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Essence
Member
01-12-2002
| Thursday, February 19, 2004 - 1:13 pm
I just found her column. She writes her thoughts after each show. Saturday, January 31, 2004 'Survivor' Insider: Our local winner picks her 'All-Star' favorites By SANDRA DIAZ-TWINE SPECIAL TO THE POST-INTELLIGENCER {EDITOR'S NOTE: As those who watched Sandra Diaz-Twine take home the million on "Survivor: Pearl Islands" know, the forthright Fort Lewis office assistant isn't afraid to speak her mind. She'll report periodically on the new "Survivor All-Stars": I can't wait for the excitement to begin. The days have been dragging on. "Survivor: All-Stars" and Sunday can't get here quickly enough. Once the Super Bowl is over on CBS, we can all tune in to see some of our favorites from previous seasons. Who's my favorite? Rupert Did you have any doubts? Rupert Boneham and I spent a lot of time together, and if there's anyone that deserves a second chance it's him -- 100 percent. Rupert has two things going for him. First, he's back in his old stomping grounds, lovely Panama. It is truly his element. Second, none of the other players truly know much about Rupert since they only saw a few episodes of "Survivor: Pearl Islands" before going out on location for "All-Stars." All you can take from those is that Rupert is a provider, loyal and trustworthy. He knows the location well and has successfully fished these waters many a time. My second favorite is Rob Mariano, because I think he and I have a lot in common. We tell it like it is whether you like it or not. He's straightforward and a strong competitor. He will be a force to be reckoned with. His humorous yet controversial ways crack me up. There will be two very different Robs on the same tribe -- Rob Mariano and Rob Cesternino. It can't get better than this: drama, drama, drama. It's like Sandra vs. "Jonny Fairplay" all over again. (From the editor: For those who missed "Survivor: Pearl Islands," our correspondent and Jon Dalton fought constantly.) What you should look forward to? There are 18 "Survivor" veterans divided into three teams of six. Many are considered to be the most memorable survivors so far, but I'm not sure. There are a few I would have loved to see in action again that didn't make the cut: Clay Jordan (Thailand), Helen Glover (Thailand) and Jonny Fairplay, another character to reckon with. The tribes are named after the islands they occupy. On the Chapera tribe are Amber Brkich, (Australian Outback), Big Tom Buchanan (Africa), Alicia Calaway (Outback), Rob Cesternino (Amazon), Susan Hawk (Pulau Tiga) and Rob Mariano (Marquesas). The Sabogas are Rudy Boesch (Pulau Tiga), Rupert Boneham (Pearl Islands), Jenna Lewis (Pulau Tiga), Jerri Manthey (Outback), Tina Wesson (Outback winner) and Ethan Zohn (Africa winner). The Mogo Mogo tribe is made up of Colby Donaldson (Outback), Richard Hatch (winner of Pulau Tiga), Shii Ann Huang (Thailand), Jenna Morasca (Amazon winner), Lex van den Berghe (Africa) and Kathy Vavrick-O'Brien (Marquesas). What we will see? Backstabbing and plenty of it. This time it's much more personal. There will be a lot of old grudges and payback. Most of the survivors know the treachery their tribemates are capable of. Who are the biggest targets? All four of the million-dollar winners: Richard, Tina, Ethan and Jenna. This will be the best and hardest "Survivor" yet! Sandra Diaz-Twine lives with her husband and two children at Fort Lewis. Contact her at sdiaztwine@yahoo.com. http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/tv/158794_survivor31.html
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Essence
Member
01-12-2002
| Thursday, February 19, 2004 - 1:15 pm
Thursday, February 5, 2004 'Survivor' Insider: Winners, take warning: You may be next By SANDRA DIAZ-TWINE SPECIAL TO THE POST-INTELLIGENCER Oh-oh, I see a Saboga tribe in trouble. Oh no, wait a minute -- I see three tribes in trouble. How crazy is this? There's no fire, which equals no drinkable water. But it rained (or shall I call it a thunderstorm?), so there's really no excuse. I hope you all caught enough drops to quench your thirst. Hopefully, going into day four you will all figure something out, before you die of starvation and dehydration. Although I made anot-so-specific prediction, I did say the first person voted off would be one of the four million-dollar winners. And bingo, I was right! Tina, you saw it coming. You and Ethan are very aware of your situation. There's no way a previous