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PALAU WOMEN’S CLUB AWARDS 2012 UOG SCHOLARSHIP
 
The Palau Women’s Club officially awarded their University of Guam 2012 scholarship on Wednesday, January 25. The Palau Women’s Club was chartered on Guam in 1978 and the group award scholarships annually to students attending the University of Guam.
 
Ronalyne Agpaoa, an accounting student in UOG’s School of Business and Public Administration, received the $1,000 scholarship to help cover her college costs.
 
On hand for the presentation were from left to right: Margie Bautista, Treasurer; Teresa Rivera, Vice President; Dr. Julie Ulloa-Heath, Dean of Enrollment Management and Student Services-UOG; Ronalyne Agpaoa, scholarship recipient; Frances R. Ballendorf, President; Esther C. Espangel, Scholarship Committee Chairperson; Keiko Blailes, member; Georgina Oderiong, Asst. Treasurer.

 
 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 
Contact: Elvie Tyler, Sustainability Coordinator
Contact number: 735-0219
Email: etyler@uguam.uog.edu
 
UOG GREEN INTERNS SUPPORT “MISSION ZERO BAGS” LAUNCH
 
(Mangilao, GU) – UOG Green will play a supporting role in the campaign to reduce plastic bags on Guam during the Payless “Mission Zero Bag” Launch on January 25. The idea behind the Payless “Mission Zero Bags” campaign is to reduce the number of plastic bags used in its operations and over time gradually remove plastic bags as a bagging option. Payless also encourages its customers to use recyclable bags while shopping.
 
The UOG Green interns will share information with consumers about how plastic bags negatively affect the island’s community and environment and discuss the advantages of reducing and removing plastic bags from Guam. “UOG Green’s goal is to provide information and answer questions or concerns consumers have about limiting plastic bags,” said Elvie Tyler, UOG’s Sustainability Program Coordinator. “We want to help everyone make a smooth transition to this green initiative.” 
 
The UOG Green information booth will be located inside the Micronesian Mall Payless location from 10am-5pm on January 25. “We encourage everyone to talk to us and learn more about our environment, how ‘Mission Zero Bags’ is a step towards a greener Guam,” says Tyler.
 
For more information, please contact Elvie Tyler at 735-0219
 
 
UOG’s Acabado Receives National Geographic Society Grant
January 13, 2012
 

Stephen Acabado, PhD, and Assistant Professor of Anthropology/Archaeology at the University of Guam, received a $21K grant from the National Geographic Society's Committee for Research and Exploration in support of his anthropological research on the rice terrace farming and irrigation methods of the Ifugao people of the Northern Philippines.

The Ifugao Archaeological Project explores the relationship between irrigation management and social organization of the Ifugao. This research provides alternative views of food production intensification, and further complicates the relationship between water management and sociopolitical stratification. This work also investigates the antiquity of the entire Cordillera terraced field tradition, which scholars have either explained through a ‘long history’ (that predates 16th century Spanish contact) or a revisionist ‘short history’ (that coincides with, or follows Spanish contact) to develop a more nuanced occupational history of this region.

The research will use multiple methods to investigate the history and growth of the highland Ifugao system: GIS technology to identify the topographic locations that were best suited for settlement and terrace construction; archaeological excavations to determine the age of individual settlements and terraces, and, ethnographic research with Ifugao farmers to determine how labor is deployed to construct and maintain their irrigation terraces.

For more information contact Dr. Acabado at 735-2809.

 
Stephen Acabado received a grant from the National Geographic Society to research irrigation and social organization of the Ifugao people of the Northern Philippines. The Ifugao are noted for their rice terrace farming techniques.
 
 
TRIO Regional Workshop at UOG
January 11, 2012
 
A three-day TRiO Forum/Training Workshop wrapped up today at the University of  campus. Participants from the Western Association of Educational Opportunity Personnel Pacific Islands Chapter included TRiO program leaders from American Samoa, Chuuk, Guam, Hawaii, Kosrae, Marshall Islands, Northern Mariana Islands, Palau, Pohnpei, and Yap.

The forum/training included sessions on the U.S. Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008 & TRiO Regulations and a Grant Writing Workshop for the Upward Bound (UB) & Upward Bound Math and Science (UBMS) Programs. The Federal TRIO Programs are outreach and student services programs designed to identify and provide services to individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds. TRIO includes eight programs targeted to serve and assist low-income individuals, first-generation college students, and individuals with disabilities to progress through the academic pipeline from middle school to postbaccalaureate programs.

 

Participants in the training include back row (L-R): Diaz Joseph, Director ,UB College of Micronesia - Pohnpei; Morgan Jonas, Director, UB College of Micronesia - Kosrae; Deliver Salle, Director UB College of Micronesia - Chuuk; Yoichi K. Rengiil, Director UOG TRiO Programs; Julia E. Tower, Presenter; Christine Sison, Director GCC Project Aim; Aluka Rakin, Director UB College of the Marshall Islands; Tchuzie Tadao, Director UBMS Palau Community College. Seated from left are: Virginia Mamangon, Counselor UB College of Micronesia - Chuuk and Laura Mangham, Director ETS Palau Community College.
 
 
PCEI Technical Report
 
CONSUMER CONFIDENCE SURVEY ON GUAM in NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011
Click here to view PDF.
 
 
Campus Parking Policy
 
Click here to view the approved Campus Parking Map
 
 
PTAC Workshop
 
SBPA Guam Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) will be hosting a FREE workshop on Teaming and Joint Ventures on Thursday January 12, 2012 from 9am-10:30am.This workshop provides an opportunity to learn more about teaming arrangements and joint ventures and when you can use them. We will look at the federal regulations related to these arrangements and discuss ways to use these tools effectively.

To register for this workshop or for more information please visit www.guamptac.com or contact Therese at admin@guamptac.com.

 
 
University of Guam students release Heritage Tourism Planning Guidebook 
Mangilao, Guam, December 14, 2011
 
The University of Guam’s School of Business and Public Administration, in collaboration with the UOG Pacific Center for Economic Initiatives, will present a book titled, Heritage Tourism Planning Guidebook: Methods for Implementing Heritage Tourism Programs in Downtown Hagatna, Guam, at the Historic Lujan House (Guam Preservation Trust Office, 157 Padre Palomo Street, Hagåtña), on Friday, December 16, at 10:30 a.m.
 

The book presents an adaptation of National Trust and Historic Preservation’s four basic steps to promote heritage tourism and localizes these steps with examples for possible adaptation in Hagatna. The book also shares best practices from other destinations that can be used to develop and implement heritage tourism programs in Hagatna. This is all presented with the understanding that heritage tourism is an effective way to develop and diversify the local economy.

Authors of the book are graduating Seniors/graduates from the Special Projects in Tourism Research class in the School of Business and Public Administration. Authors include Kristine Pangelinan, Bryan Hoya, Raymond Aguon, and Jon Quidachay. The students wrote the book under the guidance of School of Business and Public Administration faculty member Dr. Fred R. Schumann.

The Heritage Tourism Planning Guidebook focuses on the four basic steps identified by the NTHP to help communities with ideas on how to promote heritage tourism locally: assess the potential; plan and organize; prepare, protect, and manage; and market for success. Along with these four steps, the NTHP has articulated five widely accepted and complementary principles of successful and sustainable heritage tourism which include: collaboration; find the fit between the community and tourism; make sites and programs come alive; focus on quality and authenticity; and preserve and protect resources. These principles are discussed in greater detail on the NTHP’s Website at: www.culturalheritagetourism.org

 
 
Press release for Immediate Release
Date: December 14, 2011
Contact: Dr. Miller 735-2141
 
Little Fire Ant Update
 
As of the first week in December Guam’s newest invasive species, the little fire ant, has been found in Yigo, Nimitz Hill, Piti, Santa Rita, Umatac, and Merizo. “Thanks to the rapid response of the public in bringing in ant samples to my lab as well as to the Government of Guam territorial entomologist, Russ Campbell, we have been able to get a good idea as to where little fire ant populations are located. The next step is to get a plan in place to contain it,” says University of Guam entomologist Ross Miller.
 
It is evident from the number of places the ant has been found that it is being transported around the island by people. “It is necessary for the control of this ant that people stop moving plants, soil, and plant material including banana, heliconia, coconut husks and fronds and to be especially mindful if they are bitten by tiny ants when working in their yards or ranches,” warns Dr. Miller. He would like people to continue to bring samples to his lab or to call 475-PEST (475-7378) if they discover ant activity they believe may be the little fire ant. Banana growers should be vigilant, as the little fire ant loves to make its home in the leaves next to the trunk. Peel the leaf back to see if there are any fire ant colonies present.
 
People can bring ant samples to UOG College of Natural and Applied Sciences dean’s office during weekday business hours. It is important that the ants are placed in a container with a tight fitting lid, preferably in alcohol, and labeled with the person’s name, phone number, date, and location where it was collected.
 
At this time there is no evidence of little fire ants in the CNMI. Everyone is asked to do their part to see that this ant is not spread to other Micronesian islands. Follow all Customs and Quarantine rules and regulations. Do not bring in or take out plants or soil as they may contain unwanted hitchhikers like the three invasive species that are currently wreaking havoc on Guam: the little fire ant, coconut rhinoceros beetle, and Asian cycad scale. “Any invasive species we find on Guam poses a threat to our neighboring islands due to our frequent air and sea connections,” says Dr. Miller, “If people follow the rules and get a permit and certificate to bring in plants this will ensure that no unwanted pests will be accidentally introduced and could save the government millions of dollars trying to eradicate an invasive species.”
 
For more information contact Dr. Miller at 735-2141 or Dr. Campbell at 475-1426.
 
Photos: Little fire ant biting human arm. (Photo courtesy of wikipedia)
Little fire ants found under banana leaf on Guam. (Photo courtesy of UOG)
 
 
December 7, 2011
Important International Collaboration with University of Guam Researcher

 

The value of research conducted at the University of Guam Western Pacific Tropical Research Center (WPTRC) is appreciated locally and internationally. WPTRC chemical ecologist and entomologist Gadi V. P. Reddy was recently invited to Okinawa, Japan to give the keynote lecture at a symposium sponsored by the NARO Kyushu Okinawa Agricultural Research Center to discuss strategic studies for the eradication of sweetpotato weevils in infested regions.

