Serving the U.S. Army Japan community

www.torii.army.milVOL. 39, NO. 45November 17, 2011

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

INSIDE the TORII

House of the quarter-millenniumPhoto by Tetsuo Nakahara

Michael Fies, assigned to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, looks at an old Japanese folk house, built in the late 17th century, at the Japan Open-Air Folk House Museum in Kawasaki City during an bilateral hiking event Saturday, hosted by the Zama International Association. More than 15 Camp Zama community members participated in the tour. For more on this story, see Page 5.

Paying tribute to America’s veteransBy Jim GaramoneAmerican Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON – Once again the sound of taps spilled over the hillside above the Tomb of the Unknowns as President Barack Obama placed a wreath honoring America’s veterans, here Friday.

The president spoke for the country in honoring veterans and service members on the 93rd anniversary of the armistice ending World War I.

Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta and Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, represented the Defense Department and U.S. military at the ceremony.

Veterans Affairs Secretary retired Army Gen. Eric Shinseki, who introduced the president at the Memorial Amphitheater, said no commander-in-chief has done more since President Franklin D. Roosevelt to care for and honor veterans.

On a bright and windy day, Obama took the rostrum and said the veterans of today are part of the thin line connecting American history.

“Whether you fought in Salerno or Samara, Khe Sanh or the Korengal, you are part of an unbroken chain of men and women who have served this country with honor and distinction,” he said. “On behalf of a proud and grateful nation, we thank you.”

The president praised the newest generation of American veterans, noting that since 9/11, more than 3 million young Americans have raised their hands and become part of the armed forces. These men and women, the president said, stepped forward “knowing full well that they could be sent into harm’s way. And in that time, they have served in some of the world’s most dangerous places.”

“So on this Veterans Day, let us commit ourselves to keep making sure that our veterans receive the care and benefits that they have earned, the opportunity they defend and deserve,” Obama said. “And above all, let us welcome them home as what they are: an integral, essential part of our American family.”

American service members have worked and fought in remote and dangerous places since 9/11, and now they are coming home, Obama continued. The country needs their service, “because after a decade of war, the nation we now need to build is our own,” he said.

Just as the World War II generation came home from war to build the largest middle class on Earth, “so now will the 9/11 generation play a pivotal role in rebuilding America’s opportunity and prosperity in the 21st century,” he said.

This will not be easy, Obama said, and the nation must still deal with new threats.

“We’ve got to overcome the cynical voices warning that America’s best days are behind us,” he said. “Because if there is anything our veterans teach us, it’s that there is no threat we cannot meet, there is no challenge we cannot overcome.

“We are a country that does what is necessary for future generations to succeed,” he concluded. “You, our veterans, fight so our children won’t have to. We build and we invent and we learn so that we will know greater opportunity. America leads so that the next generation here and around the world will know a more hopeful life on this Earth.”

2 November 17, 2011 TORII www.torii.army.milNEWS

Zama Briefs

‘You Made the Grade’Now in its 11th consecutive year, “You

Made the Grade” recognizes students who achieve a B average or better with a benefits-filled booklet. Exclusive offers include a free Burger King kids meal, a Subway six-inch combo, video rental and $2 off any new-release DVD at the PowerZone, to name a few.

Eligible students can also register for a drawing to win a savings bond worth up to $5,000 by filling out and mailing an included entry form.

To receive a You Made the Grade booklet, students simply present a valid military ID card and proof of an overall B or better average at 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.

Call (214) 261-2103 for more information.

Depot Pass Office ClosedThe Pass Office at Sagami General

Depot will be closed until Dec. 31. Local national employees and contractors seeking vehicle passes or renewals should submit the required documents, including USAG-J Form 47 signed by their supervisor or contracting officer, to the Camp Zama Pass Office at Bldg. 235. For guest rosters, submit a USAG-J Form 1529 signed by a sponsor. Call 263-4697 for more information.

Christmas mailing deadlinesThe mailing deadline dates for Air Force

post offices in mainland Japan for the 2011 Christmas season are as follows:

• Space Available Mail: Dec. 2• Parcel Airlift: Dec. 2• Priority Mail: Dec. 9• Letter/First Class Mail: Dec. 9•Express Mail: Dec. 16Call 263-3963 for more information.

EFMP Respite CareRespite care is for Army active-duty

service members who have a family member enrolled in the Exceptional Family Member Program with moderate to severe special needs. Those seeking to utilize this service must meet one or more of the eight eligibility criteria to qualify.

Call 263-4572 for more information.

Autism Support GroupAutism Support Group meetings are held

from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. on the third Monday of every month at Army Community Service, Bldg. 402. Attendees can meet and network with families touched by autism, and learn strategies on coping with the effects of autism.

Call 263-4572 for more information.

Deployed Spouse SupportDeployed Spouse Support Groups

are an unofficial resource to network, in an atmosphere of understanding and compassion, with others who are dealing with the challenges of deployment.

Meetings are held from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month in the Army Community Service Outreach Room, Bldg. 402.

Photo by Tetsuo Nakahara

He won’t steer you wrongYoshinori Kubota, chairman of the Sagamihara City Defense Association, tries his hand at a computer-based convoy training simulator Monday at the Mission Command Training Center at Sagami General Depot, which opened its doors in August. Twenty-eight members of the SCDA visited the facility as part of a one-day tour of Camp Zama and Depot.

Visit facebook.com/USAGJ and watch USARJ This Week on Channel 13 for the latest Zama updates

INSIGHT & 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 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 Commanding General: Maj. Gen. Michael T. Harrison Sr.Garrison Commander: Col. Eric D. TilleyGarrison Public Affairs Officer: R. Slade WaltersEditor: Dustin PerryStaff Writer: Tetsuo NakaharaDeputy Okinawa Bureau Chief: Lauren Hall

TORII November 17, 2011 3

No Torii issue next week, printing resumes Dec. 1

The Torii newspaper is not published the week of Thanksgiving. Therefore, no issue will be printed or distributed on Nov. 24. Publication will resume the following week on Dec. 1.

