Community News Briefs

By U.S. Army Garrison Japan Public AffairsJanuary 10, 2024

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The following news briefs are provided to help keep our community informed about what’s happening on our U.S. Army Garrison Japan installations.

To submit your information for publication, email full details (who, what, when, where, why and how, along with contact information) to usag.japan@gmail.com. 

‘Dondo Yaki’ Cultural Event in Zama City

The Zama City Neighborhood Association is inviting Camp Zama community members to attend a ceremony for “Dondo Yaki,” a traditional event in Japan that involves the burning of New Year’s decorations and other lucky items in a bonfire as a way to begin the year with a fresh start.

The ceremony will be held Jan. 14 from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at Kanigasawa Park, about a 10-minute walk from Camp Zama’s Gate 4. The address is 4-22-6 Midoriogaoka, Zama.

For planning purposes, if you would like to attend this event, please email sayuri.nagai.ln@army.mil by the end of the day on Jan. 11 with details on how many will be in your party.

There is also an opportunity to volunteer at this event. A Public Affairs representative will be there to assist if you are interested, so please specify when you send your email.

Note: There will be no English translation during this event. Also, there is no nearby public parking, so it is recommended you walk to the site.

‘Ichi Dan Night’ Social Event at Camp Zama Community Club

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BG Sams Army Health Clinic Holiday Hours for MLK Day

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‘Biggest Loser’ Competition

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Functional Fitness Class at Yano Fitness Center

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NAF New Year Sale

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First Class Mail, ‘Forever’ Stamp Price Increase

Effective Jan. 21, the U.S. Postal Service will have a price increase on First Class mail and “Forever” stamps.

Letters (1 oz.): 66 cents to 68 cents

Domestic Postcards: 51 cents to 53 cents

International Postcards: $1.50 to $1.55

International Letter (1 oz.): $1.50 to $1.55 

Community Information Exchange

USAG Japan will host its first Community Information Exchange of the year Jan. 23 from 2 to 3 p.m. at the Camp Zama Community Club to provide information about programs, services and opportunities available on Camp Zama.

‘Before the “I Do’s”’ Premarital Seminar

The U.S. Army Garrison Japan Family Advocacy Program will host a “Before the ‘I Do’s’” premarital seminar Jan. 26 from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Presenters from various directorates will be on hand to provide information and answer questions about getting married in Japan.

For more information or to register for this seminar contact Jennifer Luera at 263-4783 or email jennifer.luera2.civ@army.mil.

‘Best Medicine Brigade’ Stand-up Comedy Show

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Zama International Association Multicultural Festival

The Zama International Association will host its annual Multicultural Festival Feb. 18 from 1:30 to 4 p.m. at the Zama Junior High School gymnasium.

The festival will feature a variety of authentic cultural music and dance performances.

Applications to attend are due to the Z.I.A. by Feb. 13. You can apply by visiting the Z.I.A. Office at 2-2887-2 Zama City, by calling 046-215-9000, or by emailing z.i.a.040501@kdr.biglobe.ne.jp.

The Z.I.A. Office is open on Tuesdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Roof Replacement, Exterior Painting at Camp Zama Library

The Camp Zama Library will be undergoing a roof replacement and exterior painting project through June 14. During this period, there may be some noise disturbances. Thank you for your understanding.

Combined Federal Campaign

The Combined Federal Campaign is one of the world’s largest and most successful annual workplace charity campaigns, with CFC campaigns throughout the country and overseas raising millions of dollars each year. Pledges made by Federal civilian, postal and military donors support eligible nonprofit organizations that provide health and human service benefits throughout the world.

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Suicide Crisis Hotline

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Reminder of ID-Checking Procedures at Installation Gates

As a friendly reminder, it is normal procedure for gate guards to physically hold and verify ID cards for people entering our installations.

Thank you in advance for your cooperation with our security personnel. 

Update on New COVID Vaccine Availability

This an update to COVID-19 vaccine availability and appointment procedures. Please use the DHA appointment portal to schedule a vaccination at https://informatics-stage.health.mil/DAP/.

Availability By Age Group:

Pfizer (12-plus years old): Mondays and Fridays, 9 to 11 a.m.

Pfizer (5 to 11 years old): Tuesdays, 1 to 3 p.m.

Pfizer (6 months to 4 years old: Wednesdays, 9 to 11 a.m.

My Army Post App Survey

The Army is rapidly developing a new app to better connect Soldiers and Families to installation information, programs and services. IMCOM is actively seeking input and feedback to ensure this app is most effective for our People and supports our senior commanders. Please find an overview of the new app and a survey at the following link: https://survey.tradoc.army.mil/EFM/se/466E33927BBAEBD501. 

Update Your Contact Information in ADPAAS

Disaster Personnel Accountability has never been more important.

The goal is for sponsors to protect themselves, their family members and for commands to be ready for personnel accountability before an emergency event occurs.

Please be sure to log into ADPAAS at https://adpaas.army.mil and update your contact information now.