Guam News

By Evan Carter

Local favorites like beef short-ribs, wild pig, fresh fish and of course lumpia can all be found at Chamorro fiestas here on Guam. Along with the food, good times, friends and lasting memories can be forged – for those who give it a try.

From Malesso to Yigo, local parties are everywhere almost every day. Though few military personnel will be found attending, it doesn’t mean they can’t. Most don’t take the initiative to try them out because they are not sure if they are welcome. It’s a good question.

By Gina Tabonares

Although Halloween had passed MWR was not tricking when it promised that the concert at Polaris Point by pop rock band Smash Mouth would be a treat-filled night of fun and entertainment.

The weather cooperated for the Nov. 5 event. As early as 5 p.m., a mixed crowd from Yigo to Merizo began to fill the huge grounds to find a good spot for watching and dancing. Amid the scent of barbecue, hotdogs and nachos little kids where scattered with their parents lying on the grass on beach mats or blankets.
The dancing mood was started by local band Mojo at 6 p.m. as anticipation for the California-based headliner built up. Fan Rita Catalino brought her whole family, including two young daughters she said are also familiar with the band’s songs.

Information provided by Rafaelito DeAusen
Nov. 23 to 29
The Tumon Bay Lobster and Grill: Great dinner with acoustic accompaniment. Sunday, DUB plays from Beatle’s covers to local island favorites. Monday, Tre & Vince play island music. Tuesday, Thomas offers island and contemporary rock. Wednesday, Gene plays classic and contemporary rock and island music. Thursday, the Beach Geezers offer classic rock and island sounds. Friday, Trout Mask Replica (TMR) plays island and soft rock, followed by Mike and Joe playing classic rock to island on Saturday. Located in Tumon near Subway. Tel: 649-5858

Nov. 23 to 29

By Guam Boonie Stompers

Every Saturday, Guam Boonie Stompers offers public hikes to a variety of destinations such as beaches, waterfalls, mountains, caves, latte sites and World War II sites. Meet at 9 a.m. at the center court in Chamorro Village. Cost is $2 for hikers over age 12. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Hikers should provide their own transportation. Guam’s trails are not developed. Weather conditions can make hikes more difficult than described. Complete 10 boonie stomps for a free unique T-shirt. Bring plenty of water with you.

For information, call 653-2897, e-mail or visit .

Nov. 29 Fintasa and Laolao Falls Difficulty: Medium Length: Three hours for 1.6 miles

By Tara K. Simpson Photos by Evan Carter

For the military community on Guam, Halloween treats came a bit early this year as former tennis pro Anna Kournikova arrived to visit active duty Air Force, Navy and National Guard military members and their families.

The Russian-born player flew into Guam on Oct. 28 and started her tour of Guam’s military facilities the following day.

“I am excited to be in beautiful, warm Guam,” Kournikova said at a press conference held at the Hyatt in Tumon Bay. As a lifelong learner, she added that she was happy about the opportunity to learn more about the military.

By Tennille Bueno, photos courtesy of Karla Kelly

Looking for a variety of holiday gift-giving options in one place? Sub Club Guam will host their 4th annual “Make it, Bake it, Grow it” auction on Nov. 14 at the Naval Base Community Center.

The event features a live and silent auction. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the live auction will begin at 6 p.m. Sub Club members and friends use donated items to put together different gifts. Items to be auctioned include themed baskets, handmade items, coin sets and baked goods.

Sub Club secretary Christine McCormic said she is excited to be a part of the club fundraiser.

By Rafaelito DeAusen

Nov. 9 to 15
Cho Chos Bar: Fire knife dance show with dinner starts 7 p.m. Acoustic performances from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Tuesday, catch Jack Larimer and his contemporary rock and island music. Wednesday, catch Shannon McManus and Francis Costella with soulful contemporary and light rock. Thursday and Friday, Bo and James play classic and contemporary rock. Saturday, Sebastian Camacho closes off with island and soft rock. Located in the outside bar of the Fiesta Resort Guam. Tel: 646-5880

Nov. 9 to 15

By Guam Boonie Stompers
Every Saturday, Guam Boonie Stompers offers public hikes to a variety of destinations such as beaches, waterfalls, mountains, caves, latte sites and World War II sites. Meet at 9 a.m. at the center court in Chamorro Village. Cost is $2 for hikers over age 12. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Hikers should provide their own transportation. Guam’s trails are not developed. Weather conditions can make hikes more difficult than described. Complete 10 boonie stomps for a free unique T-shirt. Bring plenty of water with you.

For information, call 653-2897, e-mail or visit .
Nov. 15 Upper Lonfit Valley Difficulty: Hard Length: Four hours for two miles

By Donovan Brooks

There’s a two-wheeling population on island that’s picking up more and more members, if not speed.

The growing Guam biker population gathers together for annual fun runs and charity rides. They started three years ago and began organizing group tours to the neighboring Republic of Palau. They fly in for a week of riding and cultural exchange.
When Jim Denny was a boy his father would sometimes saddle up and ride his horse alone after midnight, out on the plains of the Texas panhandle.
“I thought he was crazy,” Denny, now 60, said.

On a trip from Guam to Japan, I decided to save myself some trouble and have a bag mailed back to the base in Japan from PostNet in Tamuning. It was a duffle bag with some snorkeling gear, books, and other items.

They told me that I didn't need them to package it - the Post Office would accept it as it was. I went with their advice and asked them to mail it Priority Mail with insurance.

Weeks went by but no package arrived. I tried to call PostNet, but no one answered. Finally, I got them.

They assured me it was sent. After numerous calls and emails, they went to the Post Office to check. The item was still there. They asked if I wanted it mailed.

Duh.

By Tennille Bueno
Princesses, pirates and more filled the Naval Base Guam Library Oct. 22 for the library’s annual Halloween Reading Day. Dressed in costume, readers of all ages came to take part in the festive story hour.
Librarian Fely McCandless says the library has hosted the Halloween story hour for the past few years. The special event is a way to celebrate the creativity and fun of the season along with encouraging reading.
“The children look forward to having someone read to them,” McCandless said. “And dressing up in costume adds to the fun.”
Volunteer reader Shalene Sweet charmed the audience with several themed books. After story time, children enjoyed a treat and library staff handed out goody bags.

By Donovan Brooks
Thousands of Guam residents ran away to the circus recently, if only for a few hours, when the Sarasota, Fla.-based Moscow International Circus came to town.
Showcasing some of the finest circus performers from all over the world, the Oct. 23 to 26 single-ring show did not disappoint, wowing audiences with trapeze, high wire, illusion and aerialist acts, as well as comedic juggling, pretzel-twisted comely women contortionists and “Borsh the Trampoline Guy.” “I think it was great,” Kristi Stone said of the show she attended at the University of Guam field house with her 11-year-old friend, Gianna Alvarez.
“I liked the Mongolian Angels,” a duo trapeze act, said Alvarez, adding that she wouldn’t try it herself. “I’m afraid of heights.”