Imagine a world where restaurants and fast food joints can no longer serve oversized sugary drinks and sodas. This might become a reality with the passing of Youth Congress Bill 1-34 in Guam. This legislation aims to limit the serving sizes of sugary drinks to 17 fluid ounces - about the size of a bottle of cola.The bill garnered nine votes in favor, with only two opposed and two excused absences during the Youth Congress session. Bills passed by the Youth Congress must be introduced at the Guam Legislature before they have the potential to become law following a public hearing and vote. During the passionate debates at the Guam Congress Building, Youth Congress Rep. Nathan Paz, the prime sponsor of the measure, stated, "We as consumers tend to consume items, especially sugary drinks, in the portions that we receive them. Our intention with this bill is to restrict sugary drinks that exceed the 17 fluid ounces limit and thereby decrease the amount of calories consumed by our people. Our ultimate goal is to improve health outcomes by reducing sugar and caloric intake." This proposal doesn't stop at sodas alone; it extends to other beverages with added sugar like coffee, tea, and more. However, it's important to note that this ban would apply only to drinks sold at dining establishments, excluding grocery or convenience stores. Although 17 fluid ounces might seem reasonable, consider this – a large fountain drink available at a drive-through is often nearly twice that size, or around 30 ounces. Interestingly, New York City has also attempted to ban big sodas in the past. However, the ban faced a legal battle and was ultimately struck down. In contrast, a law that establishes a limit on drink sizes, as opposed to executive action, would not encounter the same legal obstacles in court. Guam currently faces the challenge of having the highest rates of adult diabetes in the nation, affecting around 15% of its population. Moreover, heart disease has emerged as the leading cause of death on the island in 2021, emphasizing the critical importance of prioritizing health improvements. Many see the proposed legislation to limit oversized sugary drinks as a step towards promoting healthier habits and combating serious health issues. However, this measure has faced opposition from doctors, restaurant owners, and even diabetes advocates. They raise valid concerns over whether the ban would truly help to reduce the consumption of sugary beverages. While the bill focuses on limiting the size of sugary drinks, it does not address other factors that contribute to obesity and diabetes, such as a sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy eating habits. Critics argue that education and promoting overall healthy lifestyles would be more effective in addressing the root causes of these health issues.  Despite the controversy surrounding this bill, it has opened up important discussions about public health policies and individual responsibility in maintaining good health. Whether or not this specific measure is ultimately implemented, the issue of promoting healthier habits and reducing chronic diseases remains a pressing concern for Guam and its citizens.

Get ready to be enthralled by the captivating "Manga Hokusai Manga" exhibit! Fresh from Honolulu, it has made its way to the Guam Museum and will be here until November 15. This extraordinary showcase, brought to you by the Japanese Consulate of Hagåtña and the Japan Foundation, has been mesmerizing audiences around the world for seven years.  Manga is a style of Japanese comic books and graphic novels, typically aimed at adults as well as children. It originated in Japan in the late 19th century and has since become a global phenomenon. One of the reasons for its popularity is its distinct visual style. Unlike traditional Western comics, manga has a unique way of storytelling through its use of exaggerated facial expressions and dynamic panel layouts. This allows for a more immersive reading experience, drawing readers into the world of the story. Discover the distinct style, famous characters, and artistic evolution that have shaped manga and anime into what they are today through "Manga Hokusai Manga." The traveling exhibit is not just for manga enthusiasts or anime lovers. It's an exhibition that everyone can enjoy and learn from. Through its masterful curation, the exhibit offers a glimpse into Japan's rich history, diverse culture, and unique storytelling techniques. You'll get to see how manga has evolved over centuries, from its origins in traditional Japanese scrolls to the modern-day comic book format. This exhibit also highlights the remarkable influence of legendary artist Katsushika Hokusai on manga and anime. Hokusai was a pioneer who pushed the boundaries of art and inspired generations of creators. His iconic pieces, like the famed 36 views of Mt. Fuji and The Great Wave off Kanagawa, have become beloved worldwide. Marvel at the stunning works of the renowned 19th-century Japanese painter and see for yourself how Hokusai's influence has shaped contemporary manga comic books. Explore reproductions of Hokusai's sketchbooks, admire works by other renowned artists from the Edo period, and appreciate the talents of Guam's very own local artists. Take a peek into the creative process of manga, as panels reveal the secrets behind storytelling, artistic composition, and the clever use of lines to convey movement. The exhibit doesn't just showcase artwork; it also delves into the social and cultural impact of manga. You'll learn how manga has influenced Japanese society, from fashion to advertising, and even political activism. From its humble origins in Japan, manga has evolved into a dynamic medium with diverse genres, unique perspectives on complex themes, and a powerful impact on society. Don't let this exceptional opportunity pass you by! Visit the Guam Museum and witness the brilliance of "Manga Hokusai Manga." The exhibit welcomes visitors Tuesday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the best part is, there's no entrance fee required. So gather your friends and family and immerse yourselves in the world of manga. Who knows, you might even discover a new favorite artist or series!