Information and updates on news and events in the U.S. Army Japan community will continue to be made available on the Command Channel and the U.S. Army Gar-rison Japan Facebook page.

I recently read an article in the Torii in which Maj. Gen. Michael T. Harrison Sr., the commander of U.S. Army Japan and I Corps (Forward), discussed the five elements of his Command Philosophy. He went on to add that if we follow these ele-ments, it would lead to a more harmonious community, the kind of community where people treat each other with the dignity and respect that draws people together. What really caught my attention was the second element the Golden Rule.

This made me think about what binds a community together. Now, I am a product of the California State Public School Sys-tem, so just thinking gives me a headache. But seriously, what binds a community together? Is it socio-economic status? Is it shared career paths? Perhaps loyalty to a local sports team?

I submit to you that it is something a lot more basic but much, much more substan-tive. I believe that the manner in which people treat each other ties them together.

Following ‘Golden Rule’ can lead to kinder community By Maj. Dan ReichardU.S. Army Japan G-4

In short, the glue that holds us all together and builds a harmonious atmosphere is the kindness that we extend to others within our micro and macro communities.

We reside within a unique environment. Camp Zama is a miniature America (our micro community) nestled within the heart of Japan (our macro community). Camp Zama is a great place to live and observe the Golden Rule being exercised on a daily basis. But what is the “Golden Rule,” and more importantly, how do you actually practice it?

Merriam-Webster defines the Golden Rule as “a general rule for how to behave that says that you should treat people the way you would like other people to treat you.” Unless you are seriously demented, I highly doubt that you want others to talk down to, be rude to, or minimize you, your family or your friends, or turn their back on you when you need help.

When you are hurt, you want someone to help you. When your child is in danger, you want someone to stop or save them. When your wife has her hands full and is pushing a stroller out of the Exchange, you

want someone to open the door for her. If you expect, or would like someone to extend the kindnesses embodied within the Golden Rule, you should be willing to follow suit. Makes sense, right?

Take a good look around our community and you will see examples of the Golden Rule. I see it every day. Just recently, a fellow Soldier was kind enough to stop his car and allow me to merge into traffic while heading through the front gate. A kind teen-ager handed my wife her cellphone when she unknowingly dropped it. Examples are all around you. It is these random acts of kindness, or exercising the Golden Rule that draws a community together.

But let me ask you this: When was the last time you exercised the Golden Rule and were kind to someone you did not even know? This past weekend, my family and I were aboard the train returning home from a trip to the aquarium in Enoshima. Since we boarded the train at the end of its line, it was empty and we all had seats. Looking through the door windows (the doors that separate each car), I saw another military family. Like us, they all had seats as well.

By the time we approached Yamato City, all of the seats were occupied and even standing room was becoming difficult to find. As we departed Yamato Station, I noticed four elderly Japanese men standing together in front of the military family in the adjacent car. The other service member stood up, his wife lifted their obviously very sleepy toddler from her seat onto her lap, and offered the now two vacant seats to the older gentlemen.

Their gratitude for this unsolicited act of kindness was clearly evident, but what really caught my attention was that a Japa-nese teenager then gave up his seat as well! The Golden Rule is contagious. I know this sounds like some cheesy ending to a Hollywood tear-jerker, but they all seemed genuinely happy and were smiling.

The next time you are out and about, give it a try. Smile at a stranger … he or she will smile back. Open a door for someone, they will appreciate it. Exercising the Golden Rule with everyone you come in contact with will improve the attitudes and perceptions of people both on and off of our installation.

Zama Exchange managers listen, respondBy Myra M. DizonExchange Public Affairs

Customer feedback plays an instrumental role in the Camp Zama Exchange’s ability to provide great service while improving the overall shopping experience. Military patrons can play a part in this process by meeting Camp Zama Exchange managers to discuss daily operations and areas of improvement.

“Meet the Manager” is a program in which the general and branch facility managers are available to discuss Camp Zama Exchange operations with shoppers. The program seeks to gather information on products, services and any problems experienced.

One of the program’s goals is to reduce the time and effort spent on processes while setting reasonable expectations. In order to meet the continuing demand for the best products and services, Exchange managers are eager to engage in one-on-one communication with those they serve.

“By placing a greater emphasis on customer feedback, we can work with shoppers to deliver a stronger benefit for all,” said Exchange General Manager Shirley A. Huth. “We want the best for the Soldiers at Camp Zama, and that starts with knowing their wants and need. The only way to do that is to proactively reach out and listen to community concerns.”

All feedback and information is sent back to Exchange headquarters in Dallas and evaluated for possible future programs and execution.

A booth or area for discussion is designated at the front of all Exchange locations periodically in order for custom-ers to easily recognize where to go to meet with various managers. Prior to the event, signs are posted in-store to alert shoppers when their next session will occur.

The next event is scheduled from noon to 1 p.m. on Monday at the Camp Zama Exchange. Authorized patrons can contact the Exchange by calling (214) 261-2103 or (214) 261-2059 for more information and additional details.

Dustin PerryTorii Editor

COMMUNITY4 November 17, 2011 TORII www.torii.army.mil

SCHOOL NEWSOnline tutoring Round-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 status, 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: 263-4992

SHA Child Development Center: 267-6348

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.

John O. Arnn Elementary: 267-6602

Your child or someone else’s may qualify for Preschool Services for Children with Disabilities (PSCD). 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, you can call EDIS at 267-6545 to schedule an appointment.

Student registration: The school registration process continues at Arnn for newly arrived families and for those who have kindergarten-aged children.

Arnn Elementary is a pre-kindergarten through sixth-grade school for those families who are command-sponsored by U.S. Army Garrison – Japan and its affiliated units. Please hand-carry the following documents at time of registration: Orders of sponsor (orders must have the children’s names on the orders), updated copy of child’s immunization records; student’s passport or birth certificate, letter of employment, updated contact information, parent’s identification card, and previous school records, if applicable.

Zama American Middle School: 263-4040

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

Zama American High School: 263-3181

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

Child, Youth and School Services: 263-4500

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. It’s up to U to turn yourself around. Join us Tuesday and Thursday nights to 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.

