Triton's Call – VOL 36 | ISSUE 1 | FEB 2014

Triton’s Call ’s

YOU FREE | VOL 36 | ISSUE 1 | FEB 2014 | UNIVERSITY OF GUAM

TRITON’S CALL: Publisher: Aristides Pereira Editor: Kyle Santos Co-editors: Katrina Palanca Pauline Patacsil

Staff: Ruzelle Amparo Candice Ananich Catherine Bungabong Jaydee Damaso

Cherelle Daniel Blaze Hubbard Rebekah Oh Mariah Ramos

Travis Simpao Cam Uncangco

www.tritonscall.net uogtritonscall@gmail.com www.facebook.com/thetritonscall www.twitter.com/tritonscall

LESSEN THE STRESSIN’: Semester Survival Tips

By Ruzelle Amparo

It's the start of a new semester at the University of Guam. While the beginning can be laid-back, as

the semester continues students are met with endless amounts of coffee and mountains of assignments and exams that need to be tackled. However, for some students this doesn't occur until the last two weeks of the semester. The other eight weeks are spent coasting, not worrying about a thing and finding every reason under the sun to do everything "later".

This can lead to the headache and near-heart attacks while students anticipate their grades in the hopes that the last ditch efforts will help them to at least pass the class.

Below are some tips for those who are craving for a way out of the endless cycle of the unnecessary semester stress:

Start Early Start assignments, especially major assignments, as early as possible.

Set reminders throughout the semester to slowly chip away at papers and projects that weigh heavily on grades.

Plan The Semester Once the semester starts, look through the syllabuses for every single class and log them into a calendar. For best results, use a calendar on a cellphone or laptop. This way, a reminder can be set to start preparing for important assignments or exams.

Set the reminder for a week ahead of the due date and make sure it's set at an available time, such as right after dinner.

Jay Villagomez, a Health Science major, learned this technique through a time management workshop and has labelled it as fool-proof.

If a 15-page paper is due at the end of the semester, set reminders to write 2 or 3 pages every week. Free time that is usually spent doing nothing can be spent refining the paper or res e a rc h i n g m o re .

This will give ample time to rewrite and revise to create the

"I tried it in my first two semesters and it worked", said Villagomez, "but I didn't do it in my 3rd semester here and I was totally lost." Villagomez even has an application that syncs his reminders to both his cellphone and laptop, making it impossible for him to forget them.

For the more old fashioned students, there isn't anything wrong with writing reminders into a planner. The physical act of writing can help to remember things, which is why physically writing notes is a more efficient way to learn rather than typing them.

best work possible.

"By starting assignments early, I end up saying 'I forgot I did the assignment' instead of 'I forgot to do the assignment'", said Villagomez, which is better than scrambling to finish a major paper in 3 days.

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Go to Class While there are many professors who don't count attendance, that doesn't mean to only go in during exam week. Though it's become difficult to sit through a lecture, going to class has its perks. One of them is that students are paying the professor to teach. So keep said professor on his or her best behavior by going to class and filling those evaluations at the end of the semester. Another reason is that some professors use the words spoken in the lecture or in discussions on exams instead of what is written in the text.

Even if a student is physically there, doesn’t mean they’re mentally there. Try not to daydream or get distracted by social networks such as Facebook or Twitter. Otherwise, there’s no point of being in that class in the first place.

Relax!

A major downfall for students is to believe that they don't deserve to relax during the semester. They believe that they should always have their hands busy. This can end up with too much stress that doesn’t get alleviated.

"It's always good to recharge your battery and take time off," states Nathaniel Lizama, a junior in the PreEngineering program.

There isn't anything wrong with taking 30 minutes out of the day to do things that make a person relaxed and happy. In fact, taking some personal time is essential to getting through the semester. This will clear one’s mind, lessen the amount of stress and prepare a student to better tackle the work in front of them.

Happy Spring, Tritons.

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Broadening Horizons through Travel

By Catherine Bungabong

T

raveling provides a myriad of learning experiences and opportunities. Many dream of traveling all over the world to meet people, learn about different cultures and ways of life, experience new things and expand perspectives. For students, traveling can be a fun learning experience that can broaden their horizon and career opportunities.

For Biology major Justin Legaspi, the opportunity to go on an 8-week research project in Costa Rica helped him figure out what he truly wanted to pursue for his future career. “I wasn’t sure if I wanted to get into biology and medicine so I used this to established my career choice.”