 

Dr. Reddy’s studies on the management of sweetpotato weevils (Cylas formicarius) on

Left to Right (standing): Dr. Katsuya Ichinose, Dr. Takashi Kuriwada; Dr. Yoshifumi Takaeu (Director); Sitting: Ms. Uraporn Nounart, Dr. David R. Hall, Dr. Gadi V.P. Reddy.

Guam are significant in that he is searching for the right formula to control this insect without the use of toxic pesticides. However, in addition to C. formicarius there are two other weevil pests (Euscepes postfasciatus and Daealus tuberosus) causing damage in the field and storage (post-harvest) in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI). Using Integrated Pest Management techniques (IPM) with pheromones as lures and pathogens for control of the weevil, Reddy’s team is looking to make sweetpotato production a more viable crop for regional farmers. “Combining semiochemicals and microbial pests is an environmentally safe alternative to the use of pesticides in controlling weevil infestations,” says Reddy.  

Reddy’s research team conducted trials to determine the best trap size, color and height which allowed them to developed traps containing Petri dishes with fungal spores (Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae) for auto-dissemination into the weevil population, which has been highly effective on Guam and the CNMI.

 

Scientists attending the conference were very interested in utiizing Reddy’s IPM techniques in their home countries. Dr. Reddy is also in discussion with Drs. Katsuya Ichinose and Takashi Kuriwada about the possibility of using the sterile male technique to control weevil populations. “Scientists in Okinawa have effectively used the sterile male technique to eradicate fruit flies, so we thought it may be an effective strategy for controling sweetpotato weevils in the region,” says Reddy. Drs. Ichinose and Kuriwada are planning to visit Guam in March of 2012 to continue this collabartive effort.

 
 
 
MEETING REGARDING WIND TURBINE AT UOG

The UOG Center for Island Sustainability has installed 30 stand-alone solar
streetlights and 40 stand-alone solar walkway lights around campus and
commissioned two 6kW Solar PV systems to help offset the electricity
consumption at house #32 and #6 at Dean's Circle. The University is in the
process of putting up 12 Kw of solar PV on the SOE and have ordered two wind
turbines (1Kw &10kW) systems to be place on campus.

There will be a meeting on Dec. 6 at 1pm in the Anthony Leon Guerrero
Multipurpose Room in the Leon Guerrero School of Business and Public
Administration Building regarding the installation of the larger wind
turbine.

The 1 kW wind turbine will be installed behind house #32 to be used as a
demonstration model for teaching and data collection. This is on a guyed
tower with the hub at 70 feet. For height comparison, one can see the tower
next to TADEO. The second turbine will sit on a 100 foot guyed tower located
in front of House #32 and will offset the energy Consumption for CEDDERS.

The community is invited to the meeting and encouraged to provide input. For
more information contact Sam Walker at swalker@uguam.uog.edu.
 
 
 
 
November 30, 2011
CLASS 3rd Annual College Book Launch
 

UOG CLASS 3rd Annual College Book Launch - On November 30, 2011, UOG’s College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences hosted its 3rd Annual College Book launch featuring What Island by PK Harmon, a full-length collection of poetry and winner of Faighleigh Dickenson University “First Book” competition to be published in January by Serving House Books; Japanese for Tourism Professionals by Yuka Iwata published by Union Press; Bagus! Weaving Strands of Change, Dyed with Roots of Culture edited by Alison Hadley and Kirk Johnson published by CLASS; and Pacific Asia Inquiry, Volume 2 Ann Ames, Editor in Chief published online by CLASS.
 
Caripac Scholars - Fall 2011
 
Each student received $600 scholarship from the USDA CariPac program.  Kateri and Mario are pursuing a BS degree in Tropical Agricultural Science with a Research emphasis while Gregorio, Rowena, David, Robert, Charles, Kawika (Jonathan), and Jennifer are pursuing a BS degree in Tropical Agricultural Science with a Applied emphasis.  Charles is graduating in May 2012.
 

Front row (L-R): Gregorio Borja, Rowena Mendi, Robert Mendi
 
Middle row (L-R): Charles Aiseam, David Calvo, Jennifer Camacho, Kateri Cruz

Back row (L-R) Mario Martinez, Jonathan Davis, and Dr. Lee Yudin, Dean of CNAS
 
 
November 28, 2011
Press Information: For Immediate Release
The 10th International Shoebox Sculpture Exhibition

Where:
Isla Center for the Arts at the University of Guam
#15 Dean’s Circle, Mangilao, Guam

Dates:
December 7, 2011 – January 13, 2012

Opening Reception:
Wednesday, December 7, from 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
The public is invited

Hours & Admission:
Monday – Friday
10:00am – 5:00pm
Saturday 10:00am – 2:00pm.
Closed Sundays and holidays
Admission is free. Donations are greatly appreciated.

View Press Release for Exhibition Summary:
http://www.uog.edu/../../../../../../../../../../../../../../../../../../../../../../../../../../../../../../../../../../../admin/assetmanager/images/isla%20shoebox%20press%20release.docx
 
 
November 22, 2011
Banana Workshop
 

If you like the sweet taste of Guam-grown bananas the University of Guam Cooperative Extension Service is offering a free workshop on growing bananas locally Saturday, December 3rd at UOG.
 

Participants will learn the importance of starting their banana patches or plantations with healthy plants, how tissue culture is done, the best ways to fertilize, how to recognize when their plants may be infected with the dreaded banana bunchy top virus and what to do if they are.
 

The Guam Department of Agriculture and the University of Guam, with funding for USDA, have been propagating disease-free planting stock through tissue culture and many of the most popular and delicious varieties will be available for sale at the workshop.
 

The advantages of planting tissue-cultured plants are many:

  • Since they are disease and insect free they will grow faster and more vigorously than suckers taken from the field
  • All tissue-cultured plants are guaranteed to be of the same variety
  • They can be ordered in advance and available in large numbers at one time

“I highly encourage all banana lovers and farmers to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to buy these disease-free banana plants at the workshop or any weekday at the Department of Agriculture,” says Plant Pathologist George Wall. “There is nothing like tree-ripened locally-grown fruit in terms of nutrition, taste and value.”
 

The Banana Workshop will be held on Saturday, December 3, 2011

UOG Campus, Ag & Life Sciences Bldg Room 127, from 8:30 to 11:45am.
 

Banana varieties available: William, Guahu, Macao, Manila, Lacatan, Yangambi, Dwarf French Plantain (cooking).

A great holiday gift idea too! Prices dependent on size of plants $3-$10.00
 
 
November 21, 2011
FOR IMMEDIATE PRESS RELEASE - Puengen Minagof Nochebuena
 
The Division of Humanities, College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, University of Guam’s CHamoru language classes cordially invite the UOG and Guam community to an evening of festive activities at the Humanities and Social Sciences Buidling (HSS Building) and Atrium on Saturday, November 26, 2011 from 6 p.m. -9 p.m. Each of the seven classes is responsible of an activity that they either are currently studying or completed.
 
The CHamoru language classes will host a series of sadigåni siha, or houses. There is a sadigåni for boñelos dågu, assorted boñelos siha, anibat, pre-recorded and live short skits or plays, huego siha, and lålai or kånta. Students, families, friends, and the community will have an opportunity to  actively participate in the activities as well as watch an event taking place.  The students of the CHamoru language classes are preparing for all ages – young, old and in between!
 
The highlight of the evening is the Inachá’igen Belen. Each class is building a belen or nativity to be entered in the inter-class belen competition that will be judged by three community members. Event goers will also get a chance cast their vote for the People’s Choice Award belen.
 
Please join the students on this evening and help them show off our CHamoru language skills and culturally knowledge, and to usher in the 2011 holiday season.
 
For more information please contact: Rosa Salas Palomo at salaspalomo@hotmail.com, Rufina Mendiola at rmcarbullido@hotmail.com, Teresita Flores at derosaflores@yahoo.comor Joey Franquez at sinotf@guam.com. All may be reached by phone at 735-2800 or 735-2193/1.
 
Si Yu’os ma’åse’.
 
 
 
November 21, 2011
FOR IMMEDIATE PRESS RELEASE - Puengen Minagof Nochebuena
 
The Division of Humanities, College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, University of Guam’s CHamoru language classes cordially invite the UOG and Guam community to an evening of festive activities at the Humanities and Social Sciences Buidling (HSS Building) and Atrium on Saturday, November 26, 2011 from 6 p.m. -9 p.m. Each of the seven classes is responsible of an activity that they either are currently studying or completed.
 
The CHamoru language classes will host a series of sadigåni siha, or houses. There is a sadigåni for boñelos dågu, assorted boñelos siha, anibat, pre-recorded and live short skits or plays, huego siha, and lålai or kånta. Students, families, friends, and the community will have an opportunity to  actively participate in the activities as well as watch an event taking place.  The students of the CHamoru language classes are preparing for all ages – young, old and in between!
 
The highlight of the evening is the Inachá’igen Belen. Each class is building a belen or nativity to be entered in the inter-class belen competition that will be judged by three community members. Event goers will also get a chance cast their vote for the People’s Choice Award belen.
 
Please join the students on this evening and help them show off our CHamoru language skills and culturally knowledge, and to usher in the 2011 holiday season.
 
For more information please contact: Rosa Salas Palomo at salaspalomo@hotmail.com, Rufina Mendiola at rmcarbullido@hotmail.com, Teresita Flores at derosaflores@yahoo.comor Joey Franquez at sinotf@guam.com. All may be reached by phone at 735-2800 or 735-2193/1.
 
Si Yu’os ma’åse’.
 
 
 
November 18, 2011
UOG School of Nursing Announces New Public Health Concentration
 
The University of Guam, with the School of Nursing and Health Sciences, is pleased to announce the approval of a new Public Health Concentration in the Health Sciences program.  The program has been developed with the long-term goal of providing theory, training, research experience, and service opportunities in Public Health to residents in Guam and the neighboring islands in the region.  Future outlook for the program includes establishing lasting community partnerships with local and regional groups, and obtaining concentration specific accreditation or certification.
 
“This Public Health concentration will build on regional associate degree Public Health programs, and provide educational opportunities to address the infectious disease and non-communicable disease burden within the region,” said Kathryn Wood, Acting Director, School of Nursing and Health Sciences.
 
