Hotel, Ginowan City, admission free (barbeque & all drinks set ¥5,000)
Jun 29 – Akidas – 3 & 5 p.m. at Okinawa Outlet Mall Ashibinaa, Toyozaki, Tomigusuku City, admission free
Jun 29 – Sheepish Boy – 5:30 p.m. at Rock in Okinawa，Kokusai Street, Naha City, tickets ¥300 in advance, ¥500 at door
Jun 29 – Irie Camp 2008 Okinawa Reggae Festa – 2 p.m. at Zampa Misaki Outdoor Stage, Yomitan Village, tickets ¥3,500 in advance, ¥4,000 at door
Jun 29 – Glean Piece – 6 p.m. at Tsutaya Ginowan Uehara Shop, admission free
Jun 29 – 2008 Hagoromo Cup Harbor Friendship Festival – 10 a.m. at Ginowan Fishing Port, admission free
Jun 29 – Sabani Sailing Race – 8 a.m. from Furuzamami Beach to Naha Port Breakwater
Jun 29 – Bullfighting – 1 p.m. at Motobu Bullfighting Ring, tickets ¥2,500
Jun 30 – Session Night – 8 p.m. at Taurus, Koza Music Town, Okinawa City, admission free
Jun 30 – Chiaki (jazz) – 8 p.m. at Kam’s House, Kokusai Street, Naha City, tickets ¥1,000
Jun 30 – G.S.G – 9 p.m. at Live House MODs, Mihama, tickets ¥1,000 in advance, ¥1,300 at door
Jun 30 – Tink Tink – 7 & 9 p.m. at Kalahai, Mihama, tickets ¥1,500
Jun 30 – Kachimba 1551 – 8 p.m. at Partida, Ginowan City, tickets ¥800
Jun 30 – Kousuke Shiroma “Jazz Guitar Night” – 8 p.m. at Green Ants, Kumoji, Naha City, tickets ¥1,000
Jun 30 – Sketch (Guitar, Piano) Jazz Live – 20:30 p.m. Aria Cara Lounge at Nikko Alivila Hotel, Yomitan Village, admission free
Jun 30 – Eru Jahana (jazz) – 7, 8 & 9 p.m. at Poolside BBQ & Beer Garden, Laguna Garden Hotel, Ginowan City, admission free (barbeque & all drinks set ¥5,000)
Jun 30 – Yoko Shimizu – 8 p.m. at Kam’s House, Kokusai Street, Naha City, tickets ¥1,000
Jun 30 – Emi Eleonora & Maltese Rock – 8:30 p.m. at Rock in Okinawa, Kokusai Street, Naha City, tickets ¥2,000 in advance, ¥2,500 at door
Jun 30 – Shunichi Irei & Akira Kawabata – 6:30 p.m. at Carnical Park, Mihama, admission free
Jul 1 – Shimauta Jinka – 7, 8:30 & 10 p.m. at Live House Shimauta, Kokusai Street, Naha City, tickets ¥2,000
Jul 1 – Asia Sunrise – 9 p.m. at Antorbo, Chatan, tickets ¥1,500
Jul 1 – Bantar To The Future – 8 p.m. at Bantar House, Okiei Street, Naha City, tickets ¥800 in advance, ¥1,000 at door
Jul 1 – The Jammers – 7, 8 & 9 p.m. at Poolside BBQ & Beer Garden, Laguna Garden Hotel, Ginowan City, admission free (barbeque & all drinks set ¥5,000)
Jul 1 – Mihanagumi – 7 & 9 p.m. at Kalahai, Mihama, tickets ¥1,500
Jul 1 – Take Iha – 9 p.m. at D-Set Café, Kokusai Street, Naha City, tickets ¥1,000
Jul 1 – Let’s Jam Session – 9 p.m. at Groove, Urasoe City, admission free
Jul 1 –Hidefumi Komura/Gandhi Nishigaki/Masaru Shimabukuro/Koichiro Kami (jazz) – 8 p.m. at Kam’s House, Kokusai Street, Naha City, tickets ¥1,000
Jul 1 – Glean Piece – 7 p.m. at Carnival Park, Mihama, amission free
Jul 1 – Kazue Kohama – 8:30, 9:40 & 10:50 p.m. at Aria Cara Lounge, Hotel Nikko Alivila, Yomitan, admission free
Jul 1-3 – Sound Festival – 8 p.m. at Live House MODs, Mihama, tickets ¥1,000 in advance, ¥1,300 at door
Jul 2 – Sadahito China – 7, 8:30 & 10 p.m. at Live House Shimauta, Kokusai Street, Naha City, tickets ¥2,000
Jul 2 – wiz-us – 7, 8 & 9 p.m. at Poolside BBQ & Beer Garden, Laguna Garden Hotel, Ginowan City, admission free (barbeque & all drinks set ¥5,000)
Jul 2 – Tink Tink – 7 & 9 p.m. at Kalahai, Mihama, tickets ¥1,500
Jul 2 – Aria Asia – 5 p.m. at Carnival Park, Mihama, admission free
Jul 2 – Groove Jazz Session – 9 p.m. at Groove, Urasoe City, admission free
Jul 2 – Kino (jazz vo.) – 8 p.m. at Kam’s House, Kokusai Street, Naha City, tickets ¥1,000
Jul 2 – Tsukayama Ventures with Johnny Ginowan – 9 p.m. at Bb, Haebaru Town, tickets ¥1,000
Jul 2 – Lua Cheia “Guitar & Vocal Jazz Live” – 20:30 p.m. Aria Cara Lounge at Nikko Alivila Hotel, Yomitan Village, admission free
Jul 2 – Osamu Aka “One-man Show” – 7 p.m. at Ashibinaa Theater, Korinza Mall, Okinawa City, tickets ¥3,000 in advance, ¥3,500 at door

