calendar of events • travel • restaurants & food • trends • recreation • sports • culture & arts • special features • nightlife • coupons & much more
DECEMBER/JANUARY 2018
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE Gift ideas for your loved ones
BALI, INDONESIA Brimming with mystic destinations, fine food and vacation distractions
NEW & REVAMPED
New restaurants of 2017
contents TRAVEL
Bali, Indonesia
CALENDAR
Events in December and January
SPORTS
Triathlete: Allen Kim
ESSENCE OF GUAM
Cultures: India
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HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
Gift ideas to give your loved ones
SPECIAL FEATURE
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Guam Entertainment Society
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Readers’ and event photos
OUT & ABOUT
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ARTIST
Local jewelry makers: Kiko’s Local Jewerly & Sirena Soul
RESTAURANTS
New & Revamped in 2017
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R&R Pacific is a lifestyle magazine that features the people, culture and activities that collectively make up Guam. We provide our readers a window into the different facets of Guam’s diverse community through vibrant photography and engaging articles.
www.facebook.com/rrpacificguam
@rrpacificguam
About the cover: Chelsey Aponik poses with Macy’s Home holiday display at Macy’s Guam. Photo by Joe Cruz of Fstop Guam Photography. Special thanks to Macy’s Guam for wardrobe, accessories, props and location
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R&R Pacific December/January
2017 calenda
r of events
• travel • restaur ant
s & food
PUBLISHER
DESIGN AND PRODUCTION
Maureen N. Maratita
GENERAL SALES MANAGER
Ken Dueñas
LIFESTYLE EDITOR
PRODUCT REPRESENTATIVE
Lara O. Neuman
Shawna Anderson
ASSISTANT EDITOR
ADMINISTRATION
Joy White
Janice Castro
REPORTERS
Carmelita McClellan
Nicole B. Benavente
Jenalyn Aguon
Wayne Chargualaf
MANAGING DIRECTOR
CREATIVE DEPT. SUPERVISOR
• recreat ion • spo rts • cult ure &
arts • spe cial
features
• nightli fe • cou pons
& much
DECEMB ER/JANU ARY 2018
Luisa Joy Castro
BUSINESS EDITOR Meghan Hickey
• trends
Marcos W. Fong
Vikki Fong
HOLIDAY GIFT GUID
Gift idea s for your loved on es
BALI, IN
E
DONESIA
Brimming with mystic fine food and vaca destinations, tion distra ctions
NEW & R E VA M P
New Resta urants of 2017
Glimpses of Guam Inc. Mission Statement: To connect people with information.
Glimpses Publications include: Marianas Business Journal • MBJ Life • Guam Business Magazine • R&R Pacific • Beach Road Magazine
R&R Pacific • October/November 2017 • Entire contents copyrighted 2017 by Glimpses of Guam, Inc. R&R Pacific is published bi-monthly by Glimpses of Guam, Inc., 161 US Army Juan C. Fejeran St., Barrigada Heights, GU 96913. Telephone: (671) 649-0883, Fax: (671) 649-8883, Email: assist_editor@glimpsesofguam.com • All rights reserved. No material may be printed in part or in whole without written permission from the publisher.
Buenas Readers of R&R! Thank you for your support of R&R Pacific — whether you pick up the magazine at one of our distribution points, or read it online. The magazine began life as a publication for our military friends in Guam. In recent years, due to its wonderful stories, it has become popular throughout our island and beyond and we have increased the number of places you can find it — from North to South. The magazine is read by all who live on our island, or who visit Guam. In the next issue, which will come out in February, we will be changing the name of the magazine, to better reflect its wide and varied readership. What you love about the magazine will not change. But we will bring you many features on the lifestyle of Guam — what is happening throughout the island, who is doing something fun or special and what’s coming up on the Guam calendar. And of course, what’s new for you to consider for entertainment, shopping, sports and after work. As usual, we love hearing from you and knowing that you enjoy the magazine! Thanks for reading and — watch out for our new name!
