Serving the U.S. Army Japan community Serving the U.S.

Army Japan community

Aug 13, 2009 July 29, 2010

VOL. 38, NO. 29

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Photo by Dustin Perry

YOKOHAMA NORTH DOCK A Light Medium Tactical Vehicle is driven up a ramp and aboard the Green Dale, a large cargo vessel, Thursday during a two-day deployment exercise conducted by the 35th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion. The exercise incorporated drivers training, convoy operations, on- and offloading vehicles and cargo, and utilizing In-Transit Visibility tracking systems. Also involved were Soldiers from the 623rd Movement Control Team and the 836th Transportation Battalion.

Exercise readies Soldiers for deployment ops

By Dustin Perry
Torii Editor

CAMP ZAMA Time is of the essence when preparing for a deployment, and for one unit here, a two-day exercise allowed more than 20 Soldiers the opportunity to effectively reinforce the skills needed to streamline that process, their commander said. Members of the 35th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, based at Sagami General Depot, completed a deployment exercise Thursday at Yokohama North Dock that incorporated convoy

operations, advanced drivers training, and utilizing advanced cargo tracking systems. Our ability to be able to, on short notice, get our equipment together, pack it up, put it on a vessel or an aircraft in support of a humanitarian-assistance, disasterrelief operation or some other mission, is very critical, said Lt. Col. Stacie Townsend, 35th CSSB commander. The skills that the Soldiers have learned over the past couple of days will help compress that timeline and make us even more responsive. The DEPEX was carried out in

several phases, the first of which required the Soldiers to properly prepare their cargo in this case four Light Medium Tactical Vehicles and five Humvees for transportation to North Dock. This involved in-depth inspections of each vehicle to ensure they were fully operational, followed by the proper affixation of In-Transit Visibility tracking systems like radio frequency identification tags and military shipping labels. These ITVs allow a unit to track their cargo at any time while it is in transit. Assisting the 35th CSSB with

this portion of the exercise were 12 members of the 623rd Movement Control Team, a sister unit also located at Sagami Depot, staffed solely with transportation management coordinators whose job it was to ensure their fellow Soldiers equipment was squared away prior to arriving at the port of embarkation, said the unit movement officer for the 623rd MCT. We [ensured] that everything went smoothly during the transportation portion of the exercise, said 2nd Lt. Ashian Izadi. That is probably the most critical por-

tion [of preparing equipment for deployment]. Once all nine vehicles were authorized for movement, the Soldiers of 35th CSSB conducted a convoy to bring them from their base in Sagamihara to the port of Yokohama, located approximately 27 kilometers east. Venturing outside the confines of a secure military installation and onto the highways of Japan amid unpredictable traffic was beneficial in giving some of the less-experienced Soldiers in his unit some critical See EXERCISE, Page 2

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NEWS

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Zama Briefs
Family Matters Blog
A former editor and writer for the American Forces Press Service has launched the Family Matters Blog to provide resources and support to military families as well as encourage a dialogue on topics ranging from deployments to the challenges of everyday life. The blog features current, up-to-date postings that matter to military families. To view the blog, go to http://afps. dodlive.mil/.

Lodging Information

Lodging renovations are complete. As of May 14, the front desk and offices have relocated back to Bldg. 552. The temporary bus stop located on Sand Road, between Bldgs. 552 and 780 were removed and relocated to Bldg. 552 as of May 17. All lodging phone numbers will remain the same, with the front desk reachable at 263-3830.

Mail Disposition

Due to space limitations at the Camp Zama Consolidated Mailroom (Bldg. S-383), any customer planning on taking leave or going on temporary duty for more than 30 days must make arrangements for disposition of their mail during their absence. Customers may fill out a DD Form 2258 (Temporary Mail Disposition Instructions) to forward mail to a temporary address or utilize PS Form 3801 (Standing Delivery Order) to authorize someone to pick up their mail. For more information, call 263-8587.

Blood in, blood out

Photo by Dustin Perry

Naoki Yasui, a master labor contract employee assigned to the Central Accounting Office here, has an intravenous tube removed from his arm by nurse Shiori Narita after having a pint of blood drawn July 21 in a mobile medical station. MLC employees here were invited to donate during a daylong blood drive coordinated by the Japanese Red Cross Society.

EXERCISE, From page 1 time on the road, said Sgt. 1st Class Brian Reeder, who acted as convoy commander for the 35th CSSB during the exercise. The final day of the DEPEX saw the two units to working together with the Soldiers and civilian members of the 836th Transportation Bn., the unit at Yokohama North Dock that oversees the loading and unloading of cargo on and off vessels docked at the installation. This exercise required the drivers to board the Green Dale, a large commercial shipping vessel with the capacity to hold a wide array of military vehicles to include Humvees and helicopters. Boarding a stationary watercraft and safely maneuvering a vehicle once inside it is a complex task for a driver when compared to simple on-road driving, said Capt. Shannon Virgadamo, the operations officer for the 836th Trans. Bn. The DEPEX provided those Soldiers with a unique opportunity to employ those crucial skills, she said. The tricky thing about loading onto a vessel like the Green Dale is that there are multiple levels, said Virgadamo. Backing up a large LMTV or a Humvee with a trailer is not easy, and its not any easier once you get inside a vessel that youve never been in before. The drivers in his unit tackled the unique challenges presented by the Green Dale safely and proficiently, said Capt. David C. Williams, commander of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 35th CSSB. Safety is the No. 1 factor during the exercise, and the Soldiers worked together to make the mission a great success, he said.

Victim Advocacy

Victim advocacy is a free service for all personnel in the military community and is located in Bldg. 402 at Army Community Service. Victims are allowed to come and talk to a trained victim advocate and inquire about available services. To contact a victim advocate, call 263-4853 or 0806772-6735.

Voter Assistance

The Federal Voting Assistance Program has launched an online voter registration assistant to help more than 6 million military, their voting age dependents, and overseas voters better navigate the registration process. The new online FVAP Voter Registration Assistant helps automate a once cumbersome, manual process in advance of the mid-term elections. Go to www.fvap.gov to register and request your absentee ballot.

Bon Dance Lessons

Come learn the graceful steps of the Japanese Bon Dance. Free Bon Dance lessons began July 20 to help members of the community prepare for the annual Camp Zama Bon Odori Festival. Lessons will be offered today, Tuesday and Thursday from 5:30 7:30 p.m. at the Community Activity Center (formerly known as the Community Cultural Center). No pre-registration is required, just show up and learn the moves. For more information, call the USAG-J Community Relations Office at 263-7156.