winner will win again, trust me on this one. Winners beware -- your days are numbered. Between Tina and Ethan, the tribe made a wise choice. Out of the two, who's the strongest? Ethan will be sticking around a little more even if they lose again, which I think is what's going to happen tonight. Ethan is still stronger than Rudy, and the Sabogas need strength right about now. As for Rudy, he's not doing so well. How much longer can he go without water? Unfortunately, there's no way to hide this from your tribemates, Rudy. I don't fear for Rupert just yet because they need strength to continue on, and Rupert has that. Defeat tastes nasty, and once you've had a bite, you lose all motivation. Fingers are pointed and doom shall come again. Rupert, I know your alliance is with Rudy, but he's a liability. You've got to turn him loose. And the time is now. Well, now on to Mogo Mogo. Richard seems to not give a damn about anything. He's definitely not a team player, but is that his strategy? He knows that in his tribe he's the biggest target, because, to have him tell it, he's the true ultimate survivor. Could he possibly be more arrogant? I think that's his plan; why put forth effort when you know you could possibly be the next to go? You've got to give it to him, he's good. The only tribe here with tons of drama is Chapera. The Chapera tribe has no million-dollar winners, so it's still too early to predict who will be the first to go. But Chapera's downfall is too much mouth on one tribe. Rob M., their faithful leader, claims they are all "buffoons." Rob, name names! Which of the other five are you talking about? Tonight's prediction: Rudy will be going home. Looking closely at scenes for this episode, he's not looking too good. I believe the Saboga tribe will be the first to get fire, and when that happens? They can eat. Rupert is an experienced fisherman with or without equipment, and the Saboga tribe ran into green bananas, which are edible -- you just have to peel them and boil. Once it has fire, this tribe's luck will turn around and everything will be OK. Sandra Diaz-Twine lives with her husband and two children at Fort Lewis. Contact her at sdiaztwine@yahoo.com. http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/tv/159331_survivor05.html
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Essence
Member
01-12-2002
| Thursday, February 19, 2004 - 1:17 pm
Thursday, February 12, 2004 'Survivor' Insider: Say bye-bye to Jerri, Jenna or Sue By SANDRA DIAZ-TWINE SPECIAL TO THE POST-INTELLIGENCER How funny that some of the all-stars have actually toned it down, while others never change or learn their lessons. I'm talking about the loud ones, you know who they are. One thing that's for sure -- one hour of "Survivor" is not enough. We need like two or three hours per episode! Is anybody with me? Don't you guys feel the same? As far as who's voted off, I'm two for two because my Rudy prediction was right on the money. Rudy's injured and swollen ankle gave his tribe a strong enough reason to vote him out. I know Rudy's a great person, but they still need to remain as strong as possible if they ever plan to make it to the merge. Rupert not voting for Rudy showed his tribemates how loyal he is. If he gives you his word to never betray his alliance, you can rest assured that he will never write your name down, and essentially that's what everyone out there looks for -- someone they can trust no matter what. Rupert is that someone. Last week's episode came down to getting fire. How wonderful that when the Saboga tribe won and ultimately had to make a decision whether to get fire and share it with the other tribes they did the right thing. See, you gotta remember -- eventually there's gonna be a merge and you don't want people holding grudges because you wouldn't share the tools to make a fire. I hope Saboga's kindness will be remembered. Poor Mogo Mogo. Another unnecessary rough night, but the difference is that there was no reason why they shouldn't have had fire considering it was practically handed to them. It just didn't make sense, but what's done is done. Finally, in the morning they were able to get the fire going. Now that I think about it, that night couldn't have been that bad, considering they had naked Richard to look at. Wouldn't that just make your night? Speaking of Richard, according to the glimpse of scenes I saw for this week it's Richard versus the shark that doesn't care to be Mogo Mogo's dinner. At the Chapera tribe, Sue and Boston Rob are strong