Maureen N. Maratita Publisher
more
Bali:
brimming with mystic destinations, fine food and vacation distractions BY MAUREEN N. MARATITA
Travel///Bali, Indonesia
Looking for a vacation choice that has great food, shopping and unique accommodation at affordable prices to suit a budget? Bali checks all those boxes and more. Whether you want a resort destination with lively nightlife or a serene view of rice terraces from your window, Bali offers it all. The downside of traveling from Guam is that your route will involve a layover through one of Asia’s gateways and long customs lines to enter the country at Denpasar International Airport. But after that, take a deep breath and start to enjoy the Indonesian experience. The airport is in southern Bali, so depending on your arrival time and final destination, you may want to spend a night in the resort areas of Kuta and Sanur or Kuta Puri, said to be more family oriented. These areas are full of bars, nightlife and easily accessible beaches, where it may be hard to refuse a massage on the beach, and where other attractions are within walking distance. For an intellectual experience, the Museum Pasifica offers art from around the region. If you are a family group and/or need a day away from the beach and are staying in Southern Bali, offerings include the Waterbom Bali water park and the Bali Sea Turtle Society’s turtle sanctuary. The sanctuary is free, but donations are appreciated. There are a variety of tours to other areas or locally, like the temptation to indulge in a lazy sunset dinner cruise or to get up close to Indonesia’s culture through a show that includes dinner and dancing — take your pick. If you’re a diver, Bali offers diving tours from Kuta or you can build a trip around the dive destinations on the East and Northwest coasts. From resorts to more intimate accommodations, Bali hotels take advantage of the climate with swim-up bars and designer outdoor bathrooms. Pack light. It’s a tropical destination, after all. Bali has all sorts of clothing to buy — to include surfing gear, as well as artwork, accessories and irresistible items like hand-decorated kites. Think batik, or classy Ikat-woven material to wear or show off on tables or walls. Search out Indonesian designers and ranges. If you are looking to furnish a home and willing to wait while your items ship to Guam, Bali offers a high level of craftsmanship and seasoned wood. But furniture from Indonesia is also available on-island to order, if you want to recreate the experience and mood after your trip. Many visitors to Bali head straight for Ubud in the North, or include it for a day trip. About an hour’s drive from the South, you can hire a climatefriendly jeep (or an air-conditioned car) on arrival to set off and make the journey your own. Group of beautiful Balinese girls in bright traditional costumes by Tropical Studio, Adobe Stock
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BALI Travel time/how to get there from Guam: Within a day, depending on your route through an Asian gateway Getting around: Whichever your Bali base, you can walk to some attractions. A variety of tours and car hire options exist. Must do: A dance show, a temple visit and shopping for that special souvenir Visa requirements: Tourist visa on arrival costs $35; valid for most citizenships Exchange rate: 13,525 Indonesian rupiah to the U.S. dollar (Oct. 19) When to go: Balance wet and dry seasons with the busiest months, but typically April through June and September are dryer months and outside of peak seasons, when visitor numbers soar. March is the biggest festival month.
Mother and child monkey by casfotoarda, Adobe Stock
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If you do rent a vehicle and are staying there, day-long or half-day trips from Ubud offer a chance to explore villages a little further out from the center, or drive in if you are staying in one of the resorts with valley views. Mountain treks vary in difficulty. But the charm of Ubud is you can walk to many of the attractions and pick whichever cafÊ calls to you for a morning or afternoon break. The climate is cooler than the south, but never cold. Ubud also has many restaurants and art galleries that emphasize its reputation as the cultural center of Bali. Set in the hills, with a rain forest and terraced rice paddies, the Ubud region oozes picturesque photo opportunities, often from your private balcony. The area has plenty of Hindu temples and shrines, artistically decorated. Ubud sites to visit include the Monkey Forest (where the monkeys expect to be fed peanuts), and the Goa Gajah cave for its ancient carvings. Browse the list of museums and get to know Balinese and Indonesian works of art and culture, explore the palace and its stone carvings, or watch an atmospheric dance performance. Indonesian food is easy on the Guamanian palate: For example, think Nasi Goreng for breakfast (fried rice topped with a fried egg), satay for lunch (meat on a stick in a light peanut-based sauce) and fresh fish of the day for dinner with locally-grown vegetables. There are plenty of Bali markets, also with fruit for snacking. Just be sure you can peel the fruit, or see it peeled. What next? If your Bali vacation encourages you to return to Indonesia for more, consider the big sister of Bali — the island of Java and its own famous attractions.
(Top) Ulun Dane Temple by saiko3p, Adobe Stock. (Middle) Batik indonesian silk cotton fabric tissue by Andrea Izzotti, Adobe Stock. (Bottom) Amazing Rice Terrace field in Ubud Bali, Indonesia by Luciano Mortula-LGM, Adobe Stock.
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Located in the village of Mangilao, the University of Guam sits on a 110-acre campus which boasts a breathtaking ocean view, cool breezes and modern, islandinspired architecture. Home to nearly 4,000 students per year, UOG offers 50 undergraduate and graduate degrees in Business, Nursing, the Sciences, Liberal Arts and Education. UOG is a public U.S. land-grant institution accredited by the Senior Commission of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Program speciďŹ c accreditation has also been earned from nationally recognized professional accrediting organizations such as: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc. (ACEN); Council on Social Work Education; Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education. For higher education that prepares and empowers you for your future, become a University of Guam Triton!