A Humvee is driven up a ramp and onboard the Green Dale, a large cargo vessel, Thursday at Yokohama North Dock during a deployment exercise conducted by Soldiers assigned to the 35th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion.

Photo by Dustin Perry

Annual bilateral medical conference strengthens U.S. Army-JGSDF bond

By Tetsuo Nakahara
Torii Staff

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NEWS

TORII July 29, 2010 3

The annual bilateral medical conference between the U.S. Army and Japanese Ground Self Defense Force was held Friday at the Camp Zama Community Club here. More than 30 medical practitioners from U.S. Army Medical Department Activity Japan, U.S. Army Public Health Command Pacific, the JGSDF Medical Department, Central Service Support at JGSDF, the National Defense Medical College at JGSDF, the JSDF Central Hospital, and JGSDF Medical School discussed medical agendas, exchanged information and explored the ways in which their professions can make an impact. The conference has been alternately hosted by each side, and this years was hosted by the U.S. Army. This year also marked the 15th anniversary with the theme of Strong Minds and Strong Bodies. The conference kicked off in the morning with opening remarks by Col. Kathleen Ryan, commander of the BG Crawford F. Sams U.S. Army Health Clinic here, and Maj. Gen. Yasuhide Uwabe, director of the Medical Department at JGSDF. I would like to remind you of the two major objectives at this conference, said Uwabe in his opening remarks. One is to learn new medical topics. I would like you to discuss and learn. The second is to promote our partnership. Enjoy this conference, enjoy discussing. You are all professionals and you respect each other. We can be good friends, and we can be good partners. The full-day conference covered various topics and agendas presented from both side, includes suicide prevention, the JGSDFs medical capabilities, and a presentation on Adverse Childhood Experiences in the U.S. Army Population.

(From left): Maj. Gen. Yasuhide Uwabe, director of the Japanese Ground Self Defense Force Medical Department, gives JGSDF Medical Department aprons to Col. Donald Gagliano, executive director at the Department of Defense/Veterans Affairs Vision Center of Excellence, and Col. Kathleen Ryan, commander of the BG Crawford F. Sams U.S. Army Health Clinic here, during an annual bilateral medical conference held Friday at the Camp Zama Community Club.

Photo by Tetsuo Nakahara

Col. Donald Gagliano, executive director for the Department of Defense/Veterans Affairs Vision Center of Excellence, was invited to the conference as the guest speaker. He presented speeches on topics such as Medical Education and Training Campuses and DoD/VA Vision Center of Excellence: A Joint Interagency Approach. The conference continues to foster the partnership that we have with Japan, said

Ryan. I was born in Camp Zama many years ago, so it is an honor to come back and learn about my heritage and how the medical department operates in the JGSDF. We know each other and we both know our operational abilities. Its not only educational, but also in case of an emergency, we have an idea of what were capable of. We hope to continue this friendship and partnership with the Japanese people. An AMEDD birthday dinner was held at

the CZCC following the conference, during which attendees had time to talk each other as part of one medical department family. This is my fourth time to attend this conference, said Uwabe. We have gained many benefits from this bilateral conference. We would like to carry on the bilateral relationship and continue to improve it. It is important to keep searching for the solution by discussing medical issues together in this partnership.

o you have a concern or an issue on your mind? Are you seeking a channel for your voice to be heard? Look no further. The Torii Newspaper welcomes all letters regarding issues or concerns involving the Camp Zama community as a whole. Critical letters should offer suggestions for resolutions as applicable. Letters or e-mails must be signed, but names will be withheld in publication upon request. The Torii Newspaper will protect the names of its sources if they so desire. Letters may be edited for content and length according to the Associated Press Stylebook and the Torii Style Guide. If you would like to have your voice heard in the Torii Newspaper, e-mail your letters to the deputy PAO at christopher.i.bush@us.army.mil, or send by regular mail to:

HNR / Public Affairs U.S. Army Garrison Japan ATTN: TORII Editor Unit 45005, IMPC-JA-HNR/PA APO AP 96338

Sound Off!
and Stripes, Tokyo. All photos are U.S. Army photographs unless otherwise indicated. The newspaper uses military news services including American Forces Press Service and Army News Service. Story and photo submissions not pertaining to commercial advertising may be sent to the USAG-J HNR/PAO TORII Office at least two weeks prior to the desired publication date. The TORII Newspaper is distributed every Thursday. Submissions may be e-mailed to the deputy public affairs officer at christopher.i.bush@us.army.mil. The Torii editor reserves the right not to publish submissions not in accordance with Army Public Affairs regulations and standard operating procedures. Editorial offices are located in room A-208, Bldg. 102, South Camp Zama, Japan.

T RII Newspaper
This Army-funded newspaper is an authorized publication for the members of the Army community in Japan in accordance with Army Regulation 360-1. Contents of the TORII are not necessarily the official view of, or endorsement by, the U.S. Government, Department of Defense, Department of the Army or the U.S. Army Garrison Japan command. It is published weekly by the TORII staff of the USAG-J HNR/Public Affairs office, APO, AP 96343-0054, phone 315-263-5978. This publication, with a weekly circulation of 2,000, is printed by Pacific Stars

Commanding General: Maj. Gen. Francis J. Wiercinski Garrison Commander: Col. Perry Helton Garrison Public Affairs Officer: Edward H. Roper Deputy Public Affairs Officer: Christopher Bush Editor: Dustin Perry Staff : Tetsuo Nakahara

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4 July 29, 2010 TORII
Story and photos by Dustin Perry
Torii Editor

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Talent show attracts eclectic group of performers