IN MEMORIAM: Ceremony marks anniversary of Battle of Okinawa’s conclusion

Lance Cpl. Aaron D. Hostutler
OKINAWA MARINE STAFF

More than 5,000 people attended a ceremony at Okinawa Prefecture Peace Memorial Park June 23 to commemorate the 63rd anniversary of the end of the Battle of Okinawa.

The annual ceremony attracted civilians and U.S. service members who came to remember and pay respects to those who were killed during the battle.

“It is a great honor to be here,” said III Marine Expeditionary Force commanding general Lt. Gen. Richard C. Zilmer, “It’s important to remember not only those fighting on either side, but also the non-combatants who lost their lives.”

During the ceremony, Heiwa Kohshin-dan, peace marchers from mainland Japan, marched to the sound of drums around the park while thousands of attendees toured sections of the park such as Peace Memorial Museum, Peace Memorial Hall and the Cornerstone of Peace.

The Cornerstone of Peace is made of hundreds of upright marble slabs displaying the names of those who died during the battle. Some visitors placed flowers and gifts on the ground under the names of deceased relatives or friends.

“We gather this day...to respectfully and fervently mourn for all of the souls who died in the second World War,” said Toshinobu Nakazato, a speaker from the Okinawan Prefectural Assembly.

During the ceremony, Hirokazu Nakaima, governor of the Okinawa Prefecture stepped in front of thousands of listeners, both Japanese and American, and talked about peace between the nations.

“In the second World War, the people of Okinawa endured absurdity and utter brutality in extreme conditions that can hardly be described in words,” he said. “Through this miserable experience, we have learned a lesson, one that is universal to all humanity we realized just how precious peace really is.”

After the speeches, officials placed flowers on the ground as a sign of respect to the fallen.

“There are a lot of lessons to be learned from the battle of Okinawa,” said Kevin Maher, the U.S. Consulate General in Okinawa. “The importance of today is that this is not the time to debate the war, but it’s the time to remember those who died and those who suffered on both sides.”

Navy MWR Highlights and Upcoming Events, 20-26 June 2008

Kadena Services Weekly Highlights: 18-25 June

When the smiles returned
"From the Ashes...Courage and
Determination: The Battle of Okinawa and Its Aftermath" the photo exhibit.
Take a compelling look at how Okinawa was able to
smile again after the war.
Kadena Base Library
20 - 30 June

Easy reading

Check out Chili's Too menu online
complete with food descriptions!

click here

Into the wild

Super Ladies Night @ Rocker NCO presents: Safari
21 June • 10 pm
Come dressed in your wildest animal prints.

