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

Army Japan community

Aug 13, 17, 2011 February2009

VOL. 39, NO. 7

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Need for speed

Photo by Dustin Perry

Members of Camp Zamas Cub Scout Pack 34 cheer as they watch four pinewood racecars zip down the track during a Pinewood Derby held Saturday at Arnn Elementary School. Twenty-four cars took part in the daylong competition, a Cub Scout tradition that began in 1953. For more on this story, see pages 6 and 7.

Norman assumes role as USARJ CSM

By Dustin Perry
Torii Editor

Command Sgt. Maj. James P. Norman assumed responsibility as the senior noncommissioned officer of U.S. Army Japan and I Corps (Forward) during a ceremony held Friday at Yano Fitness Center here. Norman replaces Sgt. Maj. Jeffery Nall, who had been serving as the acting command sergeant major of the unit since last Octo-

ber. Normans previous assignment was as the comm a n d s e rgeant major of the Ironhorse 1st Brigade ComCommand Sgt. Maj. James P. Norman bat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, at Fort Hood, Texas. During his opening remarks, Maj. Gen. Michael T. Harrison

Sr., commander of USARJ and I Corps (Forward), told those in attendance how pleased he was when Norman graciously accepted his offer to join him at the leadership helm of the unit. The job of choosing a command sergeant major is perhaps one of the most important tasks any commander performs during his or her command tour, said Harrison. I, like most commanders, took this daunting task to heart and interviewed 15 command sergeants

major for the job. I took my time in conducting those interviews, because our Soldiers deserve the absolute best leadership that the Army can provide, added Harrison. All of the command sergeants major I interviewed were exemplary professionals and would have done a great job here but one candidate stood out, and I chose him: James P. Norman. One of the first things that caught his attention upon ar-

riving at USARJ, said Norman during his remarks, was the units motto, Ichi Dan one team in Japanese. Over the course of my career, Ive come to value teamwork above all else, said Norman. In a team, success is dependent upon each and every member. My goal as command sergeant major is to constantly seek improvement for the benefit of all. I look forward to being a part of USARJs successful future.

I NSIDE the TORII

2 News 4 Community 6 Community 8 Sports 11 Calendar 12 Culture

2 February 17, 2011 TORII

NEWS

www.torii.army.mil

Zama Briefs
2011 Road Tax Program
If vehicle registration, title changes or insurance have not been updated or completed, a decal will not be issued. Camp Zama Times: 9 to 11 a.m. / 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. Location: Camp Zama Community Club April 19: Last names A through E April 20: Last names F through K April 21: Last names L through R April 22: Last names S through Z; mini-cars and motorcycles Info: 263-4337 / 3732 / 4810 Yokohama North Dock Date: April 26 Times: 9 to 11 a.m. / 1 to 2 p.m. Location: PMO Bldg. S-331 Info: 269-6528 Cost Motorcycles: 500 - 1,000 yen Mini-cars (yellow plates): 3,000 yen Sagami 500 Y plates: 7,500 yen Sagami 300 Y plates: 19,000 - 22,000 yen Sagami 100 Y/E plates: 32,000 yen

AOSA scholarships

The Atsugi Officers Spouses Association will be making scholarships available for seniors attending Zama American High School and spouses of servicemembers assigned to Naval Air Facility Atsugi. Applications are available at www.atsugiosa. org. The deadline to apply for AOSA scholarships is April 29. For questions, contact the AOSA scholarship chair at AOSAScholarshipChair@yahoo.com.

Coming up roses

Photo by Tetsuo Nakahara

Erica Street, wife of Chief Warrant Officer 4 Lazaro Street, receives a Valentines Day flower bouquet from Col. Perry Helton, commander of U.S. Army Garrison Japan, Monday at the Community Bank here. Army Community Service delivered flowers to approximately 30 spouses of deployed servicemembers at Camp Zama and Sagamihara Housing Area.

You Made the Grade

Now in its 10th consecutive year, the You Made the Grade program recognizes Camp Zama students who achieve a B average or better with a benefits-filled booklet. Exclusive offers include a free Burger King kids meal or a Subway sixinch combo, video rental and $2 off any new release DVD at the Power Zone, to name a few. Students who make the grade also can register for a drawing to win a savings bond worth up to $5,000. To receive the You Made the Grade booklet, students simply present a valid military ID card and proof of an overall B or better average to the Camp Zama Exchange. Students may receive one coupon package for every qualifying report card, but may enter the savings bond drawing only once per calendar year. Camp Zama families can contact the Exchange at 263-5585 for more information about You Made the Grade.

Black History Month observed in Okinawa

Ceremonys theme honors earliest black war vets
By Lauren Hall
Torii Station Public Affairs

Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program

Those aware of a sexual assault should report it immediately. It is punishable under the Uniform Code of Military Justice and other federal and local civilian laws. USAG-J Camp Zama Sexual Assault Hotline: 882# or 090-9395-8909 (24/7 response). USAG-J Torii Station: 090-6861-8042 (24/7 response). Army Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program website: http://www. sexualassault.army.mil.

TORII STATION, Okinawa Torii Station hosted a special presentation honoring the theme of African Americans and the Civil War for Black History Month on Feb. 9 at the Coral Cove club. Black History Month got its beginnings 1926 as a weeklong celebration when Carter G. Woodson, an African American historian, set out with the hopes of raising awareness of the countless contributions made by African Americans throughout the history of the United States. In 1976 President Gerald R. Ford declared February Black History Month and urged Americans to seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history. The ceremony at Torii Station began with a performance by the Greater Friendly Church Choir, the Japanese national anthem performed by Kinue Sakugawa, the American national anthem performed by 1st Lt. Jacqueline Wigfall, and the invocation by Chaplain (Maj.) Damon Saxton. Senior Airman Erica Durham, a health administration technician at Kadena Air Base, recited a poem entitled The Colored Soldiers, written by Paul Laurence Dunbar,

Brian Peckins, deputy to the 10th Support Group commander, thanks Senior Airman Erica Durham for taking part in Torii Stations Black History Month celebration Feb. 9. Durham recited the poem The Colored Soldiers by Paul Laurence Dunbar.