Bringing the community together for a showcase of eclectic and entertaining performances in a noncompetitive environment was genesis of a talent show held here Friday, the events organizer said. More than a dozen acts took to the outdoor stage at the Community Activity Center and were given the opportunity to sing, dance, joke and do just about anything else for an eager crowd during the event, which was sponsored by the Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers program. The idea for an all-ages, installation-wide talent show sprang from a BOSS brainstorm session for possible fundraising events, said Sgt. Valery Valtrain, president of the organization. Valtrain, who was volunteering as a youth softball coach at the time, attended one of her players dance recitals and was amazed at what she saw. I was just blown away by the amount of creativity that the dancers had, said Valtrain. I thought maybe Soldiers would have that same creativity, so I thought it would be good to open [the talent show] not just to children, but to everyone. After posting flyers with the tagline, So You Think Youve Got Talent? the entries quickly began to come in, said Valtrain. The BOSS presidents hope was that the show would attract a variety of performers, she said. I didnt want it to be just singing and dancing, said Valtrain. I wanted whatever gymnastics, jugglers I wanted everyone to come out and see what they had to offer. I didnt want it to be hostile in any way; it was a friendly competition all the way through, and thats what we strived for. The show began with a pair of dance routines one choreographed, one largely improvised that succeeded in getting the crowd amped for the rest of the night. Maiko Beale, who was part of the aforementioned recital seen by Valtrain, put together her routine at the last minute because she said she hoped it would help her get over her fear of performing solo in front of an audience. I have performed in recitals, but it was with other people, said Beale. Ive done solos, but a teacher would teach me something. At first I was nervous last night I couldnt sleep but once I got up there,

Josh Jones, who served as the emcee Friday during a talent show organized by the Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers program, tells jokes onstage outside the Community Activity Center. The show included singers, dancers and even a poet.

I just did my thing. It was fun. Beales elegant and acrobatic performance, set to Alicia Keys As I Am, was eventually chosen as the first-place winner

in her age category at the event. Hopes for a diverse show were fulfilled by a healthy mixture of unique acts a cappella singing, piano and acoustic guitar

Movie, stars

Photo by Dustin Perry

A couple sits on the Zama Soccer Field during a screening of Astro Boy Thursday night as part of Outdoor Cinema Night, sponsored by Morale, Welfare and Recreation. The free event is scheduled twice more this summer: Thursday at Sagamihara Housing Area Field near the Child Development Center, during which The Spy Next Door will be shown; and Aug. 19 at the Zama Soccer Field, during which Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs will be shown. The films will begin at 7:30 p.m.

www.torii.army.mil
performances, karaoke, and even a poem reading. Josh Jones, a Soldier assigned at Camp Zama, acted as emcee during the event, but also flexed his skills as a stand-up comic in between sets. Its a tough thing not just emceeing or doing stand-up comedy, but performing in front of people, said Jones. I thought it was awesome that we had a bunch of different talents out there. It showed the diversity of the people in this community. Jones was genial when introducing each act and pleasantly self-effacing when admitting his jokes werent getting a warm response from the audience. However, the biggest laugh of the night unintended though it may have been came from performer Gregory Smith. Initially lip-syncing to rapper Drakes song Best I Ever Had, Smith had his performance cut short when the lyrics became too explicit for the child-filled crowd. After a short break, he returned to the stage to attempt the Eagles hit Hotel California. Smith swayed with the microphone in his hand and waited as an extended flamenco guitar riff played over the speakers I hope this is not an instrumental version, he said. It wasnt, but when the vocals finally did kick in, it was not the familiar voice of Don Henley that was heard. Rather, it was a Spanish-language cover version of the song performed by the Gipsy Kings. Smith, unfazed, improvised his way through the set with the eager help of Jones. Ive never performed in a show in my

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life, said Smith. It didnt go as well as I planned, to say the least, but I think I did alright. I worked with it, put my heart into it, and I gave it that good old Army try. Performing in the talent show was something he enjoyed immensely, Smith said. He was also pleased with the talents of his fellow competitors and said he believed the audience enjoyed themselves as well. A lot of the performers tonight had never been on a stage before, so this was something new for them, said Smith. It took a lot of heart and courage just to go out there in front of a crowd. Its an experience, to say the least. Even before the performers who had properly registered for the show were done, Jones put an offer out to the audience encouraging them to take the stage if they wanted to showcase their talents. A young woman clad in neon clothing and striped socks who went by the stage name Colors sang an a cappella version of a popular Miley Cyrus, and later a woman sat down for an impromptu and dizzyingly fast piano rendition of Flight of the Bumblebee. I didnt want anyone to go out there feeling pressured, said Valtrain. In fact, a lot of [the performers] started to buddy up, and I encouraged that. We are hoping that this becomes an annual event and that we can make it bigger. We want to welcome everybody to showcase their talent.
(Right:) Victoria Reynolds sings Rihannas Take a Bow Friday onstage at the Community Activity Center during a talent show organized by the Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers program. July 29, 2010

Director Nolan, all-star cast deliver immaculate Inception

By Dustin Perry
Torii Editor

There are movies you watch several times because you enjoy and are consistently entertained by them. And then there are complex and intricately layered movies that demand repeat viewings in order to fully grasp every detail and missed clue within their narratives. Inception, the latest film from writer-director Christopher Nolan, is a dazzling example of cinematic grandeur that falls squarely within the latter category. Nolan, who proved his skill behind the camera right out of the gate with 2000s Memento, achieves with Inception the difficult task of creating a hugely ambitious film that pays off in every way the acting, the plot, the performances without ever losing steam or exhausting viewers. Built on a premise that is equal parts The Matrix and Synecdoche, New York, this mind-bending thriller is set largely within the dreams of its central characters. As with other films that deal with the questioning of ones reality versus the unreal, Inception relies on its audiences ability to likewise be able to distinguish between the two. In the ever-popular not-too-distant future, the practice of entering a persons dreams and stealing information from their subconscious is a lucrative business. Leonardo DiCaprio plays Dominic Cobb, a professional thief who specializes in the unique skill. The film opens with Cobb and his partner Arthur (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) inside the mind of a Mr. Saito, a power-

ful Japanese businessman played by Ken Watanabe. An attempt to steal a highly guarded corporate secret from Saito goes awry and Cobb is forced to partner with his former target. However, the job Saito presents is a difficult one: Rather than stealing an idea from someone, Cobb is told he must plant a thought inside a mans head so that he thinks it was his all along a concept known, of course, as inception. That man is Robert Fischer (Cillian Murphy), the son of one of Saitos rivals, and Cobb must manage from within Fischers dream to convince him to dismantle his fathers empire. The final two-thirds of Inception take place almost entirely within the characters

collective minds. And it is during this portion of the film that Nolan, taking full advantage of an environment where the laws of reality do not apply, is able to stage some of the most amazing action sequences seen on the big screen in the last decade. Just try to keep your jaws off the floor as you watch Arthur fight a security guard in a hotel hallway while gravity shifts and the walls tumble and rotate around them. In the world of dreams, literally nothing is what it seems: minutes are hours, city blocks can fold over themselves, and even people are merely personifications of ones subconscious. As the film delves deeper and deeper within itself, and the actions of characters in one dream begin to directly