Tips given to ensure safety during holidaysUSAG-J Safety OfficeSpecial to the Torii

The holidays are a hectic time of year for everyone – running errands, doing last-minute shopping, preparing feasts, and visiting friends and relatives. There are safety rules for work and play, but there are also some very important rules to consider during this time of year.

Christmas treesIf you buy a live tree, ensure you purchase

a fresh one. Fresh trees are more moist and less flammable than dry trees. You might consider cutting the tree yourself at a local tree farm. When that is not an option, there are several ways to judge the freshness of a pre-cut tree:

• Brush your hand across the limbs to check for loose needles. The fresher the tree, the fewer needles will drop off.

• Lift and tap the tree on the ground. The fresher the tree, the fewer needles will drop off.

• The trunk should be sticky with sap – test by touching the trunk in several places.

• Once you get the tree home, immerse it in a bucket of water until time for deco-rating.

• Before mounting the tree, cut a one- or two-inch diagonal slice from the bottom of the tree.

• Mount the tree in a sturdy, water-holding stand and keep the stand filled with water.

• Do not place the tree near any electrical, flammable or heat-producing sources.

• Keep the tree in area free of frequent people and pet traffic.

File photoLights are a common decoration during the holiday season, but there are a few rules to follow to ensure they are used safely to prevent injury or fire in the home.

• Make sure that small children are su-pervised when around or near the tree.

Artificial treesArtificial trees are generally less flam-

mable than live trees, but there are still precautions to consider:

• Check the manufacturer-provided in-formation on the tree’s flammability rating and fire-resisting capabilities.

• Brush your hand across the limbs to check for loose needles and materials.

• The tree should be constructed to withstand the rigors of mounting and displaying.

• Mount the tree in a sturdy stand.• Do not place the tree near any electrical,

flammable, or heat-producing sources.• Keep the tree in an area free from

frequent people and pet traffic.• Make sure that small children are su-

pervised when around the tree.• Never use electrical lighting on a

metallic tree.Lights

Lights add a very festive flavor to holiday decorating and are a common site in many homes during the season. A little common sense and a few precautionary steps will help prevent fires and electrical shocks.

• Don’t mix and match lights or lighting sets. Keep outside lights outside and indoor lights inside.

• Check that each strand of lights has a manufacturer label indicating that it has been safety tested prior to leaving the factory.

• Ensure all bulbs are secure in their sockets and replace any broken or missing bulbs.

• Make sure the wiring is free of nicks, cuts, breaks and bare wires.

• Check each set for proper operation prior to trimming the tree or decorating the home.

• Position all bulbs so that they do not directly contact the needles of the tree.

• If you string light sets together, limit them to no more than 200 miniature lights or 50 larger lamps through one strand.

• Never connect more than three sets of lights to one extension cord.

• Never connect extension cords to-gether.

• Keep all cords and plugs away from the tree and water under the tree.

• Place cords out of traffic areas but never run cords under rugs or carpets.

• Always unplug the decorations inside

and outside when no one is home and prior to going to bed.

DecorationsDecorations are a must around any

home but can add to the hazards as well. Children and pets are especially prone to injuries caused by swallowing decora-tions, being cut from the glass of fragile ornaments, or poisoned by the toxic paints used on some.

Even if there are no children or pets in the home, wear gloves when handling spun glass and very fragile ornaments. Never use metal garlands or ornaments near electrical wiring and lighting as they may cause shock.

See SAFETY, Page 5

COMMUNITYTORII November 17, 2011 5www.torii.army.mil

If using candles, make sure they are properly placed in holders away for any curtains or drapes, trees or other flammable materials. Never place candles on the tree. Many candles have wicks that contain lead, and prolonged burn-ing in the home or office can affect health.

FireplacesNothing is more relaxing then a few logs burning in

the fireplace on a cold winter night. Before getting to cozy however, consider these safety tips:

• Do not burn foreign materials or paper in the fire-place.

• Use kindling and wooden matches to light the fire – never a rolled up newspaper.

• Keep wiring and decorations away from the fire-place.

• Don’t close the flue until the fire is completely ex-tinguished.

• Make sure the fire is out before leaving home or retiring

SAFETY, from Page 4 for the evening – never leave the fire unattended.• Properly dispose of ashes.

CookingWith the home decorated, it is time to prepare the

food. Simple kitchen rules will help ensure the feast can be enjoyed.

• Keep hands, utensils and preparation surfaces clean.• Keep all foods properly heated or cooled as appropri-

ate.• Ensure you follow all cooking, recipe, and prepara-

tion instructions.• After eating, place all leftovers in the refrigerator as

soon as possible and dispose of unwanted food items.Alcohol

During the holidays, more people are killed or injured in accidents involving alcohol use than at any other time of the year. Of course everyone wants to have a good time, but alcohol consumption must be tempered with common sense.

• Do not ever drink and drive.

• Never drink on an empty stomach.• Do not drink when pregnant.• Always remember that you have the right to refuse a

drink. Never feel obligated or pressured into drinking just because everyone else is.

Other sage advice• Keep approved portable fire extinguishers in your

home and car at all times. Take a moment to learn how to use them.

• Keep a complete first-aid kit handy. Know what each kit contains and replace used or missing items.

• When traveling, remember to pre-plan the trip. Con-sider the weather, road conditions, the condition of your vehicle, the route, and time.

• When shopping, do not flash large amounts of cash. Beware of areas prone to pick-pocketing.

Enjoy the season, but consider why it is a time of celebra-tion. Be thankful and kind to others, always remembering that it is better to give than to receive.

Have a happy and safe holiday season!

Experiencing Japanese Folk Houses in IkutaZama International Association hosts cultural tour for local community membersBy Tetsuo NakaharaTorii Staff

Camp Zama community members got a unique glimpse at Japanese homes and life-styles from more than a quarter-millennium ago during a bilateral event Saturday at Ikuta Ryokuchi Park, hosted by the Zama International Association.

The tour offered mountain hiking and the chance to learn about Japanese culture through communication between Japanese and Americans together, said Isao Kimura, president of the ZIA.

