Aug 13, 2009www.torii.army.mil

Serving the U.S. Army Japan community

April 29, 2010VOL. 38, NO. 17

Serving the U.S. Army Japan community

www.torii.army.mil

By Dustin PerryTorii Editor

USAG-J wins special-category ACOE award

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

INSIDE the TORII

Revised motor pool booking system reduces paperwork, man hours

Photo by Dustin PerryHirohiko Nagai, the bus section foreman for the Directorate of Logistics’ motor operations section at Camp Zama, performs mainte-nance on his bus. An all-online system that was developed within the motor pool here and is now used there won a special-category Army Communities of Excellence Award for streamlining the vehicle-reservation process, thus reducing paperwork and man hours.

An improved online vehicle reservation program developed within Camp Zama’s motor opera-tions section led U.S. Army Garri-son – Japan to be recognized with a special-category Army Communi-ties of Excellence Award.

USAG-J is one of six Army garrison units that will given an ACOE Award in the “Exem-plary Practices” category during a ceremony to be held Tuesday in Washington, D.C. Along with the award, USAG-J will also receive a $75,000 cash prize.

The Directorate of Logistics-helmed program was selected from among several projects spearheaded at Camp Zama as being the best representation of the installation’s efforts to increase productivity, reduce costs and benefit the Army on a large scale, said Missy Lee, who helped create USAG-J’s submission packet for the ACOE Award.

“The award measures how we implement new ideas and how well we are taking care of our cus-tomers,” said Lee, a management analyst for the Plans, Analysis and Integration Office here. “I’m glad [DoL] won, because I think the project has the potential for Army-wide implementation. I think it would be a great honor for the people at DoL who worked so hard.”

The process for requesting a reservation for a government ve-hicle was previously done manu-ally; customers were required to fill out a request on paper, and there was no restriction on who could do so. This resulted in several

redundancies and delays. Andrew Ball, who in 2007 was the truck master at DoL, devised the idea to streamline the request process. Developing the project under the umbrella of the business manage-ment strategy known as Lean Six Sigma, Ball began beta-testing the program at the Camp Zama motor pool in October 2008. There were “immediate results,” he said.

“We took a paper process and turned it into an online process,” said Ball, now the chief of motor

operations. “Basically, you log in with your [common access card], fill out the form, and we get it in seconds versus minutes. It used to be a 20-minute cycle from filling out the request to us receiving it; now it’s five minutes.”

Streamlining the vehicle reser-vation process has led to decreas-ing wasted man hours within motor pool operations and increased customer satisfaction, said Ball. Since the implementation of the program, DoL has continued to

revise it to better suit the needs of the community, said Hiroshi Denton, the directorate’s current truck master. Taking feedback from users has yielded a program that is constantly improving, he said.

“To this day, we’re still making new changes; it’s still a develop-ing program,” said Denton. “It’s not even 50 percent done, and it’s already this good.”

The program is expected to be implemented at Army installations

in Kure and Okinawa, Japan, by June, said Denton.

The ACOE Awards recognize excellence in installation manage-ment. Winning installations must demonstrate continuous business process improvement, individual innovation, groundbreaking ini-tiatives, and a dedication to effi-ciency, effectiveness and customer care.

Camp Zama previously won the Gold award in the 2007 ACOE competition.

SPECIAL EARTH DAY ISSUE

2 April 29, 2010 TORII www.torii.army.milNEWS

Zama Briefs

Sensory-Friendly Movie DayIn support of Autism Awareness Month, Camp Zama’s Autism Parent Support Group is presenting “Sensory-Friendly Movie Day,” scheduled to be held 3 p.m. Saturday at the Sagamihara Movie Theater. The event will give attendees the opportunity to enjoy a screening of The Tale of Despereaux in a safe and accepting environment: Moving around in the theater will be allowed, and the phrase “silence is the golden rule” will not apply. Lights are brought up, sound is brought down, and gluten- and casein-free snacks may be brought for those with special diets. The snack bar will also be open. Advance tickets are required and cost $2 for children, $4 for adults. For more information or to reserve a seat, call Dee Saari at 263-8255 or e-mail deannsaari@yahoo.com.

Attire guidelinesNew clothing guidelines have been mandated by the commander of U.S. Army Garrison-Japan for all Status of Forces Agreement personnel and their family members while patronizing AAFES facilities on Camp Zama and Sagamihara Family Housing Area. Approved: Clean, serviceable shirts – with or without collars – are required. Shirts will be buttoned and tucked-in unless they are square-cut and designed to be worn outside trousers or shorts. Clean, serviceable trousers or shorts with a belt (if belt loops are present) are the standard.Not approved: Tops that are immodest, provocative or suggestive; uniform undershirts (green, white or brown) or T-shirts designed for wear as undergarments, with or without unit logos; tank top-type shirts, sleeveless “muscle” shirts, see-through mesh and net shirts, halter tops, tube tops and swimsuit tops; exposed midriffs and pants off the waistline; cut-off shorts, “short” shorts and swimming shorts; shirts exposing the abdomen; and clothing with obscene or vulgar language or imagery.

Family Matters BlogA 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/.

Military Spouse DayMay 7 has been declared as Military Spouse Day. To better highlight the lives of military spouses, the Torii is asking for essays and editorials about the day-to-day experiences of military spouses in the U.S. Army Japan community. Essays should be no more than 500 words and should be submitted no later than April 30. E-mail submissions to the USAG-J Deputy PAO at christopher.i.bush@us.army.mil.

Volunteers clean up Torii BeachBy Lauren HallTorii Station Public Affairs

OKINAWA, Japan – Nearly 40 volun-teers from Torii Station helped clean up Torii Beach to do their part in helping the environment for Earth Day on April 22.