"Wooo-sa!"
Check out Power Yoga
Risner Fitness Center
Monday & Wednesday • 11:30 am
Saturday • 8:30 am
$2 per class

Log on to www.kadenaservices.com for complete
details on all Kadena Services events, programs, and activities.

Army MWR Events, 13 June - 19 June

Army MWR Events

13 June – 19 June

Torii Beach Jazz & Wine Festival
5 July • 16:00-24:00
The Jazz concert is FREE and open to everyone.

Wine tasting tickets are available
@ Army MWR locations & Kadena USO
Advance ticket • $20

Torii Arts & Craft Center Summer Special

Wood shop (May-August)

Handmade wooden rocking crib or

Handmade doll house for $95

Summer Kids & Parents Program (May-August)

(Age 8 & up)

Mold and create a unique pottery tray with your

Child for $5.00 each.

Create a beautiful “European flower arrangement”

with you child for $5.00 each.

Call 644-4303 to schedule a lesson

Scuba Locker

Summer SALE Campaign 2008

From Memorial Day until 1 Sep

June Special:

14-15 June ABYSMAL/HIGHLAND

21-22 June XS SCUBA

28-29 June UWATEC

644-4290

YOGA CLASS

Mondays 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Wednesdays 11:45 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.

Thursdays 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

At Torii Station Gymnasium Bldg 267

$5 per lesson/10 clay pass $45

Call 644-4334 for more information

Torii Beach Outdoor Turtle Theater
Every Friday – Weather permitting

Curtain Time – At Sunset

Free Movie

13 June Spongebob Square Pants the Movie (G)

Call 644-4659 for latest information

Torii Swimming Pool Hours of Operation

June 5 - September 2

Open: Thursday - Tuesday

Closed: Wednesday

Time: 10:00 - 19:00

Torii Beach Waterslide Hours of Operation

April 26 - October 13

Open Daily 10:00 - 18:00

CJ's Bar & Grill is open EVERY DAY on Torii Beach

Monday - Saturday 10:00 - 21:00

Sunday 10:00 - 18:00

ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICE

AFTB Level I Course

17, 18 June 2008

Coral Cove Club, Torii Station, 0800-1400 each day

644-4743

English as a Second Language (ESL) Classes

For foreign-born Spouses/Family Members open to Spouses/

Family Members from all U.S. military services.

Mondays: 0930-1100 (Intermediate Class)

Wednesdays: 0900-1030 (Beginner Class)

Building 236, ACS Classroom Torii Station

644-4743

Fiscal Fitness Class

13 June 0900-1100

Thrift Savings Plan Course

20 June 0900-1100

644-4942

Foster Library - Baby Time

Mondays in May
10 & 11:30a.m.
Foster Library

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Baby Time is for parents and their babies (ages 4—9 months).

Network with other parents who are also experiencing sleepless nights, fussy afternoons, and joyful periods between.

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Foster Library, 645-7178

Registration is required and begins on the 15th of each month for the next month’s session.

Event: Camp Schwab Festival 2008

May 24, 3-10 p.m. May 25, 1-10 p.m.

Typhoon Dates May 31 & June 1

- FREE Admission
- LIVE Entertainment (Saliva & Puddle of Mudd)
- Game Booths and Rides
- Kiddie Land
- Local and Cultural Food

CHANCE TO WIN
One of Two (2) tickets to one of
five U.S. destinations or a
seating class upgrade!
Courtesy of
UNITED &
OMEGA WORLD TRAVEL

Daiko service available

This festival is open to everyone Island-wide Free shuttle buses will provide transportation to and from designated parking lot on Camp Schwab. For more information call MCCS Special Events at 645-5828.

No pets, outside alcohol, bottles, or coolers allowed.

FOSTER BOWLING CENTER - Mulligans TOURNAMENT

THURSDAY, MAY 22
7 PM
ENTRY FEE: $20

BOWL FOUR GAMES AND DROP THE LOWEST GAME FOR YOUR HIGHEST SERIES. SIGN-UPS 011W-IFS WILL BE TAKEN THE NIGHT OF THE TORUNAMENT STARTING AT 5 P.M.