During the tour, the group of about 30 vis-ited the Nihon Minkaen, or Japan Open-Air Folk House Museum, where more than 20 homes of traditional Japanese architecture from the 17th through 19th centuries sit in an area village. The houses were collected from throughout the country and preserved

Photos by Tetsuo NakaharaThe Nihon Minkaen, or Japan Open-Air Folk House Museum, in Ikuta Ryokuchi Park has more than 20 houses of traditional Japanese architecture from the 17th through 19th centuries, brought from around the country.

Groups of Japanese and Americans were challenged with quiz questions regarding traditional Japanese houses and culture. Fifteen Camp Zama community members participated in the bilateral tour Saturday.

as important cultural properties of Japan. The participants learned some unique

facts about life in Edo-era Japan, such as how toilets were located outside the house, while horse stables were on the inside. They also got to look at the tools and implements used in the daily life of a farmer, as well as traditional Japanese crafts.

“This is a great opportunity to encounter Japanese culture,” said Kimura. “I want the American participants to see what life in Japan was like long ago. It would be great if they happened to imagine the kinds of conversations Japanese used to have while sitting around the irori, which were fireplaces in the middle of the living room. This place shows some of the roots of Japanese culture.”

The tour attendees were split into five groups of both American and Japanese and challenged with a set of quiz questions

about the folk houses in the museum. Each group took time to seek the correct answers by venturing into the houses and exploring the architecture.

“Those homes are absolutely beautiful,” said Capt. Jeffrey Anderson, assigned to U.S. Army Japan, G-2. “But what really made it unique and really exciting was being split up into various groups with our Japanese friends and being able to have them explain to us how their ancestors lived. We never knew this place existed, so having this opportunity is invaluable.

“I was very curious about how they moved the old homes here from different parts of Japan,” continued Anderson. “It was unique to see how each part of Japan was represented due to climate, weather, and how they lived in those areas. But I have to admit the architecture was the most beautiful [aspect].”

After visiting the museum, the group moved to an open area where they ate lunch together and held a small award ceremony for the winners of the quiz challenge. They also spent time playing various games and strengthening their friendship, attendees said.

“I liked the water wheel; it was so huge,” said Tatum Clark, 8, who attended the tour with her family. “It seems that [Japanese] used to have a really good life. There was this house, and I liked how the light came in through the window. Today was very fun.”

The ZIA is a branch of Zama City that holds several events to create opportunities for cultural exchanges between the citizens of Zama City and Camp Zama community members, coordinated throughout the year with the U.S. Army Garrison Japan Com-munity Relations Office.

6 November 17, 2011 TORII www.torii.army.mil TORII November 17, 2011 7

SPORTS & FITNESS

Putting it All on the Table.

Photo illustration by Dustin PerryBradley McWillie, assigned to Army Medical Department Japan, returns a serve during an early match in a table tennis tournament held Saturday at Yano Fitness Center here.

More than 30 test skills in table tennis tournament at YanoStory and photos by Dustin PerryTorii Editor

Matsubara, left, competes against Sasaki in a semifinal match Saturday at Yano. The two went on to face each other again in the women’s division championship.

Joseph Ritter, top, reaches to return a hit from his opponent Thomas Bischof during a match. Four tables were set up during Saturday’s tour-nament to allow for simultaneous play in the double-elimination event.

Kyoko Sasaki executes a powerful return hit during a match Saturday at Yano. Sasaki’s consistent speed and accuracy throughout the tournament led to her going undefeated and winning the women’s title against Yuko Matsubara.

Devon Nguyen, assigned to the 35th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, smashes a return during an early match in Saturday’s table tennis tournament at Yano.

Both the men’s and women’s win-ners took the undefeated route to win their respective divisions

in a highly competitive, blurrily fast table tennis tournament held Saturday at Yano Fitness Center here.

Michael Serbentas edged out Abi Scott by a mere two points to claim a 15-13 vic-tory in the men’s division, while Kyoko Sasaki similarly narrowly defeated Yuko Matsubara 15-11 to earn the top spot in the women’s division.

Four tables were set up on the Yano gym floor, allowing for simultaneous matches between the more than 30 participants in the double-elimination event. The more casual players were quickly and easily weeded out in the early brackets by those like Serbentas and Sasaki, who immediately displayed their penchant for powerful smashes and speedy, intuitive defense.

Serbentas, assigned to the 88th Military Police Battalion here, finished in third place in last year’s tournament. To prepare for Saturday’s event, he practiced monthly and played pickup games at recreational facilities off the installation.

During the final match between Ser-bentas and Scott, an Airman assigned here, neither had a distinct advantage at any stage of the game. Serbentas recorded the first two points, but the determined Scott quickly tied the score. Serbentas earned three straight to retake the lead, but the next eight points went back and forth not unlike the lightweight plastic ball the two players volleyed from each side of the table.

“I had to play [Scott] differently than my other opponents,” said Serbentas. “His hits had a lot of downspin, so I countered them with topspin.”

Serbentas illustrated his strategy by

explaining that players who favor a fore-hand hit will gradually inch further to one side of the table when they continue this hitting pattern. It is then, Serbentas said, that he can “crank a hit to [his opponent’s] backhand side where they won’t be able to reach it.”

“One key to this game is intelligence – knowing how the other player plays,” said Serbentas. “You use that to your ad-vantage.”

Trailing 10-6, Scott had a bit of ground to make up, which he did in part by outscoring Serbentas three points to one on the next four volleys. The next six points were once again evenly distributed between the opponents. This ultimately shortened Serbentas’ lead to two, but he was at match point. Scott closed the gap to one by scoring on the next volley, but when he returned the ball on the subsequent serve it skimmed the lip of the net without crossing over.

“[Serbentas] is good; he deserved to win that game,” said Scott. “I had him figured out, but when you only go to 15 points you can’t make a lot of mistakes.”

When he used to work the night shift at his unit, Scott said he utilized his downtime by playing table tennis. He came in second place in last year’s tournament here, but said he had not practiced much since then.