Photo by Chip Steitz

in honor of the black Soldiers who fought in the Civil War including his father, who served with the 55th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment and the 5th Massachusetts Colored Cavalry Regiment. Ive heard many people say that this observance is outdated and even unnecessary, said Maj. Gen. Michael T. Harrison Sr., commander of U.S. Army Japan and I

Corps (Forward) and the guest speaker for the event. I believe that it is vital to our society, it is vital to our culture and our way of life. Its importance lies in the result of what comes out of the observance. Events like this create opportunities for discussions, opportunities to exchange ideas, experiSee BLACK HISTORY, Page 3

www.torii.army.mil

INSIGHT
an opportunity that the assistant secretary of the Army for Installations, Energy and Environment is launching this month. The ASA (IE&E) is asking garrisons to nominate themselves to become Net Zero Energy, Net Zero Water or Net Zero Waste installations, or all three, by 2020. Five will be selected in each category, with one to become all three. These installations will receive long-term, in-depth training and support and become showcases for the strategies, technologies and best practices of sustainable resource management. I encourage every garrison to take on this challenge. It will require commitment and a lot of hard work. Not only do we have to learn about energy, water and waste management best practices and technologies, but we also have to learn the business practices that support them. We have to build partnerships with those in the private sector and in non-government organizations who will join us in investing in the net zero vision. However, this is a prime opportunity to learn lessons we will be required to know in the future. Everyone every Soldier, civilian and family member has a role to play in manBLACK HISTORY, From page 2 ences and to review our long history. Dr. Martin Luther King once said, The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort or convenience, but where he stands in times of challenge and controversy, added Harrison. This quote is particularly applicable to the early experiences of blacks in uniform, he concluded. Though not beneficiaries of the rights and privileges of non-black Americans, many chose to serve anyway, such is the case of the Tuskegee Airmen and the Buffalo Soldiers. But there were so many more. One unit that struggled with segregation was the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regt., one of the first official black units of the Civil War.

TORII

February 17, 2011

IMCOM message
Lt. Gen. Rick Lynch
Commander, Installation Management Command

The Army has a bold vision for managing natural resources on its installations: we will become net zero. That is, as we go about the complex business of living, working and training on installations, our use and production of resources will balance out, so that in the end, we do not over-consume or waste. The most exciting part of the Army Net Zero vision is this: We all have a part to play in achieving it. When the concept of net zero was first applied to installations, it was in terms of energy. A task force that grew out of a 2008 joint initiative of the Departments of Defense and Energy studied the possibility of net zero energy installations, or installations that produce as much energy on site as they use over the course of a year. Army Net Zero goes beyond energy, though, to also include water and waste. Army Net Zeros holistic approach increases our ability to achieve the larger goal of sustainable installations. With an eye on all three energy, water and waste we are more likely to move beyond isolated projects, which carry the risk of succeeding in one area at the expense of another, to an integrated plan that balances benefits and costs across our operations. Installations reach net zero through five interrelated steps: reduction, repurposing, recycling and composting, energy recovery, and disposal. To achieve net zero energy, garrisons start with aggressive conservation efforts to reduce the amount of energy being used in the first place. Then they repurpose energy, or find secondary uses for building exhausts, boiler stack exhausts and other thermal energy streams, and recover heat from the electricity generation process. Once they have reduced their load through conservation and efficiency measures, they can meet their remaining requirements

through renewable or alternative energy projects. A net zero water installation limits the consumption of fresh water and returns water back to the same watershed, so as not to deplete the groundwater and surface water resources of that region in quantity or quality. Similar to the process with energy, installations aiming for net zero water begin with rigorous conservation efforts. Then they repurpose the water used in showers, sinks, washing machines and cooling towers, capture rainwater for on-site use, and treat wastewater for recharging into groundwater aquifers. They achieve net zero water by capturing, repurposing, and recharging an amount equal to what they consume. A net zero installation reduces, reuses and recovers waste streams, converting them to resource values with zero landfill. In other words, a net zero waste installation aims to make disposal an unnecessary step. Garrisons start by reducing the initial amount of waste, and then find ways to repurpose waste with minimal processing. For example, they might crush construction rubble to use on trails. When they cannot reuse waste, they recycle or compost as much as they can or convert it to energy. They achieve net zero waste when they have nothing left to send to the landfill. During my site visits over the past year, I have seen how our garrisons have taken steps great strides in some cases to manage our resources more efficiently. Look at the water projects at Forts Huachuca, Bliss and Belvoir; the waste management projects at Forts Bragg and Jackson and Joint Base Lewis-McChord; and the energy projects at Forts Drum, Wainwright, Carson and Campbell, to name just a few. So I know there will be tremendous interest in