swimmers and competitors, especially Sue. She was able to come out on top in the challenges and that's because she doesn't seem to wanna do much around camp so when its time to perform she's on top of her game. They need her. Boston Rob seems to trust no one except Amber. I think he really likes her ... and the feelings seem to be mutual. Could there finally be love in paradise? Who's going home next, well it all depends on which tribe loses. If it's Saboga, then it's Jerri -- only because they fear her mouth. She can be brutal at times. At Mogo Mogo it would have to be Jenna because she's a previous million-dollar winner. At Chapera it most likely would be Sue because they don't see her as a team player. All I know is that between Jerri and Rupert there seems to be a huge argument and I'm dying to find out why. Also, the locked boxes each tribe was given contain rice and I wonder which tribe is getting closer to another clue or key. I say crack that puppy open and cook you up a feast. Sandra Diaz-Twine lives with her husband and two children at Fort Lewis. Contact her at sdiaztwine@yahoo.com. http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/tv/160239_survivor12.html
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Essence
Member
01-12-2002
| Thursday, February 19, 2004 - 1:18 pm
Thursday, February 19, 2004 'Survivor' Insider: Richard, now it's your turn to be booted By SANDRA DIAZ-TWINE SPECIAL TO THE POST-INTELLIGENCER My condolences to Jenna and her family. I'm glad she made the choice to depart when she did and was able to spend some quality time with her mom. I truly believe that the bond they had was really calling out to her all the way in Panama. The Chapera Tribe so far has it going on. Rob M. is clearly the leader. His alliance with Amber will allow them both to go far. About the shelter they built, I would have to say that since Rob M. is a construction worker I automatically assumed his tribe would win. Tom was a huge asset as well since I'm sure he has put together his share of pig pens. Alicia gave it a face-lift making it beautiful and Rob C. -- what did he do? Um, nothing much. To me Rob C. has always been a mentally strong player but right about now he's just looking plain lazy and that's not good. I also thought there would be a tie between Mogo Mogo and Saboga in the construction challenge. Mogo Mogo built a nice tree house, which to me seemed decent. The tribe was united and had a great time -- while Richard looked on -- except when Lex and Colby had it all under control and Shi-ann added a few unwelcomed suggestions ... but they just blew her off and continued on task. Over at the Saboga Tribe, I don't know what Rupert was thinking. Rupert, what happened? I'm sure in your head you visualized this wonderful hut. But the final product (a dugout/water pit) was bad? Let's just call it a house hole. You better hope there's no storm in sight or your tribe and shelter will be washed away, extinct and only a bad memory. I know you are waiting for my prediction and I will have to say that there are three folks not looking too good. Rob C., you must carry your own weight and find your niche within the tribe or you'll be in a world of hurt. Jerri doesn't seem too happy to be out there. She is truly trying to be nice but her argument with Rupert doesn't help. Last but not least, I'm gonna have to go with Richard only because I haven't seen him make an alliance yet. And he's one of the two million-dollar winners left. If you're not busy Thursday morning be sure to check me out on the CBS "Early Show" at 8 as I give my thoughts on the all-stars. Sandra Diaz-Twine lives with her husband and two children at Fort Lewis. Contact her at sdiaztwine@yahoo.com. http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/tv/161110_survivor19.html
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Kaili
Member
08-31-2000
| Thursday, February 19, 2004 - 1:50 pm
Thanks for finding and posting these, Essence. When I saw that she was writing a column, I wanted to see it. I just didn't go to the trouble to look for it. I always loved Sandra.
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Lorry
Member
07-27-2003
| Saturday, February 21, 2004 - 10:06 am
Thanks sooooo much Essence!!! Your summary's are a welcome addition. It fills in the gaps. Big round of applause for Essence!!!
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Chy
Member
07-19-2003
| Saturday, February 21, 2004 - 12:04 pm
Thank you Essence. They are certainly good reading materials.