Kadena Services Weekly Highlights 15-22 May

Need a whiplashing good time?
Latin Comedy Show & Super Latina Night
Saturday, 17 May • Show starts at 9 pm
Tickets on sale at the Rocker NCO Club
$15 • Members
$20 • Nonmembers
Adults only.
Super Latina Night right after the show!





How can you resist?
Pet Adoption Day
17 May • 11am – 2 pm
Kadena BX garden area
50% off adoptions • Call 632-4970





Work it…work it!
Eclectic Style Fashion & Talent Show
Saturday, 17 May • Banyan Tree Club • 634-0644
Doors open at 5 pm • Show starts at 6 pm
Bring the entire family out for a good time.
$5 • Members
$10 • Nonmembers





All you feens hit the greens
Memorial Day Family Scramble
26 May • 7 am – 4 pm
Open to families (two – six people)
$20 per family plus green and rental fees
Winners will be announced on 27 May




Army MWR Events




Navy MWR Events

Log on to www.kadenaservices.com for complete details on all Kadena Services events, programs, and activities.

MOTHER’S DAY SUNDAY BRUNCH

MAY 11, 10 A.M.-2 P.M.

It’s Mom’s day to relax, so take her to an MCCS restaurant for Sunday brunch! Marine Corps ID card holders receive $3 off adult brunch and $1 off children’s brunch.

KINSER SURFSIDE
Adult $13.50, Children $5.50

BUTLER O’CLUB
Adult $15.50. Children $7.75

THIRSTY’S
Adult $10.95, Children $5.50

AWASE MEADOWS
Adult $12.95, Children $6.95

Mother’s Day Brunch

It’s recognized the world over that there’s really no way to fully thank our mothers for the lifetime of love, support, and guidance they provide. And it’s just as impossible to conceive of all the things for which they deserve to be thanked. However, treating your mom to a special Mother’s Day brunch at an MCCS club on May 11 is one very pleasant way to express the thanks that often go unspoken for both small deeds and large.

At the Butler Officers’ Club your mom can enjoy a scrumptious brunch of breakfast fare, fresh fruit, baked ham, roast turkey, and superb house-made desserts. Adults eat for $15.50 and children for $7.75. At Kinser Surfside a similarly delicious meal will be served for $13.50 for adults and $5.50 for children.

At the Awase Meadows Restaurant adults can dine for $12.95 and children for $6.95. Special Mother’s Day cuisine will be available, including made-to- order eggs and omelets, a platter of bacon, ham, and sausage, country potatoes with homemade gravy, biscuits, grits, pancakes, breads, oatmeal, and fresh fruit.

At Thirsty’s Enlisted Club a lavish spread will include chicken, beef, and fish entrees. Eggs Benedict and omelets will also be available. Tasty desserts will include crepes, Danish pastries, and cakes. Adults can enjoy this brunch for $10.94 and children for $5.50.

Brunches are open to all ranks and services. Marine Corps ID card holders can receive $3 off adult and $1 off children’s brunch prices.

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For more information, contact a participating club or restaurant.

NOSCO art auction

The Naval Officers Spouses Club is holding an art auction May 10 at the Camp Butler Officers Club. The auction will feature contemporary and traditional Japanese artwork and authentic oriental rugs.

For more information, call 646-8287.

Courtney Arts & Crafts - Mother's Day Ikebana

May 10 - 3 p.m.
Fee: $20

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Make your own flower arrangement for Mom. Seating is limited, so sign up by May 4.

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Courtney Arts & Crafts, 622-7492

COURTNEY ARTS & CRAFTS - Mother's Day Ikebana Class

May 10 • 3p.m. FEE: $20*

THIS YEAR, MAKE YOUR OWN FLOWER ARRANGEMENT FOR MOM. KIDS 12 YEARS AND OLDER CAN SIGN UP. YOUNGER CHILDREN MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT TO PARTICIPATE. SEATING IS LIMITED. SO SIGN UP BY SUNDAY, MAY 4.

*PRICE INCLUDES FLOWERS, EQUIPMENT, AND INSTRUCTION.