“One key to the game of table tennis is intelligence – knowing how the other player plays. You use that to

your advantage.”– Michael Serbentas,

Men’s Division Winner

“Table tennis isn’t one of those sports that you can just put down and then come back and start being good again,” said Scott. “I wanted to slow [Serbentas] down, because he’s a very strong player when the game’s a lot faster. It worked for the most part, but I let him get too big a lead.”

Although the women’s division was a much smaller field, the competition was just as fierce. The two players who immedi-ately separated themselves as frontrunners, Sasaki and Matsubara, understandably met later in the championship match.

Like their counterparts in the men’s division, Sasaki and Matsubara played as nearly evenly matched opponents who alternated the lead between each other. It was near the end that Sasaki eventually broke away with a scoring run that helped her maintain the lead all the way to the end and claim the win.

Sasaki, who played table tennis for six years in both junior high and high school, said she was proud to win the first tournament at Camp Zama in which she competed.

“Winning in table tennis takes concen-tration, and you also have to have a good serve to stay competitive,” said Sasaki. “[Matsubara] played very well, so I had a tough time winning that final match.”

SPORTS & FiTneSS8 November 17, 2011 TORII www.torii.army.mil

Behavioral Health Services expands care options for Zama patients

U.S. Army Medical Activity Japan has increased its comprehensive medical care for the U.S. Army Japan community. This month, Behavioral Health Services expanded its patient care options with the addition of the Tele-Behavioral Health and Surge Support team at Tripler Army Medical Center in Hawaii.

Up until October, beneficiaries had to travel to either U.S. Naval Hospital Yokosuka or Yokota Air Base to re-ceive psychiatric or specialized psychological treatment. This meant spending an entire day and additional money on traveling. Behavioral Health Services now connects Camp Zama beneficiaries to this specialized behavioral health care to additional providers in Hawaii who can further identify and treat their clinical needs.

TBHSS was established to provide behavioral health services to remote locations around the world using secured video teleconference technology. Beneficiaries can now receive the same behavioral health treatment at Camp Zama without the time and cost of traveling across Japan.

The TBHSS team consists of one psychiatrist, 10 psy-chologists, three psychology technicians, and health care administration and technological support staff who work closely with MEDDAC-Japan to deliver assessments, psy-chotherapy, consultation, and medication prescriptions.

Referrals to TBHSS are coordinated through Behavioral Health Services. All eligible beneficiaries can receive behavioral health treatment through a referral by their primary care manager at MEDDAC-Japan or by calling Behavioral Health Services directly at 263-4610 or (046) 407-4610.

By Maj. John HammerChief of U.S. Army MEDDAC-J Behavioral Health Services

Courtesy photoMembers of the U.S. Army Medical Activity Japan’s Behavioral Health Services team have expanded their patient care options with the addition of the Tele-Behavioral Health and Surge Support team at Tripler Army Medical Center in Hawaii. (Top, from left): Linda Salzman, Dr. Catherine Jorgensen, Elizabeth Foley and Robert Appia. (Bottom, from left): Maj. John Hammer, Shizue Takeuchi and Sgt. Gerald Lacambra.

35th CSSB reclaims flag football title

Photo by Dustin PerryJermaine McGee, left, of the 35th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, runs with the ball as Sam Lyons, an Air Force defender, reaches for his flag during the first of two games in the intramural flag football championship held Nov. 7 at Rambler Field here.

Undefeated squad loses first game to Air Force, wins final on last playBy Dustin PerryTorii Editor

The final game of the intramural flag football championship was literally a game of inches, this time falling in favor of the 35th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion in their 20-19 win over the Air Force.

Facing a gap that held throughout most of the matchup, the Air Force finally nar-rowed it to within a point on their last play of the double-elimination tournament, which wrapped up Nov. 7 at Rambler Field here.

Tyrone Green caught a short touchdown pass on a last-ditch play just as time expired. The team opted for a two-point conversion attempt that, had it been successful, would have made them back-to-back champs.

On the hike, Green ran to the left before darting inward into the end zone. Quarter-back Abi Scott zinged another pass to his teammate, but Green was just out of reach and could not hold on to the ball.

Though the loss was a tough one to swallow, Scott praised his team for beat-ing the undefeated 35th CSSB by a score of 20-13 in the night’s first game, thereby forcing a second.

“They were the favorites and we were the underdogs,” said Scott. “We knew going into the second game that it was anybody’s to win.”

Kevin Jenkins of the 35th CSSB said he and his team were proud of their victory because “it wasn’t something that was given to us; we earned it.”

SPORTS & FiTneSSTORII November 17, 2011 9 www.torii.army.mil

Got Japan!Yano pool offers ‘swim around Japan’ challengeBy Tetsuo nakaharaTorii Staff

Photo by Tetsuo NakaharaYasunari Kato, an employee for the Directorate of Public Works here, paddles using a front crawl at the Yano Fitness Center swimming pool as part of the “Got Japan!” challenge, which he has completed six times. Participants must swim 680 laps to reach a figurative equivalent of the 34,000-kilometer distance around Japan.

‘Turkey Shoot’ bowlingMembers of the bowling league at Camp Zama are eligible to participate in weekly “Turkey Shoot” competitions at the Camp Zama Bowling Center through Nov. 26. The fee is $3 per entry. Every week, a different strike requirement will be posted. The first person to get all the strikes will win the pot of money, but the pot will continue to increase until a winner is determined. If there is no winner by Nov. 26, the money will be used in the Winter Holiday Turkey Shoot (dates to be determined). Call 263-4780 for more information.

‘Turkey Shoot’ golf tourneyAn 18-hole individual stroke golf tournament is scheduled to be held Saturday at the Camp Zama Golf Club, with tee times starting at 6:30 a.m. The event is open to any amateur golfer with a USGA or JGA handicap. Entry fees are $25 for CZGC and Tama Hills Club members; $39 for SOFA-status and non-member players; 6,000 yen for JGSDF members stationed at Camp Zama; 8,000 yen for Japanese employees assigned to U.S. Army Japan; and 15,000 yen for all others. Call Dale Jorgenson at 263-3694 for more information.