Earth Day was founded by U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson in 1970 as a way to increase awareness and appreciation for the Earth’s environment and is now observed annually in just about every country in the world.

Roland Hickman from the Department of Public Works, Okinawa Environmental Branch, helped organize the effort.

“We have gloves and bags for everyone,” Hickman told volunteers. “We’re going to split into two groups, with one going north, the other going south. If you find any hazardous materials, let us know and we’ll take care of it.”

Volunteers included Soldiers, civilians, Japanese employees and employees from Community Bank on Torii Station.

“My coworker, Hyejin Noonan, and I volunteered because we wanted to do our part on Earth Day by giving something back to the community on Torii Station,” said Amelia Kent from Community Bank.

Sgt. Belinda Lewis and Staff Sgt. Mark Lewis of the 347th Military Police Detach-ment combed the central part of the beach and found miscellaneous items including articles of clothing and rusty nails.

Sgt. 1st Class Luis Quiceno from the 58th Signal Battalion and other members of the Sgt. Audie Murphy Club – Okinawa Chapter

helped in the cleanup effort as well.“I went all the way to the north end of

Torii Beach and found a few plastic two-liter bottles, a plastic cake plate cover, empty coffee cans, empty energy drinks, even some scrap wood with nails in it,” said Quiceno.

By far, the most common items of trash found on the beach were cigarette butts,

followed by plastic bottles, bottle caps, broken shards of glass from beer bottles and pieces of styrofoam cups, plates and containers. There was even an empty gas can in the sand.

“We should call this Human Sustainabil-ity Day because we need to take care of each other and the environment in order to live longer, healthier lives,” said Hickman.

SAGAMI GENERAL DEPOT – Lt. Col. Stacy Townsend, far left, 35th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion commander, ap-plauds as Iikuma Iida, Sagamihara City’s Chuo Ward director general, fills in the dirt around a freshly planted cherry tree in front of the 35th CSSB Headquarters Building April 22. The tree was planted to both commemorate the 40th annual Earth Day and to represent the strong relationship between the U.S. Army Japan and the city of Sagamihara.

A firmly rooted friendship

Photo by Lauren HallStaff Sgt. Mark Lewis and Sgt. Belinda Lewis of the 347th Military Police Detach-ment patrol Torii Beach Thursday as part of an Earth Day clean-up activity. Nearly 40 members of the Torii Station community participated.

NEWSwww.torii.army.mil

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

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 Commanding General: Maj. Gen. Francis J. WiercinskiGarrison Commander: Col. Perry HeltonGarrison Public Affairs Officer: Edward H. RoperDeputy Public Affairs Officer: Christopher BushEditor: Dustin PerryStaff : Tetsuo Nakahara

TORII April 29, 2010 3

The United States Army Garrison Japan launched its Green Procurement Program on thursday, the 40th anniversary of Earth Day, to help foster a “green” ethic within USAG-J installations by supporting purchases of environmentally friendly and energy efficient technologies and products.

Buying green or buying environmentally friendly prod-ucts is mandated by Federal, Department of Defense and Army directives when they are available, cost-effective, and will adequately perform to user requirements. Each organization initiating contracting or procurement actions or credit card purchases is responsible for complying with Green Procurement Program mandates.

USAG-J has implemented the Green Procurement Program in accordance with these directives. Installation and tenant unit personnel are required to purchase certain environmentally preferable, energy and water efficient items, bio-based products, non-ozone-depleting substances, recycled products, alternative fuels and vehicles, and less hazardous materials. These are known as the seven com-ponents of the Green Procurement Program.

This is what you can do help the USAG-J and your units comply: You can buy from federal procurement websites that list environmentally preferable products. You can be

sure that these sites will list the product characteristics as specified. You can also contact your vendor or the product manufacturer to inquire about the availability of environ-mentally preferable products or materials.

The Department of Defense Green Procurement Program aims to educate all appropriate DoD employees on the requirements of Federal “green” procurement preference programs.

The program will also increase purchases of green products and services consistent with the demands of mis-sion, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. The GPP will also reduce the amount of solid waste generated and expand markets for green products and services.

In accordance with Green Procurement Program objec-tives, USAG-J requests that all installation and tenant unit procurement and contracting personnel complete Green Procurement Program training.

USAG-J has developed a comprehensive Green Pro-curement Program website which provides on-line train-ing, directives, forms, and provides “green” links which will assist you to determine Green Procurement Program requirements, and provide you with vendor information.

Installation Green Procurement Program points of contact are also listed for additional assistance. Visit the USAG-J Directorate of Logistics Green Procurement Pro-gram training website at: https://intranet.zama.army.mil/CmdStaff/usagj/id/default.aspx for more information.

United States Army Garrison, Japan is concerned with the environment, conservation, and the affects of hazardous material on human health and in the coming months, the Torii newspaper and the USAG-J command channel will highlight various areas of the USAG-J Green Procurement Program.

Use the following Federal websites to ensure you have found the item that suits your needs, and provides the most efficient use of environmental resources:

Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines: List of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) designated recycle content products and recycled-content and recovered ma-terials recommendations. http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/conserve/tools/cpg/products/index.htm

Bio-Preferred: List of US Department of Agri-culture bio-based designated products. http://www.biopreferred.gov/ProposedAndFinalItemDesignations.aspx?SMSESSION=NO

Energy Star: List of energy efficient products and practices. http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=home.index

Alternative Fuels and Advanced Vehicles Data Cen-ter: Provides a wide range of information and resources to enable the use of alternative fuels, in addition to other petroleum reduction options such as advanced vehicles, fuel blends, idle reduction, and fuel economy. http://www.afdc.energy.gov/afdc/

Trash segregation key to reducing waste, saving moneyBy Tetsuo NakaharaTorii Staff

Trash and waste products are an unavoid-able fact of daily life; however, taking the proper steps in separating your garbage ensures that trash and waste do not spiral out of control.