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Kappy
Member
06-29-2002
| Saturday, February 21, 2004 - 8:07 pm
Thank you, Essence, for sharing these! I always liked Sandra.
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Essence
Member
01-12-2002
| Monday, March 01, 2004 - 11:27 am
Here is Sandra's latest article (from last week): Thursday, February 26, 2004 'Survivor' Insider: Cagey play is dulling-down the game By SANDRA DIAZ-TWINE SPECIAL TO THE POST-INTELLIGENCER I am a little shocked by what happened last week, only because Rob C. and Rob M. seemed to get along. I thought at the beginning of the game that there would be plenty of disagreements between the two, but I was mistaken. They both seemed to like and enjoy one another's company, but there is only room for one Rob on the "All-Stars." Poor Rob C. didn't see it coming, but I did. Mentally, he was a strong player but was labeled lazy by Alicia, therefore there was no need to keep him around. Plus, everyone on the Chapera tribe knew all too well what a good player Rob C. was, so now was the precise time to say bye-bye to him. He sure was surprised, but what did he expect? Amber and Rob M. still seem to be close -- ya think? They cuddled all night in the last episode. Hey, the best to you guys. I honestly don't believe that their flirting will hurt anyone or even make them targets. Alliances are hard to keep secret so I think it's OK not to hide how they feel about each other. Besides, Tom, Sue and Alicia don't seem to mind that there's love in paradise. Oh, and Sue, you said it best when you mentioned that you don't pretend to be something you're not. Keep on trucking Sue, 'cause you're definitely being yourself out there. Over at the Saboga Tribe, I felt badly for Jerri. I wanted to cry right along with her. That storm and faulty shelter forced the whole tribe right into the storm. I know all too well how cold it can get out there in Panama, and Rupert -- poor thing -- knew it was all his fault. I wish them all luck tonight, which will be the best episode to date. I saw in a TV promo that the losing tribe is dissolved. Finally, a twist we can all look forward to. The question is: Who will go with whom and will they be accepted? Richard better hope Mogo Mogo doesn't get the last key to the treasure chest full of rice, because if that day comes he can kiss his tribe goodbye forever. They have had more than enough of him. But without Richard, what will the tribe do? It's evident that they rely solely on him for food, so is it wise to get rid of him and starve so early in the game? Lex, Kathy and Colby seem to be getting along -- that was obvious the morning after the storm -- so where's Shii Ann and who's her alliance with? As for who I think is going home this week, I dare not say since I don't know which tribe will be extinct and who will go where. So forgive me for not speculating, but there's just not enough information to work with. I've been getting quite a few e-mails about the "All-Stars"; people wanting to see more action and backstabbing and its just not happening. I think it's simply because all the survivors are trying to adapt to the situation and not come across as they truly are. A lot are trying this time around to stay under the radar, and for each of them it's a good strategy, but we at home are not amused. Just be yourself guys! Make it exciting for us viewers and fans.
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Babyruth
Member
07-19-2001
| Monday, March 01, 2004 - 12:18 pm
Just found this thread- Thanks, Essence! Sandra writes just like she talks. It's interesting to hear her thoughts on the show.
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Lorry
Member
07-27-2003
| Tuesday, March 02, 2004 - 10:15 am
I agree with Babyruth, it does read like she normally speaks. I just love her column... Thanks again Essence, we sure do appreciate your efforts.