aging our resources. Maybe it seems like a smaller role, such as turning out the lights, adjusting the thermostat, or separating out recyclables at home. Maybe it is a more direct role, such as running an installation waste management program or writing enhanced-use leases or energy-saving performance contracts. Regardless, every effort adds up, and what it adds up to is important our future. Energy efficiency and security are critical issues for the Army. The Army depends on a reliable, safe and cost-effective supply of energy to accomplish its mission, as well as providing a good quality of life for Soldiers, civilians and families on installations worldwide. To the extent that the supply and distribution of energy lay outside the Armys control, the ability to accomplish our mission is open to risk. The same can be said of water, or practically any of our resources. If the Army is to accomplish its mission in the future, if we want to be good neighbors to those outside our gates and to leave a healthy world for our children and grandchildren, then we have to start operating sustainably today. It is the right thing to do. It was amazing to think that these men had the conviction to fight a war at the same time they battled racism within their own ranks, said Harrison. The first African American unit to serve in World War I was the 369th Infantry Regt. The unit quickly became known as the Harlem Hellfighters. There are other units like the Hellfighters of Harlem who fought with the French in the muddy trenches of World War I, said Harrison. The Hellfighters earned the reputation as a vicious foe because they fought relentlessly and never lost a single trench. Then entire unit was awarded the French Croix de Guerre for their actions in combat. On July 26, 1948, President Harry Truman issued Executive Order 9981, officially ending segregation in the U.S. military.

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 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 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, e-mail your letters to the editor at dustin.perry@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!
This publication, with a weekly circulation of 2,000, is printed by Pacific Stars 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 is distributed every Thursday. Submissions may be e-mailed to the editor at dustin.perry@us.army.mil. The 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.

Commanding General: Maj. Gen. Michael T. Harrison Sr. Garrison Commander: Col. Perry Helton Garrison Public Affairs Officer: Edward H. Roper Editor: Dustin Perry Staff: Tetsuo Nakahara Okinawa Bureau Chief: Anastasia Moreno Okinawa Bureau Staff: Lauren Hall

COMMUNITY
4 February 17, 2011 TORII www.torii.army.mil

Arnn students learn about oral hygiene from DENTAC

By Tetsuo Nakahara
Torii Staff

The students at John O. Arnn Elementary School learned about the importance of oral hygiene from Soldiers at Camp Zamas dental clinic in conjunction with the National Children Dental Health Month event at their school Feb. 9 through Friday. Two Soldiers and a civilian from U.S. Army Dental Activity-Japan set up a small workshop and exam room at the school, where the children received a free dental briefing and basic dental screening. Every year, DENTAC and Arnn representatives coordinate the event during February to raise awareness of childrens dental health. The childrens dental health is pretty good so far, said Capt. Konrad Ferguson, a general dentist at DENTAC-J. The biggest thing is that they should brush in the morning and before bed time. It is really important that parents make sure their children are flossing and brushing, especially when they are younger.

Even though children brush themselves, parents may have to help them with hardto-reach areas, like the back teeth, added Ferguson. This clinic also helps children get more comfortable with dentists. The students came into the room, one class at time. They were shown dental education videos and received a demonstration of how to brush and floss properly. For the older students, a series of photo slides related to oral hygiene showed serious dental problems such as cavities, tooth decay, crowns and bridges. We teach them not only how brush and floss, but also about [the dangers of] tobacco, sugar and stuff they eat, so hopefully the kids can remember to take care of their body, said James Chang, the school nurse at Arnn. Parents might be too busy to enforce their childrens dental hygiene, but they need to encourage them to brush and floss their teeth, and make sure they have good dental habits. Parents should also take their children for a dental checkup every six months. More than 300 children who submitted a

Spc. Sarah Bigford shows Kiahna Stidam-McIntyre, a third-grader at John O. Arnn Elementary School, how to floss properly during a dental clinic held Friday at Arnn. More than 300 students received dental education and a basic dental screening.

Photos by Tetsuo Nakahara

permission slip signed by their parents were screened by a dentist during the clinic. They received an assortment of items to include a toothbrush, toothpaste and dental floss. For those who received the screening, a certificate declaring their Healthy Smile was given to them. Children who had any dental concerns had their parents notified in writing to schedule a dental appointment.

I like brushing my teeth, said Brayden Martin, a third-grader at Arnn. They said that my teeth are really good. It is important to brush teeth because if you dont, you can get a cavity and it will be painful. A clinic was also held at the Sagamihara Family Housing Area and Camp Zama child development centers Monday and Tuesday.

SCHOOL NEWS
Zama Child Development Center: 263-4992 SHA Child Development Center: 267-6348
SAS Open Recreation Program: Parents: Are you looking for programs that your school-aged children can participate in? Children: Are you looking for things that will keep you active and busy outside of the house? If so, then the Open Recreation Program events are for you. School Age Services is offering open recreation opportunities in the weekday and Saturday afternoons for youth currently enrolled in grades one to six. Registration: To register your child or for more information please stop by the CYS Central Enrollment Registry Office in Bldg. 533 on Camp Zama, or call 263-4125 or SAS at 267-6013. classrooms worldwide. GradeSpeed is a web-based program that enables parents to log in and view grade and attendance data for their students. GradeSpeed will be the only authorized and supported grade book used by DoDEA employees in these grades. All teachers have secure access to GradeSpeed through the use of an Internet web browser. Teachers use the grade book portion of GradeSpeed to enter assignments, grades and to maintain grade calculations. Teachers are also able to e-mail progress reports to parents through GradeSpeed. For more information, go to http://www.dodea.edu/back_to_school/ gradespeed.cfm or contact Brandy Bell, educational technologist, at brandy.bell@pac. dodea.edu.

Zama American Middle School: 263-4040 Zama American High School: 263-3181

Visit the Web at www.zama-ms.pac.dodea.edu/ for information pertaining to Zama American Middle School. Visit the Web at www.zama-hs.pac.dodea.edu/ for information pertaining to Zama American High School.