affect their duplicate selves in another dream, staying along for the ride becomes an exhilarating exercise in surrealism. The characters provide exposition on the films many complex psychological and physiological nuances without ever pandering to the audience or over-explaining, a common mistake made by lesser films and lesser filmmakers. It sounds impossible, but Inception is laid out in a way that will allow viewers to follow it even when theyre not fully following it. Credit for that accomplishment goes largely to Nolan, who has a knack for crafting dialogue and linking scenes so that they fall together perfectly while still managing to slip in occasional Whaaa? moments that catch the audience off guard. The performances here are also worth noting, with DiCaprio carrying most of the films narrative weight. He effectively brings to life a troubled character with a dark past, much like the one he played in the interesting but flawed Shutter Island. The 2010 summer movie season has been largely disappointing, with several hyped films (Knight and Day) and established franchises (Iron Man 2) falling short. Inception is not only the perfect remedy for this years pack of duds, but also an early contender for a dark horse slot in the now-expanded list of Best Picture nominees. (And I certainly cant be alone in thinking that this bodes extremely well for the millions of filmgoers who are eagerly awaiting 2012, the year Nolans follow-up to The Dark Knight is expected to hit theaters.)

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6 July 29, 2010 TORII www.torii.army.mil

for more than three decades, col. john powers has been an avid photographer with a natural gift for seeing the worlds beauty through his camera lens. the key to creating lasting images is simple, he says its all about

ooking at any given photo taken by Col. John Powers evokes a myriad of feelings within the viewer warmth, awe, exhilaration but perhaps most overwhelming is the immediate desire to see more of his photos. Whether theyre of vast landscapes, colorful flowers, ancient architecture or willing human subjects, Powers images consistently manage to capture singular moments in time that linger in the mind long afterward the way only truly great photos can. Powers, the command chaplain for U.S. Army Japan and I Corps (Forward), has maintained an interest in photography that spans 35 years. Having spent three years in the Army after being drafted in 1971, the then-20-year-old Philadelphia native first cut his teeth by taking simple snapshots using black-and-white film and developing the prints himself at his bases Arts and Crafts Center. I needed a creative outlet, says Powers, now 56. As work got more stressful, I needed to release that creative edge, and photography provided that for me. As I developed my skills no pun intended I saw that I had a pretty good eye [for it] and I said, Hey, this is fun, and I seem to be OK at this. Throughout a military career during which he has been stationed in places like Vietnam, Italy, Germany, Kuwait, Hawaii,

TORII July 29, 2010 7

and of course Japan he is currently on his third tour here Powers says he continued trying to capture the images of what I was seeing around me. Powers hobby became a serious endeavor about five years ago when he switched to shooting exclusively with digital cameras. He now subscribes to three or four photography magazines and attends various workshops as often as he can the most recent being a three-day course in Tokyo in an ongoing effort to hone his craft. Although he describes his choice of subjects as very eclectic his extensive portfolio includes wildlife, bustling cityscapes and news photography it is portrait work that Powers considers to be his strong suit. It should come as no surprise that he counts Steve McCurry, whose famous Afghan Girl portrait graced a 1985 cover of National Geographic, as one of the main inspirations for his work. I do a lot of portrait work and family photos, and when Im out and about my eye just gravitates toward people, says Powers. Last night I was at a festival taking pictures of the mikoshi (a portable Shinto shrine), but I was reviewing them when I got home and most of my photos were of people. Inanimate objects and nature scenes can easily be brought to vivid life by a sufficiently skilled photographer. However, when an already living person is on the

A priest switches his glance while waiting to transport a mikoshi (a portable Shinto shrine) during the annual Fire Festival last August in Fujiyoshida. This photo won Col. John Powers third place in the 2009 All-Army Digital Photography Contest.

CAPTURING THE

SOUL
STORY AND PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY DUSTIN PERRY, TORII EDITOR ALL ADDITIONAL PHOTOS BY CHAPLAIN (COL.) JOHN POWERS
A close-up of the well-known daibutsu, or Large Buddha statue, located in Kamakura, Japan. The statue was built in 1252 and has remained intact ever since.

other side of his camera lens, Powers says became acquainted with Powers when he the trick is trying to capture the essence of discovered they had both entered the 2009 [their] personality. He does so by framing All-Army Digital Photography Contest. The his subjects tightly and employing stun- two now have plans to start a photography ning depth of field, a technique in which club on the installation. the dominant element is put in sharp focus Working with and learning alongside while the background is blurry. Powers has been instrumental in advancing With their rich culture not to mention a his own skills, says Armstrong. history that includes the wearing of elaborate He has a good eye for noticing a good kimonos, Edo-era chonmage hairstyles, composition when it comes to people, and powder-white geisha makeup the Armstrong says of Powers. Im more of a people of Japan are ideally suited to Pow- nature photographer. Ive always wanted to ers fondness for portraiture. All he has to do portrait photography, and hes kind of indo is venture to a wedding ceremony or spired me into moving in that direction. theatrical performance where the sight of Though his work has been recognized such traditional atat a professional tire is common, and level including a the only problem third-place finish is deciding who to in the AADPC, a photograph. Kodak award for I want people Photographic Exto look at my porcellence and two traits and say, Wow. Fujifilm MasterYou really caught piece Awards them, says PowPowers says he only ers. Thats a real enters competitions challenge to capto receive affirmature the soul. tion from his peers. As the command My friends tell chaplain, Powers me I do wonderful leads an extremely work, but theyre demanding profesmy friends theyre sional life, yet he biased, theyre subadmits he is always jective, says Powtaking pictures. ers. When I can When asked how he submit my stuff to manages to balance be looked at and his creative pursuits judged by profeswith his duties and Hanayagi Tomomaika, a dancer, performs sionals, that helps obligations as a Sol- onstage at Harmony Hall in May 2010. me become a better dier, he provides a photographer. two-word answer: time management. To hear Powers talk about his favorite Its just a matter of what you want to do, pastime is to hear a person completely says Powers. A lot of people go to the mov- steeped in the technical and artistic aspects ies, watch TV, go golfing while theyre of the craft. He peppers his conversation doing all those things, Im taking pictures. with camera terms like f-stop, ISO and I carry my camera with me all the time, and tripod the way a car enthusiast might fawn I have something to show for it. over horsepower or 0-60 mph times. After There are several photography buffs a while, it becomes apparent that, to him, on Camp Zama who regularly go on out- photography is more than a mere hobby. ings to popular picturesque spots in Japan Its in your blood, I think, says Powers. like Kyoto, Harajuku and Kamakura and Most of us are very sensual individuals compare and critique each others work. when we see things or hear things, we Eric Armstrong, the Information Technol- respond. If you see a good photo, it strikes ogy plans manager for the G-6 office here, your heart. It speaks to the soul.