For more information, contact Dr. Maosheng Ran at msran@uguam.uog.edu or Dr. Yvette Paulino at yvettecpaulino@uguam.uog.edu.  Additional information can be found at www.uog.edu.
 
 
November 16, 2011

The Guam Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) presents a seminar on The Future of Green Business on Guam. 

 

This is a free match-making event and brings guest speakers from a private corporation—the U.S. Veterans Group, who will:

  • Introduce efficient LED lighting.
  • Introduce Eco-Friendly & VOC-free (volatile organic compound) paint & plaster.
  • Introduce a smart & small Solar Charger.
  • Introduce a waste biomass recycling project and a new eco-business on Guam.
  • Introduce high-tech air cleaning.
  • Introduce and discuss the potential to start a high-tech GREEN business on Guam.

The speakers for the seminar are:

  • Mr. Kim Don Chun, CEO of DASAN Tech
  • Dr. S. J. Lim, Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering
  • Dr. Sang Chul Lee, CTO of U.S. Veterans Group – a private corporation.  Dr. Lee is the Senior Researcher of the Korea Nuclear Energy Research Center and was the Research Director of the Samsung Group.

 

With the launch of the U.S. SBA’s and the Department of the Navy’s website The Green Government Opportunities (GGO) (http://green.sba.gov/), a one-stop destination for all things green in small business, the VBOC partnered with the speakers to conduct the seminar.  For your information, the purpose of the website is to provide a resource through which small businesses can gain access to green contracts, grants and partnerships with the Department of the Navy.  Its primary feature is a consolidated search capability that allows small businesses to filter government opportunities using keywords important to them. The site also promotes sustainable environmental procurement practices and allows for the sharing of relevant green small business information and of third-party tools that facilitate green procurement. The GGO is sponsored by the U.S. Small Business Administration and the Navy.

 

This seminar will be held in Room 129 – the Anthony Leon Guerrero Multi-Purpose room at the  University of Guam – School of Business & Public Administration.  Registration will start at 8:00 a.m. 

 

Here is the agenda:

8:30 to 9:20 a.m. – Introduction of efficient LED lighting (Kim Don Chun, CEO of DASAN Tech)

9:40 to 10:40 a.m. – Introduction of Eco-Friendly & VOC-free (volatile organic compound) paint & plaster (Dr. S. J. Lim, Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering)

10:50 to 11:50 a.m. – Introduction Solar Charger (Dr. Sang Chul Lee, CTO of U.S. Veterans Group – a private corporation)

12:00 to 1:00 p.m. – Lunch

1:00 to 2:00 p.m. – Introduction of Waste Biomass Recycling Project, high-tech air cleaning and a new ECO business on Guam (Dr. Sang Chul Lee, CTO of U.S. Veterans Group – a private corporation)

2:00 to 4:00 p.m. – Questions, Discussions and Match-Making meetings

 

Seating is limited.  If you are interested in attending, please complete and bring the attached registration with you on the day of the seminar or submit an electronic registration via our online registration at http://sba-vboc.ecenterdirect.com/Conferences.action?CenterID=1.

This seminar is being offered by Guam Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC).  For more information, please call the Guam VBOC at 475-4900 or email Cheryl Cruz at cheryl@guamvboc.com.  Requests for reasonable accommodations must be made 72 hours in advance.  Services are extended to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. 

 

The University of Guam – School of Business and  Public Administration – Guam Veterans Business Outreach Center is sponsored by the U.S. Small Business Administration under a Cooperative Agreement.  This Cooperative Agreement is partially funded by U.S. Small Business Administration.  SBA’s funding is not an endorsement of any products, opinions, or services.  All SBA funded programs are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis.

 

 
 
 
Fire Ants Pose Ecological Threat
Press Release for Immediate Release
Date: Nov. 10, 2011
Contact: Dr. Miller 735-2141
 
Ant APB
 
The little fire ant has been found on Guam and according to University of Guam entomologist Ross Miller this could be the makings of an ecological disaster on par with the invasion of the brown tree snake. “We have been on the look-out for Wasmannia auropunctata since 2007 with surveillance projects on Guam and in the CNMI. This ant has caused ecological devastation in Hawaii, New Caledonia and the Australian government has spent over 12 million dollars in attempts to eradicate an infestation in Cairns and Brisbane,” says Miller.
 
The ant was found by staff of the Guam Coconut Rhinoceros Beetle Eradication Project at Primos Northern Hardfill for organic materials located on the back road to Andersen. “Workers were being bitten by the ants as they off-loaded debris at the dump. CRB Director Roland Quituqua brought in a sample to our lab and Maia Raymundo identified them as the little fire ant,” says Miller. “This identification has since been confirmed by ant experts in Hawaii, and we are now trying to identify the extent of the infestation on Guam.”
 
This tiny non-descript ant can be found on the underside of leaves, in the ground or in treetops eating other insects, snails, geckos, baby chicks, whatever they find in their paths. They can potentially turn an area into an ecological wasteland. If people brush against infested plants, hundreds of the tiny ants will soon be stinging them before they know it. While the sting of an individual ant is not in itself painful, the ants sting en masse which may cause persistent, intense itching and a rash.
Dr. Miller is hopeful that the public will respond to this all points bulletin and be on the lookout for the ants. “We are counting on the cooperation of the public to find out how extensive the little fire ant is on Guam. If you have been stung or have seen small yellow or reddish to golden brown ants in your yard or ranch please do collect a sample to help us find them,” says Miller.
 
People can bring ant samples to UOG College of Natural and Applied Sciences Dean’s office during weekday business hours. It is important that the ants are placed in a container with a tight fitting lid, preferably in alcohol, and labeled with the person’s name, phone number and the location where it was collected.
 
UOG scientists are working with Russ Campbell, Guam’s territorial entomologist to mount a campaign to contain this latest invasive species to land on Guam. Ant samples may also be taken to Dr. Campbell’s office at the Plant Inspection Station on Tiyan. His number is 472-5812 extension 15. Dr. Ross Miller may be contacted at UOG at 735-2141.
 
 
 
October 27, 2011

TECHNOLOGY ENABLES COLORADO SPECIALISTS TO TEST GUAM INFANT FOR HEARING LOSS AT UOG

Venerannda Leon Guerrero cradled her slumbering infant in her arms in a CEDDERS testing center at the University of Guam as she watched an audiologist in Colorado conduct a diagnostic test to determine whether or not her baby has a hearing loss. The remote test was held on October 19 and marked the first technology-enabled distance diagnostic testing for hearing loss on very young infants on island.
This event was made possible through the Teleaudiology Project, a collaboration between Dr. Debra Hayes and Dr. Susan Dreith of the Bill Daniels Center for Children’s Hearing, Children’s Hospital-Colorado, and the University of Guam CEDDERS Guam Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) project, with support from the Guam Department of Education, Division of Special Education – Early Intervention Program. Dr. Dreith and Dr. Ericka Schicke have obtained their licenses to practice as audiologists on Guam.
 

Drs. Dreith and Schicke at Children's Hospital-Colorado operate the diagnostic audiological equipment remotely from Colorado, after audiometrists on Guam prepare the parent and infant for testing. The Diagnostic Audiological Evaluation (DAE) may take 2 hours to complete, which requires the infant to be asleep during the evaluation. Parents know at the end of the test whether or not their infant has a hearing loss.
 

The urgent need for diagnosis of very young infants for hearing loss prompted this much-needed collaboration to bring this service to families on Guam. Infants on Guam that do not pass their newborn hearing screening can now be evaluated for any hearing loss before 3 months of age, thereby allowing early intervention services to be initiated, if needed, by the time the infant reaches 6 months of age. This timely early intervention service provides the infant and family the greatest opportunity for the child to develop speech and language in a timely manner for life-long success. Families no longer have to travel off-island to obtain diagnostic audiological evaluations for their infants.
 

“I think this accomplishment under UOG/Guam CEDDERS is a major step forward in the use of technology to support our community. Thanks to this partnership, babies on this island will get the needed pediatric audiological services from certified professionals, an area lacking on Guam,” said Velma Sablan, professor at the University of Guam and experienced professional in the field of early hearing detection and intervention

This 18-month partnership is a pilot project that addresses the critical need for services from Pediatric Audiologists in the Pacific. The impact of this project could potentially cause a wave of change in the practice of Pediatric Audiology in the Pacific region.
For more information on the Teleaudiology project, please contact Elaine Eclavea, Project Coordinator for Guam’s Early Hearing Detection and Intervention Project, at elaine.eclavea@guamcedders.org. For more information on infant hearing screening, visit www.guamehdi.orgor call 735-2466.
Caption: Venerannda Leon Guerrero holds her infant prior to undergoing teleaudiology testing to determine whether or not her infant has a hearing loss. Technology enabled Dr. Erica Schicke (on computer screen upper left) at Children's Hospital-Colorado to operate the diagnostic audiological equipment remotely from Colorado, after Bobbie Maguadog (center), Department of Education audiometrist, and Dr. Susan Dreith (left), audiologist, Children's Hospital-Colorado,prepared the parent and infant for testing on Guam.
 
 
  
Oct. 4, 2011
Adapted Physical Education for Pacific Islanders
 
The University of Guam Physical Education, Health and Sports Studies program in the College of Natural and Applied Sciences and University of Hawaii Manoa Department of Kinesiology and Leisure Science in the College of Education were recently awarded a $1.2 million Personnel Preparation grant from the U.S Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs. Dr. Kelle Murphy, who is the Coordinator of the Physical Education program at UOG will serve as one of the Co-Project Investigators on the grant.
 
Project APEPI (Adapted Physical Education for Pacific Islanders) has been funded for a five year period (2011-2016). The goals of the grant are to increase the number of highly qualified teachers providing regular and adapted physical education services to P-12 students with low incidence disabilities in American Samoa, Guam, CNMI, and the rural areas of Hawai’i.
 
Interested students will apply and enroll in the University of Hawai’i graduate program in Adapted Physical Education. This is the only program offering a Masters in Adapted Physical Education in these areas. Graduates of the program will be trained in Adapted Physical Education and will be able to offer appropriate physical education services as mandated by Federal guidelines throughout the Pacific Islands.
 