Big Kahuna weightliftingThe next Big Kahuna weightlifting competition is scheduled to be held at 10 a.m. on Dec. 3 at Yano Fitness Center here. There will be both men’s and women’s divisions in varying weight classes. The deadline for entry is 9 a.m. on the day of the event. A weigh-in will be conducted from 8 to 9 a.m., followed by a rules meeting at 9:30 a.m. All participants will receive a free T-shirt. Call 263-4464 or 263-3954 for more information.

Sports photos wantedThe Torii newspaper wants to publish your action sports photos. 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 3 MB or more to tetsuo.naka-hara4@us.army.mil.

Your Weekly Dose

Sports Briefs

Internal monitoring for radiation is available for Department of Defense-affiliated personnel, including family members, in the Camp Zama community on a voluntary basis for a limited time.Internal monitoring may be scheduled by calling the MEDDAC-Japan appointment line at 263-4175 during regular appointment hours, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays; and 7 to 8 a.m. and noon to 4 p.m. on Thursdays.

The BG Sams U.S. Army Health Clinic is not open 24/7, but our triage line is always available. 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.

Host-nation hospitals do not operate in the same manner as in the U.S. Local hospitals do not have to see you when you present at their ER. That is why we want you to call us first. If our provider thinks yours is a medical emer-gency, our provider will engage our EMS staff, including a translator. Please carry an emergency wallet card with information on who to call for medical assistance. These cards are available at the clinic and at various community events such as the community information exchange and Newcomers Medical Morning.

A unique challenge meant to motivate community members into aquatic fitness by completing a “swim around Japan” is being offered by the Sports, Fitness and Aquatics division at Yano Fitness Center here.

The “Got Japan!” challenge requires participants to swim a figurative equivalent of the 34,000-kilometer distance around Japan by accumulating laps in Yano’s 25-meter swimming pool. One full 50-meter lap is equal to 50 kilometers, meaning swimmers must complete 680 laps to reach the program’s goal.

“This is to motivate swimmers,” said Aaron Messisco, assistant aquatics manager at Yano. “For me, swimming is monotonous. Sometimes I swim 20 laps and sometimes I lose count of how many laps I swim, but this is something to give swimmers an outline of how they actually work out and a goal they can work toward.”

The program has been offered since the beginning of the year and has already drawn nearly 120 contenders to face the trial. About 30 of those have thus far completed the program, said Messisco.

Yano lifeguards maintain records for the program and log lap counts for each participant. Any swimming style is allowed, such as the front crawl, the breaststroke, and even the butterfly stroke. Participants are also allowed to use a kickboard, swim fins or other equipment available at Yano. There are currently five lanes in the pool dedicated to lap-swimming.

“I normally swim a minimum of 100 laps a week. When I get in the water, it’s only me [in there] and no one bothers me; it’s quiet and I can just swim,” said Col. Robert DeJong, deputy chief of staff of G-8, U.S. Army Japan. “The challenge was fun because it was a goal to achieve while swimming, and the Yano pool is one of the best on any military base. I finished the 680 laps in seven weeks.

“When I started swimming two years ago, I could only do three laps without

stopping. Now I don’t know how far I can swim,” DeJong continued. “My philosophy is if you do something every day for six weeks, it will stay a part of your lifestyle – and that’s how I look at swimming. It’s just a part of my lifestyle. I also lost 24 pounds

from swimming in the last two years.”Once participants complete the program,

they receive a T-shirt as proof that they met the Got Japan! challenge. There is no age limit to participate, and registration is free. Call 263-3954 for more information.

Classifieds & Movies 10 November 17, 2011 TORII www.torii.army.mil

Vehicle for sale

Movie sCHedUle aTsUGi Cinema 77

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

saGaMiHaRa

for your Tv schedule, visit www.myafn.net

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

friday6 p.m............................Puss in Boots (PG) 90 minutes9 p.m........................Tower Heist (PG-13) 105 minutes

saturday3 p.m............................Puss in Boots (PG) 90 minutes6 p.m........................Tower Heist (PG-13) 105 minutes9 p.m...................................The Debt (R) 113 minutes

sunday3 p.m............................Puss in Boots (PG) 90 minutes6 p.m........................Tower Heist (PG-13) 105 minutes

friday7 p.m.......................Tower Heist (PG-13) 105 minutes9:30 p.m...........What’s Your Number? (R) 106 minutes

saturday4 p.m...........................Puss in Boots (PG) 90 minutes6:30 p.m....................Moneyball (PG-13) 134 minutess9:30 p.m...........What’s Your Number? (R) 106 minutes

sunday3 p.m...........................Dolphin Tale (PG) 119 minutes5:30 p.m...................Tower Heist (PG-13) 105 minutes8 p.m...............What’s Your Number? (R) 106 minutes

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 vacancies are available for viewing at www.armycivilianservice.com and www.usajobs.com To apply for vacancy positions, applicant(s) must apply through one of those website. For submitting applications/resumes, please read the ‘How To Apply’ section on the vacancy announcements. Applications/resumes are no longer accepted at the CPAC or NAF Human Resources Office.

For questions regarding APF vacancies, please call 263-3755.

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.

Jobs

Others

Wanted

Other local positions

Pets

ATTENTION

animal Rescue:A small animal rescue NPO is asking for any dog & cat supplies, food, usedkennels for donation. For details, please call Meg at 263-8327 or e-mail to animalrescuezama@gmail.comChild and Youth Program assistant (level

2-4), (CYS, Zama & SHA), CY-1/2, RFT/RPT, $9.59 - $17.09, Open Continuous

Recreation assistant (lifeguard), RD, NF-02, Flex, $9.29, Closes: November 30, 2011

lead Child and Youth Program assistant (level 5), SHA, CY-02, RFT, $13.14 - $17.09, Open Continuous

food service Worker, BD, Bowling, NA-7408-02, $9.00, Close: Nov 26, 2011

Recreation assistant, Rd, Paintball, NF-02, $9.29, Close: Jan 11, 2012

security attendants Needed: This is a Part-Time Position, Training wil be provided. Hourly Pay $13.00. For more information, stop by Bldg. 102 room A-101, Next to the Student Transportation Office. POC: Mrs. Medina, 263-5898.