John O. Arnn Elementary: 267-6602

Read Across America: Parents and community members are invited to be guest readers during Arnn Elementary Schools Read Across America event, scheduled from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 2, to help celebrate Dr. Seuss birthday. You may bring your favorite book to share with the students or share one of ours. You are also welcome to wear your Cat in the Hat gear or dress as your favorite book character. Please consider joining us. To sign up or to get more information, e-mail Erika.Utz@pac.dodea.edu. PSCD Screening: Your child or someone elses may qualify for Preschool Services for Children with Disabilities. Screenings for children ages 3 to 5 are held twice a month at AES to locate and identify children who may have developmental delays. Call Arnn Elementary School at 267-6602 to make an appointment if you suspect your child has a delay in language, physical, cognitive, social or adaptive behavior development. For children under 3 years of age, call EDIS at 267-6545 to schedule an appointment. GradeSpeed: DoDEA has implemented GradeSpeed in all fourth- through 12th-grade

Child, Youth and School Services: 263-4500

6th Grade Happening: This event is scheduled to be held from 7 to 10 p.m. at the Camp Zama Youth Center. The cost is $2 per person. Transportation will be provided from the SHA Narita bus stop at 6:30 p.m and the Atsugi movie theater at 6:15 p.m. U-Turn Program: This program is designed for youths to turn themselves around and get the help they need to graduate from high school and move on to higher education. Its up to U to turn yourself around. The teen center staff is here for U! Join us Tuesdays and Thursdays nights form study groups; work together with your classmates; get help from staff and other volunteers; tutor classmates; get S.A.T. tutoring / practice tests; use this time to work on scholarships and other financial aid applications. There will be a return bus to SHA for those youth who participate in the U-Turn Program.

www.torii.army.mil

NEWS
TORII
February 17, 2011

USARJ Soldiers support JGSDF students studying English language at Camp Kodaira
By Tetsuo Nakahara
Torii Staff

Twenty students from the Japan Ground Self Defense Force received a briefing about leadership from Col. Robert Deyeso, U.S. Army Japan deputy commander, Thursday at the Kodaira Language School at Camp Kodaira. The JGSDF members are students of the Advanced Officers English course, a five-month program in which the intent is for students to master mission-level advanced English. Students are generally senior first lieutenants and captains, and junior majors. Upon graduation, the students are often utilized at bilateral events and exercises using their newfound English-speaking ability. Deyeso opened himself to questions for the students during his brief regarding leadership. The students asked questions about how to motivate soldiers and help them deal with mental anguish. The discussion was meant not only to teach about leadership but also to share cultures, said Deyeso. Im impressed with the importance that the JGSDF put on linguistics and having their students learning different languages not just English, but Russian and Chinese and other languages, said Deyeso. They handpicked these students to [attend the AOE]. These are young, high-speed go-getters. These are the ones trying to move ahead. They are going to be leaders in their regional armies. It is great that USARJ has been supporting this program for a long time, added Deyeso. I think it is really good to see how these young students approach learning; they take it very seriously. USARJ has been sending approximately 40 instructors annually to assist teaching the various English classes at Camp Kodaira. For this most recent cycle, three USARJ Soldiers stayed at Camp Kodaira for five days as AOE instructors. They played the roles of high-ranked personnel, such as chiefs of staff, and had the students translate English to Japanese or vice versa during the simulation as needed. It is very good to have instructors who are actual personnel from U.S. Army Japan, said 1st Lt. Mikiyo Sakai,

Japan Ground Self Defense students take a memo to translate from Japanese to English during the Advanced Officers English Course at Camp Kodaira. Col. Robert Deyeso, center, deputy commander of U.S. Army Japan, observes the class during his visit there in which he gave a briefing to the students and answered questions.

Photo by Tetsuo Nakahara

assigned to the JGSDF Northern Army Aviation Group. Of course, I have been studying English in a classroom for the JGSDF, but these instructors gave us a real simulation of how we might someday need to use those skills. I finished my co-op program last year, and my unit put me into this program right afterward, added Sakai. The experience of the co-op really helped and it was a great opportunity for me. I really want to improve my English skills and use them as needed after graduating from this program. The opportunity to stay at Camp Kodaira with the JGSDF

students also helps USARJ instructors to understand Japanese culture, build a strong relationship between the two forces, and learn from the JGSDF, said Capt. Dat Nguyen, commander of Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, USARJ and I Corps (Forward), who was one of the most recent AOE instructors. [The JGSDF students] put all their effort into studying English to make sure they pass their exam, said Nguyen. I believe this is the beginning of their future; these students will go back to their units and eventually they will be doing coordination between USARJ and the JGSDF.

Oldest Medal of Honor recipient buried at Punchbowl in Honolulu

By B.J. Weiner
Army News Service

A commitment to save

Photo by Tetsuo Nakahara

Col. Perry Helton, commander of U.S. Army Garrison Japan, and Faye Yoder, the senior banking central manager at the Camp Zama Community Bank, cut a cake Monday to celebrate the kickoff of the Department of Defenses Savings Campaign.

FORT SHAFTER, Hawaii Medal of Honor recipient Pvt. Barney Hajiro was buried Monday in a service at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, known as the Punchbowl, in Honolulu. Lt. Gen. Benjamin R. Mixon, U.S. Army Pacific commander, and about 100 others attended the burial service. Hajiro passed away on Jan. 21 at the age of 94. At the time of his death, he was the oldest living Medal of Honor recipient. Hajiro was raised in Hawaii and drafted into the Army after the Pearl Harbor bombing. He volunteered for the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, which was composed of second-generation Japanese Americans. Originally awarded the Distinguished

Service Cross for actions in World War II, Hajiros service record was reviewed in the 1990s and upgraded to the Medal of Honor. President Bill Clinton presented the medal to Hajiro on June 21, 2000.