For more information regarding the program, please contact Dr. Murphy at kmurphy@uguam.uog.eduor call at 735-0258.
 
 
 
 

October 4, 2011

NAVFAC Marianas Issued $1 Million Cooperative Agreement to University of Guam for Regional Invasive Species Plans
 

SANTA RITA, Guam – Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Marianas issued a $1 million Cooperative Agreement (CA) between the Department of Navy (DoN) and the University of Guam (UOG) Sept. 29 to conduct peer review of the Micronesia Bio-security Plan (MBP) and develop a Strategic Implementation Plan (SIP).

This CA represents the continuation of a DoN initiative to implement bio-security measures that will ensure protection of the region’s fragile ecosystem.

“This long term strategy incorporates two components,” said NAVFAC Marianas Natural Resources Specialist Jenn Farley. “The MBP will analyze risks of various pathways, organisms, and species associated with the importation to, and exportation from Guam to other areas of Micronesia; the SIP is a multi-tiered implementation plan which prescribes corrective actions for invasive species, pathways, and organisms that are identified as posing risks.”

The MBP is being developed as a comprehensive regional approach. The development of the SIP will be based on results of the MBP research components and subsequent independent peer review and recommendations.

“This project is critically important for the region and will become a model for invasive species planning,” said UOG Assistant Vice President John Peterson. “Working with our partners throughout the region, we will develop a strategic implementation plan and processes that will help defend against invasive species.”

A kick-off meeting between the parties to the CA is expected to be held in two weeks, and draft work plans are due within 30 days of the agreement. All work is expected to be completed around springtime of 2013.

 
 
 
  
 

Ann Marie Gawel poses with Dr. Doug Boucher from the Union of Concerned Scientists after she received her award for "Honorable Distinction in Ecoservice."

August 15, 2011
UOG’S ANN GAWEL RECEIVES
ECOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA SERVICE AWARD
 

Ann Marie Gawel, a graduate student pursuing her master’s degree in biology at the University of Guam, recently received the Honorable Distinction in Ecoservice award from the Ecological Society of America Student Section and the Union of Concerned Scientists.
 

Five young scientists received awards for their contributions to the discipline of ecology that have extended beyond the realm of academia and into the broader communities of which they are a part during the annual conference of the Ecological Society of America, in Austin, Texas, which was held earlier this month. Each received a cash prize of at least $300 and a commemorative plaque.
 

A panel evaluated each applicant’s contributions to outreach, ecoservice and environmental justice. The goal of this award is to engage young ecologists in research that reaches beyond inquiry and into application, outreach, and education. The theme of the 96th annual ESA meeting is "Earth Stewardship: Preserving and enhancing the earth's life-support systems".
 

  

 
 
August 12, 2011
UOG/BECKER CPA REVIEW PROGRAM
 
(Mangilao, Guam) The University of Guam in partnership with Becker Professional Education will offer the Becker US CPA Exam Review Program at the UOG campus this fall. The two organizations signed a three-year agreement in July 2011.
 

“This is an exciting opportunity for Guam residents who want to earn their CPA designation,” said Dr. Anita Borja-Enriquez, Dean of the School of Business and Public Administration. “This partnership provides an affordable pathway for individuals to prepare to take the CPA exam, which is the preeminent certification for accounting professionals, and earn graduate accounting credits necessary towards US CPA licensure. Today, CEOs prefer to hire certified public accountants to oversee finances so this is an ideal opportunity for UOG graduates with degrees in accounting and finance to take their professional skills to the next level.”
 

The Becker US CPA Exam Review Program includes four parts. Upon registration and payment at UOG, Becker will ship course materials directly to the students. The agreement with Becker provides participants with a significant discount on the course and exam preparation materials.
 

Before the CPA Review Program begins, University of Guam faculty will first complete the mandatory Becker training course. Training for faculty with CPAs will be held today. Once they complete the training and are approved to teach by Becker Professional Education, the Becker CPA Review Program schedule will be announced.
 

For more information contact Lillian Chargualaf at 671- 735-2550.

 
 
  
 
August 11, 2011
Specialty Crops for the Marianas
 
Dr. Harley Manner, UOG Professor Emeritus of Geography and Micronesian Studies, recently donated a new publication “Specialty Crops for the Pacific Islands” to the RFK Memorial Library at the University of Guam.
 
The book contains four articles by Manner. Accepting the book is Library Director Christine Scott-Smith. Pictured from left are Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences James Sellmann, Scott-Smith and Manner.
 
 
 
 
August 09, 2011
ISLA CENTER FOR THE ARTS CONTEMPORARY JAPANESE CRAFTS EXHIBITION
 
CONTACT:
735-2965/6; islacenter@gmail.com
Velma Yamashita, Director
Gi Young Hwang, Gallery Assistant
 

ART EXHIBITION Contemporary Japanese Crafts

LOCATION The Isla Center for the Arts at the University of Guam

#15 Dean’s Circle
 

DATES August 18 – September 7, 2011
 

OPENING RECEPTION Thursday, August 18 from 7:00pm – 9:00 p.m.

The public is invited.
 

GALLERY HOURS AND Monday through Friday 10:00a.m.–5:00p.m.
 

ADMISSION Saturday 10:00a.m.-2:00p.m.

Closed Sundays and holidays

Admission is free. Donations are greatly appreciated.

 
  
 
 
 
Exhibition Summary
The Isla Center for the Arts at the University of Guam is proud to announce the opening of the exhibition Contemporary Japanese Crafts on August 18, 2011. Curated by Shiraishi Masami, Director of the Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art, this exquisite display of Japanese Art features 64 three-dimensional pieces created out of variety of media including ceramics, copper, bronze, iron, glass, lacquer, wood, and bamboo.
 

The diversity of themes, materials, and artists’ styles is described by Shiraishi in the following passage from the exhibition catalog:

“Just as the values of the Japanese people became more diverse following the Second World War, crafts also developed in ever more complex ways and branched out in many directions…even though contemporary Japanese crafts may appear to be completely disparate, it is possible to identify several common themes.”
 

Shiraishi divides the crafts of Japan into six general categories to include: Ostentation (the use of ostentatious colors, gold and silver), Quiet Refinement (the natural expression of the materials), Crispness (strong shapes and colors), Fine Detail (elaborate workmanship), Deformation (the beauty of unevenness), and Flowers and Birds (ornamentation based on flower and bird motifs).
 

Among the artists selected for the exhibition, three National Living Treasures are included in this exhibition. They are: Sayoko Eri, Yasokichi Tokuda, and Minori Yoshida.
 

Organized by the Japan Foundation, this traveling exhibition has been displayed in Germany, Russia, Egypt, Sweden, Chile, Nepal, Korea, Thailand, and Singapore and the United States.

    

  
 
 
 
Contemporary Japanese Crafts
 
Opens on August 18 and will be on exhibit through September 7, 2011. The Isla Center for the Arts is open to the public, free of charge, Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Groups are cordially invited to call the Isla Center at 735-2965/6 to schedule tours of the exhibit.

 
This exhibit is sponsored by the Consulate-General of Japan, University of Guam, Guam CAHA, NEA and the Office of the Governor.
 

 
 
 
 
August 08, 2011
Guam Researcher Studies Mount Pinatubo Ecosystem Recovery
 

University of Guam ecologist Thomas Marler recently mobilized efforts to characterize the vegetation that has recovered following the eruption of Mount Pinatubo, Philippines. “My interest was sparked by the paradox that this volcano’s cataclysmic 1991 eruption was so powerful it changed global climate, yet after a full 15 years the biology of the recovering ecosystem had not been studied,” said Marler.
 
The void of research motivated the Guam ecologist to spend a majority of 2006 conducting botanical surveys on the mountain. Marler then teamed up with University of Washington ecologist

Roger del Moral to publish results from the surveys in a recent

Photo by Thomas Marler - The general status of Mount Pinatubo's crater in 2006 showed many areas with barren surfaces due to continued shifting soils even 15 years after the eruption.

issue of the journal Pacific Science.

 

This facet of ecology is termed “primary succession” and refers to how organisms begin to grow in sterile habitats, then how they form communities. One core theme that emerged from Marler’s research was that unstable soil surfaces of Mount Pinatubo continue to re-start the succession of community formation. “The situation on this mountain serves to remind us that recovery from the damage inflicted by hurtful events may linger for many years,” said Marler. A life lesson that Marler contends has application to human relations.
 

The pair of ecologists also identified several explanatory factors that have correlations with the current status of primary succession. Elevation and the distance to permanent human settlement were two major factors that emerged to explain the vegetation characteristics. According to Marler, there is no solidarity among ecologists about a set of universal factors that enable detailed prediction during succession. The Pinatubo research adds to the list of case studies that may eventually allow the formation of clarity among various succession models.
 

A scientist with the Western Pacific Tropical Research Center (WPTRC), Marler’s research in the Philippines will increase global understanding of ecosystem recovery following natural disasters. “This important research is an example of the critical role that the University of Guam plays while fulfilling our mission in the region,” said Greg Wiecko, Associate Director of the WPTRC. “A critical void in knowledge was identified and the University’s expertise and resources were deployed to fill the void.”
 

Find more information on Thomas Marler’s research at www.wptrc.org.

 
 
 
 
 
August 04, 2011
High School Students Present Summer Research Projects Monday at UOG
 
(Mangilao, Guam) Nine public high school students selected to participate in the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases Pacific Island/Alaska Native Summer Internship at the University of Guam will present their research projects on August 8 beginning at 2:30p.m. in the Science Building Annex, Room 120.
 

The students have been working full-time this summer with UOG mentor professors on various health related research projects. Later this month, students will travel to Bethesda, Maryland to attend the NIDDK STEP-UP Scientific Session and Summer Research Presentations. Monday’s event gives students an opportunity to present in front of an audience before they leave for Maryland. Each student will present their research at the Maryland conference. The presentations are free and open to the public.
 