Visitor arrivals to Guam have experienced an unprecedented surge, with the number already approaching double that of fiscal 2022, as reported by the Guam Visitors Bureau. Despite a sluggish start in the post-typhoon month of June, 2023 has warmly welcomed a staggering 426,000 visitors to the vibrant island paradise. This remarkable increase in tourism stands in stark contrast to the previous fiscal year, 2022, which represented the last full year of the COVID-19 public health emergency for Guam and saw a mere 216,000 visitors. This impressive rebound in tourism not only signifies a significant boost to Guam's economy but also highlights the enduring allure of this tropical destination that continues to captivate travelers from around the world. With its pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters teeming with marine life, and lush tropical landscapes, Guam offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Visitors to Guam can indulge in a wide range of activities and experiences, such as exploring ancient Chamorro villages, diving into colorful coral reefs, hiking through verdant jungles, and enjoying delicious local cuisine. The island's hospitable locals, known for their Håfa Adai spirit, embrace visitors with open arms and share the unique traditions and customs that make Guam so special. In terms of visitor demographics, June witnessed a significant decline in Korean visitors, who have been the most frequent travelers to Guam during the pandemic years. Only 1,515 Korean visitors arrived in June, accounting for approximately 11% of last year's figures. On the other hand, the arrival numbers from Japan showed a slight improvement compared to the previous year. However, flights from the cautious Japanese tourism market remained relatively low, with only 2,641 Japanese visitors in June. Visitor arrivals from Taiwan, which is considered one of Guam's top spending markets, have shown significant improvement compared to last year. In June, approximately 626 visitors from Taiwan arrived on the island, marking a substantial increase from the mere 26 visitors in the same month last year. Guam's tourism industry continues to actively strive towards attracting more visitors from Taiwan and other markets as part of its ongoing recovery efforts. Other significant markets include the Philippines, China, and Russia, all of which have shown a steady increase in visitor numbers over the past few months. In fiscal year 2023, Guam expects to see a recovery of about 25% of the air traffic it experienced during the record-breaking fiscal year 2019, when 1.63 million visitors flocked to the island. Despite the projected lower performance in the final quarter of 2023, mainly due to the impact of Typhoon Mawar, it is anticipated that the total number of tourists will reach approximately 515,000 by September. As travel restrictions gradually ease worldwide and more countries gain control over the pandemic, Guam's tourism industry remains cautiously optimistic about the future. With its unique blend of cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and stunning beaches, the island continues to be an irresistible destination for travelers seeking a paradise getaway .

The Guam Association of Realtors recently launched an extensive housing relief assistance program, with the objective of providing financial support to homeowners and renters who have been severely affected by the devastating Typhoon Mawar. Thanks to a generous grant received from the Realtors Relief Foundation, the association is now able to offer vital aid to individuals and families in Guam, helping them to maintain their homes and foster a resilient community.  Typhoon Mawar, a powerful category 4 storm, wreaked havoc with widespread power outages, property damage, and the displacement of countless residents. The devastating impact of this natural disaster rendered many homes uninhabitable, leaving families without shelter and struggling to access essential necessities like clean water and food. Many also lost their livelihoods as businesses were forced to close their doors, compounding the already dire situation. In response to this crisis, the Guam Association of Realtors stepped up to provide immediate and long-term relief to those in need. The housing assistance program includes financial aid for rent, mortgage payments, and critical home repairs. But the assistance goes beyond just monetary support. The association is also offering valuable resources and guidance to help individuals and families navigate the complicated process of rebuilding their homes. This includes connecting them with reputable contractors, assisting with insurance claims, and offering support in finding temporary housing if needed. The Guam Realtors Housing Relief Assistance Program is a testament to the association's unwavering commitment to serving and supporting the local community. It acknowledges that housing is a fundamental necessity and plays a vital role in providing stability for individuals and families. By extending financial aid, the program aims to alleviate the burdens faced by those affected by Typhoon Mawar, offering them the opportunity to rebuild their lives. To facilitate the application process for those who require financial relief, the association has scheduled in-person application dates at the Micronesia Mall on July 22 and 29, from 12 to 5 p.m. This will allow affected individuals to receive personalized assistance and guidance in navigating the program. Alternatively, applications can be submitted online through the Guam Realtors website. Other local and international organizations have also joined forces to deliver aid to those affected by Typhoon Mawar. The American Red Cross has set up shelters and is providing food, water, and emotional support to those displaced by the disaster. The Guam Chamber of Commerce has also pledged to support local businesses affected by the typhoon through grants and resources. In times of crisis, it is heartening to see the community come together to support each other. The Guam Realtors Housing Relief Assistance Program is just one example of how organizations and individuals are stepping up to help those in need. It serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is always hope and strength in unity. As we continue to recover from Typhoon Mawar, let us keep supporting each other and working towards rebuilding our beautiful island.