As of March, the daily average of burn-able trash for the Camp Zama, Sagamihara Family Housing Area and Sagami General Depot community is more than eight and one half tons, according to the USAG-J Directorate of Public Works’ Operations and Maintenance Division.

All personal in the Camp Zama com-munity are given a briefing about separating their garbage when they attend the new-comer’s orientation. This briefing discusses the three basic categories of trash segrega-tion: burnable, non-burnable and recyclable items. The different categories of garbage are picked up by sanitation specialists on different days.

Upon collection, all of the community’s trash is delivered to one site on Camp Zama to be sorted by contracted employees. When people do not properly segregate their waste, delays and equipment problems occur that can cost USAG-J enormous amounts of taxpayer money.

“The big problem we have is improper

segregation,” said Sidney Malone, USAG-J DPW Mechanical and Sanitation Branch chief. “The incinerator at Camp Zama is designed for burnable trash; however, people mix non-burnable and recyclable items into burnable trash. If people segre-gate properly, it’ll save lots of money for the U.S. government.”

There are also a number of items that can be reused or disposed of in specific ways that will not only keep the environment clean but also save the American taxpayer millions of dollars over time. For example, computer printer cartridges from office spaces are considered to be hazardous material and should be turned into the Defense Reutiliza-tion Management Office or returned directly to the manufacturer. If the printer cartridges are from residences, the resident is to place them in a clear plastic bag and set them next to the blue containers on Wednesdays for recyclables pick-up day.

For electrical cords coming from office spaces, call 263-4920 or 263-4035 to make arrangements for pick up by contracted em-ployees. For cords coming from residences of family housing or unaccompanied of-ficers and enlisted housing, the resident is to place the cords in a clear plastic bag and set them next to the curb or refuse central location and it will be picked up by the contract employees.

“In a sense, people are lucky in the Camp Zama community,” Malone said. “If you live off base, your trash wouldn’t get picked up unless you segregate properly. There are not a lot of places for landfills here in Japan; it’s not like the States. Japan really enforces recycling and reuse for reduction of waste.”

Another good idea is to refrain from using paper or plastic cups as well as using cloth “eco-friendly” friendly shopping bags

instead of plastic bags, Malone said. In 2008, the Camp Zama community

succeeded in reducing its garbage by almost 300 pounds a day, Malone said. Unfortu-nately, the community’s garbage levels have surpassed that level so far in 2010.

“We really have to get our act together segregating trash and being good stewards of the environment,” Malone said. “I think education about the environment is very important, but action is even better.”

Photo by Tetsuo NakaharaEvery day, approximately 8.5 tons of burnable trash are carried to the Camp Zama incinerator.

Green Procurement Program comes to USAG-JBy Michael VinsonUSAG-J Directorate of Logistics

NEWS4 April 29, 2010 TORII www.torii.army.mil

Teens work together to beautify Sagami River

Photos by Dustin Perry(From left): Mana Ishikawa and Anna Hashimoto, both students at Sagamihara Seiryo High School, pick up litter April 10 at Sagami River as part of annual beautification efforts they conducted with classmates and youth volunteers from Camp Zama.

By Dustin PerryTorii Editor

CLEAR WATER REVIVAL:

Students work together to collect trash under a bridge at nearby Sagami River.

Jenny Rice, a 10th-grader at Zama Ameri-can High School, places garbage she collected into a pile during beautification efforts April 10 at Sagami River.

A student picks up a discarded beer can at Sagami River using metal tongs.

A portion of the nearby Sagami River was made cleaner, less hazardous and more habitable by a group of U.S. and Japanese teenagers who ventured there April 10 to conduct their annual beautification effort.

Fifteen youth volunteers from Camp Zama and students from Sagamihara Seiryo High School worked together for nearly two hours picking up litter and other discarded items – both from around the river’s shore and inside the water itself – and dispos-ing of it properly. The event was co-sponsored by Camp Zama’s Child, Youth and School Services program.

This effort be-tween the students from the two com-munities has been going on for at least 10 years, said Koichi Yanagi, the homeroom English teacher at Sagami-hara Seiryo. When he asked for volun-teers to participate in the cleanup, Yanagi said several of his students were eager to take part in an activity that would benefit their community.

“For the students who have the chance to actually pick up trash in the river, it will allow them to gain awareness about the environment,” said Yanagi. “It’s important for them to come here to a place that needs help, see the situation, and take action.”

Equipped with large plastic bags and metal tongs, the students scoured the area looking for items to pick up that had been thrown away or left there by visitors to the river. Aluminum cans, glass bottles and food wrappers were a common discovery, but the teens also found broken appliances, scrap metal, dishes and silverware, among others.

Volunteering of any kind is a good deed, and doing so in an effort to clean the environ-

ment is beneficial from every con-ceivable angle, said Lisa Kendrix, whose daughter JaLisa, 14, and Marqus, 15, both participated in the beautification.

“[My children] felt really good about being able to contribute to the community’s clean-up effort,” said Ken-drix, a workforce development pro-gram manager for the Directorate of Human Resources here. “Their work helped to create a cleaner and bet-ter world. It was a great learning expe-rience for the kids, as well.”

Even though Ja-pan is not her fam-

ily’s original home, Kendrix said keeping the earth clean is crucial regardless of where they happen to be living.