The students who were selected to participate in the program are:

· Melissa Pillias, Simon Sanchez High School

· Jannel Banks, Simon Sanchez High School

· Anthony Taianao, Southern High School

· Monique Nicole Camacho, John F. Kennedy High School

· Christian Mondia, Southern High School

· Francine Cruz, Okkodo High School

· Kayla Gabrielle Edubalad, Southern high School

· Jamie Pangelinan, John F. Kenney High School

· Vincent Medler, Simon Sanchez High School

 
Students will present on research topics ranging from sequencing the DNA-barcodes of certain seaweeds to analyzing vitamin C and pH in stored calamansi juice. They will earn three college credits for their participation in the program, and their travel to Maryland will be covered by NIDDK.
 

The purpose of the NIDDK Summer Program is to familiarize high school students with health issues, and inspire them to pursue their degrees in areas that will help reduce the health disparities in their communities. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) conducts and supports research on many of the most serious diseases affecting public health. The Institute supports much of the clinical research on the diseases of internal medicine and related subspecialty fields, as well as many basic science disciplines.
 
For more information on NIDDK visit http://www2.niddk.nih.gov
 
 
 
 
  
August 04, 2011
UOG's Dr. Reddy Receives $75K Conservation Innovation Grant from USDA
 
The warm humid conditions of the tropics make it tough for farmers to keep their crops pest free. For sweetpotato growers in Micronesia, the sweetpotato weevil seems to defy efforts to control its population. Some farmers have been applying toxic pesticides in an effort to control the weevils but they have not been successful. Since the grubs bore inside the tubers, the chemicals do not affect the immature stages. The sweetpotato weevil is a year round pest under warm conditions and even small populations can cause severe damage to the tubers.
 

University of Guam scientist Dr. Gadi V.P. Reddy has received a $75,000 Conservation Innovation Grant (CIG) from USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to help growers in the region using an integrated control strategy that will control the weevils and eliminate the use of toxic pesticides.

Dr. Reddy is applying Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques to reduce the numbers of weevils in farmer’s fields. He has been developing effective trapping methods that utilize scents attractive to weevils (pheromones) and lethal fungi to control weevil populations. Before the weevils can say, “There’s a fungus among us,” they are infected with a fungus that can seriously disable and eventually kill them. These integrated control tactics are environmentally friendly and target a specific insect, namely the sweetpotato weevil, Cylas formicarius.

This NRCS grant will fund Reddy’s research into developing efficient pheromone traps for catching weevils that will contain Petri dishes with fungal spores (Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae). The weevils that visit the traps will be infected with the fungus and in turn infect the weevils in the fields.

“The IPM research conducted by Dr. Reddy and his team at the Western Pacific Tropical Research Center (WPTRC) positively impacts sustainable agriculture in the region and beyond,” says Greg Wiecko, WPTRC associate director.

Dr. Reddy is a chemical ecologist and entomologist with over 25 years of experience in entomological research and has a strong background in IPM (Integrated Pest Management), biocontrol, and behavioral and chemical ecology. He serves as Subject Editor for the journals, Environmental Entomology and Annals of the Entomological Society of America and as Associate Editor for Florida Entomologist. He is also co-author of the book Biological Control of Tropical Weeds using Arthropods, which was recently published by Cambridge University Press.

For more information contact Dr. Reddy at 735-2142 or email reddy@uguam.uog.edu

 
 
 
 
 
August 04, 2011
UOG’S Upward Bound College Preparation Program Accepting Applications
UOG's Upward Bound (UB) college prep program is now accepting applications for SY2011-12. High school students from 9th, 10th, and 11th grade may be eligible to apply for the following free services and benefits including tutoring, college and career prep activities, self-development workshops, a summer program at UOG, and more! Only students who attend GW, JFK, SSHS, and Southern High may apply. Deadline to submit applications is Sept. 30th. Interested parents/ students may call 735-1992/ 2245 or go to the main TRIO Office at the UOG Field House, first floor for applications and information.
 
 
 
 
 
August 03, 2011
UOG'S ANN GAWEL FINALIST FOR ECOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA SERVICE AWARD
 
Ann Marie Gawel, a graduate student pursuing her master’s degree in biology at the University of Guam, is a finalist for the 2011 Ecological Society of America Service Award.
 

The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) in partnership with the Student Section of the Ecological Society of America (ESA-SS) will honor young scientists for the contributions to the discipline of ecology that have extended beyond the realm of academia and into the broader communities of which they are a part during the annual conference of the Ecological Society of America, in Austin, Texas, which begins August 7.
 
The award will consist of a cash prize of at least $300 and a commemorative plaque.
 

A panel that includes the boards of both the ESA-SS and UCS will evaluate each applicant’s contributions to outreach, ecoservice and environmental justice. The goal of this award is to engage young ecologists in research that reaches beyond inquiry and into application, outreach, and education. The theme of the 96th annual ESA meeting is "Earth Stewardship: Preserving and enhancing the earth's life-support systems".

 
 
 
 
 
August 02, 2011
Guam Healthcare and Hospital Development Foundation and UOG School of Nursing Hosts “Group Lifestyle Balance Program” Two-Day Workshop
 
The Guam Healthcare and Hospital Development Foundation, together with the University of Guam School of Nursing and Health Sciences, will be hosting a two-day workshop called the “Group Lifestyle Balance Program.” The program will be taught by a team from the University of Pittsburgh, Diabetes Institute and Prevention Center. The team is lead by Dr. Kaye Kramer, RN, MPH, DrPH, who is also the Director of the Diabetes Prevention Support Center at the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Kramer has led this team of committed individuals in teaching over 700 of these workshops around the country, including workshops given to various branches of the armed forces.
 

These workshops are designed as “Trainer the Trainer” program and are thus tailored to certain groups of professionals that we encourage to not only attend the workshop, but to then teach a minimum of one session of principles learned during this workshop to any group of individuals that are diabetics and / or are risk of diabetes. Doctors, nurses, diabetes educators, nutritionists, physical education instructors and trainers are some of the professions these workshops were created for.
 

Participants will receive a certificate of completion and can independently implement the program in their work setting or the community.
 

The faculty who will be the presenters at the workshop include:

Ø Dr. Kaye Kramer, RN, MPH, DrPH is the Director of the Diabetes Prevention Support Center of the University of Pittsburgh Diabetes Institute (DPSC), University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA

Ø Dr,Andrea Kriska, PhD is the Executive Director of the Physical Activity Resource Center for Public Health (PARC-PH).

Ø Ms. Linda Semler, RD, MS is the nutrition coordinator for the Diabetes Prevention Program

Ø Dr. Elizabeth Venditti PhD is the Director of the Lifestyle Resource Core for the Diabetes Prevention Program
 

During a separate session, the Guam Healthcare & Hospital Development Foundation board members will be working with government policy makers to attend a separate presentation to be given by Dr. Linda Siminerio, Director of the University of Pittsburgh Diabetes Institute. Linda was appointed by the Governor of the State of Pennsylvania to be in a leadership role to produce a Diabetes Action Plan for the State of Pennsylvania. The purpose of this presentation and dialogue we will foster with our island policy makers, is to help foster the development of a Guam Diabetes Action Plan, which we believe will result in mitigating the adverse impacts caused by diabetes to not just residents of our community and those of our neighboring islands, but also the productivity of our work force when you consider the chronic levels diabetes has maintained on Guam and in other regions of the Pacific.
 

The workshop will be on October 6 & 7, 2011 at the Hyatt Regency.

To learn more about the Group Lifestyle Balance Program, you can visit the website: http://www.diabetesprevention.pitt.edu
 

Email for more information: Email members of our Foundation’s Education and Community Outreach Committee; Certified Diabetes Educator Aggie White RN at hsp@teleguam.net, Margaret Hattori-Uchima RN, MSN at muchima@uguam.uog.edu, Veterans Advocate and Foundation Board member Art Mesa at artmesas@yahoo.com or Peter Sgro at psgro@ite.net.
 

Call for more information: You may also call Ruth Gurusamy RN, MN, MBA or Aggie White at Health Services of the Pacific at 647-5357.
 

Limited Seating: Seating is limited to 75.
 
Download the flier and registration form here.
 
 
 
 
 
August 01, 2011
UOG Presidential Lecture Series Features Vicente Diaz
 
University of Michigan Associate Professor Vicente Diaz will present, "In the Wake of Matapang's Canoe: Alternative Histories of Chamorro Catholicism and its Opposition" on Tuesday, August 23 at 5:30 p.m. in the University of Guam CLASS Lecture Hall as the featured speaker in Robert Underwood’s Presidential Lecture Series.
 

Vicente M. Diaz, PhD, is Associate Professor of Asian/Pacific Islander American Studies at the University of Michigan. Born and raised on Guam, Diaz taught Pacific History and Micronesian Studies at the University of Guam from 1992 to 2001 until he relocated to his present post at the University of Michigan.
 
Diaz is a co-founder of the Guam Traditional Seafarers, which helped revived traditional canoe building and navigation in Guam, served as the historian for Hale'ta series of Guam history and civics books produced by the Guam Political Status Educational Coordinating Commission in the 1990s. Diaz is published widely in the fields of Pacific history, anthropology, and cultural studies, and is currently an elected council member of the Native American and Indigenous Studies Association (NAISA), an international association of native academics and scholars who are advancing the field of comparative native studies. Of Pohnpeian and Filipino lineage, Diaz is the son of retired Judge Ramon V. and Josefina C. Diaz of Dededo.
 

The presentation is free of charge and open to the community. The presentation and will be followed by a question and answer session.

 
 
 
 
  
July 29, 2011
UOG ARMY ROTC’S POPPE COMMISSIONED AS SECOND LIEUTENANT
 
Edward Henry Poppe, IV received his commission as a second lieutenant at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington on July 11, 2011. Poppe earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Guam in 2009 and entered into the Senior Army ROTC Program as an Alternate Entry Option Cadet while he pursued his master's degree in Public Administration at UOG. He attended the Leader's Training Course in Ft. Knox, Kentucky in the summer of 2010 and then returned to the University to complete his SROTC requirements. Poppe obtained his master’s degree in May 2011; shortly thereafter he attended the Leader Development and Assessment Course at Ft. Lewis, Washington. He finished the UOG Army Senior ROTC Program as an End of Camp Commissionee, having completed two degree programs at the University of Guam and his SROTC requirements. He is the proud son of Coast Guard Chief Petty Officer Edward H. Poppe, III and Dolores Lujan.
 