A research article published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine sheds light on a concerning disparity in access to mental health services among rural schools in the United States. The study, conducted by researchers from Washington State University, examined data from the National Center for Education Statistics 2017-2018 School Survey on Crime and Safety. The findings revealed that rural schools were 19% less likely than their urban counterparts to provide mental health assessments. The primary obstacles to offering essential mental health services in these areas were identified as inadequate funding and a shortage of professionals.  Another study conducted by Washington State University uncovered alarming differences in youth suicide rates between rural and urban areas. The research showed that suicide rates among rural youth were nearly double those in urban areas. According to The Violence Project, an organization dedicated to studying and preventing mass shootings, there are several key risk factors that can lead to violent behavior. These include a history of violence, substance abuse, social isolation, and mental illness. This suggests that lack of mental health support can not only tragically contribute to self-harm among young people but can also lead to harm inflicted upon their peers. This highlights the importance of addressing the mental health needs of students in rural schools. While efforts have been made to increase access to mental health services in underserved areas, there is still a long way to go. In addition to investing in funding and resources, it is crucial for education leaders and policymakers to prioritize mental health as an essential component of overall student well-being. Guam's Department of Education has a staggering shortage of school psychologists, with only 26 professionals available to cater to the needs of over 30,000 students enrolled in public schools. This significant imbalance poses a challenge in providing adequate psychological support and services to the student population. To address this shortage, the department has implemented several programs and initiatives to meet the mental health needs of its students. This includes providing training for teachers and staff to recognize signs of distress and refer students to appropriate resources. One such program is the Adverse Childhood Experiences Score (ACES), which helps identify students who may have experienced trauma. By offering targeted support and early intervention for at-risk students, the department aims to prevent potential mental health crises. It is essential to recognize that mental health is not a one-size-fits-all issue. Each community has its unique challenges and needs when it comes to addressing mental health. Therefore, for sustainable change, it is important to tailor solutions to meet the specific needs of each community. In addition to school-based initiatives, communities can come together and create a supportive environment for young people. This may include providing safe spaces for youth to gather, promoting healthy coping mechanisms, and breaking down stigmas surrounding mental health. Rural communities are often much closer-knit, making it easier for individuals to reach out and support one another. By taking a community-based approach and involving all stakeholders - parents, teachers, healthcare professionals, and community leaders - residents can work towards building a network of support for Guam's young people.

For centuries, fishing has been deeply woven into the cultural fabric of the CHamoru people, representing a cherished way of life. However, there is a mounting concern regarding the declining population of reef fish. According to officials from Guam's Department of Agriculture's Division of Aquatic and Wildlife Resources, the expansion of commercial fisheries in the past decade has led to a decline in reef fish populations. Moreover, environmental changes such as coral bleaching caused by warmer climates, an increase in crown of thorn starfish consuming coral, soil erosion, and other hazards have further endangered their habitats and impeded population growth.  Leilani Sablan, a CHamoru woman and biology graduate student at the University of Guam, has conducted extensive research for her master's thesis, analyzing over 4,000 local catches. According to her findings, there has been a significant decrease in the population of large fish over the past decade. This decline in both quantity and size of fish has also been observed by elder CHamoru fishermen during interviews, as they compare it to their younger years. Although it may seem like an easier solution to regulate fishing based on fish taxonomy in order to replenish fish populations, it is not the recommended approach. Brent Tibbatts, a fisheries biologist at DAWR, strongly opposes this idea, particularly in the fragile tropical reef environment. He argued that "We have over 400 species caught in our creel database as fisheries" and that attempting to establish individual regulations for each species is simply impossible. Research indicates that implementing fishing restrictions for an entire taxonomic group, like parrotfish, is unlikely to yield desired outcomes. Various species within the same family exhibit distinct responses to fishing pressures. Leilani Sablan refers to this phenomenon as compensatory density dependence (CDD). A comprehensive understanding of these dynamics is crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability of reef fish populations. When faced with increased fishing pressure, certain species exhibit strong compensatory density dependence. These species not only increase in numbers but also undergo size reduction to counterbalance population losses. The tataga (Naso unicornis) and the Pacific longnose parrotfish (Hipposcarus longiceps) serve as prime examples. Despite facing intense fishing, these species not only manage to survive but also thrive, albeit in smaller sizes. The removal of larger fish creates room for juveniles and recruits to thrive and develop. However, it's important to note that not all fish within the same family respond in the same manner. A prime example is the Steephead parrotfish (Chlorurus microrhinos), which does not exhibit compensatory density dependence. Instead, it gradually diminishes under the pressures of fishing. This variation highlights the need for a nuanced approach. Not all parrotfish can withstand intense fishing, but we shouldn't generalize and stop catching them altogether. Each species has its limits, and a uniform size limit could lead to imbalanced harvesting. Furthermore, numerous reef fish exhibit sequential hermaphroditism, undergoing gender transitions as they reach maturity. Imposing a size limit would disproportionately impact the genders and hinder the reproductive capacity of the population. While regulating reef fish is challenging due to compensatory density dependence and variability, responsible fishing remains crucial. We must demand responsible practices to ensure abundant fishing for future generations. Reef fish are not only vital for Guam's needs but also an enduring part of its culture.