“I think that even though we’re in a dif-ferent country, the world is still ours as one,” said Kendrix. “I think we have to look at the big picture: We’re not just cleaning up Japan, we’re cleaning up the world.”

CommuNityTORII April 29, 2010 5www.torii.army.mil

SCHOOL NEWSOnline tutoringRound-the-clock professional tutors who can assist with homework, studying, test preparation, résumé writing and more are available at tutor.com for children of ser-vicemembers and eligible Department of Defense civilians assigned here. Active-duty servicemembers, National Guard and reserve personnel on active-duty deployed sta-tus, and DoD civilians on a deployed status are eligible to participate in this program. The site is open to students of any age, from kindergarten to high school, for one-on-one help in math, science, social studies and English. To use the site, students simply choose the subject for which they need help and type in their question. To learn more, visit the Web site and click on “Tutor.com for the Military.”

Zama Child Development Center:263-8081

SHA Child Development Center: 267-6153

John O. Arnn Elementary: 267-6602 Sure Start:Sure Start applications for the 2010-2011 school year are now available at Arnn Elementary School. Families whose children will be 4 years old by Sept. 1 and meet some of the eligibility criterion are encouraged to apply. These criterion include: children of low birth rates, child has a parent who was a teenager when the first child was born, child has a parent whose primary language is not English, child has a parent who has not graduated high school, child is in family headed by a single parent or dual military, child in a family with E-1 to E-4 or GS-1 to GS-4 or NSPS pay band 1 or NAF-1 or NAF-2 equivalents take first priority. (E-5 to E-6 or GS 5 to GS 6 or NAF 3-4 take second priority, E-7 to E-9 or GS-7 to GS-9 or NAF 3-4 rank equivalents take third priority). For more information, call the school at 267-6602.

Zama American Middle School: 263-4040 Zama American middle School Parent teacher organization (ZMS PTO) is accepting membership applications for the current 2009-2010 school year and the upcoming 2010-2011 school year. Parents and teachers of current seventh- and eighth-grade students at Zama Middle School, as well as parents of current sixth-grade students (future ZMS students) are encouraged to join and support the ZMS PTO. Please contact the ZMS PTO at: zmspto@gmail.com

Zama American High School: 263-3181ZAHS 2009-2010 yearbook: ZAHS has begun taking orders for its 2009-2010 yearbook. The book will be the largest ever produced in the school’s history and the largest in the Pacific: 276 full-color pages, an embossed cover, and customized artwork on each page – produced by the largest yearbook staff in the Department of Defense Education Activity. The cost is $85 per book (cash or check made payable to “Zama American High School”) and they are expected to sell out soon. Books are scheduled to be distributed the first week of June. For more information, call Richard Rodgers at 263-5300.

Child, Youth and School Services: 263-4500u-turn Program: A new program starting today aims to help the Camp Zama community’s youth succeed academically. The U-turn program is designed for youths to get peer tutoring; get help with college preparation and career exploration; scholarships and financial aid application assistance; and staff and volunteer support. A bus back to SHA and Atsugi will be provided every night at 8 p.m. The U-turn program will be available at the Camp Zama Youth Center every Tuesday and Thursday evening from 6 – 8 p.m. For more information, call 263-4500.

‘Trash to treasure’: homemade crafts at CZACCBy Dustin PerryTorii Editor

Think twice about throwing away those drinking straws or chopsticks; they could be the frame for a decorative kite. Don’t just toss that two-liter cola bottle in the trash; it could be the fuselage of a NASA-ready space shuttle.

The phrase “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure” suits the philosophy of homemade hobby projects particularly well, and the Camp Zama Arts and Crafts Center is perhaps the most accommodat-ing place in which to hone the skill. The center’s knowledgeable staff and the wealth of available recycled materials there make it the ideal location to put the idea of eco-friendly ornamentation into practice.

Tsuyoshi Yajima, a hobby craft instructor at the Camp Zama Arts and Crafts Center, cuts off the side of a milk carton to make a homemade ship using recycled materi-als, including straws and chopsticks.

“Almost anything around the house can be used to make something,” said Tsuyoshi Yajima, a hobby craft instructor at the CZACC. “People should think before they throw something away if they can recycle or reuse it for something fun.”

A project or piece of artwork that is made using found and reused materials won’t rival a prefabricated model kit in terms of looks or craftsmanship, but there is a uniqueness to the former that can’t be matched, said Hiromi Suzuki, a fellow hobby craft instructor.

“Things that are made from scratch have a certain charm,” said Suzuki. “If you use your hands to make something, it may not look like the real thing, but you get to use your imagination. The way I think I should make something will be totally different compared to someone else.”

During a youth summer camp in 2006, Yajima and Suzuki taught children to make a small sailing ship using mostly disposable materials and other supplies. To recreate the project, the following items are needed: one half-gallon milk carton, rinsed out and dried; one drinking straw; one pair of chopsticks; one sheet of sturdy, glossy paper (a magazine cover, for example); and a small length of colored yarn. Also needed are clear tape, glue, a stapler, a box cutter or other precision blade (safety scissors for small children), and a hole-punch, if available.

The first step is to remove one entire side of the milk carton using the box cutter or scissors (see photo at left). Holding the piece lengthwise, fold it into thirds so that the two outer sides bend at the width of the carton. Next, create a hole in the center of the piece using the hole-punch, pen or other suitable tool, and set the piece aside.

Lay the carton on its side and stand the drinking straw up inside. Cut the straw to a length that extends about 1.5 inches past

the height of the carton; this will serve as the mast support. At one end of the straw, cut four one-inch slits and bend them at 90 degrees in order to create an X-shaped base. Apply glue to the underside of each “leg” and affix the legs to the inside center of the carton.