T: +1 (671) 735-2214
E: admitme@triton.uog.edu
HELPFUL LINKS Admissions www.uog.edu/admissions Financial Aid: www.uog.edu/ďŹ nancial-aid Degree Programs: www.uog.edu/degrees Course Catalogs: www.uog.edu/course-catalog Professional & International Programs: www.uog.edu/pip Apply Online: www.uog.edu/apply
W: www.uog.edu
The University of Guam is a public U.S. land-grant institution accredited by the Senior Commission of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). UOG is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
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DECEMBER & JANUARY Dec. 2
Dec. 15
EIF Winter Wonderland 2017
Boyz II Men Live in Guam! Support Live Music Fest
Time: 9 p.m. – 2 a.m. Location: Pacific Star Resort & Spa Tickets: $20 tickets available at Pacific Star front desk; Drop night club; and online at eifww2017.eventbrite.com. Tickets at the door will be $30. Canned goods and door donations will benefit Kamalen Karidat Soup Kitchen. Bring a can or canned goods for a $5 discount at the door.
Time: 5 p.m. – 11 p.m. Location: Paseo Stadium Tickets: Available at 76/Circle K, Ideal Advertising at 646-2888 or Sanctuary Inc. of Guam at 475-7101.
Dec. 31
Where America’s New Year Begins Dec. 2 and 3
24th Junko Friendship Rubber Baseball Tournament Location: LeoPalace Resort Baseball Field
Dec. 3
Holiday Crafts Fair Time: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Location: Jeff’s Pirates Cove Admission: $2 with a raffle ticket
Dec. 10
Tour of Guam Cycling Location: Central and Southern Guam For more information visit www.tourofguam.com.
Dec. 10
VOLT: Guam Sports Festival Location: Paseo Park
Dec. 10
Guam Symphony Society Annual Seaside Holiday Concert Time: 3 p.m.
Location: Gov. Joseph Flores Memorial Park (Ypao Beach Amphitheater)
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Time: 9 p.m. doors open; 10 p.m. show starts – 1 a.m. Location: Dusit Thani Guam Resort Tickets: $100 for general admission; $150 for premium tickets to include exclusive concert seating and drink packages; $250 for VIP admission includes private rooms, all you can photo booth, a meet and greet with Constantine and exclusive check-in line with champagne. Unlimited wines and beer for all plus cocktails and hors-d’oeuvres for premium and VIP admission. Tickets available at Dusit Thani Restaurant Reservations. Contact Marissa Borja for more information at 648-8019.
Jan. 1
New Year’s Eve Fireworks Time: 12 a.m. Location: Ypao Park, Gov. Joseph Flores Memorial Park
Jan. 24 and 25
Guam Symphony Society Young Artist Competition Time: 7 p.m. Location: University of Guam Fine Arts Theater
EVENTSCALENDAR
DECEMBER SUN
mon
tue
wed
thu
fri 1
sat 2 • EIF Winter Wonderland 2017
MOVIES The Disaster Artist
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• Holiday Crafts Fair
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• 24th Junko Friendship Rubber Baseball Tournament (through Dec. 3)
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MOVIES Just Getting Started
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• Tour of Guam Cycling
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MOVIES Star Wars: The Last Jedi Ferdinand
• VOLT: Guam Sports Festival • Guam Symphony Society Annual Seaside Holiday Concert
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MOVIES Jumanji Pitch Perfect 3 Downsizing
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29 MOVIES The Greatest Showman Molly’s Game
30 31 • Where America’s New Year Begins
FEATURED MOVIE December 15
Star Wars: Episode VIII The Last Jedi Written and directed by Rian Johnson Starring Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, Adam Driver, Daisy Ridley, John Bodega, Oscar Isaac, Andy Serkis, Lupita Nyong’o, Domhnall Gleeson, Anthony Daniels, Gwendoline Christie, Kelly Marie Tran, Laura Den and Benicia del Toro.
Rey develops her newly discovered abilities with the guidance of Luke Skywalker, who is unsettled by the strength of her powers. Meanwhile, the Resistance prepares to do battle with the First Order. (Official synopsis from starwars.com.)
*Event times and dates may change without notice.