Caption: 2nd Lieutenant Edward Henry Poppe, IV was commissioned on July 11, 2011 at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington. The University of Guam graduate completed UOG’s Army ROTC program requirements and obtained his master’s degree in public administration in 2011. Poppe is pinned by his mother, Dolores Lujan, and father, Edward H. Poppe, III, during the commissioning ceremony.
 
 
 
 
 
Fadang photo makes the cover of major botanical journal
 
The research efforts of University of Guam scientist Thomas Marler have put Guam’s endangered native cycad, Cycas micronesica (fadang is the Chamorro name) on the cover of the June 2011 International Journal of Plant Sciences (IJPS).
 
Published by the University of Chicago Press, IJPS is an important source for researchers looking for new and dynamic articles in the field of botany.
 

In this recently published article, Marler and Cornell University botanist Karl Niklas compared Guam cycads growing in different habitats to examine the influence of the environment on reproductive success. Their methods were designed to more fully understand the role of wind during the events that lead to seed production.
 

“We were able to quantitatively demonstrate that cycads growing in locations exposed to trade winds and salt air on Guam’s east coast produced fewer seeds and were less robust than plants growing on the protected west side of the island,” says Marler. “We used these results to convey the need to include multiple locations whenever conducting research on rare and endangered species.”
 

The research also informed the ongoing desire to determine the role of insects versus wind for pollination of fadang. The results indicated these ancient plants more likely rely on the help of insects rather than wind for pollination. These answers to critical questions are invaluable for developing a plan to conserve the species.
 

A scientist with the Western Pacific Tropical Research Center, Marler’s long-term research on fadang is more crucial than ever considering its future is in jeopardy due to damage by several invasive insects. The data used in this study were collected in 2004, which was the year of the last major reproductive event before the insects began killing fadang plants. Cycas micronesica went from being the most abundant tree on Guam in 2002 to endangered status in 2006, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature & Natural Resources.
 

The beauty and symmetry of Cycas micronesica make it a worthy photographic and research subject, as Guam forests would lose an important species if the invasive insects continue to go unchecked. The important work of Marler and other scientists on Guam’s native plants and animals is invaluable for the future health of island ecosystems.
 

Find more information on Thomas Marler’s research at www.wptrc.org.
 
 
 
July 20, 2011
High School Students Participate Diabetes, Digestive & Kidney Diseases
Summer Research Internship at UOG
 
(Mangilao, Guam) A select group of nine public high school students have the opportunity to work as paid interns with mentor professors this summer at the University of Guam thanks to funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK).
 
The students are working full-time for 10 weeks with UOG mentor professors on various health related research projects. In August, students will travel to Bethesda, Maryland to attend the NIDDK STEP-UP Scientific Session and Summer Research Presentations. All students will be expected to present an oral presentation of their research experience. Travel and accommodations are covered by NIDDK. The purpose of the NIDDK Summer Program is to familiarize high school students with health issues, and inspire them to pursue their degrees in areas that will help reduce the health disparities in their communities.
 
2011 marks the third year the University of Guam has participated in the NIDDK Pacific Island/Alaska Native Summer Internship Program. The students will earn three college credits for their participation in the program, and their tuition will be covered by NIDDK. The students who were selected to participate in the program are:
 
     · Melissa Pillias, Simon Sanchez High School
· Jannel Banks, Simon Sanchez High School
· Anthony Taianao, Southern High School
· Monique Nicole Camacho, John F. Kennedy High School
· Christian Mondia, Southern High School
· Francine Cruz, Okkodo High School
· Kayla Gabrielle Edubalad, Southern high School
· Jamie Pangelinan, John F. Kenney High School
· Vincent Medler, Simon Sanchez High School 
 
“We couldn’t run this program without the participation of our faculty mentors including Drs. Jason Biggs, Mari Marutani, Mohammad Golabi, Jian Yang, Tim Righetti, and Gaddy Reddy,” said Helen Whippy, UOG Senior Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs. “These scientists are teaching the NIDDK interns how to conduct research on topics ranging from sequencing the DNA-barcodes of certain seaweeds to analyzing vitamin C and pH in stored calamansi juice, to name a few.”
  
“These experiences will help familiarize them with research methods and hopefully inspire them to pursue degrees in the sciences,” added Dr. John Peterson, UOG Assistant Vice President of Graduate Studies, Sponsored Programs, and Research.
 
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) conducts and supports research on many of the most serious diseases affecting public health. The Institute supports much of the clinical research on the diseases of internal medicine and related subspecialty fields, as well as many basic science disciplines. For more information on NIDDK visit http://www2.niddk.nih.gov
 
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) - High School Students are working with University of Guam mentor professors on a variety of health-related research projects thanks to funding from NIDDK Pacific Island/Alaska Native Summer Internship Program.
 
Pictured from left front row are: UOG President Robert Underwood, Anthony Taianao, Professor Mohammad Golabi, Francine Cruz, Senior Vice President Helen Whippy; second row from left: Professor Gaddy Reddy, Kayla Gabrielle Edubalad, and Christian Monda; third row from left: Professor Mari Marutani, Melissa Pillias, Jannel Banks, Jamie Pangelinan, and Professor Tim Righetti, back row from left: Assistant Vice President John Peterson, Professor Jason Biggs, Vincent Medler, and Monique Camacho.
 
 
 
 
July 06, 2011
UOG Begins Mural Project in Mangilao
 
The University of Guam, Mangilao Mayor and Vice Mayor’s office, and volunteers from the Chuukese Sports Association, the Air National Guard, the Mangilao Knights of Columbus, and the Padre Palomo Assembly Knight of Columbus began work today on creating a new mural which will brighten one of the village’s largest concrete walls on Route 10. UOG art professor Joe Babauta has created the artwork which will be painted on the wall, but today’s work focused on water blasting and site preparation.
 
UOG Field House director Bob Pelkey and his team of volunteers got to work early this morning. “It will take us until Thursday to complete our site preparation,” said Pelkey. “We are still accepting volunteers as well as donations of food and water for our volunteers. So if you are driving by, feel free to stop and lend a hand or thank the volunteers with a bottle of water.” For more information contact Bob Pelkey at bpelkey@uguam.uog.edu.
 
Caption: UOG President Robert Underwood and UOG Field House Director Bob Pelkey look on as members of the Chuukese Sports Association take a break from water blasting to pose for the camera.
 
 
  
 
 
July 05, 2011
UOG TRIO/SSS 2011 Summer Bridge Program
 
The University of Guam TRIO Student Support Services program offers the 2011 Summer Bridge Program August 1 – 5, 2011. The Summer Bridge Program is free for incoming freshmen and transfer students who intend to participate in the TRIO/SSS Program. Several workshops and fun activities will be offered to ensure a smooth transition to college life. The Summer Bridge Program includes information on financial aid, financial and economic literary, and a campus tour as well as workshops on communication skills, time management, goal setting, study skills, and college survival skills. First-year and transition students will get the opportunity to meet other first-year students, orient to the UOG campus, and learn about UOG resources and services. The deadline to apply is July 22, 2011.
 
For more information contact Emmanuel John Aguon at 735-2258/2248 or ejaguon@uguam.uog.edu.
 
 
 
 
 
June 29, 2011
Iron Age Artifacts Unearthed During Cebu Field School
 
The University of Guam offered a summer 2011 archaeological field school in Cebu in collaboration with the Archaeological Studies Program of the University of the Philippines, San Carlos University, and the National Museum of the Philippines. The field school provided participants intensive training in archaeological site excavation, mapping, and artifact analysis and interpretation as well as training in landscape analysis.
 

“Burials, pots and other artifacts were uncovered that date back to the Iron Age, which spans the centuries from a thousand to 1500 years ago,” said John Peterson, director of UOG’s Micronesian Area Research Center. “Also discovered is what we believe to be a ceramic lingling-o pendant, which is a fertility symbol.” Cebu was the first seat of the Spanish colonial government in the Philippines and the field school aimed, in part, to document the impact of Spanish colonization on indigenous life-ways in the shadow of the parish church in San Remigio.
 

According to the Philippine Presidential Communications Operations Office, the objects are being brought to Museo sa Sugbu located at the provincial capital because San Remigio does not have a museum. However, the San Remigio mayor recently announced city officials’ plans to build a museum to house the artifacts.
 

Students learned archaeological field techniques by working in real field conditions in collaboration with students and staff from the U.S. mainland, the Philippines, and the Luce Asian Archaeology Program Fellows of the Department of Anthropology, University of Hawaii-Manoa.
 

The project is co-directed by Dr. Stephen Acabado, assistant professor of anthropological archaeology, and Dr. John Peterson, director of the Micronesian Area Research Center. They worked with their colleagues from the University of the Philippines, the National Museum of the Philippines, and the University of San Carlos. “Students acquired hands-on archaeological field expertise,” said Acabado. “I hope that the combination of field work and socializing with descendant communities will provide them with the concept of social responsibility needed by social scientists.”
 
Caption: (TOP) Archaeologists and students participating in the Cebu Field School unearthed several artifacts and burial sites including this object which Field School archaeologists believe to be a lingling-o pendant, which is a fertility symbol.
 
Caption: (RIGHT) One of the burial sites uncovered during the Cebu Field
School.
 
 
 
 
 
June 27, 2011
UOG SIGNS AGREEMENT WITH PHILIPPINES' MAPUA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY to Support Engineering Program
 
University of Guam President Robert A. Underwood and Mapua Institute of Technology President Reynaldo B. Vea signed an agreement on June 21 to develop academic relations between the two institutions which will support UOG’s efforts to launch an engineering school.
 

The Mapúa Institute of Technology’s electrical engineering, electronics engineering and computer engineering have been granted accreditation by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET), the recognized accreditor of engineering and technology programs in the United States. The Mapua Institute of Technology is the only educational institution in the Philippines to achieve ABET accreditation.
 

The agreement will enhance relations between the two institutions and further the development of academic and cultural exchanges. The two institutions hope to promote cooperation in such areas as faculty and student exchanges, training and study programs, collaborative teaching projects, collaborative scholarship, and other joint endeavors according to principles of reciprocity, common understanding, and mutual benefit.
 