Project/Task Manager: General Dynamics Information Technology is looking for a Project Manager at Camp Zama. Candidates must be a graduate of a military command and staff college or higher and have experience with the U.S. Army doctrine, organization, and procedures. Apply by sending a cover letter and resume to asdjobs@gdit.com with “Camp Zama” in the subject line. General Dynamics Information Technology is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer.

Watch care workers and musicians:

Opportunity for Extra Income. Camp Zama Garrison Chaplain’s Office is taking contract applications for watch care workers and musicians. Applications are available at the Camp Zama Chapel. Please contact SSG Howard F. Thompson (263-8064) or Ms. Nobuko Motegi (263-4898). Deadline Date: 31 August 2011

administrative assistant: Girl Scouts is seeking a skilled office professional to support Girl Scout Overseas West-Pacific at Camp Zama. Excellent computer and communication skills a must. This regular part-time position (25-30) hours per week is available June 15. Send cover letter and resume to Westpacificgirlscouts@gmail.com

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.

Pharmacist, intermittent (240 hours): Provides pharmacist services for outpatient pharmacy at MEDDAC-Japan, Camp Zama. Must have A degree in Pharmacy from an accredited school in the United States or Canada. 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.

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.

Due to the recent contract with Allied Telesis, residential phone numbers with 263- and 267- prefixes 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.

CaMP ZaMa PHoToGRaPHY ClUB: We are a social organization open to all Military, DoD, MLC employees and their families. Our goal is to discuss, appreciate, and promote photography as an art, as well as develop the

football Coaching: Volunteer Assistant Football Coaches are being sought for Zama High School. Interested individuals should consider their availability for daily after-school practices (1500-1730) as well as spring and preseason practices and games. Coaches meetings begin soon. For more information please contact Coach Merrell at 263-3181 or steven.merrell@pac.dodea.edu.

Taekwondo instructor: Child Youth & School Services SKIESUnlimited Program is looking for certified instructors to teach the following classes;filmmaking, dance, guitar, piano, martial arts, gymnastics, boxing, drivers education and digital arts. SKIES is also looking for either certified or volunteer instructors for Art, Photography, Bowling, Cooking, Babysittingand Academic Support. If interested, please contact Nicholas Andrews, SKIESUnlimited Director at 263-5441.

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 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

skills of our members through local events and mentoring. Members of all skill levels are eligible to join. For information about upcoming meetings, events, and a look at what the club is all about, visit our website http://zamadesu.net/czpc, or send us an email at CZPhotoClub@gmail.com.

Pet sitting: available around Zama & SHA area. An experienced pet owner. Will walk, feed, and play with dogs or cats while at work or on vacation. $20 a day. sasha-yuri@hotmail.com, 090-8947-4307

Give Hope Nippon: T-shirts designed to raise money for the victims of the earthquake/tsunami. 100% of the profits will go to the Lions Club International. Please visit the website http://givehopenippon.org/index.html and/or like the facebook page “Give Hope Nippon” and like the page!

Cub scout Pack 34: P34 meets every 2nd Thurs 18:30 Zama Scout Hut Bldg 533. Parents & Single-Soldier Volunteers are welcome. All boys age 7 or grades 1 – 5 are encouraged to join us for great learning experiences, character building and fun! Contact cubmaster@zamacubscouts.org.

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.

98 Toyota Harrier: Excellent SUV. Great conditions exterior & interior. JCI to February 2013. Road tax & recycle fee paid. Pearl, 59,000 Kms. Runs Great. Automatic, 4-door, P/W, P/L, A/C. GPS, DVD, CD, monitor, TV. $5,500 OBO. Call Rita at 678-302-6092 or 080-5059-6774. rmoreck@hotmail.com

96 Mitsubishi lancer: $1,400 OBO. JCI to April 2013. Road tax & recycle fee paid. Silver metallic, 95K. Automatic, 4-door, power windows, A/C. Runs Great. Good condition.

Call Rita at 678-302-6092 or 080-5059-6774. George @ 080-5181-4936. rmoreck@hotmail.com

Harley davidson: 07 Road King Screaming Eagle, 3K miles, showroom condition, not a scratch, dint or ding, Please call for more info/Pic. $19K. Wk 269-6296/Cell 080 3092 7406 (Buddy Gilman)

CoMMUNiTY CaleNdaRwww.torii.army.mil TORII November 17, 2011 11

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

What’s Happening Outside the Gate?

Eagle 810, AFN Tokyo

UpcomingOngoing EventsSpiritual, Cultural Orientation Tour

A spiritual and cultural orientation tour is scheduled to be held from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday. The tour is open to all U.S. Soldiers, civilian employees and their family members, and will include trips to the Daibutsu, or “Great Buddha” statue, the Hase Kannon Temple, and the Hachiman-gu Shrine. Sign up at the U.S. Army Garrison Japan Chaplain’s Office, or call 263-4898 for details.

Seasonal Chapel Services, Events• Nov. 23: Community Thanksgiving Service – 10:30

a.m. at Zama Chapel• Nov. 27: Catholic Mass – 9 a.m. at Zama Chapel;

Protestant Service – 11 a.m. at Zama Chapel; Gospel Service – 11 a.m. at SHA Chapel

• dec. 4: Catholic Mass – 9 a.m. at Zama Chapel; Protestant Communion Service – 11 a.m. at Zama Chapel; Gospel Service – 11 a.m. at SHA Chapel; Holiday Concert – 4 to 6 p.m. at SHA Chapel

• dec. 8: Catholic Immaculate Conception Mass – Noon at Zama Chapel

• dec. 10: Ministry Visit to Koyama Fukusei Hospital – 9 a.m. at Zama Chapel

• dec. 11: Catholic Mass – 9 a.m. at Zama Chapel; Prot-estant Service – 11 a.m. at Zama Chapel; Gospel Service – 11 a.m. at SHA Chapel; SHA Chapel Christmas Party – 1 p.m. at SHA Chapel; “Handel’s Messiah” Concert – 6 p.m. at Zama Chapel