To sign up of for more information, call 622-7492

Awase Meadows ONE DAY Spring Sale

Do you need new golf gear? Have you thought about playing, but don’t have the right equipment to take to the course? Now is the time to stock up on all those golf necessities at the Awase Meadows Golf Course Pro Shop Spring One-Day Sale on Saturday, May 10 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. “It’s the best time of the year to get the latest top-of-the-line golf equipment at a discounted price,” Pro Shop Manager, Steve Nakashima says. “Everything is on sale.”

Don’t let weekend chores keep you from taking advantage of these great savings. This is the perfect opportunity to get that new golf apparel you’ve been looking at, or to buy the shoes, clubs, golf bag, or how-to book you’ve been wanting. Savings include great deals on the latest items from Ping, Callaway, Nike, and more. Everything in the store will be at least 10 percent off, with additional discounts on select merchandise. Not only will you save money, but you can enjoy FREE hot dogs, chips, and soda throughout the day. What could make this day better? Shoppers can enter a drawing for a round-trip ticket to one of five US destinations courtesy of United Airlines and Omega Travel, as well as other great prizes.

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For more information, call the Awase Meadows Golf Course Pro Shop at 645-3110.

Scaly beasts cut wakes

Marines, sailors propel dragons in 8th year of boat-race tradition

Lance Cpl. Andrew S. Avitt
OKINAWA MARINE STAFF

Two roughly 30-member crews of Marines and sailors competed in Naha’s 34th Annual Dragon Boat Festival at Tomari Port May 5.

The two all-Marine-and-sailor teams represented the Marine Corps Community Services Single Marine Program for the eighth year in a row at the races.

SMP had one all-female team and one all-male team, which never raced against each other in the field of 52 teams, which included all-Japanese crews, crews comprised exclusively of U.S. soldiers and also Japan Ground Self Defense Force crews.

Each heat matched up three boat crews, which propelled their colorful dragon boats forward, paddles digging in unison into the water with each beat of the caller’s drum.

Hundreds watched as SMP’s all-male team bested the U.S. Army crew in their first heat, finishing first with a time of 5 minutes and 25 seconds for the 600-meter course. They received a trophy and advanced.

“It’s all about the rhythm,” said Petty Officer 1st Class Tudo Ricardo. an SMP team member. “Once we got the momentum going with that rhythm, it wasn't hard.”

But rhythm only carried the SMP males so far against the two Japanese crews they met in the second race. The Japanese showed prowess in the 500-year-old Chinese tradition, eliminating the Americans after handing them a 3rd place finish in the heat.

The SMP males said beating the Army in a healthy rivalry was enough to call it a successful day.

The SMP females raced against two locally renowned teams, rowing the 600 meters in 6:47, but the team’s finishing time was short of what was needed to advance. Despite not advancing. the SMP ladies walked away smiling.

“Dragon boat racing was a great opportunity to build camaraderie with our neighbors,” said Cpl. Jeannene Burns, a member of the SMP female team. “What really made this great was coming out here, meeting new people and experiencing the culture.”

MCCS representative and team coach Sergio Morales said SMP will continue the tradition for years to come.

Kadena Services Weekly Highlights 8-15 May

My guns are bigger than yours
Bench Press Competition
10 May • 10 am
Risner Fitness Center • 634-5128
How much can you bench? Compete with other
men and women for trophies and bragging rights.



Get your tickets now - right now - right now
Latin Comedy Show & Super Latina Night
17 May • Show starts at 9 pm
Rocker NCO Club • 634-0470
Featuring the hottest Latin comedians and party at Super
Latina Night right after the show.
$15 Members · $20 Nonmembers

WOWMOM
Mother’s Day Happenings
Don’t know what to do for Mom on her special day?
Click here



Take Mom to Cloud Nine
Get a Mother's Day Balloon Bouquet at Crafty Things.
Balloon bouquets starting as low as $8
Click here to see our selection



Look fit and fabulous
Risner Sports Pro Shop Sale
Now – 11 May · 9 am – 6 pm
It’s your last chance to take advantage of 20% off
brand name apparel and more!