Slide the piece over the straw through the hole in the center and staple each side to the carton (the ship’s hull). Take the pair of chopsticks, separate them, and tape them together so that the ends of each stick overlap about two inches; this will be the ship’s mast. For the sturdy sheet of paper – the sail – the standard letter size works best. Cut small slits in the center, about a half-inch from the top and bottom of the paper, and slide each end of the mast through the slits. Finally, place the mast into the mast support and the project is complete. Further decorations

and embellishments can be made as desired using various materials.

The resulting product was a huge hit for the children, said Suzuki, who added that she was pleased to see them pushing the limits of their own creativity during the project.

“[The children] knew they weren’t mak-ing a real ship, but they used their imagi-nations and to them, it was better than the real thing,” said Suzuki. “It’s fake, but it’s fun – and the result is going to be different every time.”

Anyone interested in creating this or any number of other projects can visit the CZACC at Bldg. 316 behind the Youth Center. The CZACC is open Wednesday and Thursday from 1 to 9 p.m., and Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call 263-4412.

Photos by Dustin PerryThe following household tools and recycled items can be used to make a homemade sailing ship, one of many projects taught by the staff at the Camp Zama Arts and Crafts Center. Many of the materials needed can be found at the CZACC.

6 April 29, 2010 TORII

COMMUNITYTORII April 29, 2010 7www.torii.army.mil

By Tetsuo NakaharaTorii Staff

Arnn students say Reduce, Reuse and RecycleStudents at John O. Arnn Elementary School learned how to keep the environment clean, save energy and conserve resources

Thursday during the school’s annual Earth Day celebration.An assembly kicked off the event in the morning inside the school’s gymnasium, which was attended by students from kin-

dergarten to sixth grade and 15 volunteers from the Camp Zama community. An Earth Day-themed musical was performed by approximately 30 student chorus members.

“Every day must be [thought of as] Earth Day,” said Col. Perry Helton, commander of U.S. Army Garrison Japan, to the children in his remarks during the opening ceremony. “As long as we reduce, reuse and recycle, we will ensure that our planet will remain healthy for each and everyone.”

Also during the opening ceremony, fifth-grader Nathan Phillabaum was recognized as the winner of a competition to draw a picture to be printed on a reusable “eco-bag.” Nathan’s design included a drawing of Earth and the phrase, “Give Back to the Earth: Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.” It was explained that the eco-bags can be used when shopping to reduce plastic waste.

Four stations, sponsored by different units and organizations at Camp Zama, were available for the students to visit, including a “Recycling and Energy” station from the Department of Public Works; an “Outdoor Ethics” station from the Family, Morale, Welfare and Recreation Command; a “Skin Damage and Ozone” station from the Public Health Region Pacific Command; and an “Earth Day Activity” station from the Zama American High School Earth Club.

At one station, three Soldiers from PHR-PAC gave a briefing using visual aids during which they discussed topics such as how the ozone layer is becoming more depleted every year, how the students can prevent damaging the ozone, and how to protect themselves from sun damage.

“Hopefully by teaching this generation of children, they can take that knowledge to adulthood and share with their children to let them know how to protect the earth,” said Staff Sgt. Erwin Arias, the health physics noncommissioned officer in charge at PHR-PAC. “That way, we still have a beautiful planet later down the road. Part of our job [is] helping the community. We’re here to bring the same knowledge and skills we learned in Army here to share with the children.”

The speakers at each station were given 15 minutes for their presentation, during which each group of students learned about different topics regarding Earth Day.

“I think Earth Day is the great day for people to realize that we need to take care of our planet,” said Gia Haddock, a fifth-grader at Arnn. “We need to start walking or riding a bicycle more if we are just going a short way; we shouldn’t be using cars a lot.”

Six members from ZAHS’ Earth Club also gave a briefing, during which they discussed with the children how to conserve resources and reduce waste. They also showed the children how to make artwork using recycled paper plates and bottle caps.

“It’s important to keep the level of awareness,” said Sue Morin, principal at Arnn. “Kids are great in terms of recycling; it’s the adults who need a reminder due to old habits sometimes. Learning through the example of kids and their generation’s [mindset] of ‘staying green’ just raises the level of our awareness. It’s a continuous cycle of learning and practice to stay green because we have only one chance with this planet. I truly thank the Camp Zama Community for supporting this event.”

Approximately 30 students in a chorus group from Arnn Elementary sing songs about Earth Day inside the school’s gymnasium. The students ranged from third- to fifth-graders.

Staff Sgt. Erwin Arias, the health physics noncommissioned officer in charge for Public Health Region Pacific Command, gives a presentation on the ozone layer to students in the science room Thursday at John O. Arnn Elementary School.

Second-grade students at Arnn touch a compressed package of aluminum cans at the Recycling and Energy station, which was put together by the Department of Public Works.

Col. Perry Helton, commander of U.S. Army Garrison Japan, gives remarks to students from kindergarten to sixth grade Thursday during the opening ceremony for Arnn’s Earth Day event. (Middle) Nathan Phillabaum, a fifth-grader, is awarded for creating the winning eco-bag design.

Third-grade students show the artwork they made using recycled paper plates and bottle caps during a workshop held by members of Zama American High School’s Earth Club.

Photos by Tetsuo Nakahara

SPORTS & FITNESS8 April 29, 2010 TORII www.torii.army.mil

Upon taking my newly purchased bicycle for an inaugural ride through the streets of Camp Zama last week, the first thought that came to mind was a clear and resounding, “Why didn’t I do this years ago?”