COMMUNITY
6 February 17, 2011 TORII

Pack 34s Pinewood Derby a high-speed Cub Scout tradition

Story and photos by Dustin Perry
Torii Editor

A Day at the Races

adults, as well as non-Cub Scout guests were on the roster for the derby. They had intimidating names like Golden Crush, Stryker, Black Widow and the Mean Machine. The Four intricately detailed, miniature-scale wooden cars event was divided into four rounds, and the six or more streak down a gleaming metal track, mere inches separating heats per round were organized in a way to allow all the the lead vehicle from the rest of the pack, and a group of cars to race against each other at least once. boys watching from the side are losing their minds. Pinewood cars are powered not by batteries or motors, It is Saturday at Arnn Elementary School, and the Cub but by gravity. Races are held on a track that starts the cars Scouts of Camp Zamas Pack 34 are fully engrossed by the at the top of a downward slope before leveling out to a excitement of their annual Pinewood Derby an under- straightaway that leads them 20 feet or so to the finish line. standable sentiment, considering they each hand-crafted Heats are very quick usually lasting four seconds or less the seven-inch machines that have been competing in the and winners are often decided by a matter of inches. event all morning. When you have a close race and the cars are about the The derby began at around 10 a.m., but most of the same speed, like any competitive venue, that is a lot more Scouts and their parents arrived at Arnn nearly an hour exciting for the boys, said Scully. Our events are competiearly to ensure their pinewood cars were in optimal racing tive because we are racing for speed, but good sportsmanship condition well before the is stressed. start of the first heat. Parents Having a spirited event applied graphite powder to that also maintains an atthe wheels for lubrication; mosphere of teamwork and the children hot-glued coins camaraderie is in line with to the underside of the chasthe ideals of the Cub Scouts, sis to meet the five-ounce said Pack 34s Cub master. weight requirement. This The Cub Scouts have collaborative spirit is part always had traditional valof what makes the Pinewood ues, said Roy Fluke. The Derby such an enduring Cub racers cheer each other on, Scout tradition, said the Pack and everybody gets in34 committee chairman. volved. The Pinewood Derby The top finisher in Satis really designed for the Matthew Watterson, right, applies graphite powder to urdays derby was Black parents to work with their the wheels of his sons pinewood racecar as a means of Widow, made by 9-year-old sons on creating the car, lubrication. Wattersons older son Christopher, left, and Cody McPherson of Pack said Brad Scully. The Reginald Reynolds II, a member of Pack 34, look on. 34. The best part about comScouts get a chance to learn peting is getting to watch his different woodworking applications, painting applications, car race against the others after having spent three weeks and deal with weight and balance. making it, he said. Each participant had about six weeks to transform the I like seeing the other designs of the cars, and I like standard kit a block of pine, four plastic wheels and being together with my friends and the other Cub Scouts, two metal axles into a custom-designed creation. This said Cody. requires extensive cutting, shaping, sanding, grinding and The second-place winner was Codys younger brother painting to achieve the desired effect, said Scully. Some Connor and his car Stryker, and third-place honors went to Scouts get done with their cars weeks before the race, while guest Christopher Lopes and his car Mach 5 & 6. A district others were likely up late Friday night making last-minute championship is scheduled to be held April 2 at Tokyos modifications, he said. American School in Japan. Top finishers in Saturdays derby The cars have a seven-inch length requirement, a two- are eligible to participate competitively in the event, but and-three-quarter-inch width requirement and a weight there will also be open heats in which all Cub Scouts can requirement, said Scully. Besides that, the shape, height take part, said Fluke. and style can be anything the Scouts want anything from I couldnt be more proud of the Cub Scouts we have a fast-looking, sleek racecar to a block of cheese their in the Pack this year, said Fluke. Theyve really come a creativity is the only limitation. long way, and its just an honor for me to be able to serve Twenty-four pinewood cars a few of them made by as their Cub master.

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TORII

February 17, 2011

The multi-colored Pok Car, background, was one of 24 pinewood racecars that competed in Saturdays derby at Arnn.

John Lopes sets the pinewood car made by his son Christopher, 7, on a scale to ensure it meets official weight requirements.

Four pinewood cars rest at the top of a track before a race.

Pinewood racecars are lined up according to age group in preparation for Saturdays competition. Twenty-four cars with names like Falcon, Golden Crush, Stryker and Black Widow participated in the Pack 34 Derby.

Spectators watch as hand-crafted pinewood racecars speed down an inclined track Saturday at Arnn Elementary School.

SPORTS & FITNESS

8 February 17, 2011 TORII www.torii.army.mil

Showing them the moves

Photo By Tetsuo Nakahara

Members of the Miami Dolphins cheerleading squad teach children a dance routine during a clinic held Feb. 7 at the Camp Zama Youth Center here. About 40 children attended the clinic, which was given by the Dolphins cheerleaders following their appearance at the Super Bowl XLV party at the community club here.

SPORTS & FITNESS

www.torii.army.mil TORII
February 17, 2011

USAG-J Safety Office provides winter sports tips

By Chieko Kajigaya
USAG-J Safety Office

Your Weekly Dose

Free seasonal flu vaccine available for ages 6 months and up: DoD ID card required. Vaccines are limited until all shipments are received. For more information, contact the Immunization staff at 263-4838. Hours: Monday through Wednesday and Friday: 8 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 4 p.m. Thursday: 1 to 3 p.m. Patients must be signed in 15 minutes prior to closing time to receive their vaccination. Access to care at BG Sams U.S. Army Health Clinic is available 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 until the clinic opens, or if you need to seek medical care elsewhere. 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. If you have a life-threatening medical emergency, 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, call the clinic at 2634127 and push option 1 for triage nurse or 24/7 medical advice. Our provider on call will advise you on what options are available.