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Essence
Member
01-12-2002
| Thursday, March 04, 2004 - 11:52 am
Thursday, March 4, 2004 'Survivor' Insider: Good riddance to Richard; now we move on to Sue By SANDRA DIAZ-TWINE SPECIAL TO THE POST-INTELLIGENCER The simple fact is that if the Mogo Mogo tribe had lost any of its previous immunity challenges Richard would have been gone a long time ago, so what I really want to say is that luck played a huge part in why we had to put up with Richard week after week. Richard proved not just to me but to all of America how little class he has. His grinding of Sue at the immunity challenge was disgusting. And I don't blame Sue one bit for being upset. I am not alone when I say to date there is not a survivor more deserving of being booted at tribal counsel than good ol' Richard Hatch. Adios! I'm sure that tonight will be one of the most-watched so far. I can't wait to see Sue in action and the ranting and raving. But Sue, why did you have to go and pee on the doggone raft? That wasn't right. The tribe getting dissolved was great for the former members of Saboga. Rupert looked so happy and well-accepted. He will do well with Chapera. You can tell he and Tom are gonna get along real well. Now Jenna seems lost, like she just doesn't belong. It's true, she did have total control of the Saboga tribe, but those days have come to an end. Now, can she fit in with the her new tribe? The one I think will not fit in too well with her new tribe is Jerri. She got a warm welcome to Mogo Mogo from Colby, but he just wants to keep a close eye on her and Ethan. He better never find out she told Richard about his plan with Lex and Ethan. Not a smart move, Jerri -- eventually Colby will find out! Colby, I was a little scared for a second there when Jeff pulled your name out first. I thought Richard had pulled a fast one on you with the assistance of Jerri, Shii-ann and Kathy. I've noticed that Kathy seems to be literally right in the middle. Yup she fits in well with both sides, she can go with the guys or the girls, and be OK. But this is gonna get her in trouble. Kathy, folks don't like it when you're on both sides of the fence, you better be careful. The person I think might be sent home tonight is Jerri -- only because she wants Colby gone so bad that she's gonna eventually make a mistake, and Colby is gonna send her packing again. From the Chapera tribe, I'm gonna have to say Sue just because there's bad blood between Tom and her. Plus now that they have Rupert and Jenna, they don't need Sue anymore. Poor Sue -- things just keep getting worse out there in Panama. seattlepi.com
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Essence
Member
01-12-2002
| Wednesday, March 17, 2004 - 10:27 am
Thursday March 11, 2004 'Survivor' Insider: Feelings get touchy; second survivor this season opts to toss in the towel By SANDRA DIAZ-TWINE SPECIAL TO THE POST-INTELLIGENCER Richard rubbing up against Sue while he was naked was a bad move. I don't blame Sue for exploding and being upset, but deciding to go home was drastic. I can't put myself in anyone's shoes, but seeing that Richard had been voted off, you'd think it would have made Sue a little bit happier. Sue felt that leaving the game was the right decision, so be it. It is, however, safe to say that it's the first time in one season where two survivors have opted to go home. Could there possibly be a third? I wouldn't be surprised. At the Chapera Tribe we've already known for weeks that Rob M. is the boss and Amber his right-hand woman. He said that the only people not in his alliance were Sue and Alicia, and with Sue gone, that makes Alicia possibly his next target. But she is physically strong, and getting rid of her too soon would be devastating for the tribe. Rob M. and Amber approached Jenna and Rupert about an alliance. Jenna and Rupert want so bad to trust Rob M. and Amber, 'cause really, what choice do they have? It all boils down to either you're with Rob M. or against him, that's it. I wanted to mention what a great job Rupert did catching all those fish. He can't help but be the provider; it comes naturally for him. His entire tribe was grateful, even Rob. And before I forget, watch your back, Rupert -- Rob M. is going to use and abuse you, and he said that he would be the one determining when you will depart the game. Lex has emerged as the leader at Mogo Mogo, and he did a great job catching a whole lot of fish. All the ladies were very happy. Ethan and Colby better raise their game. I feel like they are both in the hot seat and they know it. Ethan is more concerned about going home than Colby, but Colby should be the one worrying. Who do I think may possibly be going home from the Mogo Mogo tribe? That would be Jerri, and this is simply because on scenes for next week Kathy and Shii Ann are describing someone as a witch (take out the "w" and replace it with a "b") ... and the only female that's not present at this conversation is Jerri. Lately Jerri has been her usual self, which equals getting on peoples nerves. But the person I think would be the smart boot at this point is Colby, because he's a power player and very strong. He's capable of winning challenges and although he didn't win the million in Australia let's not forget that he was the runner-up. seattlepi