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SPORTS & FITNESS

Soccer has been one of the top sports among youth at Camp Zama, said William Badillo Jr, a CYS program assistant. Soccer is a very easy sport to put together because all you need is a ball and goals, said Badillo. Definitely, for the older age group, the World Cup had some influence on them signing up for the clinic. All summer sports programs we provide are pretty much for getting kids ready for the regular sports season in the fall, added Badillo. Every time after this clinic, the kids ask us if these BFA guys will come back. They love these coaches. I think football is getting more popular in older kids, said Dave Callaghan, head coach for the BFA. I want them to enjoy the game, and I hope they continue to play football. I saw some of the same faces from last years clinic, and Im happy to see theyre improving. The youth had a chance to learn not only a variety of soccer skills, but also sportsmanship and teamwork, through the clinic. Ive been playing soccer for about three years, said Michael Tolentino, 8. I like soccer; its fun. The thing about soccer is thinking cleverly about what you have to do next.

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Zama youth get stoked for Summer Soccer Clinic

By Tetsuo Nakahara
Torii Staff

Boys and girls on Camp Zama bravely chased soccer balls under the summer sun during the annual Summer Soccer program, which began Sunday and was hosted by members of the British Football Academy. More than 50 youth from 5 to 18 years old attended the five-day clinic hosted by the Youth Sports and Fitness program here. The children were coached by members of the BFA from Tokyo, and their training will conclude Friday. The British Football Academy is a professional soccer coaching organization established in 2004, which operates out of a number of locations in the Kanto area. It brings the British style of football education and competition to youngsters in Japan. This marks the fourth time the academy has visited Camp Zama. Shade and plenty of drinks and fruit were provided by the YSF staff to prevent heat injuries among the children during the day. The program was divided into two groups: the 5-to-8-year-olds, and the 9-to-18-year-olds.

(Above): Two Camp Zama youth show their dribbling skills during the Summer Soccer Clinic hosted by the British Football Academy Tuesday at the Camp Zama soccer field. (Left): More than 50 children attended the clinic.

Photos by Tetsuo Nakahara

SPORTS & FITNESS

GOING ... GOING ... GONE:

Home run derby sluggers swing for fences
By Dustin Perry
Torii Editor

www.torii.army.mil

TORII

July 29, 2010

Your Weekly Dose

Access to care at BG Sams U.S. Army Health Clinic is avaialble 24/7. The clinic is not open 24/7 but our triage line is available 24/7. When calling the clinic at 263-4127, our staff will notify a provider who will call you back. The provider will advise you if you can wait till the clinic opens, or if you need to seek medical care at either Yokosuka Navy Hospital, Yokota AFB Hospital or at a Host Nation Hospital or Clinic.

When hitting, you have to be patient and wait for that one good pitch before you swing, said Angel Cendejas, the mens winner of a home run derby held Saturday at Rambler Field. Power was the name of the game in an event that pitted 15 men and two women against each other who were all aiming to send as many softballs over the outfield fence as they could. Cendejas, assigned to the 35th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, belted six out of the park over the course of two rounds. Margie Collins, assigned to the 623rd Movement Control Team, was the womens winner after knocking three balls past the shortened 150-foot mark. In the first round, each batter was given an unlimited number of pitches to hit as many home runs as possible before reaching eight outs. An out was counted if a ball sailed foul or failed to go over the fence. The second round gave the players a fiveout cap, and their home run total was tallied from both rounds. Ive been participating in the home run derby for the last three years, said Cendejas. I just finished climbing Mount Fuji yesterday. I was exhausted, but I wanted to do my best and come out here to participate for my battalion. Collins initially only came to the event to support her unit but later decided to sign up and compete. She played softball in high school but had never before participated in a home run derby. For me, it was all about taking all my energy and putting it on the ball, Collins said of her performance. The derby is a showcase of players who have skill when it comes to pure power,said Stefan Thompson, the director of Sports Fitness and Aquatics here. The competition was host to the best sportsmanship I have seen all year long, he added.

Recently we have noticed an increase of calls to the 911 number. This is the emergency number which activates the MPs, our ambulance, EMTs and translators. Of course, if you have a life threatening medical emergency such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, or trauma, please call 911 on post or 119 off post. If you are feeling sick, or have an injury that does not meet the criteria for life, limb or eyesight, please call the clinic first at 263.4127 and push option 1 for triage nurse or 24/7 medical advice. Our provider on call will advise you on what options are available, such as Yokota AFB hospital, Yokosuka Navy Hospital or a local Host Nation clinic/hospital, in which case we would arrange for a translator to assist you.

Sports Briefs
Holes 1, 5 change at CZGC
Effective immediately, the following measures are to be taken when hitting from Holes 1 and 5 at the Camp Zama Golf Course: - Tee shots are Irons Only (no hybrids) from range mats with fixed tee height not to exceed 1/2 inch. - Twenty-foot nets will be installed on Holes 1 and 5 during the week of June 21 through 27. - The left edge of the cart path on Hole 1 is now out of bounds. A drop area is in place for any balls that go OB. Players must hit their fourth shot from the drop area no provisionals. - Players who hit a ball over the net will be suspended (see suspension policy below). Suspension Policy: Brandon Boehmer connects with a pitch Saturday at Rambler Field here during a home run derby sponsored by Morale, Welfare and Recreation. Fifteen men and two women competed in the event. Boehmer won third place with four home runs.
Photo by Dustin Perry

- Any player who hits a ball over the net on Hole 1 or 5 will be suspended for 30 days. The penalty for a second offense is a 90-day suspension, and the penalty for a third offense is a one-year suspension. - All players who have previously hit a ball over the net will receive a separate memo from the commander advising them of the policy change. Therefore, they should take the appropriate risk-reduction measures to ensure they are not affected. For more information, call 263-3694.