Winter sports can be a great way for you and your family to stay active and enjoy colder temperatures, but each sport presents its own unique hazards. These winter safety tips can help enjoy sports safely and comfortably. Preparation Clothing Several thin layers will keep children dry and warm. Infants lose body heat more quickly than older children or adults do. Choose a light material for both a shirt and leggings. (Cotton is not appropriate for skiing as it absorbs moisture. Polyester blends will wick sweat away.) Remove drawstrings, cords and scarves to prevent strangulation. Wear a turtleneck instead. No loose clothing while skiing because it can become tangled in ski poles and ski lifts. Wear brightly colored outer clothing to be easily seen. Choose knee-high wool socks over which the leggings may be pulled. Again, cotton is not appropriate because if it gets sweaty it may start to bunch up and cause uncomfortable wrinkles to form in the boot. When your childs ski boots are put on, the socks should be pulled taut and the leggings should be pulled up above the top of the boot. Ensure your childs snow pants are long enough to be secured over the top buckle of the ski boot. If the child is wearing snow pants with overalls or suspenders, try and have them wear all shirt layers under the straps. Mittens keep fingers warmer than gloves. Hats should be warm, close-fitting and cover the earlobes. Sixty percent of heat-loss is through the head. Change out of wet clothes quickly.

There is a danger of hypothermia at temperatures as high as 50 degrees if there is excessive wind or dampness. Apply sunscreen on exposed areas of skin, even on a cloudy day. Be aware that the suns reflection off the snow is strong even on cloudy days. Sledding Keep young children separated from older children. Sledding feet first, or sitting up instead of lying down head-first, may prevent head injuries. Consider having your child wear a helmet while sledding. Use steerable sleds, not snow disks or inner tubes. Sleds should be structurally sound and free of sharp edges and splinters, and the steering mechanism should be well lubricated. Sled slopes should be free of obstructions like trees or fences, be covered in snow not ice not too steep (a slope of less than 30 degrees), and end with a flat runoff. Avoid sledding in crowded areas. After the ride down, get off the slope and use a safe path to go back up. Skiing and snowboarding Never ski or snowboard alone. If older children are not with an adult, they should always at least be accompanied by a friend. Wear wrist guards, a helmet and knee pads. Wear ski goggles that fit properly around your helmet. If you wear eyeglasses, buy goggles that fit comfortably over your eyeglasses or consider prescription goggles. Make sure the bindings are properly adjusted. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children less than 7 years old should not snowboard. Accident prevention Control You are responsible for remaining in control while skiing or snowboarding. Do not use excessive speed when going down

a slope, and be well aware of those in front of you. Skiers in front of you always have the right of way, so be sure to maneuver around them in a safe manner. Stopping Dont block the slope. Pay attention when coming to a stop and find a visible area out of the way of downhill traffic. Do not stop around a bend or just over a hill be sure that you have a clear line of sight uphill and that people can see you as they approach. Starting When you are starting to ski in the middle of the trail, whether after a break or off a lift that drops you off halfway, look uphill and wait for a clearing before proceeding down. Also pay attention for merging trails and proceed with care, yielding as needed. Similar to driving a vehicle, you need to merge safely. Signs Observe all posted signs and warnings. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas. Take a break If you are tired, take a break and rest for a while in the lodge. While resting, make sure you eat and drink enough. When it is the end of the day, there is no need to try and get in a last run or two if you are tired. It is better to quit while you are ahead and save your energy for next time. Ski with a friend Its always safer to ski with a friend so he or she can watch out for you and vice versa. Prearrange a meeting place in case you get separated and use walkie-talkies to stay in touch. Respect your limits Slopes should fit the ability and experience of the skier or snowboarder. Stay sober Alcohol can affect you more quickly at high altitudes and seriously limits your awareness of danger and cold. Heavy drinking often puts you and others at risk. Seventy percent of skiing accidents happen after lunch, many caused by a combination of tiredness and alcohol.

Sports Briefs
Singles racquetball tourney
A singles racquetball tournament is scheduled to be held beginning at 9 a.m. on Feb. 26 at Yano Fitness Center. The event is open to all military personnel in Camp Zama, Sagami Depot and Sagamihara Housing Area, retirees, DoD civilians, AAFES employees, family members (18 years of age or older and not in high school), JGSDF members, and MLC employees. There is no fee for this event. There will be both mens and womens sivision. Awards will be presented to the first- and second-place. Register at the Yano issue counter by Feb. 25. Commanders Cup points will be awarded for this event. For more information, call 263-4664 or 263-7980.

Jacuzzi, steam room, sauna

The jacuzzi, steam room and sauna are co-ed at the Yano Fitness Center. On Wednesday mornings, the jacuzzi, sauna and steam room are closed for maintenance from 8 a.m. noon. for this event. For more information, call 263-4664 or 263-7980.

Water aerobics

Theyve got class

(From left): All-Army softball player Sgt. April McGarity of Fort Sam Houston, Texas; Army World Class Athlete Program strength and conditioning coach Sgt. 1st Class William Jackson; and WCAP Greco-Roman wrestler Sgt. 1st Class Dremiel Byers entertain a young fan inside the All-Army Sports tent at the Army Strong Zone adjacent to the Alamodome on the eve of the 2011 U.S. Army All-American Bowl. (U.S. Army photo by Tim Hipps)

Water Aerobics classes are from 9 to 10 a.m. Monday, Wednesdays and Fridays. Aqua Jogger classes are from 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays at Yano Fitness Center. For more information, call 263-4664 or 263-5656.

Sports Photos Wanted

The Torii Newspaper wants to publish your action sports photos for sports of all ages, all seasons. To showcase your team or your childs team, e-mail your digital action sports photos less than two weeks old (with captions) in .jpg format of 3MB or more to Tetsuo.Nakahara4@us.army.mil.