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Essence
Member
01-12-2002
| Wednesday, March 17, 2004 - 10:29 am
Wednesday, March 17, 2004 'Survivor' Insider: Colby's out -- is Jerri next? By SANDRA DIAZ-TWINE SPECIAL TO THE POST-INTELLIGENCER What's in store for all you "Survivor" fans tonight? Yup, you read correctly, this week's "Survivor" will be on Wednesday instead of our usual Thursday (because of NCAA basketball). And this episode you cannot miss. Each tribe will have to send over one ambassador. Who and why, for what and for how long is anyone's guess. And what did Rob mean when he said "Aquaman vs. the City Kid from Boston"? Will there be a confrontation between Rupert and Rob? Yes, but over what? With the Mogo Mogo tribe one strong man short, will they be able to compete against the powerhouse Chapera Tribe who still have physically strong players in Rob, Alicia, Rupert and Tom? I pointed out the reasons behind Colby getting the boot last week, but I didn't think it would happen. Now that it has, and he's gone, will the Mogo Mogo tribe go downhill, just like the Drake tribe did after getting rid of Burton at the first tribal council (in "Survivor: Pearl Islands")? As for Colby's departure from the game, he didn't see it coming and neither did Ethan, who is a little shaken up, because he didn't know what was going on and nobody cared if he was even on board. Ethan should just be glad he's still in the game. So who will go home tonight? The biggest targets have been the million-dollar winners, but that's still not reason enough for Ethan to go home if the Mogo Mogo tribe loses to the Chapera tribe. Mogo Mogo will need Ethan's strength. There's no telling when the merge will be, so Lex will have to sacrifice Jerri in order to keep the Mogo Mogo tribe strong a little while longer and stay true to his alliance with Kathy and Shii Ann, who have made their differences with Jerri clear to us viewers. Will Lex be in trouble once Kathy comes back from her day-long vacation with the Chapera tribe to find out Colby has been voted off? By the way, Kathy said it best when she mentioned she "fit the Chapera tribe like a glove." Good for you, Kathy. As for who goes home from the Chapera Tribe I'm gonna have to stick once again with Alicia because we all know she has not been included in the Rob, Amber, Tom, Jenna and Rupert alliance. seattlepi
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Lslb
Member
05-27-2002
| Wednesday, March 17, 2004 - 11:39 am
Thank you, Essence! 
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Essence
Member
01-12-2002
| Thursday, March 25, 2004 - 10:41 am
'Survivor' Insider: With the past winners gone, players look to the merge By SANDRA DIAZ-TWINE SPECIAL TO THE POST-INTELLIGENCER Poor Ethan. Well, he's actually not poor at all, but he was the last remaining winner left on the show. Ethan was lucky to have lasted this long, because honestly he could have been gone a long time ago, before Sue left and even before Colby. So congrats to him for making it as far as he did -- or shall I say for being allowed to stay in the game as long as he did. It's not surprising that Lex voted off Ethan. I used to say you need to keep the strong players around until the merge, but Lex didn't wanna wait that long. And because everyone knows Ethan is physically strong but chokes during challenges, there wasn't really a good reason to keep him around. So I won't argue Lex's decision. I just hope for Lex's sake the two tribes merge soon. But when that day comes, there won't be enough room on one island for both Rob and Lex. Somebody's gotta go, and because the Chapera tribe outnumbers Mogo Mogo, I think it's safe to say it wont be Rob saying "adios." Everyone knows Rupert is my No. 1 favorite and Rob is my No. 2, but when I hear Rob talking awful about Rupert and making fun, it upsets me. I wanna root for Rob and all the great things that the Chapera tribe have accomplished together, but not if he's gonna continue to be an ass every time someone does a good deed, such as Rupert catching fish. "Rupert's stock just went down 20 points." Wow, Rob, can you be any meaner? As for Rob and Amber, it wouldn't shock me if they left Panama as Mr. and Mrs. Mariano, because it's obvious now that it's more than just