The project was part of the Native American and Pacific Islander Experience (NAPIRE) program funded by the National Science Foundation.

NAPIRE gives students of Native American or Pacific Islander backgrounds the opportunity to discover and work in a biologically diverse environment.

While in Costa Rica, the 21-year-old senior took on a research project about the behavior of the Rufus Humming Bird. He chose this subject of research based on the relevance of the project to Guam. “ I wanted to do my research on birds because of the bird population issue here.”

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He says that due to the cryptic nature of the bird, he had to wake up at 4 in the morning to catch them, as it was the most appropriate time that the birds may be seen. Although it was hard to wake up so early at first, he used it to his advantage. By the time everyone else was just about to start the day, he was already done with his field project.

Students have the ability to choose what project they want to pursue, which encourages independence and responsibility. Although students have a mentor with whom they will be working closely, the research process depends heavily on the student.

The program is held at Las Cruces Biology Station, which consists of more than 500 acres of little to no human impact areas. Costa Rica creates the perfect environment to conduct biological research as it is home to more than 6% of the world’s plants and animals.

It includes an incredible amount of different habitats ranging from marshes to rain forests. “Some people had to hike for 2 hours to get to their research site,” he says about the mass of the station.

During the first couple of weeks, the program sets up activities to promote cultural exchange where students are encouraged to get to know one another through sharing their stories and experiences as well as exhibitions of dance and song.

Legaspi was surprised at how some of his peers lived and how different their ways of life were. He says that it has helped him to be more culturally sensitive.

The trip was fully paid for, including airfare, food, accommodations and a stipend for students.

In addition to the great learning experience, he also gained a better cultural perspective and has grown as an individual. “I’ve learned how to talk to different kinds of people, be more self driven and also more responsible for myself as a person,” says Legaspi.

Traveling can help students learn more about a particular field by getting hands-on experience and the chance to network with professionals who can be excellent mentors. Connecting with professionals in a field of interest can lead students to tremendous career opportunities.

For Health Science major Lawrence Aclairo, the opportunity to travel to Boston for the American Public Health Association 141st Annual Conference and Exposition last summer was an experience he held close to his heart.

As an individual who has experienced losing several family members to cancer, working with the

Photos courtesy of Justin Legaspi

Cancer Research Center is something that Alcairo has always wanted to do.

Through collaborative efforts with the Cancer Research Center, John Hopkins School of Public Health, Youth for Youth Live Guam, Guam Behavorial and Wellness Center, and UOG’s Chuukese Student Organization, research was conducted on Guam youths by youths during a span of 3-4 years.

Together with a colleague, Alcairo conducted a presentation on their findings about cigarette advertisements. “They were surprised to learn that we were ahead of the game. We couldn’t find another group who did this. That’s what they like to see,” Alcairo says about the feedback that they received.

As many students acquire learning experiences through travel, Alcairo was able to share extraordinary findings that may help with the health problems that arise from cigarette smoking all over the world. “Research is fundamental in driving change toward promoting a positive environment,” he says.

Through traveling, some students realize their calling. For recent Business graduate, Luigi Bansil, traveling with his club made him realize that traveling is something he wants to do for the rest of his life. “I never knew that traveling was something that I could do while I was going to school but through AMA, I was able to go to two trips where everything was paid for.”

As the previous President of the University’s chapter of the American Marketing Association, he was able to travel to Australia for a business conference last year. He said the experience helped him to learn how to present himself as a professional. “You learn how to carry yourself at the highest standard in regards to communicating with t h e s e d i s t i nguished i n d i v i d uals.”

T h e c o nference included speakers that spoke a b o u t different avenues of the business field including entrepreneurship and marketing.

The highlight of the trip for Bansil was meeting a student who had an impressive presentation. “He was really smart, he was passionate on what he presented on,” he says about the inspiring student.

Seeing the accomplishment of his peer made him realize that one’s ability isn’t limited to age and position in life.

Image Above: Justin Legaspi in Costa Rica Bansil encourages students to take travel opportunities, as he believes that it will enhance their college experience. When traveling, students can look at opportunities after college whether it means furthering their education or pursuing future careers in that location.

“There’s so much more out there,” he says, “It opens up your horizons on what you can do in life.”