Fitness Files
By Jane Kupkowski
Camp Zama Fitness Coordinator

The Positives and Negatives to Exercising and your Sleep Pattern Exercising vigorously right before or within about three hours of your bedtime can actually make it harder to fall asleep. This surprises many people; it is often thought that a good workout before bed helps you feel more tired. In actuality, vigorous exercise right before bed stimulates your heart, brain and muscles, leaving your nervous system at a higher level and unable to relax into a catabolic state. Exercise raises your body temperature right before bed, which, youll soon discover, is not what you want.

Morning exercise can relieve stress, improve mood and keep your energy throughout the day without needing that morning caffeine fix to keep you awake. These effects can indirectly improve sleep, no doubt. To get a more direct sleep-promoting benefit from morning exercise, however, you can couple it with exposure to outdoor light. Being exposed to natural light in the morning, whether youre exercising or not, can improve your sleep at night by reinforcing your bodys sleep-wake cycle. When it comes to having a direct effect on getting a good nights sleep, its

vigorous exercise in the late afternoon or early evening that appears most beneficial. Thats because it raises your body temperature above normal a few hours before bed, allowing it to start falling just as youre getting ready to go to sleep. This decrease in body temperature appears to be a trigger that helps ease you into sleep. The most vigorous type of workout is a cardiovascular workout, such as running, walking and biking. That means you engage in some activity in which you keep your heart rate up and your blood circulating through your musculoskeletal system for at least 25 minutes. Although strengthtraining, stretching, yoga and other methods of exercise are beneficial, none match the sleep-enhancing benefits of cardiovascular exercise. So next time you want to get a great nights sleep, either wake up and enjoy the sunshine in the morning or take a nice walk on your lunch break to get your sleep pattern back to its normal routine.

Labor Day 5K Run

A Labor Day 5K Fun Run is scheduled to be held Sept. 4 beginning at 8 a.m. at Yano Fitness Center here. There is no fee to enter this event. Register at the Yano Fitness Center issue counter by 5 p.m. Sept. 3. There will be no registration on the day of the race. The packet pick-up will be Sept 4. between 7 and 7:55 a.m. at Yano. Awards will be presented to the top two adult men and women per age category. The age categories are 18 to 29, 30 to 39, 40 to 49, 50 to 59 and 60-andabove. Entrants who are 18 years must be out of high school. Commanders Cup points will be awarded for this event. For more information, call 263-4664 or 263-7980.

Classifieds & Movies

10 July 29, 2010 TORII
Classified ads not pertaining to commercial profit are free to military personnel, DA Civilians, Family members and MLC/IHA employees. Ads should be 20 words or less with nonworkplace E-mail or phone numbers listed. To submit a classified ad, E-mail tetsuo. nakahara4@us.army.mil. However, the Torii Newspaper reserves the right not to publish inappropriate advertisements. Deadline is no later than noon Mondays. Military community classified ads can also be placed for free on a commercial Web site at www. mymilitaryclassifieds.com/xzclf/162_Camp_ Zama_ARMY_/. Physical Therapist, intermittent (240 hours): Provides physical therapy service in the areas of physical disabilities, neuromuscular and psychosocial dysfunctions in patients ranging from adolescence to the very elderly. Must have license to practice physical therapy in the U.S. This is a contract positions open to SOFA status applicants. Resumes may be sent to Yoshiyasu. Aoki@us.army.mil. ALL applicants shall register in the Central Contractor Registration (CCR) at www.ccr.gov. Physical Therapist, intermittent (240 hours): Provides physical therapy service in the areas of physical disabilities, neuromuscular and psychosocial dysfunctions in patients ranging from adolescence to the very elderly. Must have license to practice physical therapy in the U.S. This is a contract positions open to SOFA status applicants. Resumes may be sent to Yoshiyasu. Aoki@us.army.mil. ALL applicants shall register in the Central Contractor Registration (CCR) at www.ccr.gov. instructor/facilitator: Camp Zama Education Center is looking for a Instructor/Facilitator to conduct daytime Online Academic Skills Course formerly called FAST. Bachelors Degree and Teaching License/Certificate preferred.Will be paid for 240 classroom hours per year. Call 263-5055 for more information. instructor/facilitator: Torii Station Education Center is looking for a Instructor/Facilitator to conduct daytime Online Academic Skills Course formerly called FAST. Bachelors Degree and Teaching License/Certificate preferred.Will be paid for classroom hours taught per year.Call 263-5055 for more information. Bookkeeper/ internal accountant: The West Pacific Girl Scouts is looking for a bookkeeper to maintain all financial records, produce monthly financial statements, perform other functions necessary to the position. Must be familiar with accounting procedures and principles, MS Excel and other accounting software. Full time, competitive pay with great benefits for someone with SOFA status. Please apply with a resume to westpacificceo@gmail.com or by calling Pam at 263-3597; resume may also be dropped off at the Girl Scout office in Bldng 533. 01 Nissan CUBe: 4 DOOR, SILVER, 21,000 K, great AC, RADIO, CD, NEW TIRES, $3,500. AVAILABLE 19 JULY. CALL 267-6286 (3) 04 Yamaha, YZf R1: Immaculate Condition, Drk Grey,13km, Carbon Fiber parts, Garage kept,TOCE Extreme 4/quad pipe exhaust, Vortex racing sprocket/gold chain, Double wind screen, Pilot Power 2CT Tires, New JCI, Plus much more $7,800. PCSing: Call 090-8517-9568 (5) 04 dRZ400: JCI to June 2012, great tires, shiny paint, 25K Km, no rust or dents, very clean. Jet kit and after market exhaust are the only mods. All original parts come with it. $2700. Call 0903451-0524 or 267-6525 or drubekrb@hotmail. com with DRZ as subject

www.torii.army.mil
Please contact Tammy DeYoung at: tad3571@ aol.com Part-time english teacher: Pay is 16,000 to work four times per month. Two Mondays from 4 6:10 p.m., one Tuesday from 9 10 p.m. and one Friday from 7 8 p.m. Located 15 minutes driving distance from SHA in Minami-Rinkan area. For more information, E-mail Kaz at superkids-csc1190@nifty.com. esl teacher: Seeking ESL teachers for two conversational group classes. One requires travel to Tama and is very accessible by car. Meeting times are the 1st and 3rd Sat. from 10:30 a.m. noon for one class and Sat. from 3 to 4 p.m. for the second. Pay is 7,500 and 3,000 per hour respectively. Call 090-549-6725 or e-mail shantee12@yahoo.com. instructor: Arts and Crafts Center seeks instructors to teach sewing, water color painting, washi paper craft and/or acrylic paint arts. Also looking for contracted framer who has at least three years experience in framing production. For more information, call Nodera-san at 2634412.