attraction -- it's definitely love. But it seems Jenna wants to jump on the Rob train as well. I wonder how Amber feels about that? By the looks of it, it seems as if she doesn't seem to mind when all three are shown cuddling in the shelter. Which is a highlight for tonight's episode, so let's tune in to see how this sandwich ends up. Shii Ann, I wanna congratulate you on scoring two points in the reward challenge against Alicia, who we all now is the strongest woman in the Chapera tribe. As far as teamwork is concerned, Shii Ann did a superb job. I couldn't believe it, because I assumed Alicia would win, but Shii Ann was able to stay balanced and dominate, which didn't make Alicia happy at all. What should we expect tonight? Well, the episode will be a recap of highlights and never-before-seen footage from our favorite all-stars. (CBS is promising to show Colby dealing with a "sensitive situation" -- literally, the effects of a caffeine high on one survivor and more on Rob, Amber and Jenna.) Next week, meanwhile, we can look forward to hearing Jeff say "survivors, drop your buffs" for the merge. But will this be the merge everyone's anticipating or just one more twist? seattlepi
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Essence
Member
01-12-2002
| Thursday, April 01, 2004 - 10:14 am
Thursday, April 1, 2004 'Survivor Insider': Expect the tribes to be evened out this week By SANDRA DIAZ-TWINE OK, so we are finally back on track. We all know that the last person voted off was Ethan, no thanks to Lex and his sidekicks, and last week's episode was just highlights of island life from our favorite all-stars. Now it's back to business. What can we expect this week? Well, first of all, there's some kind of a merge because the survivors have to take off their buffs, but I don't think it's the merge they desire. I think it's more or less that the two tribes will be evened out. Instead of six against four it will maybe be five to five. Amber mentions she gets screwed, so is it because she and Rob are no longer on the same tribe? I'm sure we all laughed at the highlights seeing strong Colby having a chafing problem. I know exactly how that feels 'cause believe it or not even I encountered that problem, but on a smaller scale. Rupert was the worst off since he had those thick blue jeans! Been there, done that. And then there was Tom. How funny when no one could understand what in the heck he was saying, especially Rob. I'm almost sure Tom's speech is only hindered when he's been drinking. Didn't Sue call him a drunk? As far as the mock tribal council was concerned, I think Rob M. deserves an award for nailing Ethan to a "T." Rob C. can always have Jeff's job if Jeff were ever to become ill. Actually everyone involved did a good job getting into character. Well, speaking of Amber, and listening to her confessional, it obviously didn't bother her that Jenna was lying on Rob. I would have been very upset, but she wants to distance herself a little from Rob, even though everyone on the Chapera tribe knows that these two are an item. But the Mogo Mogo tribe doesn't seem to know about this relationship and there are a few clues that they will somehow find out in tonight's episode. So who will go home? Well I think Jerri and Alicia are the only disposable ones. I say Alicia because she's not part of the Tom, Rupert, Amber, Jenna and Rob alliance. I believe Lex will sacrifice Jerri in order to keep Kathy and Shii Ann happy. But if the tribes do merge, will one of these two ladies be voted off? If this doesn't happen I will be in total shock! seattlepi
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Essence
Member
01-12-2002
| Thursday, April 08, 2004 - 7:04 am
Thursday, April 8, 2004 'Survivor' Insider: Rob holds the power as the two tribes move toward merging By SANDRA DIAZ-TWINE Who else was screaming at the TV besides me last Thursday? I was like, "No Lex! Don't do it! Get rid of Amber while you have this chance!" Lex, you have a better chance of staying in the game longer with Jerri, Kathy and Shii Ann than if you go along with Rob. Why are they all so afraid of Rob? I was dying to see what Amber would do to keep herself alive in the game, but there wasn't a need since Rob did it for her. Rob's playing a good game. He knew exactly what to say to Lex to keep Amber in. I wonder what Rob and Lex discussed on their picnic? I'm sure Lex is very aware that Rob calls all the shots. I'm glad Jerri made a strong case to Lex. If only he had listened. She truly had his back, but he seems to believe he will be taken further in the game by Rob. C'mon, Lex! Who are you kidding? I doubt Rob will stay true to his word. Lex has managed to vote off everyone that could have made a difference in how this game will turn out. Now I feel Shii Ann and Kathy