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January SUN
mon 1
tue 2
wed 3
thu 4
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5
sat 6
MOVIES Insidious: The Last Key
• New Year’s Eve Fireworks
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fri
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MOVIES Commuter Proud Mary Paddington 2
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MOVIES 12 Strong Den of Thieves
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• Guam Symphony Society Young Artist Competition (through Jan. 25)
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Featured movie January 12
Proud Mary Directed by Babak Najaf Starring Taraji P. Henson, Danny Glover, Neal McDonough, Margaret Avery, Billy Brown, Xander Berkeley and Jahi Di’Allo Winston
Mary is a professional assassin who’s working for an organized crime family in Boston. Her life gets completely turned around when she crosses paths with a boy during a hit gone wrong. (Official synopsis from http://www.sonypictures.com/movies/proudmary/)
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26 MOVIES Maze Runner: Death Cure
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Sports///Triathlete Allen Kim
PUSHING THE LIMIT BY WAYNE CHARGUALAF
Like many businesspeople, Base Corp. General Manager Allen Kim used to play golf. In 2015, however, Kim traded his golf clubs for swimming gear, a bike and running shoes in order to compete in triathlons. Citing the limited amount of time he has to devote to sports, Kim jokes, “Is three sports enough to do and enjoy?” A long-time marathon runner, Kim became friends with David Torre, vice president of the Guam Triathlon Federation, while training for the 2015 Guam International Marathon. Kim says he had always admired triathletes. “You become a swimmer, cyclist and runner. It was just cool,” says Kim. “I wanted to become one of them.” Kim credits Torre with preparing him for his first triathlon, which he competed in that same year. From that point on, he was hooked. It is a tough sport, you push yourself to the limit … I can’t express the feeling [of] crossing the finish line and seeing your family and friends,” says Kim. “For me, it is more like appreciation of what I can do and what I have.” Kim’s most recent race was Ironman Subic Bay, Philippines in March. “I try to participate in one 70.3 mile race (half Ironman distance) and one Ironman race a year, along with local events.” Kim’s next race is Challenge Roth, where he will be one of two men representing Guam. To be held July 1 in Roth, Germany, Challenge Roth is one of the biggest triathlons in the world, regularly boasting thousands of competitors and tens of thousands of spectators. Training for such a multi-faceted and often intimidating sport can be daunting. “When you train for a big race, training twice a day is unavoidable,” Kim says. “Training 20 – 30 hours per week with full-time work and family is not an easy thing to do without dedication to the sport and understanding from family.” In spite of these challenges, Kim hopes to race for a very long time. Kim points out there are shorter distance races, such as Olympic distance and sprint triathlons, which are more welcoming to beginners. “All you need is to do some research on the sport and get help from [knowledgeable] people in the community,” Kim says. “When your mind is set, go out and start running, swimming and biking — it won’t matter if you are young or old, slow or fast.”
Photos courtesy of Allen Kim
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Essence Of Guam///Cultures
Essence of Guam:
The Indian Community Of Guam BY LARA O. NEUMAN
Although smaller in number than other ethnic groups on Guam, the Indian community is a vibrant one. You may have caught a glimpse at this year’s Diwali Festival of the Lights held on Oct. 14 at the Dusit Thani Guam Resort. The annual event is the largest Indian event on Guam each year. “Diwali is one of the most popular and largest holidays that we celebrate here. There are a lot of religious festivals for different groups — we just gather in the temple for evening prayers and meal, but that’s about it. That’s like once in two months,” says Ranjna Dewan Beaman, organizer of the event, hosted by the Indian Temple of Guam. This year’s Diwali Festival of Lights was the largest event in its history, with 700 people in attendance. “This year it was my goal to involve as many people as possible and just open it up to more people. I feel like on Guam, everyone knows an Indian or has run into one. This is a good way to open up our culture,” Beaman says. “Our fashion is our culture and our food is our culture. Since Diwali is one of the most popular and largely celebrated holiday throughout India, it’s huge for Indians around the world. We exchange gifts and we throw big parties at our houses and we dress up.” The Census of Guam reports the breakdown of various ethnic backgrounds of the Guam population, however, Indian is not one of the categories. The 2010 census lists 678 people identifying as “other Asian,” apart from Chinese, Filipino, Japanese, Korean, Taiwanese and Vietnamese. “The population is pretty small, it’s in the hundreds. It’s not even in the thousands, that I can say for sure,” Beaman says. There are no Indian cultural or political organizations on Guam that Beaman knows of. However, there are many prominent businesses on Guam owned and operated by Guamanians with Indian roots, such as Port of Mocha Coffee House, Delta Tire and Lube, Orkin Pest Control, Tick Tock, Napa Auto Parts, Island Equipment Co., Moda Gino’s, Ypao Breeze Inn, Pacific Star Resort & Spa and Javani Beauty, Beaman’s boutique at Micronesia Mall. “People are fascinated with our clothing. The fashion itself is beautiful — it’s bright, it’s different, for sure — the different fabrics of luxurious fabrics. And then there’s the food. I feel like it kind of goes hand in hand,” Beaman says. “I speak to women and they say, ‘Oh I love the clothing.’ And the next thing is, ‘Oh and the food.’” Photos courtesy of the Diwali Festival of Lights
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“What I like about the Indian culture is that it is very diverse from region to region. Also, it is very flexible — it does not impose a way or lifestyle or a practice of religion on an individual. Individuals are free to choose the way they want to practice and to what extent. Our culture welcomes and respects all faiths and we live in harmony with others. The food, the clothing, music — Bollywood is so rich that the culture is so vibrant.” Sanjay R. Dewan, president of Dewan Enterprises Inc., which does business as Port of Mocha Coffee House. He was born in Hong Kong and has lived in Guam for 35 years.