Classifieds & Movies

10 February 17, 2011 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_/. 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. 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 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. instructor: If you interested to teach Hula, Jazz, Piano, Drum classes please contact Community Activity Center at 263-8892 or 3939

www.torii.army.mil
1st Thursday of every month at the Masonic Bldg, Sagami Depot. For more information contact: rsl151@gmail.com; website: risingsunlodge151. com; or call Dave 080-3467-7881. fUReai, Japanese Personnel Newsletter is issued and distributed electronically. This newsletter is for MLC/MC/IHA personnel and US personnel who have Japanese subordinate employees. It is available at https://intranet. zama.army.mil/?linkid=fureai. Table Top Miniatures: Do you play Warhammer 40K or Fantasy? Other miniature games? Well contact me and lets roll some dice! Please email James @ ngolmo@gmail.com shoe repair: A cobbler is available on Zama in building 378. They are open from 11 a.m. 3 p.m. Wednesdays and Sundays. sports Photos Wanted: The Torii Newspaper wants to publish your action sports photos for sports of all ages, all seasons. To showcase your team or your childs team, e-mail your digital action sports photos less than two weeks old (with captions) in .jpg format of 3mb or more to tetsuo.nakahara4@us.army.mil. Catering services: The Catering Office is open Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., plus it is open on Wednesdays by appointment only. For additional information and assistance, please call at 263-4204.

Vehicles for sale

94 Honda ascot: silver, 4-door, sun-roof, automatic. JCI 23 Apr 11; $600. 080-58832205/425-999-8905, nmamura@hotmail.com. (5)

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 on the Internet at http://www.usagj.jp.pac. army.mil/ima/sites/jeso/rp_jjobs_list_j.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, Open Continuous Recreation assistant (lifeguard), NF-02, Flex, $ 9.29, Close: Apr 1, 2011 Maintenance Worker, RD, NA-07, RPT, $12.35, Close: Feb 18, 2011 Cook, BD, Bowling Center, NA-04, RFT, $10.22, Close: Feb 25, 2011

For sale
Misc. items: Purchased at Moda en Casa. Dimensions: 40cmWx 50 (d) x 69.5 (h). 40,000 yen. Matching dining table with 6 chairs. Table is 89.5cm x 50cm and is 69.5cm tall. Legs are removable. Nice warm finish. 50,000 yen. Photo's available. California King bedroom set. Built in North Carolina, purchased from Thomasville. Dark cherry. Includes bed, 2 nightstands, box spring and mattress. Dimensions are: Bed: 202 x 236 x 222h cm, Nightstands: 63.5w x 40.5d x 78.5h. 90,000 yen or best offer for the entire set. Photo's available. Get in shape while having some fun. Ride a lightly used Joba to a fitter fit. Read more about it here: http://en.item.rakuten. com/wide/4647/ 20,000 yen. 090-7843-6435 johnskb@gmail.com

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

Wanted
Baby sitter: Seeking a babysitter who is willing to watch my 1-year-old overnight at our house. Our house is It is about a minute out gate 4. If you are interested, please call Scott at 0908513-6274. Pet sitter: I am a DOD employee coming to Camp Zama on 3-13-2011 and have a amazon Parrot, I am looking for someone to pet sit until I have settled into Housing, this should not take more than 1 week, I will pay very well for your efforts! Bird can remain in cage and easy to feed. cage 15 X 12 X 13. E-mail: jdye26@ gmail.com volunteer at 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

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. Rising Sun Lodge 151, F&AM. Stated Meeting

ATTENTION
Due to the recent contract with Allied Telesis, residential phone numbers with 263- and 267prefixes have changed. If you are currently running a classified ad in the Torii that lists an out-of-date residential number as a point of contact and would like to change it to your new extension, send an e-mail to tetsuo.nakahara4@ us.army.mil with the updated phone number. The Torii staff will work to ensure these changes are reflected in future issues of the publication.

Other local positions

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. 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

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..................Little Fockers (PG-13) 98 minutes 9 p.m.....................The Roommate (PG-13) 93 minutes saturday 6:30 p.m.................The Roommate (PG-13) 98 minutes 9 p.m.........................The Tourist (PG-13) 104 minutes sunday 3:30 p.m...Chronicles of Narnia: Dawn Treader (PG) 112 minutes 6:30 p.m.................Tron: Legacy (PG-13) 126 minutes

friday 7 p.m..................Just Go With It (PG-13) 110 9:30 p.m..........................The Fighter (R) 116 saturday 4:30 p.m........Season of the Witch (PG-13) 95 7 p.m..................Just Go With It (PG-13) 110 9:30 p.m..........................The Fighter (R) 116 sunday 3 p.m.....................Gullivers Travels (PG) 87 5:30 p.m........Season of the Witch (PG-13) 95 8 p.m...............................The Fighter (R) 116

minutes minutes minutes minutes minutes minutes minutes minutes

for your Tv schedule, visit www.myafn.net

CoMMUNiTY CaleNdaR
www.torii.army.mil TORII
who found assistance and support within the Army. The Home Front is a unique tool for education in the areas of suicide-risk awareness, suicide prevention and the promotion of a positive behavioral health lifestyle. Also available are suicide awareness pamphlet guides. If you wish to have a copy of any of these materials, the Training Support Center located at Bldg. 102, Room 207.
February 17, 2011

11

UpcomingOngoing Events
Food Handlers Class
The Environmental Health section is offering a food handlers class, which is scheduled to be held 3 p.m. Wednesday at the Religious Education Center here. The time was changed to accommodate students and school faculty who may need to attend. The class will be two to four hours long, based on the number of attendees, and will be followed by a test. Students who pass will receive a food handlers card certifying them to participate in bake sales and other food vending operations for Camp Zama functions for one year. The class is also open to food service employees and will count toward their mandatory four to eight hours of annual training. Contact Capt. Wade DeYoung (E-mail: wade.deyoung@ us.army.mil, Phone: 263-5889), Spc. Garry Gabriel (E-mail: garry.gabriel@us.army.mil; Phone: 263-5050), or Sgt. Latoya Nieves (E-mail: latoya.nieves@us.army.mil; Phone: 263-8504) to sign up or for more details.

