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Community News Briefs

By U.S. Army Garrison Japan Public AffairsApril 23, 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.

National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day – April 22 through 26

During the week of April 22, Camp Zama’s Army Substance Abuse Program will be collaborating with the MEDDAC- J Pharmacy Department for the National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day campaign. During this time, the community can drop off their unused or expired prescription or over-the-counter medication at the Pharmacy Dropbox, located across from the pharmacy windows, during normal business hours. There is no need to pull a ticket from the kiosk.

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“Before the ‘I Do’s’” Premarital Seminar– April 26

Getting married? Have questions? Well, you’re in luck! The Family Advocacy Program is offering a one-stop shop seminar with presenters from various directorates available to provide you with the information you need and to answer any questions you may have about getting married in Japan.

The seminar will be held April 26 from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the ACS Conference Room, Bldg. 402.

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

Sagami Depot Hawaiian Festival – April 28

MWR's "Sagami Depot Hawaiian Festival 2024 will be April 28 from noon-7 p.m at the Sagami General Depot Athletic Field. Live music, live performances (lots of hula dancers), food vendors, and more! This is an OPEN POST event held in conjunction with East Japan International Friendship Marathon. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/armymwrjapan or call 263-3939 (046-407-3939 from a cell phone).

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USO Japan Special Delivery Baby Shower - April 30

USO Japan is hosting a Special Delivery Baby Shower for expecting or new moms with babies under 6 months old at Camp Zama’s Community Club at 1 p.m. on April 30. Register here: https://brnw.ch/21wIb4t.

Month of the Military Child – April

The Month of the Military Child recognizes and honors the role military children play in the armed forces community. The theme for this year’s observance is “Military Children and Youth: Brave, Fearless and Resilient.” The Army remains committed to military families and children, and thanks them for the support and contributions they make on behalf of their Soldiers. We will continue to provide a variety of services, including childcare and youth services, to address the unique circumstances of military families.

Child Abuse Prevention Month – April

Parenting isn’t easy by itself, but add in the military part? Even more challenging. You’re not in it alone. There’s plenty of support behind you: neighbors and other military Families, as well the MWR resources like Child & Youth Services, Youth Sports, the New Parent Support Program, and more. This month is Child Abuse Prevention Month – a perfect time to check those out! www.armymwr.com/capm. And check out this great story about U.S. Army in Japan standing united against child abuse and neglect: https://www.army.mil/article/275061/.

Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month – April

This year’s theme - “Change Through Unity: Empower. Protect. Prevent” - emphasizes unity in the fight against sexual assault; promotion of respect and empowerment for all; and the role of all members of the Army team to create a healthy climate while reinforcing their responsibility to act to prevent sexual assault and harassment.

Family Advocacy Classes - April

The Camp Zama Army Community Service Family Advocacy Program is offering several upcoming classes. They include:

** April 30 – Couples Communication

All classes are from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the Army Community Service building on Camp Zama. To register for a class, utilize the QR code below or email Jennifer.luera.2.civ@army.mil.

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2024 BOSS Financial Training Schedule

Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers is offering financial training classes. Each class below will be held in the Community Recreation Center’s Warrior Zone on Camp Zama from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

May 30 – Saving and Investing

June 27 – Credit Management

Please call DSN 263-5316 or 046-407-5316 from a cell phone for more info!

Temporary Closure of Shogun Warrior Restaurant (Camp Zama Dining Facility) – May 16 through 18

The Shogun Warrior Restaurant (Camp Zama Dining Facility) will be closed temporarily May 16 through 18 for a site survey to assess the potential need for repairs.

Units have been notified that meal card holders will be allowed to claim missed meals for the duration of the closure.

The Shogun Warrior Restaurant apologizes for this inconvenience and looks forward to again being able to serve our community.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Re-Registration for Arnn Elementary, Zama Middle High School 2024-25 School Year – Ongoing

Re-registration started for Arnn Elementary and Zama Middle High School. Preregistration for bus transportation is also available.

Army Emergency Relief – Ongoing

Did you know that Army Emergency Relief is the Army’s official nonprofit that assists Soldiers and their families? Read more here: https://www.armyemergencyrelief.org/

Community ‘Ichi Dan’ Night at Camp Zama Community Club – May 31

The entire community is invited to join the “Ichi Dan” (one team) night starting at 5 p.m. May 31 in the Camp Zama Community Club’s Firelite Lounge. This is a way for the community to come together, to thank each other for all the hard work everyone does for the mission, and to enjoy free hors d’oeuvres, music and camaraderie. Call DSN 263-4133 (046-407-4133 from a cell phone) for more information.

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Z.I.A. Rice-Planting Event – June 2

The Zama International Association and Kizuna International are hosting a free rice-planting event June 2 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Iriya Pool, a short drive from Camp Zama.

The capacity for this event is 50 people on a first-come, first-serve basis.

This event is intended for non-Japanese nationals living or working in Zama City.

Recommended attire is shorts and T-shirts, and it is recommended to bring towels, hats, face masks, flip flops, raincoats (for rainy weather), and something to drink.