Unlike a typical traveler on a leisure trip, students gain cultural awareness and sensitivity, grow as a person, expand their networks, look into future school and career choices and help their communities as well as others. Students may find travel opportunities by speaking to their advisors about their interests. A quick online search will also result in a myriad of student travel programs. Opportunity is there for those who seek it.

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Photo courtesy of http://aka-img-1.h-img.com

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They could not wait another week.

This past weekend was the prerelease event for the n e w e s t expansion pack for the “Magic the Gathering” trading card g a m e , “magic” for short. Magic is the oldest trading card game and one of the first. In the game, players are c a l l e d “ P l a n e s-

The Gathering

By Travis Simpao

walkers” or wizards and they play cards (a.k.a. cast spells) to beat each other. Each new expansion pack is part of a block of cards that share a particular theme. The weekend saw the preview for “Born of the Gods,” an expansion for the “Theros” block, a

set based around Greek heroes and mythology. Players buy a special set of cards from the new set, build a deck with those cards and play other people in a tournament. The event took place at New Box Seats, a card store along Marine Drive past the Department of Revenue and Taxation building.

Away from the tournament crowd, there exists a core set of magic players right in the University of Guam. A group of students play the game during the long stretches between classes. They mostly congregate in the student center and occupy the rotunda like an unofficial clubroom. Unlike the tournament scene at the card store, the atmosphere around this group is very casual and friendly. However, there is still a high level of play at the rotunda. The students actually help their opponent with possible plays and stragies to win. More competitive players would keep their mouths shut and never help their opponent.

Brenen (Is this a first name or a last name? Please provide full name.), a (what’s the student’s major? Year?) student says about his reason for playing the game: “The reason I play is because there is always something new whenever you play a game with your friends.” Even if both players play the same deck, there will not always be the same winner. “The chances of you winning the same game in a row won’t always be there, and with everything said, there is always something that make you and your opponent stronger and there is a sense of camaraderie between players because it’s a community game."

Even after the game is over, players continue to hang out with other. Another student, Mike (Is this a first name or a last name? Please provide full name.), “I play it [Magic] because it’s fun, a simple stress-reliever and it makes me think about different things other than my daily work.”

Other students shared similar sentiments about playing for the sheer fun of the game and with a large group.

Though they play the game almost every day, it never gets boring. The group is very diverse. It not just the stereotypical nerd guy with glasses and pimples. Boys and girls ranging from freshman to seniors play each other.

“Born of the Gods” will be released on February 7th and the Planeswalkers at the University’s rotunda will be buying cards from that set to play against each other.

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Photo courtesy of http://upload.wikimedia.org

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From Bilingual Complex

to JUDGE

By Rebekah Oh

It’s a rainy afternoon, and Judge Anita Sukola is still working in her office. Aside from her authoritative side in the courtroom, she has a certain gentleness, a genuine Chamorro spirit in her.

Judge Sukola received her education through the public school system and attended University of Guam for two years before she transferred to Washington State University in Pullman, Washington. Her experience at UOG set a strong training ground for her to compete at the same caliber as her mainland counterparts.

How did you overcome that hardship?

“I told one of my professors in UOG that I was kind of embarrassed with the way I spoke English because I have a Chamorro accent. And you know what he told me? He said I don’t hear it. I hear you. That was the most inspiring moment. From that time on, I was not freaked (out). He helped me move forward. Because of that kindness, I want to pass it on.”

“I’m very humbled because when I look at the students in my class, I see myself.”

“With education you can only move forward. My parents didn’t set any sexual boundaries that girls can’t do this and that. My mom and dad are from Chamorro society, a matrilineal society. It had been always for my mom to give the best she could in education because with education, no one can take it away from you,” Said Sukola.

How does it feel to teach in a place where you once were taught?

“I’m very humbled because when I look at the students in my class, I see myself.”

As a person who has been through bilingual complex, she knows that students can be ashamed to ask questions, so she makes an extra effort to encourage students to speak

up.

Though standing today as a successful Triton, she has gone through struggles. Coming from a bilingual background of Chamorro and English, she had a difficult time speaking English correctly.

“I just see myself in the classroom, holding your hand, taking step by step. Stupid questions? Dumb questions? That’s why I’m teaching. Things that I learn from you is that I do see that light in next generation. I see that hope, and I want be able to help you all carry that torch. When it comes time, I will pass it on to you.”

When was the hardest moment in your life?