Whats Happening Outside the Gate?

Eagle 810, AFN Tokyo

Hisano Yamazaki

hisano.yamazaki.jp@yokota.af.mil

CIF relocation

The Central Issue Facility is now located in Bldg. 686, Room D-101 (across the street from MEDDAC). For any questions, call 263-7454 or 263-5880.

Chinese Lunar New Year Celebration @ Yokohama China Town, Feb. 3-17

Post-Combat Stress Support

A special support group to assist those experiencing symptoms of post-combat stress is offered from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tuesdays in the community room at Army Community Services. For more information, call Gary Woods at 263-8091.

Feb. 3 from 4 to 8 p.m.: Lion Dance performances @ Yokohama China Town; Feb. 5 and 11 to 13 from 11 a.m. to noon and 2 to 3 p.m.: Folk dance, music and acrobatic performances @ Yamashita-cho Park; Feb. 6 from 2 to 4 p.m.: Parade in traditional Chinese costumes. Start at/ return toYamashita-cho Park; Feb. 17 from 5:30 to 9 p.m.: Closing ceremony @ Yokohama China Town.

Tamagawa University performance

CLEP and DANTES Testing

Floating Hina Dolls Edo Nagashi-Bina in Azuma-bashi Bridge area in Sumida Park, Tokyo, Feb. 27
Traditional Japanese event to wash away the spirit of misfortune and wish for ones children to avoid diseases and disasters by floating paper hina dolls in the river.

Title: Hairspray Date: Feb. 26 and 27 Location: Community Activity Center Free tickets available at the Community Activity Center. For more information, call 263-3939.

Training DVDs available

College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) and Defense 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.

Japan Golf Fair @ Tokyo Big Sight, Feb. 18-20

(Admission Free): http://www.japangolffair.com/english/ index.html.

Shoulder to Shoulder: I Will Never Quit on Life is a 16-minute documentary video that features Soldiers who received help for personal distress or who assisted a fellow Soldier. These stories help reduce the stigma associated with personal distress, and inspire individuals to get the help they need. For Department of the Army civilians, the video is followed by a five-minute video module designed specifically for them. It features individuals who are committed to the well-being of the entire Army family or

Foreign Born Spouse Support Group Daruma* Doll Market @ Jindai-ji TemWhether your question concerns immigration and natu- ple, Chofu City, Tokyo, March 3-4
ralization, learning the English language, or how to take local transportation, the Army Community Service Relocation Program provides assistance, weekly classes and referrals. The support group is held on the third Wednesday of every month from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the ACS Outreach Room. Call 263-HELP (4357) for pre-registration.

* A daruma is a bright red doll in the likeness of an Indian monk who founded Zen Buddhism in the sixth century. Legend has it that the monk sat meditating in a cave for nine years and lost the use of his legs. Daruma are also good luck charms that help people fulfill their wishes; ithey encourage people to keep working toward their goals even when others are trying to hamper them.

Travel & CulTure

12 February 17, 2011 TORII

Japans largest Shinto shrine: Ise Jingu

Torii Staff report As you slowly approach the main Torii gate of the Ise Shrine and view the majestic grandeur of the cedar trees that have encased the shrine for hundreds of years, it is easy to recognize why this site is a must-go for most Japanese people. Ise-jingu, or Ise Shrine, is the largest Shinto shrine in Japan and is located in Mie Prefecture on the Kii Peninsula. The shrine is arguably the most sacred Shinto site in Japan and has an immense spiritual and cultural significance to the Japanese people. The Japanese call the shrine Oise-san, and more than six million people pay homage to the site every year. Ise Shrine is composed of two main shrines: The naiku, or inner shrine, is closely connected to Amaterasu Omikami, a major Shinto deity known to be the Guardian of Japan. The geku, or outer shrine, is dedicated to Toyouke Omikami, the Shinto deity responsible for supplying food to Amaterasu Omikami. The shrine hosts more than 1,700 ceremonies each year, including monthly rituals, prayer ceremonies in which worshippers pray for peace and prosperity for Japan and the world, ceremonies to bring good harvests, and others. Ise Shrine was founded approximately 2,000 years ago in the 26th year of the reign of Emperor Suinin. The broad path that approaches the shrine is paved with large ballast stones, and lined with aromatic cedar trees. The garden of the shrine is about 93 square meters and it is at the foot of Mount Kamiji and the beautiful banks of the Isuzu River. There are plenty of opportunities to purchase souvenirs both at the shrine and along the paths that lead to Ise. The main street also features a variety of shops, restaurants, as well as inns and hotels. You can also check out some of the Edo-period buildings and structures along the historic old road to Ise. The Ise area is also known for its food and is very popular among Japanese food lovers. The area is famous for its Matsuzaka beef, the most prized beef in Japan, and for its lobster, oysters and abalone. Oysters here are best between

December and March. Many local oyster farms feature allyou-can-eat specials that are relatively cheap. Although Ise is not close to Camp Zama, it is definitely worth the long trip. Make sure to set some time aside to check out this cultural and natural treasure here in the Land of the Rising Sun.