The exhilaration and freedom of pedaling down an empty sidewalk was a sensation I hadn’t felt since junior high. I picked up speed on a straightway to see if I could still ride without holding the handlebars (I could.) Churning my legs in order to ascend a particularly steep incline gave me a lower-body workout comparable to my daily trip to the gym. I genuinely enjoyed just being outdoors – free from the confines of my desk, my cell phone turned off – and at the same time, I gained a renewed appreciation for a pastime I more or less abandoned once I reached driving age.

And perhaps best of all, the only re-sources I used to power my bike were my own sweat and muscular exertion – both of which come at no cost to me, and are also 100 percent environmentally friendly.

Now, it’s pure coincidence that I pur-chased such an ecologically conscious mode of transportation in the same month during which the world celebrates Earth Day. Getting a new bike had been on my list of things to do for quite a while; I just happened to finally find the right model in the right size while recently searching a nearby shop outside the installation. However, the

combination of my timely acquisition and a worldwide observance that encourages protecting the planet and reducing pollu-tion led to an unintended – but nonetheless positive – side-effect: I decided to begin cycling to work.

I am by no means the first person in Japan to stumble upon this amazing idea. Bicycles are ubiquitous in this country, and you’re just as likely to see an elementary school student riding one as you are a texting teenager or a middle-aged businessman or -woman. On Camp Zama, there are several Soldiers, civilians and students who use them to get around. As a car driver who was often stuck in infuriatingly slow-moving traffic, the sight of a senior citizen zipping past me on a generic seven-speed made the decision to ditch my four wheels for two an obvious one.

The benefits of non-gas-powered travel are numerous. From an environmental as-pect, a bicycle of course has the advantage of giving off zero emissions and requiring no nonrenewable resources to power it. That in turn leads to saving money on gasoline, insurance, maintenance and costly repairs that are inevitable expenses for all auto-mobiles. For people who don’t have time to go to the gym, 45 to 60 minutes per day on a bike is an excellent way to maintain personal fitness. And you cannot put a price on the peace of mind that comes from not

having to wait at a red light for five minutes while listening to a talk-radio pundit shout incessantly about health care reform.

I understand that for many people, trad-ing their car, van or SUV for a bicycle is not a feasible option. There are parents who need to pick up their children from school, there are people who live much further away from the installation than the nearby Sagamihara Family Housing Area, and a load of groceries from the commissary can’t exactly fit in a small wire basket mounted on the front of a Huffy.

Likewise, I will still use my car for tasks that would be difficult or impossible on a bike and to travel long distances with my

family. And if weather conditions on any given day are dangerous or even less-than-ideal, I will forego thinking about conserva-tion in favor of self-preservation. As often as I can help it, however, I plan to follow through on my new commitment.

I know that riding a bike instead of a car four or five times per week doesn’t make me Captain Planet, but there’s no question that it helps. And if I can make a contribu-tion, however small it may be, that serves the philosophy behind Earth Day – founded in 1970 by Sen. Gaylord Nelson, and cel-ebrated in full force Thursday across the entire Camp Zama community – the choice to do so is no choice at all.

Photo by Dustin PerryRiding a bicycle instead of a car helps the environment, saves the owner money on gasoline and costly repairs, and is an excellent way to maintain personal fitness.

Wheels in motion: a different take on ‘re-cycling’

CommentaryBy Dustin PerryTorii Editor

Bar-hoppingKen Hor of St. Mary’s International School in Tokyo competes in the high jump event during the Kanto Plains Association of Secondary Schools track and field meet, held Saturday at Zama American High School. Also competing were teams from Christian Academy of Japan and Seisen Inter-national High School, both located in Tokyo. (Photo by Regina Thorp)

SPORTS & FITNESSTORII April 29, 2010 9www.torii.army.mil

Singles Tennis TournamentThere will be a Singles Tennis Tournament 9 a.m. Saturday at the Camp Zama Tennis Courts. The event is open to all military personnel from Camp Zama, Sagami Depot and Sagamihara Family Housing Area; retirees; DoD civilians; AAFES employees; family members (18 years of age or older and not in high school); JGSDF; and MLC employees. Please register at the Yano Fitness Center issue counter by 9 p.m. Friday. Awards will be presented to the first- and second-place finishers per division. There will be men’s and women’s divisions. Commander’s Cup points will be awarded for this event. For more infor-mation call 263-4664 or 263-7980.

Big Kahuna Bench PressCompetitionThe Big Kahuna Bench Press Competition is scheduled to be held May 20 at the Yano Fitness Center here, beginning at 5 p.m. There will be both men’s and women’s divisions in the competition. To sign up, visit the Yano front desk, or call 263-4664 for more information.

Golf demoGolfers can demo two new Pin golf clubs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 22 at the Camp Zama Golf Course Driving Range. For more information, call the Golf Shop at 263-5284.

Your Weekly Dose

Access to care 24/7 For emergencies on post, dial 911 or 046-407-2911; off post, dial 119 (Say “kyukyu”). In a remote location, the International SOS Alarm Center number is 001-65-6338-9277 for TRICARE Prime (a collect call). For Military OneSource when on post, dial 145; off post, dial 046-407-2145. The numbers to reach the MEDDAC-J front desk or a translator are 263-4127 or 046-407-4127. The Central Appointment number is 263-4175, and cancellations can be made 24 hours a day. Online appointments can be made by visiting www.tricareonline.com

Suicide PreventionThe USARJ Community has 24/7 access to assistance for suicide prevention by dialing 911 for immediate on-site assistance for those who may hurt themself or someone else, call 263-4127 for medical, behavioral or chaplain advice, or 145 for direct access to Military OneSource. Military OneSource representatives will provide support through advice and counseling to the population previously listed. These services are also available for our USARJ community members in Okinawa.