Are there any words you want to say to current Tritons?

“Honestly, the hardest moment is the inferiority complex that most people who speak another language other than English have. I wanted to go to the United States institution and be able to speak like them and fit in with American dream. And you know what?

You can do it. It works.”

“I’m proud of all of you. I’m proud to have taught students who now are lawyers, doctors, even public accountants, and police officers. It gives me the pride to give back to our community. You, the students, are also giving back to our community. This is our island. Let’s work at it together because I know, together, we can make it truly paraíso [Paradise in Chamorro].”

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FROM VICTIM TO SURVIVOR

How to Effec*vely Recover from a Sexual Assault or Rape

By Candice Ananich According to America’s largest anti-sexual assault organization, Rape Abuse & Incest National Network, more commonly known as RAINN, there is an average of 267,686 victims, age 12 or older of sexual assault in America each year. This computes to a person being sexually assaulted every 2 minutes in this country.

emotions and circumstances that can occur. Collaboration with other government and non-profit organizations allows for HHCC to provide referrals for counseling services, legal assistance and temporary shelter as determined upon review by a social worker and medical consultant.

With such an astonishing number, it is important to know how to reduce your risk of a sexual assault, and the proper steps to take during the aftermath, like how to report the crime to the police, and how to preserve vital forensic evidence for a more successful identification and prosecution of the perpetrator. There are many on-line resources, such as RAINN, that people can visit to learn important information about rape and sexual assault.

Specially trained examiners like Dr. Ellen Bez and Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE), Ann Rios, perform evidentiary exams for the criminal justice aspect of the case but provide care with sensitivity in order to facilitate healing and emotional well being for the survivor.

Guam’s local rape and sexual assault response service provider is Healing Hearts Crisis Center (HHCC).

HHCC provides direct service to survivors and their families: crisis intervention, advocacy, support referral services and, clinical services for medical-legal examination in a case where a survivor wishes to report the assault to law enforcement.

Trained staff is available to provide crisis intervention and support for the survivor throughout the range of

The central purpose of the center is to provide a location and services that allow survivors to be able to recover and heal. Specific information can be obtained directly from HHCC 24 hours a day, their contact numbers are 647-5351 and 647-8833, and these life-lines are monitored by HHCC staff available to help or even just to listen if a survivor simply needs to talk.

Healing from an incident is a complex process; the mantra that needs to be emphasized to all victims is that any form of sexual assault is a violent crime and is not their fault. This is the most important thing for a victim to remember or to be reminded of.

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How to avoid dangerous situations Traveling around campus Walking • Make sure your cell phone is easily accessible and fully charged • Take major, public paths rather than less populated shortcuts • Avoid putting music headphones in both ears so that you can be more aware of your surroundings, especially if you are walking alone.

• Carry a noisemaker (like a whistle) on your keychain • Carry a small flashlight on your keychain

At parties • Be aware of rape drugs • Do not to leave your drink unattended • If you feel extremely tired or drunk for no apparent reason, you may have been drugged. Find your friends and ask them to leave with you as soon as possible • If you suspect you have been drugged, go to a hospital and ask to be tested • Try to come and leave with a group of people you trust

Driving • Keep your doors locked • Have extra car necessities (oil, jumper cables, etc.)

• Try not to wait until the last minute to fill your gas tank; always keep it at least half full if you can • Have your keys ready when you go to unlock your car

General tips • Use the resources that your campus offers (sexual assault services, psychological services, health services, campus police force, escort service, etc.)

• If you are concerned about anonymity, use any resources that the neighboring community provides • Trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable or threatened, leave the situation and go to a safe place

If you have been sexually assaulted there are some additional steps you can take to help feel safer: How to anticipate and respond to perpetrator’s actions • Be conscious of places the perpetrator frequents (work schedule, class schedule, where s/he likes to eat, what club meetings s/he has, what sports practices s/he has, etc.)

• Know which people the perpetrator usually hangs out with and what social events s/he likes to attend • Plan what you would say and do if you came into contact with him or her

Preserving & Collecting Forensic Evidence Preserving DNA evidence is a key tool for law enforcement’s investigation and prosecution of a sexual assault case.

It is used to prove that a sexual assault occurred and to show that the defendant is the source of biological material left on the victim’s body.