• dec. 14: Children’s Christmas Caroling – 5 to 8:30 p.m. at SHA Chapel

• dec. 18: Catholic Mass – 9 a.m. at Zama Chapel; Protestant Service – 11 a.m. at Zama Chapel; Gospel Service – 11 a.m. at SHA Chapel

• dec. 24: Protestant Christmas Eve Candlelight Service – 7 p.m. at Zama Chapel; Catholic Christmas Eve Midnight Mass – Midnight at Zama Chapel

• dec. 25: Catholic Mass – 9 a.m. at Zama Chapel; Protestant Service – 11 a.m. at Zama Chapel; Gospel Service – 11 a.m. at SHA Chapel

Japan Fine Arts Exhibition ‘Nitten’ @ The National Art Center, Tokyo, Nov. 17 - Dec. 4

Asian Food & Cultural Festival ‘Ajitomo 50+ ABC Grand Prix’ featuring Thai Loy Krathong Festival @ Yoyogi Park, Tokyo, Nov. 19 and 20

Nerima Anime Carnival 2011 @ Toshimaen Amusement Park, Nov. 19-20Nerima Animation Site, www.animation-nerima.jp/eng/

Hot Air Balloon Honda Grand Prix: @ Twin Ring Motegi, Nov. 23-27

Queen Exhibition ‘Queen Forever’ @ To-kyo Tower, Nov. 23 - Dec. 11

One of the Japan’s three greatest floating festivals, ‘Chichibu Yomatsuri,’ Night Fes-tival in Chichibu City, Saitama, Dec. 2-3 http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/indepth/history/traditionalev-ents/a63_fes_chichibu.html

Antique Show @ Yokohama Sanbo Hall, Dec. 2-4

Fireworks Displays in Odaiba, Tokyo (7 to 7:10 p.m.), Dec. 3, 10, 17, 24

• dec. 31: Gospel Service, Watch Night Service – 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. at SHA Chapel

Winter Energy Conservation MeasuresEnergy conservation is our duty in order to sustain the

mission. In the event the peak electrical demand is exceeded, DPW may have to conduct the following actions:

• Early shutdown of heating systems at designated facilities.

• Turn on heating systems later in the morning.• Decrease of thermostat settings at designated facilities

and areas.• Shut down lighting systems.To prevent disruption of normal heating operations and

area lighting, the following actions must be implemented to conserve energy:

• If you have multiple heating split units in your house use only the one in the rooms being occupied.

• USAG-J peak consumption time in 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Make every attempt to avoid using appliances like dishwashers, washers and dryers during this time.

• Turn off heaters, or set the thermostats to 72 (+/- 2) degrees. Decrease settings to 55 (+/- 5) degrees when not at home and at the end of the duty day in administrative areas.

• Turn off all unnecessary lights (interior / exterior) at home, unused office spaces, classrooms and conference rooms. Turn down all remaining individual lighting levels where possible.

• Replace incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient compact fluorescents or LEDs available at the Self-Help Stores (Bldg. 694 at Camp Zama, and Bldg. S-150 at SFHA).

• Turn off all office and home appliances when not in use. Unplug them when not in use.

• Set computers, monitors, printers, copiers, and other business equipment to their energy-saving feature, and turn them off when not in use or at the end of the day to conserve energy.

For more information on energy conservation, contact the DPW Environmental Division at 263-3559.

Travel & CulTurewww.torii.army.mil

Beppu: The Mecca of Hot Springs

Beppu Takegawara Onsen is more than 70 years old. Admission is 100 yen.

Photos by Tetsuo NakaharaThe rising steam from its many natural hot springs is a symbol of Beppu. The city is located on the island of Kyushu, which has more than 2,800 hot springs.

Landlocked salmon are grilled on an old, traditional Japanese hibachi, or barbecue.

A family observes a wild baby monkey at Mount Taka-saki in Beppu.

12 November 17, 2011

Soaking in a natural hot spring is one of the most popular Japanese pastimes – especially during cold

winter months. Onsen (“hot springs” in Japanese) are found in many places throughout Japan. However, if you have a chance to visit southern Japan, make sure to check out the ones found in Beppu on the island of Kyushu.

Beppu is known as Japan’s onsen capital and features the second largest volume of hot spring waters in the world aside from Yellowstone National Park in the U.S. Beppu has more than 2,800 hot spring vents, which unleash more than 27,000 gallons of hot water per minute. Beyond the sheer volume of water, the town also boasts 10 of the 11 classified types of hot springs in Japan. Each type of hot spring is said to help cure different varieties of illnesses and ailments.

The town is nestled between the mountains and the sea. It is divided into eight different hot spring areas, each of which has a variety of accommodations, from traditional-style ryokan hotel to modern spa resorts.

In Beppu you can experience some unique onsen treat-ments such as sand baths, where you are buried in black, heated sand until only your head peeks out. You can try the sand bath at Takagawara Onsen, (admission, ¥100; sand bath ¥1,000) the city’s most famous and oldest onsen dating back to the Meiji Era, where temperatures rise to between 42 and 45 degrees Celsius.

You can also visit the “Eight Hells,” or jigoku, which are multicolored volcanic springs that are meant for viewing only as they are too hot to be transformed into onsens. Each jigoku boasts its own theme, such as Sea Hell (consisting of bright, cobalt-blue hot water), the Monk’s Hell (where the emerging grey bubbles look like the shaved heads of monks), or Blood Pond Hell (where hot water containing red melted clay gushes out).

Mount Takasaki is also a popular sightseeing spot in Beppu, thanks to it being the home of more than 1,000 wild Japanese monkeys. The monkeys are fed regularly by park wardens in order to keep them on the mountain and to prevent conflicts with farmers and residents in the neighborhood (admission, ¥500).

Watching large pockets of steam rise from the natural hot

springs over the mountains as you soak yourself is truly an unforgettable experience. Because of the legendary thera-peutic powers of its myriad springs, Beppu attracts more than 12 million Japanese and foreign visitors each year.

Getting there: There are flights into Oita from Toyko’s Haneda Airport, which take an hour and half. Upon arriv-ing, catch a bus running into Beppu.