Essence Of Guam///Cultures
(Clockwise from top left) Fried Chicken served Thai Style; Pad Ka Pra (Basil Chicken); (Bottom Left) The pillars of Wat Chalong temple; Photos by Catherine Bungabong; (Center) A beautiful display of surrounding islands can be enjoyed during the ferry ride to Ko Phi Phi Island; Photo by Eric, Adobe Stock. (Bottom Right) The largest most visited temple in Phuket, Wat Chalong Pagoda; Photo by Tuulijumala, Adobe Stock.
“Our culture is colorful, it’s very family oriented. Our culture dates back thousands of years and until this year we’re still celebrating the same festivals that were celebrated back then. There’s so many different aspects that to sum it up would be doing an injustice. Experiencing it would be the best way.”
Ranjna Dewan Beaman, owner of Javani Beauty. She was born in Hong Kong and has lived on Guam for 30 years.
Flavors of India There are many regional variances in Indian cuisine. Try a selection at Curry Kebab in Tamuning, Singh’s Café Kebab and Curry at the Micronesia Mall or the Pacific Star Café lunch buffet on Fridays. If you want to try your hand at cooking up your own delicious Indian dishes, pick up necessary ingredients at Pomika Sales in Tamuning, renovated and expanded in October. Curry Kebab Location: 4588 Marine Corps Dr. Ste. 60, Tamuning Phone: 649-1212 Hours: 11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. – 9:30 p.m., Monday – Friday; 5 p.m. – 9:30 p.m., Saturday Singh’s Café Kebab and Curry Location: Micronesia Mall food court Phone: 971-0888 Hours: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m., daily Pacific Star Café Location: Pacific Star Resort and Spa Phone: 649-7827 or 648-1610 Hours: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., Friday, for the Indian lunch buffet
Pomika Sales Location: Meena’s building, Tamuning Phone: 646-2970 Hours: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Monday – Saturday; 12 p.m. – 5 p.m., Sunday
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Artist///Jewelry Makers
Two local artists who have a passion for creating meaningful and beautiful accessory pieces are Frank Mantanae, owner of Kiko’s Local Art, and Cora Yanger Bejado, owner of Sirena Soul. Their inspiration comes from the culture and people of Guam, which they desire to display in each piece they craft by hand.
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Artist///Jewelry Makers
Frank Mantanae
K iko’s Local A rt STORY AND PHOTOS BY JOY WHITE
Creating beautiful jewelry from shells takes patience, attention to detail, creativity and passion, characteristics that Frank Mantanane has a lot of. Frank Mantanane, owner of Kiko’s Local Art, crafts jewelry from fossilized clam shell, aliling shells and orange spondyllus. His main inspiration is his namesake and late father, who left him all the materials and tools to continue the art. Mantanane’s specialty is a fishing hook pendant. Other signature pieces are the sinahi and sling stones. The crescent-shaped sinahi represents the moon, which was significant to ancient peoples for fishing, navigation and harvesting crops. The chiefs that wore them were also said to watch over the people and land, as the moon does. The fossilized clams are deeply buried, found mostly in the central part of the island, leftovers from when Guam rose up out of the ocean. Sometimes they can be found in coral pits prepared by construction companies. Mantanane began learning about carving jewelry in 2008, when he returned to Guam from living in the mainland United States. He began by learning to carve wood and bamboo from his father as a hobby. They eventually got a business license and partnered with another local artist to sell their pieces at Chamorro Village. “It brought me back to my culture,” he says. He has done extensive research on the jewelry worn by ancient Chamorros, speaking with manamko to learn what they know about what each piece represented to the people that wore them. The pieces would be passed on through the generations, he says. While ancient Chamorros likely used sharpened shells to make their jewelry, Mantanane relies on modern tools. To make the jewelry, Mantanane first slices the shell into a brick with a tile saw. Then he trims it down to size with grinding tools. Next he sands down the layers of the shell to get to the shining, pearly interior. The work requires focus, as the vibrations and heat from the tools can cause the shells to crack or break. Sometimes he makes mistakes. “But that doesn’t bring me down,” he says. If something breaks, he looks at how else he can use the piece, because nothing is wasted. “When I make jewelry, I think about the person that is going to wear it,” he says. “When I sit down on the chair to do work, I’m excited for whoever is going to wear it. I want to see them happy. It makes me feel really good. Seeing them wearing a piece of our island means a lot to me.” Some custom pieces he has made are wedding bands, name tags, a sinahi presented to the PXC Champion and a crown inlaid with seashells and stones presented to Miss Earth Guam. Though he has a day job and a family, when he has time he sits down in his workshop and works on whatever comes to mind. Each piece is one of a kind because it is carved by hand, and Mantanane also tries not to make the same design twice. Mantanane is now experimenting with inlaying shells with opals. By November, he hopes to resume selling his work at Chamorro Village. By next year, he hopes to learn the art of wood carving from master carver Robert Taitano.