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Victims should make every effort to save anything that might contain the perpetrator’s DNA, therefore a victim should not: • Bathe or shower • Use the restroom • Change clothes • Comb hair • Clean up the crime scene • Move anything the offender may have touched

Even if the victim has not yet decided to report the crime, receiving a forensic medical exam and keeping the evidence safe from damage will improve the chances that the police can access and test the stored evidence at a later date.

In the immediate aftermath of a sexual assault, the most important thing is for the victim to get to a safe place. Whether it be the victim’s home, a friend’s home or with a family member, immediate safety is what matters most. When

a feeling of safety has been achieved, it is vital for the victim to receive medical attention, and strongly recommended for the victim to receive a forensic examination.

Preserving DNA evidence can be key to identifying the perpetrator in a sexual assault case, especially those in which the offender is a stranger. DNA evidence is an integral part of a law enforcement investigation that can build a strong case to show that a sexual assault occurred.

REAL TALK Dear Cherelle,

Valentine's Day is coming up, and I really want to do something special for my girlfriend.

We've been dating for 8 months. The problem is, I only have $26.87 in my bank account. Do you have any ideas for nice cheap dates?

Broke College Student

Broke College Student,

hard part would be deciding …that should look into getting a where to start. There is also Table 35 or Proa if you want some local part time job, maybe? dishes at affordable prices in an You know the big day is coming intimate setting. up, SAVE! That’s if you really want to spoil her of course. But because you are on a limited budget, there are some nice places where you can "get more bang for your buck".

Just a suggestion, but maybe cleaning out your room and car might help in finding some loose change? You can take her to World Café located inside the Fiesta Resort where their buffet offers an international cuisine with an amazing salad bar and dessert corner.

With so much delicious food, the

Or you could take the creative route and set up the ultimate date night for two! A nice candle light dinner under the stars with a home cooked meal would surely put a smile on her face. Maybe learn how to make her favorite meal to earn some extra points. Perhaps take her dancing after and then give her a foot massage.

thought that counts. Women are complicated, but we are also fairly simple. Women like men who put effort into pleasing them. She wants to be catered to but at the same time not so much attention where she feels smothered. Be sweet and nice. Open the door for her. Tell her when there’s food stuck between her teeth. Most importantly, make her laugh the night away. Whatever angle you go with, the night will end up exactly as you want it to…with a kiss.

REAL TALK is the Triton’s Call’s new, interactive advice column. To submit a question, send them to our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ thetritonscall

Valentine’s Day isn’t just about how much you spend. It literally is the TRITON’S CALL

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Valentine’s Day in itself is pretty cliché and what better way to celebrate this day by showering them with your love. So instead of the typical boxes of chocolates and a dozen roses, we have some gift ideas for you.

It’s the Thought that Counts Why buy a bunch of materialistic things from the mall that doesn’t have anything to with your relationship? Instead, save yourself some money and be creative. Craft up something that reminds you of your relationship and your valentine.

Mixed CD/Mixed Tape In this MP3 age, mix CDs and mixed tapes are rare, but for a budget-minded Valentine’s Day gift, you couldn’t get any sweeter. Make a playlist reminding you of your Valentine or songs that describes how you feel for them. If you’re a musically talented, write up a song and record yourself. Don’t be afraid to express your true feelings to the one you love.

Photo courtesy of http://mixtapedc.com

Scrapbook Here’s a way to preserve memories in a unique and creative way. It’s a great way to remember all the good times you’ve had with your significant other. Gather a number of photos from the past special events, and vacations to create your scrapbook. Use decorations, stickers, and boarders to create an incomparable look for each page. When you finish, be sure to write on the cover of the scrapbook a romantic love message. This should be a gift to be cherished for a lifetime.

One of a Kind What better way to say “I love you” than a heartfelt gift, personalized with their name? Show your valentine that there is no one else like them and customize something for them expressing how special they are to you.

Photo courtesy of http://img1.etsystatic.com

Photo courtesy of http://www.besportier.com

Personalized Gift Basket You’re Valentine is no one like any other you know in this world, right? So why not craft up a gift basket illustrating that they’re one of a kind? First, think of a theme for the basket. Should it be a hygiene basket full of their favorite necessities or a school supply basket describing their studios personality? A gift basket can be a way to show them that you truly know who they are.

Photo courtesy of http://ecx.images-amazon.com

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Va l e n t i n e ’ s D a y

Gift Ideas!