“This agreement will enable us to forge a strong relationship as we seek ways to enhance our programs,” said UOG President Robert A. Underwood. “This relationship with the Mapua Institute of Technology brings us in close communication with the only institution with ABET accredited programs in East Asia. Their close geographic proximity will benefit our students and both of our institutions.”

ABET, Inc. is the recognized accreditor for college and university programs in applied science, computing, engineering, and technology. Among the most respected accreditation organizations in the U.S., ABET has provided leadership and quality assurance in higher education for over 75 years.ABET accredits over 3,100 programs at more than 600 colleges and universities worldwide.
 
Caption: Mapua Institute of Technology President Reynaldo B. Vea and University of Guam President Robert A. Underwood sign an agreement of cooperation on June 21, 2011. Mapua is the only institution in East Asia with ABET accredited engineering programs.
 
 
 
 
June 24, 2011
UOG Scientist Wins USDA Competitive Funding
 
Western Pacific Tropical Research Center (WPTRC) scientist Dr. Gadi V.P. Reddy is concerned about the effect of toxic agricultural chemicals on the health of island residents and ecosystems. He has been educating farmers on the alternatives to pesticide use and has recently been awarded an $188,000 grant from USDA-National Institute of Food and Agriculture (USDA-NIFA) Pest Management Alternatives Program (PMAP). Dr. Monte P. Johnson, National Program Leader with USDA-NIFA congratulated Dr. Reddy on his award saying, “Competition was tough.” Dr. Reddy’s grant was one of six projects funded by PMAP in this grant cycle.
 
The grant titled Development, Implementation and Economic Evaluation of Sustainable Mite and Fruit Borer Management practices on Tomato will focus on developing an ecologically sound and cost effective Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program for tomato farmers in the region. “The majority of growers in this region use dicofol, carbaryl , malathion, and other insecticides for the control of spider and broad mites and caterpillar pests on tomato. Usually as many as 10–15 insecticidal applications are applied each cropping period, which is not only expensive in terms of financial outlay but is also associated with ecological and toxicological hazards,” says Dr. Reddy. This funding will allow Dr. Reddy to conduct studies that will implement the use of predatory insects, petroleum spray oils, neem oil, microbial pest control agents, and modern miticides, thereby reducing the reliance on toxic pesticides to control insect pests.
 
Without taking appropriate action to gain effective control, the mites and caterpillar pests are likely to cause a huge or complete loss of tomato production in Guam and other Micronesian Islands. “There has been very little research carried out targeting the control of mites and caterpillar pests on tomato in the Pacific region. The results of this study will be of value to local farmers and consumers and fill a void in the literature,” says Dr. Reddy. This study will be carried out at the University of Guam’s Agricultural Experiment Stations in Yigo and Inarajan. As a result, a training program will be put together for the purpose of training farmers and other stakeholders on the use of IPM practices. Dr. Reddy and his team will work with extension agents to disseminate the information and to conduct farmers’ field schools, and afterward, follow up with the farmers to see if they have implemented IPM practices in their fields. Dr. Reddy also expects that this technology will be widely transferred within the Pacific Islands and other parts of the tropical world.
 
The grant allows Dr. Reddy to hire a Postdoctoral Research Associate and a Research Assistant to conduct the field experiments and collect the data. The university community will also benefit from this grant, though indirect costs that Dr. Reddy hopes will be used by UOG to consider implementing an on-campus research database. USDA funding to WPTRC researchers gives Guam residents more opportunities to have healthier, locally grown produce at reasonable prices.
 
For more information on IPM practices in the region contact Dr. Reddy at 735-2142 or
email reddy@uguam.uog.edu
 
 
 
 
 
Shelton Selected as UOG Congressional Intern
Washington, D.C.
 
Congresswoman Madeleine Z. Bordallo today announced that Amanda L. Shelton has been selected to the University of Guam’s Congressional Internship Program. Amanda is the daughter of the late Senator Austin “Sonny” Shelton and Mrs. Gracialla Shelton of Asan. She is a political science major at the University of Guam, and currently serves as the secretary of the Guam Youth Congress and UOG Student Government Association.
 
The UOG Congressional Internship Program was started by Congresswoman Bordallo as an opportunity for rising-seniors at UOG to gain a better understanding of Congress and federal issues important to Guam. The selection of the UOG Intern is competitive based on the intern project proposed by the candidates and a faculty committee interview. The student selected is recommended by the President of the University to Congresswoman Bordallo. Amanda will be the third UOG intern selected to this program.
 
Alexandra Kerr and Nicole Cruz interned for Congresswoman Bordallo during the 2009 and 2010 summers respectively.
 
As a Congressional Intern, Amanda will work in Congresswoman Bordallo’s District Office in Guam. She will also travel to Washington, D.C. to work on Capitol Hill where she will enhance her knowledge of issues facing Guam. She will conduct legislative research, assist with constituent requests, and provide administrative support.
“Amanda is an exceptional student who is interested in public service,” said Congresswoman Bordallo. “She is the third UOG intern to be selected through this program, and I commend her for her academic achievements. The UOG Internship is a great opportunity to learn more about Congress.”

 
Photo Caption: Congresswoman Bordallo is pictured with UOG Congressional Intern Amanda L. Shelton
 
Contact: Adam Carbullido in Washington, D.C. at 202-225-1188 or Derek Mandell at 671-477-4272/4. adam.carbullido@mail.house.gov or derek.mandell@mail.house.gov

 
 
 
  
June 23, 2011
Nurses Receive Training
 
The University of Guam School of Nursing and Health Sciences hosted Dr. Lorrie Wong, University of Hawaii, to conduct Simulation Training on June 21 and 22. The training was made possible through the combined efforts of TakeCare, who purchased the mannequins for the school, the Partner’s Investing in Nursing’s Future grant, and the Robert Wood Johnson and Northwest Foundation, which funded Dr. Wong’s expenses.
 
Training participants included nurses from Guam Memorial Hospital Authority, Naval Hospital, Guam Community College, University of Guam, and Northern Marianas College.
 

Caption: Dr. Lorrie Wong, University of Hawaii, observes CDR Evangeline Allen, Naval Hospital, Kathleen Ho, Guam Memorial Hospital, and Veronica Alave, University of Guam nursing faculty member, as they attend to the simulated man, Mr. TakeCare, in UOG’s School of Nursing and Health Sciences Learning Resource Lab.

 
 
  
 
UOG Course on Northern Guam Lens Aquifer
 
UOG Professional and International Programs and the Water and Environmental Research Institute of the Western Pacific offer a new course titled, “The Northern Guam Lens Aquifer: Geology, Hydrology and Professional Tools” beginning August 19. The purpose of the course is to equip practicing water resources engineers and other water resources professionals working on Guam with a solid understanding of Guam’s Northern Guam Lens Aquifer. The course also introduces professional tools that are useful for groundwater exploration, well design, development, management, and aquifer protection. Course instructors are Dr. John Jensen and Danko Taborosi. The deadline to register is July 29, 2011. The cost is $1,500 per person. The course begins August 19 with an all day field trip to observe the Northern Guam lens aquifer; followed by aquifer hydrology on August 26, Sept. 12, Oct. 10 and Nov. 7. December 5-7 features workshop on professional tools. Space is limited. For more information contact Professional & International Programs at
735-2600/01.

 

 
 
  
 
 
REULTS SHOW UOG MATH CAMP CONCEPT WORKS
 
The University of Guam’s Math Camp, funded by a grant obtained through Congresswoman Bordallo’s Office, shows that 62% of the 52 participants who took the test placed into college-level math at MA110 or above.

“This is a notable improvement over test statistics the university usually sees,” said Lee Yudin, Dean of the College of Natural and Applied Sciences. “Data collected over the last five years shows that only 29% of students test into college level math. The Math Camp cohort test results are impressive because we doubled the number of students who tested into college level math.”
 

UOG’s Math Camp ran weekdays from June 6 to June 17. Participants attended math lectures and then broke out into small groups where they worked with tutors to understand and solve problems. This activity is part of the Creating Pathways for Seamless K-16 Educational Progression in Guam grant administered through the Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education, US DOE.
 

“We focused on recruiting 2011 public high school graduates to participate in the camp,” said Cathleen Moore-Linn. “These students willingly used their summer vacation to review their math skills. Public high school students who attended the camp and took the placement test will be rewarded with a scholarship that covers tuition for a Fall 2011 math course at UOG or GCC. The students who placed into college level math will also avoid taking developmental math courses which do not count toward a degree program.”
 

“The Math Camp model showed results,” added Yudin. “We will definitely offer the camp again next summer and I can foresee this becoming a regular activity organized by the College of Natural and Applied Sciences. I’d like to thank the team, including Henry Taijeron, Wendell Roden, Tessie Mortera, Cathleen Moore-Linn and all lecturers and tutors for ensuring this activity culminated in successful outcomes for these students.”
 

Caption: UOG Math Camp participants pose for a photo with Jon Junior Calvo from Congresswoman Bordallo’s Office, Senator Sam Mabini, UOG College of Natural and Applied Sciences Dean Lee Yudin, tutors, and camp organizers during the last day of camp on June 17.
 
 

  

 
 
June 21, 2011

The School of Education is offering 18 special education courses to 70 students this summer.
Richard Fee, associate professor of special education, is pictured with a few of his students.
 
 
 
  
 
June 20, 2011
UOG Green to Visit Astumbo Elementary Tuesday
 

Mangilao, GU – UOG Green interns will talk about island sustainability to approximately 80 students at Astumbo Elementary School on Tuesday, June 21. The interactive presentation will cover topics including recycling, solid waste management, energy conservation, and alternative and renewable energy.
 

UOG Green interns will teach students from Kindergarten to 4th grade about why it is important to recycle and what types of materials can be recycled locally. Students will also learn about natural energy sources and how to save energy at home. Visual aids, activities, games, and prizes will be used to generate a lasting impression among the students.
 

“We hope to spark behavior change with this generation and embed concepts that will help us become more environmentally conscious,” said UOG Green Sustainability Coordinator Elvie Tyler.

 
 

  
  
 
Pacific Science Congress in Kuala Lumpur Focuses on Sustainability
Guam Delegation Presents Research on Globalization, Coral Reefs, Biodiversity
 

University of Guam President Robert A. Underwood heads the Guam delegation comprised of scientists and researchers at the Pacific Science Congress in Kuala Lumpur.
 