Temporary Zama Optometry ShortfallFrom May through June, due to a provider short-age, active-duty members will be given priority for optometry appointments. All others will be seen on a space-available basis. Individuals can call Yokosuka, Yokota and Atsugi for appoint-ments. Host nation providers are also available.For more information, call the Optometry Clinic at 263-4240.

Contact lens fittingInitial contact lens fitting is not provided in a military treatment facility since it is not a TRICARE benefit. However, an MTF will usually assist with renewal fitting as long as the servicemember has the contact lens with them and their current prescription.

Sports Briefs

Photo by Christopher Bush

Col. Marilyn Brew, commander of BG Crawford F. Sams U.S. Army Health Clinic, slips a Frisbee by a competitor from the 78th Signal Battalion during the Ultimate Frisbee competition held Saturday on the soccer field in front of the Camp Zama Dining Facility. The 78th Sig. Bn. crushed BG Sams during the match by a score of 10-5.

Slipped disc

Classifieds & Movies 10 April 29, 2010 TORII www.torii.army.mil

friday6:30 p.m..................Death at a Funeral (R) 90 minutes9 p.m............................Shutter Island (R) 138 minutes

saturday6:30 p.m..................Death at a Funeral (R) 90 minutes 9 p.m...............................The Crazies (R) 102 minutes

sunday3:30 p.m...........Percy Jackson and the Olympians (PG) 118 minutes6:30 p.m..................Death at a Funeral (R) 90 minutes

Movie sCHedUle aTsUGi Cinema 77

https://www.atsugi.navy.mil/ATSUGI/Mwr/index.html264-3789

saGaMiHaRa

7 p.m..........Our Family Wedding (PG-13) 103 minutes9:30 p.m..........................Green Zone (R) 115 minutes

saturday4:30 p.m...........Alice in Wonderland (PG) 109 minutes7 p.m...........................Date Night (PG-13) 88 minutes9:30 p.m..........................Green Zone (R) 115 minutes

sunday11 a.m.............Boxing: Mayweather vs. Mosley (Free)5:30 p.m.....Our Family Wedding (PG-13) 103 minutes8 p.m. .............................Green Zone (R) 115 minutes

friday

for your Tv schedule, visit www.myafn.net

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 non-workplace 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_/.

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.

Jobs

OthersWanted

Other local positions

Pets

Vehicles for sale

http://www.aafes.com/ems/pac/zama.htm267-6111

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

Child and Youth Program assistant (level 2-4), (CYS, Zama & SHA), CY-1/2, RFT/RPT, $9.58 - $17.09, Closes: Open Continuous

Cook (CYs), NA-04, Flex, $10.01, Closes: Open Continuous

Recreation assistant (lifeguard/Pool operator), RD, NF-02, $9.26, Closes: Open Continuous

Recreation assistant (lifeguard), RD, Flex, NF-02, $9.29, Closes: Open Continuous

food service Worker (Bowling), BD, Flex, NA-02, $8.77, Closes: Open Continuous

operation assistant (Community Club), BD, Flex, NF-1101-01, $9.00, Closes: Open Continuous

Child and Youth Program assistant (summer) (CYs), CY-01, $9.58 - $17.09, Closes: June 1, 2010

CYs facility director, CYs, NF-04, RFT, $39,000 - $45,000, Closes: May 06, 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.

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. Bachelor’s 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. Bachelor’s Degree and Teaching License/Certificate preferred.Will be paid for classroom hours taught per year.Call 263-5055 for more information.

ZaCsa’s 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 Saturday’s 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.

The Women, infant, and Children, (WIC) overseas program at Camp Zama offers valuable nutritional information and food subsidizes. For more information, call 263-8960.

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.

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 let’s roll some dice! Please email James @ ngolmo@gmail.com

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

Housekeeping services: need someone to come into my home and do some special and specific spring cleaning assignments. Pay is negotiable and tips to established services are welcome. Call 263-7352 and leave a detailed message or e-mail armysunshine@hotmail.com.

98 Toyota Prado TX 4Wd: Excellent condition, White, Power everything, CD/Stereo, seats 8, 75K. JCI until May 2011. $7,500 or best offer. Call 090-3450-8792, email cgcaptgood@yahoo.com (4)

04 Nissan skyline fairlady Z/350Z: Dark Metallic Grey, Nismo Body, auburn leather seats, Excellent condition, 20/19” VIP Luxury Wheels, HKS exhaust system, 4” tips, Drill/Slot Rotors, Power everything, New JCI, TV, NAV, Mini Disc, Keyless, 6CD, PCSing: $14.500 OBO. Call 090-8517-9568

04 Yamaha, YZf R1: Immaculate Condition,

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

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.

Officials: Officials for all intramural sports (flag-football, softball, basketball, & volleyball), aerobic & yoga instructors, fitness trainers and massage therapists. For more information, call 263-4664 / 7980.

sports photos: The Torii Newspaper wants to publish your action sports photos for sports of all ages, all seasons. To showcase your team or your child’s 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.

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,

Like New, Met Silver/Drk Grey, Limited color, 13,400km, Carbon Fiber parts, Garage kept, TOCE Extreme 4/quad exhaust, Vortex racing sprocket/gold chain, Double wind screen, Pilot Power 2CT Tires, New JCI, Plus much more $7,900. PCSing: Call 090-8517-9568

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 263-4412.

CoMMUNiTY CaleNdaRwww.torii.army.mil TORII April 29, 2010 11

Eagle 810, AFN Tokyo

What’s Happening Outside the Gate?

Hisano Yamazakihisano.yamazaki.jp@yokota.af.mil

UpcomingOngoing EventsPost-Combat Stress SupportA 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.