Army MWR Events


Navy MWR Events

Log on to www.kadenaservices.com for complete details on all Kadena Services events, programs, and activities.

Butler Officer's Club - Family Fun Night

May 8 • 5:30—9 p.m.
Taco Night

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Adults $7.95, Children (5—11) $3.95, Children (under 4) FREE

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Butler Officers’ Club, 645-7530

hey, mike: Dragon boat races

I’ve been hearing about how they have dragon boat races here on Okinawa. Can you tell me a little bit about them? Are they the same as the ones in Hong Kong?

— Noah J. Smith

There are several popular Chinese legends that depict water dragons as quasi-demigods that govern the rivers, seas, and oceans. And every year, during the spring and summer months, these legends come to life in the waters surrounding the island of Okinawa.

Most agree that dragon boat races originated in China, and were either brought to the island as a form of entertainment for visiting Chinese envoys, or were transferred to the Ryukyu Kingdom by islanders who saw the spectacle while visiting or studying in China. One of the most popular legends about the beginning of dragon boat racing is the story of Chu Yuan—a faithful member of a 278 B.C. Chinese emperor’s court.

ChuYuan was a poet and philosopher, and while many in the government respected Yuan (and usually heeded his sage counsel), they adored playing their political court games too much. Yuan worked long and hard for reforms to save the ailing empire. However, it wasn’t long before the emperor was beguiled by silver-tongued sycophants and ChuYuan was banished from the court.

While in exile, Chu Yuan composed poetry about his fervent love for his country, and his deep concern for his homeland’s future. He made friends among the rural populace, especially with the fishermen.

However, upon learning of the devastation of the court at the hands of a rival kingdom, Chu Yuan fell into a bleak depression. And, because he felt somehow responsible, he leaped into the Mi Lo River holding a great rock.

Many fishermen raced out in their boats in an attempt to save Chu Yuan while beating on drums and splashing their oars in the water to keep the water dragons away from his body. Although many boats were dispatched to save him, none were fast enough, It is said that the dragon boat races throughout Asia were originally held in honor of this statesman.

Today, dragon boat races are held in fishing communities throughout Okinawa beginning in the late spring and lasting through late summer. The largest of these festivals is the Naha HárI (also known as Harii) which is held during Golden Week, five days of holiday between April 29 and May 5. Naha’s dragon boat races, which will take place May 3 to 5, pit large multi-colored boats against each other in breathless sprints. Each vessel is powered by a 32-rower team and decorated with ferocious- looking dragon heads, scaled arms with sharp talons, and elaborate tails.

Teams range from those made up of district residents, groups comprised of company employees, and rowers from different countries (including teams from U.S. military installations). The three-day Naha Hâri Festival often draws hundreds of thousands of spectators and incorporates food booths, live band performances, and nightly firework displays.

Regardless of origin, dragon boat races remain immensely popular on Okinawa. The races have changed considerably over the centuries: today many of the ancient symbolic rituals of veneration are overshadowed by the entertaining spectacle. However, almost everyone who has witnessed or participated in a race will probably attest to this—during hâri season, water dragons do indeed rule the seas of Okinawa.

—Mike Daley

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Got questions for Mike? E-mail editor@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org.

Dragon Boat Races TOUR

ADULTS
$18 per adult

CHILDREN (3—11)
$11 per child
(0—2)
$5 per child

Cancellation Policy
Refunds for tours will only be granted to customers who cancel their reservation no later than two days before the tour date. Exceptions will be granted only for medical emergencies and duty obligation with written verification. MCCS Tours+ reserves the right to cancel tours if minimum reservation requirements are not met.

Monday, May 5
10 a.m.—6 p.m.

Experience Okinawan culture at one of the most well-known, well-attended events on island. Watch as teams (including those representing the U.S. military branches) entertain spectators with numerous races. Between races, enjoy live music, shows, street vendors, food booths, and games. Sign up at your local MCCS Tours+ office.

Camp Foster 646.3502, Mon-Sat, 9 a.m.—5 p.m.
Camp Hansen 623-6344, Mon—Wed, Fri, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Camp Kinser 637-2744, Fri, 9 a.m.—5 p.m.

www.mccsokinawa.com