Jobs
Appropriated Fund (APF) and Nonappropriated Fund (NAF) job announcements and application instructions are available at http://cpol.army.mil. For questions regarding APF vacancies, please call 263-3608. NAF MWR job announcements and required forms are also available at http:// www.usarj.army.mil/information/zama/employ. htm. For questions regarding NAF vacancies, please call 263-5800. Non-appropriated fund Pacific Stars & Stripes job announcements are available online at http://cpol.army.mil. For more information, call the Job Information Center at 229-3163. Japanese national position vacancies are posted in the Microsoft Exchange public e-mail folders and on the Internet at www.usarj.army.mil/ scripts/jn/cpo/index.asp. Application forms are available on the same site. Selection status can also be checked. For more information, call 263-3325. Child and Youth Program assistant (level 2-4), (CYS, Zama & SHA), CY-1/2, RFT/RPT, $9.58 - $17.09, Closes: Open Continuous Recreation assistant (lifeguard), RD, Flex, NF-02, $9.29, Closes: Open Continuous operation assistant (Community Club), BD, Flex, NF-1101-01, $9.00, Closes: Open Continuous lead Child and Youth Program assistant (sHa) (CYs), RFT, CY-02, $13.14 - $17.09, Closes: November 17, 2010, Open until filled

For sale
Softbank cell phones, only 18 months old. Buy one or two. One is black Panasonic, other is pink Sharp. Both have text and camera. Optional internet and int'l calling packages available. English instructions, battery charger included. Cost $187 ea new. Yours for $90 each, or $150 for both. Call Tom at DSN 263-8349, or 0803708-3281, pls lv msg. Or tom-zama@softbank. ne.jp. (5) Misc items: Canon EOS Rebel XS 18-55mm lens kit with BG-E5 grip and additional battery, like new condition. Asking $450.00, Giant Escape R3 Hybrid bicycle, brand new, never ridden, very light and always kept indoors. Asking $400.00 If interested in any of these items, please contact Mike at BAL1969@HOTMAIL.COM or at 0906311-9177. (5)

Others
ZaCsas east Meets West shop: located behind the dry cleaners on Camp Zama, carries vintage Japanese items and collectibles. Store hours are every Tuesday and the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Profits from the shop go back to the community in scholarships and welfare grants. For additional information please call 263-5533. Stop on by and check it out. JaPaNese sPoUse ClUB: Would you like to socialize with other Japanese spouses, learn more about being a military spouse, share your experiences and support with others? If so, please call Meg at 263-8327 or e-mail jsczama@gmail. com for more information. PCSing? I recently arrived and would love to have your flowers (potted or planted) for my quarters. Email me tsinjapan@gmail.com. Keyboardist, drummer wanted: (B3 organ/ piano). Zama-based rock band looking for mature musicians to play rock, blues, and country. Equipment and gig availability required. For more information, call Ron at 263-8277.

Wanted
U.s. army Garrison Japan Postal service Center : Volunteer opportunities are available in the USAGJ Postal Service Center, we will provide you with valuable training in Post Office and Unit Mailroom operations. Please contact Army Community Services at 263-8087 for details and assistance on volunteering your services. english teachers: A small off-post home school(about 200 students) near Sagami Depot. First time teachers welcome! Classes available Mon. Thu. 1pm to 9pm (No weekends or Fridays!) Call for details. Derek Partington English School, home 042-756-4483; cell 090-3082-4439 or E-mail: partngtn@jcom. home.ne.jp english teachers: Sagami Home English School is looking for Native English speakers to teach English in their homes on the weekends.

Vehicles for sale

98 audi a4 avant Wagon: Excellent condition. Beautiful car inside and out. Brand new ABS brake system. JCI good until Nov 2011. 6 CD changer. Keyless entry. 46,000 miles. Available now, PCSing: $6,500 OBO. Call 080-3173-0067 or 267-6454.

Other local positions

alliedTelesis Customerservice Representative @ Camp Zama: Requirements are: Must be 20 years old. Must have a High School Diploma. Must be a US Citizen or Resident Alien w/ Green Card for US. Must have knowledge of Basic Computer Systems and know how to use the MS Office Suite (Word, Excel & Access). Forward Resumes to shaun_bullman@alliedtelesis. com. Position to begin first week of August for training with the store Grand Opening on 16 August 2010. anti-Terrorism/force Protection instructors wanted. Positions are available with Firearms Academy of Hawaii, Inc. Duties include instruction of marksmanship, watch standing and tactical team movements. Position location is Yokosuka Naval Base, Japan. Marksmanship instructor experience is a must. Tactical team movement experience is desired. Qualified candidates may call Christopher at 243-6171 or send resume to yeagleycj@yahoo.com. substitute teachers: Zama American High/ Middle School are currently accepting applications for substitute teachers. U.S. citizenship and a high school diploma or GED are required. For more information or any questions, please call 263-4005.

Pets
animal adoption: Dogs and cats are available for adoption at the Camp Zama Veterinary Clinic. For more information, call 263-3875.

Movie sCHedUle
saGaMiHaRa
http://www.aafes.com/ems/pac/zama.htm
267-6111

aTsUGi Cinema 77
https://www.atsugi.navy.mil/ATSUGI/Mwr/index.html
264-3789

friday 6:30 p.m...The Sorcerers Apprentice (PG) 9 p.m............................Inception (PG-13) saturday 6:30 p.m...The Sorcerers Apprentice (PG) 9 p.m............................Inception (PG-13) sunday 3:30 p.m..................Letters to Juliet (PG) 6:30 p.m.......................Inception (PG-13)

105 minutes 148 minutes 105 minutes 148 minutes 105 minutes 148 minutes

friday 7 p.m...............................Killers (PG-13) 100 9:30 p.m.......................Inception (PG-13) 148 saturday 4:30 p.m.....................Despicable Me (PG) 95 7 p.m...............................Killers (PG-13) 100 9:30 p.m..........Get Him to the Greek (R) 109 sunday 2 p.m...............................Marmaduke (PG) 88 4:30 p.m.......................Inception (PG-13) 148 8:30 p.m. ........Get Him to the Greek (R) 109

minutes minutes minutes minutes minutes minutes minutes minutes

for your Tv schedule, visit www.myafn.net

CoMMUNiTY CaleNdaR
www.torii.army.mil TORII
The commander and command sergeant major of U.S. Army Garrison Japan would like to remind all housing residents that portable basketball goals are to be erected for immediate use only, and are to be removed and stored immediately after use. Basketball goals are not permitted to be erected in parking lots or on streets. They should also not be set up in a manner where players will be running and shooting from the street. For identification purposes, all basketball goals are to be labeled with the sponsors name and dwelling unit number. Unlabeled basketball goals left in common areas may be confiscated and disposed of. Residents are also reminded to always be courteous of their neighbors and that quiet hours from 10:30 p.m. to 9 a.m. are to be observed. Parents are also reminded to appropriately supervise their children and that any damages to vehicles or other property will be their responsibility. Please consider utilizing the basketball courts available at Yano Fitness Center, the Youth Center, or at school grounds.
July 29, 2010