(From Top) Each of Frank Mantanane’s handmade jewelry is one of a kind. (Middle) The fishhook bearing the shape of Guam is one of Frank Mantanane’s signature pieces. (Bottom) Frank Mantanane’s sigangure pieces include fishhooks, sinahi, the Guam Seal and sling stones.
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Visit Sirena Soul across the street from Faith Bookstore in HagĂĽtĂąa, in the same building as The Venue.
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Cora Yanger Bejado
Sirena Soul
STORY AND PHOTOS BY NICOLE B. BENAVENTE
Creating one-of-a-kind jewelry requires a passion for art, which Cora Yanger Bejado has always possessed. Cora Yanger Bejado, owner of Sirena Soul Guam, makes simple yet versatile jewelry that features elements of the ocean. The pieces are inspired by the local legend of Sirena — a young Chamorro girl who became the first Guahan mermaid. Bejado crafts with a wide variety of materials — primarily sterling silver and 12 to 14-karat gold-filled metals, as well as leather, nylon cord and bead wire. She also utilizes semi-precious stones, shells, sea glass, pearls, coral, carabao hoof, carabao horn and fish bone. “I start with raw materials. I love laying things out and working with various colors and textures, always keeping in mind that [the jewelry] must be wearable and durable,” she says. Bejado’s most popular pieces include bangles and mermaid crowns. The bangles are hammered into shapes resembling waves or hearts, and feature shell and sea glass-charms. The mermaid crowns are made of shells, pearls, sea glass and seed beads. Each bangle and mermaid crown requires intensive work to ensure that it is unique. Bejado only makes a few of each item so that her products feel special and exclusive. Bejado got her start in jewelry-making by engaging in several types of crafting. She tried her hand at scrapbooking, stamping, creating decorations and party favors, designing wedding albums, making Easter baskets and arranging flowers. She says that her teenage daughter, Camille, inspired her to start making jewelry. During their travels abroad, they often found beautiful handmade jewelry that was quite expensive. “[Camille] really loved the handmade jewelry we found, but they were rather costly. I assured her that if we sourced the materials and took some lessons, we could start making our own pieces,” she says. Together, Bejado and her daughter created a line of products for local women and for all ocean-lovers called Sirena Soul Guam. They began sharing their handmade jewelry with friends and family. When they decided to present Sirena Soul to the public, they expanded their product line to feature ocean-inspired and mermaid-themed apparel, accessories and gifts. “We want to help local women and women abroad connect with our island culture and to their inner mermaids through our products,” she says. Bejado values her daughter’s thoughts on the products young women like to see and wear. When considering what appeals to older women, Bejado makes what she would personally like to wear. Moving forward, she hopes to see Sirena Soul grow successfully. She enjoys seeing people feature her pieces on social media and wear them in-person. “As an artist, I enjoy the creative process as well as the joy [my pieces] bring to those who purchase [them],” she says. “After all, art is for visual enjoyment, and that is where I get my greatest satisfaction.” To see and purchase Bejado’s jewelry, visit Sirena Soul across the street from Faith Bookstore in Hagåtña, in the same building as The Venue.
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Restaurants & Food///Newly Opened in 2017
Happening in 2017
New & revamped restaurants this year BY NICOLE B. BENAVENTE
The variety of food on our island is wider than ever before, thanks to restaurants that opened just this year. From Taiwanese pepper shrimp at Niu Fusion, to a slice of your favorite pizza at Tommy’s Pizza Shoppe, to the “eggsplosion” burger — a bacon cheeseburger with an egg cooked inside an onion ring, topped with sriracha mayo — at Hambros, the possibilities are endless. For phở just the way you like it, stop by Ma’s Kitchen in Tamuning for some “Phở Your Way.” Or if you’re craving local comfort food, taste the lunch buffet at Matua’s Bar and Grill at the ITC building. Its menu changes every day, so you’ll be pleasantly surprised by a unique assortment of local meat and vegetable dishes. Rootz Hills Grillhouse and Skylight Restaurant in Tumon boast international buffets with something for everyone, especially during Sunday brunch. And finally, if you love Mexican food, drop by Mi Sazon to build your own burrito and enjoy its casual dining atmosphere.
Niu Fusion opened in May at Royal Orchid Guam Hotel. Photo by Nicole B. Benavente.
NEW & REVAMpED
RESTAURANTS
hambros
Opened: Sept. 20 Location: Next to Tumon Sands Plaza Phone number: 646-2767 Type of cuisine: American Recommended dish: Avocado bacon burger with wasabi mayo
Ma’s Kitchen
Opened: Oct. 10 Location: DNA Plaza in Tamuning Phone number: 647-4627 Type of cuisine: Vietnamese Recommended dish: Phở your way — choose thin or wide noodles, and then select toppings such as chicken, sliced beef, beef brisket, etc.