Photo courtesy of http://printscanada.com

By Jaydee Damaso

Customized Shirt Does your significant other have a favorite saying or do they love having their name on everything they have?

It’s something else that no other person besides themselves has. If you love expressing your relationship to the public, print out matching couples t-shirts.

Go All-Out Have no budget this Valentine’s Day or maybe you want this year to be extra special? Go all out and buy that one extravagant gift that they have been eyeing on. Though it may leave a dent in your wallet, the thought of giving your Valentine a gift to remember will be priceless.

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Electronics With incredible selections of electronics, your options are endless.

However, narrow it down your choices, think of something they would use daily or a gift that they obviously pointed out that they wanted. If they’re obsessed with music, get them Bluetooth speakers. If they love the outdoors, buy them a GoPro.

Photo courtesy of http://uncrate.com

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, finding the perfect gift can be stressful. Just remember the spirit of Valentine’s Day is to spend it with that special someone. No matter what gift you may present them with, the idea of having someone to call your “Valentine” is all that matter While everyday should be a testament to the love you share for one another,. No matter what gift you may choose, remember to find happiness in each other’s company and remind each other how blessed you are to have them in your life. Happy Valentine’s Day, Tritons.

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In Sherlock, the main focus is on Holmes and his above average intelligence that baffles even those who should be used to his antics. Benedict Cumberbatch’s Holmes often bemoans that he is constantly surrounded by idiots. Sherlock has an antagonistic relationship with Scotland Yard (the London Police) and often makes fools of them by pointing out evidence that should have been deduced.

Elementary keeps in Holmes’ above average intelligence as well as his arrogance and obliviousness to normal human behavior, but he works towards understanding and recognizing his failings. Johnny Lee Miller’s Holmes is apologetic in that he recognizes that he has hurt those around him and works to defuse the situation. Miller’s Holmes is able to work in tandem with the police force, thus creating a relationship where they learn something from him and he learns something from them.

Elementary has the characters out of London and puts them in New York. Sherlock Holmes is still very British, but is a fish out of water as he is surrounded by native New Yorkers.

When the creators made Watson a female it drew criticism from a few Holmes’ fans since Watson is supposed to be male. The decision to make Watson a female brings a twist to the show’s adaptation of Holmes and Watson’s relationship. This gender swap gives the writers more opportunities to expand on the character of Joan Watson away from the book counterpart.

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Photo courtesy of http://www.asset1.net

I

n 2010, BBC launched a contemporary update of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous consulting detective Sherlock Holmes, Sherlock starring Benedict Cumberbatch as the detective and Martin Freeman as his companion, Dr. John H. Watson. Since then, the series has become a hit around the world with a faithful following and a dedicated fan base. Two years later, CBS launches another contemporary update of Sherlock Holmes, Elementary starring Johnny Lee Miller as Sherlock Holmes and Lucy Liu as a gender swapped John Watson, Joan Watson.

Although the series was met with skepticism from Holmes’ fans, the series managed to separate itself from its UK counterpart.

Photo courtesy of http://i1.mirror.co.uk

DETECTING THE

DIFFERENCES SHERLOCK vs. ELEMENTARY

By Mariah Anissa Ramos

“When this opportunity arose, I did a lot of research—psychological assessments of the original characters by actual doctors. One of the things I came across is that Holmes struggles a bit with women. He struggles with people in general, but there are moments when he doesn’t quite seem to get the fairer sex. What could be more trying for Sherlock Holmes than working with Watson as a woman?” explains Robert Daherty, a writer of the series, at San Diego Comic Con 2012.

While Sherlock has three episodes per season that are each based off of an original Holmes’ story, Elementary’s longer episode count offers the writers the opportunity to flesh out the characters as well as their relationships. Elementary offers a completely new adaptation on the detective as well as creating new adventures for him and the other characters to explore. The longer episode count in Elementary gives supporting characters the chance to go through their own plot. This allows audiences to receive more screen time from their favorite character and a better look into what makes the character unique.

With Sherlock, the episodes are able to stand out on their own, as each one is a mini movie (90 minutes long). Thus, the audience is taken for a ride with twists and turns that fix themselves before the episode closes. In Elementary, the episodes are spread out to a degree where the audience has the chance to get to know each character that is introduced. Some episodes may be slow, some episodes may be fast; that’s the price for longer seasons.