11

UpcomingOngoing Events
Camp Zamas 51st annual Bon Odori Festival is scheduled to be held from 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Aug. 7 throughout the installation. As always, the event is open to the public and will include numerous activities throughout the day. A variety of childrens games, family entertainment, live music and entertainment, food, fireworks, and of course a traditional bon dance centered around a large platform in the middle of Rambler Field are among the scheduled activities. In advance of the festival, free bon dance lessons will be offered beginning Tuesday and continuing on July 22, 27, 29 and Aug. 3 and 5 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. each day. For more information, call the U.S. Army Garrison Community Relations Office at 263-7156.

51st Annual Bon Odori Festival

Whats Happening Outside the Gate?

Eagle 810, AFN Tokyo

Hisano Yamazaki

hisano.yamazaki.jp@yokota.af.mil

Fireworks Fest @ Yokohama North Dock, Aug. 1

Fireworks Fest, an annual event at Yokohama North Dock, is scheduled to be held on Aug. 1. This will not be an openbase event, with only Status of Forces Agreement personnel, their immediate family members and authorized guests allowed to attend. For more information, call 269-6528.

Post-Combat Stress Support

Traditional Thai Festival Loi Krathong @ Hibiya Park, Tokyo, Aug. 7-8

A special support group to assist those experiencing symptoms of post-combat stress is offered from 11:30 Opportunity for Extra Income a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tuesdays in the community room at The Camp Zama Garrison Chaplains Office is taking bids Army Community Services. For more information, call for contract child watch providers and musicians at Zama Chapel and Sagamihara Family Housing Area Chapel Gary Woods at 263-8091. Interested? Apply at the Camp Zama Chapel. Please contact SSG Thompson (263-8064) or CPL Webb (263-8066), CLEP and DANTES Testing College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) and Defense Deadline date: 30 August 2010 Activity for Non-traditional Education Support (DANTES) testing sessions are held at 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. Wednesdays. To schedule an appointment, call 263-5379 / 4691 or e-mail dspivey@asia.umuc.edu. To study for the CLEP tests, visit www. petersons.com. To study for the DANTES exams, visit www.getcollegecredit.com.

This festival features a floating lantern service to drive away evil spirits and appreciate the spirit of water for harvest. Plus, you can enjoy Thai food, beverages, dance, music and Muay Thai kick boxing. Admission is free.

Japanese Paper Lamp-Stand Festival or Bonbori Matsuri @ Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Kamakura, Aug. 6-9

400 paper lamp-stand or bonbori made by famous Japanese artists, novelists and other celebrities will be lit on an entrance path to the shrine during the nighttime. The bonbori have pictures and calligraphic works on them, which are drawn by Japanese artists, novelists, and other celebrities.

Reminder: Portable Basketball Goals

Asakusa Samba Carnival in Asakusa, Tokyo, Aug. 28

Travel & CulTure

12 July 29, 2010 TORII www.torii.army.mil

Photos by Tetsuo Nakahara

Visitors at the 2009 Bon Odori Festival dance on Camp Zamas Rambler Field while wearing a yukata, a lighter version of the kimono that is worn during the summer.

Styling with Yukata in Summer

Story by Tetsuo Nakahara
Torii Staff

ireworks, Bon dancing and traditional ceremonies: summer is the festival season in Japan during which all ages can enjoy the warm weather and fun atmosphere. And the yukata is the perfect outfit for such events. Because they see it as a hallmark of culture in Japan, Japanese people are fond of wearing yukatas during this festival season. The yukata is a summer kimono worn by both men and women. The name yukata comes from the words yu (bath) and katabira (under clothing). Today, the traditional Japanese yukata is widely used for everything from festivals, ryokan, or even daily summer wear and nighttime attire. In contrast to the kimono, which is more suited for formal occasions, the yukata was originally designed to be worn in summer after bathing as a cool and comfortable alternative. Yukatas are becoming more popular, as retailers have begun offering an increasingly wide selection, ranging from traditional designs to more contemporary ones featuring frilly accessories and other such embellishments. Reasonably priced yukata sets, which include an obi (sash) and a pair of geta (wooden clogs), are now widely available, making these traditional garments more accessible to young people as well. Every year, many Camp Zama Community members wear yukatas and dance at the installations annual Bon Odori Festival. Im glad that Americans really

like traditional Japanese yukatas and kimono, said Misako Okamoto, a kimono fitting instructor with the AllJapan Kimono Consultant Association. When I see an entire American family wearing yukatas at the Bon Odori Festival and enjoying Japan, I feel so happy. Okamoto has been helping Camp Zama members for more than 10 years, teaching them the proper way to wear kimonos and yukatas. She has also traveled to more than 100 countries as an ambassador of kimono instructors. I had an opportunity to make international friendships through [teaching about] kimonos, said Okamoto. Every time I go to Camp Zama, people are very welcoming to me and interested in kimonos. It is not only women who enjoy wearing the yukata; the number of men who don the outfit every summer has also steadily increased. Reflecting the recent demand for yukatas, mass retailers are selling sets that include an obi and geta at prices as low as $40 to $70, and these deals have even attracted customers with no experience in wearing traditional clothing. At the other end of the price spectrum, high-end department stores sell exquisitely crafted yukata made from the finest materials for about $700 to $1,000. Yukatas can fit anyone if you know the proper way to fit them, said Okamoto. I recommend Camp Zama members staying in Japan to wear a yukata at least once.

(Above left): There are various combinations of obi and yukata. (Above right): Japanese teenagers wear yukatas. (Below): Misako Okamoto, a kimono fitting instructor with the All-Japan Kimono Consultant Association, has instructed people on how to wear yukatas for more than 10 years at Camp Zama for the annual Bon Odori Festival.