Mi Sazon Opened: March 29 Location: Acanta, Tumon Phone number: 645-6472 Type of cuisine: Mexican Recommended dish: Build-your-own burrito — select from a variety of tortillas (flour, spinach and tomato), beans (black, pinto and refried), rice (Spanish and cilantro), meats (chicken, beef and pork), fish/shrimp and other toppings Hambros, Photo by Nicole B. Benavente. Ma’s Kitchen, Photos courtesy of Ma’s Kitchen. Mi Sazon, Photos courtesy of Mi Sazon.
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niu fusion Opened: Mid-May Location: Royal Orchid Guam Hotel Phone number: 645-2888 Type of cuisine: Chinese-local fusion Recommended dish: Pulled-pork loco moco with five-spice gravy
Rootz hills grillhouse Opened: Feb. 1 Location: Guam Plaza Resort & Spa Phone number: 646-7803 Type of cuisine: International Recommended dish: Roasted meats at the Sunday lunch buffet
Skylight Restaurant
Reopened: July 15 Location: Lower level of Pacific Islands Club Phone number: 646-9171 Type of cuisine: International Recommended dish: Local fish of the day
Niu Fusion, Photo by Nicole B. Benavente. Rootz Hills Grillhouse, Photos courtesy of Rootz Hills Grillhouse . Skylight Restaurant, Photos by Maureen N. Maratita.
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Restaurants & Food///Newly Opened in 2017
Matua’s Bar and Grill
Opened: Oct. 20 Location: First floor, ITC Building Phone number: 989-6184 Type of cuisine: Local comfort food Recommended dish: Pork chorizo
Tommy’s Pizza Shoppe Opened: April 26 Location: West O’Brien Drive, on the right-handside when headed from Shirley’s Coffee Shop in Hagåtña toward Anigua Phone number: 922-7437 Type of cuisine: Italian-American Recommended dish: “Shroom-Town” signature pizza, topped with shiitake mushrooms, white bunapi mushrooms, white button mushrooms, garlic and parmesan
Matua’s Bar and Grill, Photo by Nicole B. Benavente. Tommy’s Pizza Shoppe, Photos courtesy of Tommy’s Pizza Shoppe.
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Special Feature///Holiday Gift Guide
Holiday Gift Guide
Guam is not short of selection when it comes to gift-buying — from shopping hot spots Micronesia Mall and Guam Premier Outlets, to high-end boutiques for luxury brands in T Galleria. But if it is a challenge to find that unique gift, here are some of R&R’s top picks that are guaranteed to please anyone on Christmas Day, and every day of the year. BY LARA O. NEUMAN
Chocolates Guam chocolatiers produce quality treats that are ideal for the loved one with a sweet tooth, including Guam Chocolate, located in the Chamorro Village; Guam Premium Chocolate, which is available at local retail and at its shop in the Micronesia Mall; and American Chocolate Factory, which is available at local retail stores.
handcrafted with care to provide heirloom quality jewelry for women, men and children. The shop’s goldsmith is ready to repair or resize jewelry or make custom pieces, including special sizes. When making or repairing a piece, Micronesian Jewelers does everything from designing the piece to pouring and molding the gold to setting the stones.
Jewelry Micronesian Jewelers offers gold and silver jewelry made inhouse that depict the cultural icons of Guam, the Northern Mariana and other island nations of Micronesia. Each piece of jewelry is
Local brands Local brands show pride in the island culture and the creativity of those that design and produce them. Top local brands include Crowns Guam, Fokai, Hafaloha and Ene Wear Clothing.
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Special Feature///Holiday Gift Guide
Another longstanding brand is the Che’lu® brand, founded and owned by Jose M. and Liz D. Rosario. The couple, own and operate a shop at Chamorro Village selling products with the Che’lu® name and logo, including T-shirts, caps, key chains, coconut grater blades (kumyu) and other items. Artwork Check out Framed Etc., located on West O’Brien Drive in Hagatna, which showcases local artists and craftsmen; or Guam Art Boutique, located in Chamorro Village. There is an abundance of talented local artists willing to take on commissioned work, such as Michelle Pier, who can be reached through her website, www.creativeindeed.com. Or create fond holiday memories with a painting class with Color Guam (colorguam.com) or Canvas by Fawn, located in Acanta Mall. For him Barbecue is the way of the land, and a customized grill or grilling accessories are the perfect gift for Guam men. Visit a custom metal
shop to design a perfect grill for him, the gift that keeps on giving. For her Nothing says “I love you” like a diamond with an exquisite cut and exceptional clarity. Vince Jewelers has an in-house gemologist to ensure all stones are of the finest quality. And although the shop has a wide variety of pieces for all budgets, the diamond remains the favored symbol of status and commitment. For them For the kids, the Nintendo Switch is the device that everyone is pining for. The device can be hand held and can be connected to a television or monitor. In addition, the removable controllers can become two controllers for multiplayer action. There are plenty of games to keep them happy, including The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild; Stardew Valley; Ultra Street Fighter II: The Final Challenger; and Mario Kart 8.