**How to Apply**

- Visit the Office of Zama International Association (Address: 2-2887-2 Zama, Zama City) Office hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

- Or call the office at 046-251-9000

- Or email them at z.i.a.040501@kdr.biglobe.ne.jp

The application period will be from May 1 through 21.

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Disability-Reserved Parking Placard Requirement

Please note that you must have a U.S. Army Garrison Japan or other U.S Forces Japan installation-issued parking placard to utilize disability-reserved parking on our facilities. Stateside-issued or locally purchased placards are not authorized for use. Anyone requiring an official placard should submit a written request through the U.S. Army Garrison Japan Vehicle Registration Office with a medical certificate (or Japanese disability ID card) verifying the necessity for the placard and the license plate, make, model and color of the vehicle it will be used with. Please call 263-4810 (046-407-4810 from a cell phone) for more information.

Army Tuition Assistance Notification

Army Tuition Assistance users with potential outstanding balances from FY 21/22 should have received email messages. If you've received a message, please confirm your financial status with UMGC and ARMYIGNITED immediately. Failure to act swiftly may lead to being placed on financial hold with UMGC and could lead to collections. If you have any questions concerning the Army's decision regarding your tuition assistance, please reach out to your education center or submit a helpdesk ticket for assistance from your ArmyIgnitED account.

Summer Employment Option

Looking to make extra cash this summer? USAG Japan Sports, Fitness & Aquatics is accepting applications for a Recreation Aid (NF01) position at SHA Outdoor Pool. Visit this site for more information and to apply: https://www.usajobs.gov/job/780636100

Girl Scouts

Camp Zama Girl Scouts are looking for volunteers to join the fun and support Girl Scouts in all they do! You could lead a badge activity, take Girl Scouts hiking or to explore new places, help at troop meetings, and more. With your unique skills and interests, you’ll help Girl Scouts become stronger, kinder, and braver than they ever thought possible. Reach out to zamagirlscouts@usagso.org to learn more!

Off-Post Medical Options

U.S. Army Japan has a link to its homepage offering information on off-post medical clinics and hospitals that offer bilingual services.

Find the latest information here: https://www.usarj.army.mil/Medical-Services/Host-Nation-Medical-Options/

Parenting Support Programs – Ongoing

Army Community Services offers several parenting-focused classes and groups to assist our community. They include:

*New Parent Support Program – Assisting all military families with children up to age 3. Services include: home visits; breastfeeding information; prenatal classes; parenting classes; play groups; and baby bundle care packages. This service is free for active-duty service members and their families who meet the criteria (expecting a child; have a child up to 3 years old).

*Parenting 101 – This program meets the first Wednesday of each month from 10-11 a.m. in the ACS Building on Camp Zama (Bldg. 402). Study topics include child safety first; healthy bodies; the Purple Crying Program; shaken baby syndrome; and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.

*Perinatal Support Group – This group meets the second Wednesday of each month from 10-11 a.m. in the ACS Building on Camp Zama (Bldg. 402). It was created to provide additional support to those expecting a baby. It’s a great way to discuss your pregnancy experience, connect with other parents, and learn about beneficial resources.

*Screaming-Free Parenting – Parenting can be tough, so join us the third Wednesday of each month from 10-11 a.m. in the ACS Building on Camp Zama (Bldg. 402). This program focuses on balancing discipline with affection; praising your child for good behavior; and effective communication.

*ACS Play Group – This program meets the first and third Tuesday of each month from 10-11:30 a.m. in the Educational and Developmental Intervention Services office at Arnn Elementary School. It’s designed for children up to 3 years of age to learn, play and make new friends. It also allows parents to connect and socialize.

Please call ACS at 263-4357 (046-407-4357 from a cell phone) if you have questions about any of these programs.

Trauma-Focused Therapy Group – Every Wednesday

A new weekly trauma-focused therapy group is starting Feb 7, facilitated by MEDDAC-J provider and therapist John West. Group will be held at Behavioral Health (Building 534, 2nd Floor) every Wednesday 11 a.m. to noon. We are all impacted by traumas small and large. Consider yourself welcome to join this group focusing on wellness, healing, and social support within an atmosphere of safety. The group will integrate methods from multiple evidence-based therapies including EMDR, IFS, and ACT. Adult (18+) TRICARE beneficiaries are eligible to attend. Please contact BHS to reserve a space: DSN 263-4610 or 046-407-4610 from a cell phone. For additional questions regarding the group, email john.p.west50.civ@health.mil.

Celebrate Recovery – Every Thursday

The U.S. Army Garrison Japan Religious Support Office is offering a new 12-step program – “Celebrate Recovery” – to assist with issues including chemical dependency, alcoholism, family dysfunction, and others. The first session is Feb. 1 at 6 p.m. in the Camp Zama Religious Education Center. Please call DSN 263-4898, or 046-407-4898 from a cell phone, for more information.

Yano Fitness Center Age Rules

Effectively immediately, the Sports, Fitness & Aquatics Yano Fitness Center staff at Camp Zama’s Yano Fitness Center will be enforcing age rules for the safety of all patrons. Please note:

**Children 12 years of age and under are not allowed in functional fitness or weight room areas

**Children 13-15 must be supervised by a legal guardian

**Children 16 and above have full access to the fitness center

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

Please help share this important information!

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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.