Guam holds one seat on the Pacific Science Association Council via the University of Guam. “The keynote speaker talked about Asia in the Year 2060. This parallels our discussion about how Guam will look in 2050; how it will look if we do nothing and how we can shape our future in the decades to come by developing policies that will support sustainability.”
 
The following researchers are presenting at the Pacific Science Congress:
 
· Becky Stephenson Convener of Session- Agents of Globalization in the Asia Pacific Context
o Mary Spencer - "Paths of Central Caroline Island Children' During Migration and Times of Rapid Change”
o Todd Ames - "Impact of Globalization on Small-Scale Agricultural Production in Yap, FSM"
o Becky Stephenson and Hiro Kurashina - "Reconstruction of Orongo Marae: Exploring Changing Patters of Kinship, Community and Identity in Abiu, Cook Islands"
· Terry Donaldson, Convener of Session - Future of Coral Reefs, Climate Change, Acidification, Over-Fishing and Other Stresses
o Terry Donaldson - "Climate Change, Reef Fishes and Extinction Risk"
· In the Biodiversity Studies Session Harley Manner presents, "Recent Work on the Botany of Romonum Island, Chuuk Lagoon, FSM"
· Robert Underwood, co-convener (with Japanese medical professors from Tokai University) Political and Economical Issues on E Learning and E Health in the Pacific Session
o Bruce Best presents, "Telehealth in Micronesia: Technical and Cultural Challenge"
 

“This is the kind of work that Universities do; careful research provides the data communities need to think deeply about issues and help change the framework for action,” added Underwood.

Participation in the conference was funded through grants or private funds. Government of Guam funds were not used to support travel to the Pacific Science Congress.
 
Caption: UOG Professor Dr. Terry Donaldson presents on the future of reefs during the Pacific Science Congress in Kuala Lumpur.

 

 
 
  
Spring 2011 Graduates
Download the commencement bookletfor the Spring 2011 Commencement Ceremonies.
 
 
June 15, 2011
UOG Math Placement Test Saturday
 

Students planning to enroll at the University of Guam for the Fall 2011 semester must take the Math Placement Test on Saturday June 18 at 8:30 am for last names beginning with the letters A-C; 10:30 a.m. for last names beginning with the letters D-K; at 1:30 p.m. for last names beginning with the letters L – R; and at 3:30 p.m. for last names beginning with the letters S – Z. The test will be held in the Science Building rooms SC101 or SC112. Students must bring their admissions application receipt and photo ID to the test. Plan to arrive 20 minutes early for check in.

 
 
  
 
 
June 14, 2011
Final Day of UOG Math Camp on Friday
 

The University of Guam’s Math Camp wraps up on Friday at 11:00 am in the CLASS Lecture Hall with a presentation of certificates to all the participants who committed two weeks of summer vacation to improve their math skills. Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo’s representatives will be on hand to congratulate the students as Math Camp is one component of a larger $300,000 grant funded by the U.S. Department of Education through the Congresswoman’s office.

The purpose of the Math Camp is to provide participants with a review of the nine content areas contained in the UOG math placement test. A lecture on a math topic is presented each morning followed by small group work with a tutor to ensure students understand and can solve the problems presented. An exit cumulative test will be given at 10:15 on Friday and then the participants will take the actually UOG Math Placement Test on Saturday, June 18.

“The data will tell us whether or not this two week Math Camp has been effective,” said Cathleen Moore-Linn, UOG Director of Integrated Marketing Communication and grant administrator. “We know 68% of students who take the math test place into developmental math. If this cohort shows improved results then we can include this as a positive outcome in our assessment of the activity.”

“If this proves effective, then we will plan to offer additional math camps in the future,” said Dr. Lee Yudin, Dean of the College of Natural and Applied Sciences. This year’s Math Camp is free to participants. Those who attend each day of camp and take the placement test are eligible for a scholarship.

 
 
 
 
Upcoming Environmental Education Events
Here are some upcoming Environmental Education Committee events - UOG’s Western Pacific Coral Reef Institute and the UOG Sea Grant program are partners in helping to organize the events.
 
SATURDAY, JUNE 18
Ready, Set, Snorkel with the Tasi Group of the Environmental Education Committee
Time: 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Location: Agat (just north of the Marina and Jan Zs) along the roadside

Come learn about a new snorkeling spot, or learn about snorkeling in general.
Dive maters and biologists will take you in the water and show you the wonders of the ocean. Bring swim attire, water bottle, friends and family. No registration required. Call 988-7582 or email tammyjoanderson.taft@gmail.com or visit www.guamenvironmentaleducation.com for more information.

Kids Fishing Derby with the Department of Agriculture Division of Aquatics and Wildlife
Time: 7 a.m. to noon

Location: Asan Beach park
Register by Friday, June 17 to participate in the annual Kid's fishing derby. Call 735-3955/56/87/4035/4037

SATURDAY, JUNE 25
Meet Guam's Native Trees with the Hanom Group of the Environmental Education Committee
Time: 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Location: At the Department of Agriculture's forestry division (look for the signs along road Dairy Road)
Come see seedlings and mature native plants of Guam and lean about how you can use these plants in your yard. No registration required. Tours leave every 20 minutes. Call 988-7582 or email tammyjoanderson.taft@gmail.com or visit www.guamenvironmentaleducation.com for more information.

SATURDAY, JULY 2
Nature Hike of Limestone Forest with the Tano Group of the Environmental Education Committee
Time: 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Location: Meet in the parking lot of GCC (behind the Crime Lab and PBS Guam)
Come see Guam's unique Limestone Forest habitat! From breathtaking overlooks, to native trees and interesting rock formations, this hike is short but packed full of interesting sights. The hike is moderate. Biologists and forestry experts will lead this hike with tours leaving every 20 minutes. Bring sturdy shoes, gloves if you have them, a water bottle and a camera. No registration required. Call 988-7582 or email tammyjoanderson.taft@gmail.com or visit www.guamenvironmentaleducation.com for more information.
 

 



  
 
 
Students from the Caribbean and Pacific Converge at UOG for Agriculture Internship
 
College students from the Virgin Islands, American Samoa,the Marshall Islands, CNMI, Guam, Palau and the FSM are on the University of Guam campus through June 23 participating in a three and a half week summer internship under the CariPac consortium, which is a program through which all the land grant institutions in the Caribbean and the Pacific collaborate and share information about agricultural innovation, research and applications.
 

“Students will participate in a variety of field observations and hands-on laboratories where they can observe and learn about the agricultural businesses and activities that are found on Guam,” said Dr. Prem Singh, UOG faculty member and CariPac Internship Program Coordinator.
 

Students will visit a variety of farms including the Department of Agriculture organic farm; the Triton Farm’s aquaponics facility; the Watson vegetable/fruit farm which uses a drip irrigation and fertigation system on a farm scale, and utilizes many innovations in its operation; the Ernie Wusting Corn Farm which utilizes a no-till corn production method and which has reduced soil erosion and increased soil depth; Quan's Coconut Farm which supplies fresh coconut drinks to the tourism industry; and the Hydroponic Living Lettuce farm and local plant nurseries to learn about the business and production aspects of modern agribusinesses.
 

They will also visit the ecotourism facility Hamamoto Fruit World to observe how to combine tourism, ecology, vegetable and fruit production, and post harvesting and processing to develop a business enterprise.

In the UOG labs they will learn about plant propagation and grafting and agricultural engineering technologies for Sustainable Tropical Agriculture. The students will learn how to setup an automated micro-irrigation system, irrigation controllers, and learn about water harvesting canopies among other activities. They will also learnabout biotechnology in agriculture and observe juvenile shrimp production facilities at UOG’s aquaculture facility and how Guam is fighting the invasion of Rhino beetle that threatens the existence of coconut trees on Guam.
 

“This is an all encompassing three and a half weeks where these students get the opportunity to absorb information that they can take back to their home islands to enhance their own agricultural economies,” said Lee Yudin, Dean of the College of Natural and Applied Sciences and Principal Investigator for the consortium grant.
 
For more information contact Dr. Prem Singh at psinghedu@gmail.com
 

Caption: College students from around the Pacific and the Caribbean are participating in a three and a half week internship at UOG learning about the island’s agriculture innovations, research and applications. Pictured front row from left Tom T. Pangelinan, CNMI; Jonathan Davis, Guam; second row from left: Dr. Lee Yudin, Dean of the College of Natural and Applied Sciences; Dawn Kingzio, Palau; Charity Clanry, Marshall Islands; Wendelyn Mendez Maldonado, Puerto Rico; third row from left: Dominapillar Augustine, Palau; Elvira Gisog, FMS; Ryan A. Taifane, American Samoa; fourth row from left: Dr. Prem Singh, UOG professor and CariPac Internship Program Coordinator; Gabriel Rantojas Flores, Puerto Rico; fifth row from left: Lucas A. LaPlace, U.S. Virgin Islands; Juan T. Iguel, CNMI; and Samuel Ioka Meleisea, American Samoa. Not pictured is Patrick Zerzan, student mentor, Guam.

 
 
 
 
UOG Cooperative Extension Services Co-Sponsors New Farmers Workshops
The University of Guam Cooperative Extension Services, Chamorro Land Trust Commission and Northern and Southern Soil Water Conservation Districts are co-sponsoring various New Farmers Workshops beginning in June. All workshops are free and resources materials will be provided. For more information, please contact Phoebe Wall at 735-2060.

Here is the schedule of workshops:

§ June 9, 2011 - Inarajan/Malojoloj Mayor’s Office, 6:00pm-8:30pm Farmers Symposium on Government Services Available to Farmers

§ June 16, 2011 - UOG/ALS Room 127, 6:00pm-8:30pm, Chamorro Land Trust Commission Agriculture Lease Program: Rules, Regulations, Lease and Compliance

§ June 18, 2011 - UOG/ALS Room 127, 8:00am-12:00pm, Fruit Trees for Windbreaks and Barrier Planting

§ June 21, 23, 28, 30 2011 - UOG/ALS Room 127, 6:00pm-8:30pm, Developing Realistic & Implementable Farm Plans

§ June 25, 2011 - UOG/ALS Room 127, 8:00am-12:00pm, Soil and Water Conservation and Micro-Catchments for Waterless Farms