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Special Feature///Guam Entertainment Society
GUAM ENTERTAINMENT SOCIETY TO HOST
Guam Latin Dance Festival BY NICOLE B. BENAVENTE
The Guam Entertainment Society plans to host the first Guam Latin Dance Festival from April 27 to April 29 — a threeday event of workshops, performances and dance parties at the Sheraton Laguna Guam Resort and Ypao Beach Park. The festival will include instructors and participants not only from Guam but also from the U.S. mainland, Singapore, the Philippines, Japan and South Korea. Apaul Quilantang, who founded the Guam Entertainment Society, says that performers and dance instructors from Guam regularly travel to participate in dance festivals around the world. “We decided there wasn’t any reason we couldn’t have a dance festival on Guam and showcase the beauty of our island,” Quilantang says. The first two days of the dance festival at Sheraton will provide beginner and intermediate workshops on salsa, bachata, Colombian salsa, Latin jazz and Kizomba — a style of dance that originated in Angola and combines African dance with Tango steps. Each day will conclude with a show/contest and dance party. The final day of the festival will be a Latin dance beach party and swimsuit contest at Ypao Beach Park. Quilantang and the members of the Guam Entertainment Society have been fundraising so they can provide free classes for children during the festival. She hopes for local dancers and instructors to participate as much as possible. “We don’t often see Latin dance on Guam, but it’s growing. That’s why we’re having this festival. It will also be a great tourism opportunity,” Quilantang says. Quilantang began training in Argentine tango in high school and participated in various competitions in the Philippines, Hong Kong and Malaysia. While she attended the University of Guam, she founded a ballroom dance group for students. During her final year of college, she arranged for the group to travel to Saipan to participate in a competition and provide a salsa workshop for Saipan residents. Since she graduated from UOG, Quilantang has continued to promote Latin dance on Guam and coordinate social dancing events. In August, she arranged for the Guam Entertainment Society to regularly provide free Latin dance workshops at 5 p.m. on Sundays at The Point at Sheraton Laguna Guam Resort. “Dance is therapy. It makes people happy,” she says. The Guam Latin Dance Festival is not just for people interested in Latin dance. It is also for individuals interested in fitness and dance-inspired fitness, such as Zumba. Individuals can participate in the festival by signing up for one of six packages — from the youth workshops package to the full-pass package that includes all parties and workshops. To see pricing details and sign up for the Guam Latin Dance Festival, visit guamlatindance.com.
(Top) Apaul Quilantang and her dance team pose for a photo. (Bottom) Latin dance workshops at The Point at Sheraton Laguna Guam Resort.
Free Latin Dance Party and Salsa, Bachata, & Kizomba Workshops Every Sunday from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm. at The Point at Sheraton Laguna Guam Resort Contact email for the event is info@GuamLatinDance.com
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OUT&ABOUT
OUT & ABOUT
Photos by Colin Kirk
LIFE Teen Expo, presented by Bank of Guam, was held on Sept. 30 at the Agana Shopping Center.
Photo contributed by Monty Martin
The Made To eXcite Auto Club at SSGU attended the Slammed Society Car Show 2017 on Nov. 11 at the Dededo old Flea Market. (From left) Monty Martin, Kinno Dizon, Jarrot Arriola, Christina Flores, Rollie Marquez, Maricel Marquez, Anthony Unchangco, and Byron Velasco.
Photos by Joy White
The Third Annual Craft Beer Festival was held on Sept. 30 at the Sheraton Laguna Beach Resort.
Photos courtesy of the Diwali Festival of Lights
Diwali Festival of the Lights, hosted by the Indian Temple of Guam, was held on Oct. 14 at the Dusit Thani Guam Resort.
SEND US YOUR PHOTOS! TO SUBMIT YOUR PHOTOS FOR OUT & ABOUT, EMAIL HIGH-RESOLUTION PHOTOS TO: LIFESTYLEEDITOR@GLIMPSESOFGUAM.COM
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PLEASE INCLUDE: - CAPTIONS (NAMES, DATE, EVENT NAME AND LOCATION) - YOUR NAME AND VILLAGE
OUT&ABOUT
Photos by Justin Green
More than 30 companies participated in the Guam Contractors Association’s 16th Annual Family Picnic on Oct. 12 to kick off National Careers in Construction Week.
Photos courtesy of KONQER Sports Inc., taken by Dylan Vehrs
The Third Annual KONQER Guam took place on Oct. 15 at Gov. Flores Memorial Park.
Photos by Joy White
Pacific Star Resort & Spa held a launch party on Sept. 30 for Morgan’s Outlook, its revamped pool bar.
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