Both Sherlock and Elementary are brilliant shows on television that give audiences a modern take on Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous consulting detective. Each show has their strengths and weaknesses. Where Sherlock fails, Elementary excels with a longer time to enjoy the characters Holmes dealing with the consequences of his actions and deductions, and a fresher take on the original Sherlock Holmes.

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MORAL De(initions

By Cam Uncangco

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Originally produced on Broadway by Elizabeth Ireland M c C a n n , E d w a rd Albee’s “Who is Sylvia?” will make its way to UOG Theater on February 27 under the direction of Ms. Michelle Blas and a s s i s t a n t d i re c t o r Steve Torres.

“Who is Sylvia?” tests western values when an American family fi n d s t h e i r m o r a l standings turned upside down. This confrontational production of 90 minutes will defy topics and issues not normally thought about. The play’s four main characters resonate with so many different meanings of openness and closeness.

After being awarded to design a 200 billion-dollar dream city, 50-year-old architect Martin admits to best friend, Ross, his recent infidelity. The play tells a story of interspecies love when Martin is tormented by a love of ‘an unimaginable kind’. Martin is a divided individual and at the peak of his career struggles with socially condemned sex, incommunicable passion and isolation.

Albee’s linear-structured play and literal characters are likely to be repellent as it is provocative to many people. By contrast, a symbolic viewer might recognize the disturbing plot as a representation of the unspoken or unspeakable desires, drives and impulses of human beings. Controversies on stereotype, unconventional love, and inconceivable metaphors allude Albee’s masterpiece in this tragedy.

Scene one encapsulates the realism of a happy marriage between Martin and his wife Stevie. Stevie is supportive, affectionate and faithful to her husband. This emotional complacency begs the question “what is love and who defines it? What is right and what is wrong when it comes to matters of the heart, or anything natural?” says Torres.

“Who is Sylvia?” battles narrow and judgmental views of acceptance and of consensus. “The goal of the play is to challenge the audience and student mindset,” says Ms. Blas. It’s the oddity of the story that makes it most compelling. The date is set and though a few weeks away, time is limited enough for the actors also juggling regular school work, other jobs and family.

Photo courtesy of http://3.bp.blogspot.com

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GO AHEAD AND

SELECT START

By Blaze Hubbard

Photos courtesy of Select Start

E

ver been drinking at a bar and thought that playing some good ol’ Mario Kart would fit well into the mix? Or maybe even playing the Power Rangers theme song on Rockband? This duo did when coowners Giovanni Naz and Barry Hernandez started up Select Start, a bar/arcade also known as a video game bar.

“We wanted to have a place where gamers can socialize in a friendly atmosphere. More importantly, to show the community a positive outlook on video games as a hobby and lifestyle,” Hernandez said, “An arcade environment was the first social gathering for gamers.

We wanted this experience to be emulated in the bar, with camaraderie among gamers when they're playing either casually or competitively. Also, a lot of us gamers are old enough to enjoy alcoholic beverages, so socializing with games and beer seems like a great combination!”

Both hailing from the Triton community, Naz graduated from UOG with Bachelor’s in Business Management while Hernandez is currently attending the university and majoring in Mass Communications. Inspired by the Australian video game bar, The Mana Bar, Naz and Hernandez thought that Guam was in need of a new twist to the When asked what a new customer would nightlife scene. Thus, Start Select was born find in this establishment, Naz replied with, and their vision manifested into reality.

“They can find a homely and casual atmosphere here at Select Start. Our employees are gamers or friends of hardThe hybrid video game bar is located at the core gamers. We're always down to talk Agana Shopping Center, where people can about games, and Barry is always up to see the video gaming community flock to challenge players at fighting games if when in need of some socializing and cold they ask!” alcoholic drinks.

The two also said that they are currently in the works to establish new events for other

genres of games, including shooting, sports, and much more. The usual crowds that flood the video game bar are fighting game-based gamers, with a match of Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 almost always taking place. Street Fighter is the other popular game as well as some Injustice: Gods Among Us. “New customers will definitely see a place where they can not only compete in games, but socialize and befriend their fellow gamer,” says Hernandez.

Select Start always has events going on every week, so if anyone is interested in socializing with the gaming community over a nice, refreshing beverage, check out their Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/selectstartguam or their website http://www.selectstartgu.com for more information on specials or events.

Also, when at the bar, ask for their deck of Cards Against Humanity, a surefire way to get an interesting night going.

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