New Parent Support ProgramThe New Parent Support Program, a division of the Family Advocacy Program, specializes in assisting and offering services to new and expecting parents. Play Morning, an interactive playgroup for parents and children up to age 6 is held 9:30 to 11 a.m. Tuesdays at the Zama Chapel and the same time every second, third and fourth Thursday at SHA CDC. Breast Feeding Support Groups are held on the first Thursday of the month, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at ACS and the third Monday of the month, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at SHA CDC. Baby Bundles is a program that provides information and supplies for new and expecting parents.They are available, along with electric breast pumps, for loan by contacting 263-2382.

Camp Zama Red Cross ClassesThe Camp Zama/Naval Air Facility Atsugi continues to offer classes to the community. For March, the following courses will be offered: Mar. 6 First Aid, for the CPR/AED (at NAF Atsugi), Mar. 15, 16, 17, 18, and 19 for the Instructors’ Course, Mar. 8, 10, 12 and Mar 20 First Aid, CPR/AED at Camp Zama. Pre-registration is required for all courses. Call 263-3166 for more information.

Free Bowling ThursdaysZama Bowling Center is open for free bowling from 3 to 7 p.m. Thursdays to promote family time. Free bowling is also offered from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday with a lunch purchase of $4.50 or more. Pre-paid bowling cards are also available. For more information, call 263-4780.

CENTRAL ISSUE FACILITYThe CIF will be closed to conduct required semi-annual inventory form March 22 - 25.We will be open for emergency issues and turn-ins. For emergencies, please call Mr. Bishop at 263-5880 or Mr. Sakata at 263-7454.

Army Family Action PlanAFAP is a year-round process. To submit and AFAP issue, log onto http://www.mwrjapan.jp.pac.army.mil and click on “Submit an AFAP Community Idea/Concern.” Issues can be submitted anonymously and will be sent directly to the AFAP program manager.

Alcohol Awareness MonthApril is Alcohol Awareness Month. If you, or anyone you know, are struggling with an alcohol related problem, call 263-8059.

Yokohama Port Festival International Costume Parade @ Yamashita Park, Red Brick Warehouse, Isezaki-cho Town, May 3

Meiji Jingu Shrine Spring Grand Festival, Tokyo, Apr 29-May 3 Apr 29, 1100-: Traditional Japanese Court Music and Dance Performances or “Bugaku”, May 2, 1145-: Traditional Japanese music and dance performances, May 2, 1545-: Musical ensemble performed by three different traditional Japanese music instruments , May 3, 1200:Japan’s oldest form of masked musical theater or “Noh” & classical Japanese comic theater or “Kyogen”, May 3, 1430:Music performed by traditional Japanese lute or “Satsuma-biwa”

Hawaii Festival “Loco Moco Sunset—Feel the Mana” @ Odaiba Kaihin Park Seaside State, Tokyo, Apr 29

Giant Kite Festival, 43-Square-Foot Kite Flying in the Sagami River area, Sagamihara City , May 4-5

Travel & CulTure12 April 29, 2010 TORII

Story and photos by Tetsuo NakaharaTorii Staff

Tokyo celebrates Earth Day’s 40th Anniversary“The Festival of Love and Peace” was the theme for Earth Day Tokyo 2010, held April 17 and 18 at Yoyogi Park. Earth Day Tokyo is the largest enviromental event in Japan.

More than 140,000 people visited Yoyogi Park to celebrate Earth Day’s 40th anniversary during the two-day event.

More than 150 groups, including nonprofit organizations and companies focused on environmental issues, set up booths to promote their cause and to give items and provide information to visitors.

At Earth Day Tokyo 2010, visitors had the opportunity to participate in various workshops that were focused on how to increase environmental awareness.

The blue sky and perfect spring weather made it an ideal day for people to raise their environmental awareness during Earth Day Tokyo held April 17

and 18 at Yoyogi Park.More than 140,000 people attended the event to share their

consciousness for the earth through various activities and pro-grams, and also to celebrate Earth Day’s 40th anniversary.

Earth Day began in the U.S. in 1970, when Sen. Gaylord Nelson declared April 22 a day to raise the public’s awareness of environmental issues. Since then, the event has spread all over the world, including Japan.

The theme of Earth Day Tokyo 2010 was “The Festival of Love and Peace.” More than 150 groups, including nonprofit organizations and companies focused on environmental issues, set up booths to promote their cause and to give items and pro-

vide information to visitors. Recycle shops, fair-trade items, an organic-food corner, live performances and workshops were everywhere in the park. The event was designed for all ages to simultaneously learn about and gain an appreciation for environmental conservation. There were more than 600 volunteers who participated in the event.

This year, the event space in Yoyogi Park was divided into three main sections: Energy Action, Food Action and Agriculture Action.

Energy Action booths featured information on bio-energy, which utilizes cooking oil to power vehicles. Also, solar energy and hydrogen demonstrations were given, which aim to reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

Local foods were sold at the Food Action booths. There were a lot of natural, eco-friendly seasonal farm products available at each booth. It was a perfect and rare opportu-nity for farm producers and consumers to talk face to face. People visiting the festival were encouraged to bring their own plates and cups to reduce paper and plastic waste.

There were guest speakers who discussed energy conser-vation and environmental issues, a live music performance, and a dance performance. To save energy, all of the music performances at the festival were powered by biodiesel.

Earth Day committee members have begun growing their own rice and soy beans with the intent of raising the festival’s self-sufficiency rate.

Earth Day Tokyo is marked as the largest environmental event in Japan. It is worth joining the event next year for those who want to see how the country is focused on earth consciousness.