had better go to the other side before they are voted off, 'cause it's only a matter of time. I don't know why it's so important for Lex to let everyone who's dear to him know when they are going home. This way of playing can only work for so long before someone turns the tables and blindsides Lex during tribal council. Now that I think about it, Lex won't be making any more decisions about who's going home from here on out. Wouldn't it be great if we could be back on track with the element of surprise during tribal council? What I enjoy the most is trying to guess who's gonna get their torch snuffed. Oh, and by the way, Lex -- you're about to be screwed. Big Tom, I was cheering you on, and I'm glad you caught a fish, regardless of its size. A fish is still a fish. Rupert, I know you no longer have your Hawaiian spear, but it was good while it lasted. I'm sure you have nothing but fond memories of the three days you and your spear spent together. What shall we be looking forward to tonight? THE ELUSIVE MERGE. Finally, the two tribes become one. Poor Amber somehow managed to get herself in some sort of trouble with two rivals, but will Rob come to the rescue once more? Then Rob finally makes an alliance with Alicia, who was never included in the Amber-Big Tom-Rupert-Jenna alliance and Alicia is so thrilled. Last but not least, there will be the most brutal underwater challenge ever, for double immunity. Expect chaos for the entire tribe when one goes to tribal council. "Survivor" is definitely getting better. seattlepi
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Essence
Member
01-12-2002
| Thursday, April 15, 2004 - 8:52 am
April 15, 2004 'Survivor' Insider: Kathy's out on a limb after sticking it to Lex By SANDRA DIAZ-TWINE Last Thursday's episode was by far the best all-star episode ever. I just knew Rob was going to stick it to Lex the first chance he had. Lex, what were you thinking? That Rob was really gonna look out for you because you saved his sweet Amber? That it was all about friendship? What friendship? Like the friendship you had with Colby, Ethan and Jerri? How true that what goes around comes around. I wonder if Colby, Ethan and Jerri loved what happened to Lex. I don't blame Rob one bit for his actions because he only had two options: to stick with his original tribal alliance or turn on them. He made the right choice and ultimately got rid of his biggest competition. How often do you get a second chance to play "Survivor," fix all your errors and possibly win? Rob, to me, did a superb job in order to keep control of the situation and the game. I wouldn't be surprised if he goes far. I loved the immunity challenge and the reward challenge. The two had to be among the most difficult challenges thus far, especially since the survivors are getting weaker. Both challenges were equally difficult. And the hard challenges are usually at the beginning of the game, when all the survivors are still strong mentally and physically. Did you guys check out Jenna? She sure played her cards right at the reward challenge, rooting Rupert on and then hugging him when he won. It paid off, and he took her and Amber with him to the reward. I'm glad Rupert learned his lesson and kept the reward, rather than give it to someone else. Rupert, I'm glad you enjoyed it and I wish I were there with you. You deserved it and congratulations to you for a job well done. I thought for a minute there that Lex was going to win the immunity challenge and I was rooting for him, too, screaming at the TV and all. I was hoping he would get his second wind and somehow win, but Rob came from behind to take the victory. Kathy did a great job as well; she really gave it all she had. I know she was very tired and still managed to get the job done. On to tribal council. Poor Lex. He was under the impression that no matter what he wouldn't be going home because Kathy was going to give up the immunity necklace. But when the opportunity arose, Kathy decided to keep it. Did you see how wide Lex's mouth was? He obviously was in shock because he figured he wasn't going home -- until Kathy said, "I thought about it, but I'm gonna keep it." Classic. You could drive a car into Lex's mouth. Priceless. So, who do I think is in serious trouble this Thursday? Kathy, simply because she put herself in the middle of the Amber drama between Lex and Rob. Now she has to save her skin and make a move. Hopefully, Kathy can figure out how to turn the others against the unstoppable Rob and Amber alliance. seattlepi
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Lslb
Member
05-27-2002
| Thursday, April 15, 2004 - 11:17 am
Essence - Always enjoy these. Thanks! 
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Essence
Member
01-12-2002
| Thursday, April 22, 2004 - 12:12 pm
Thursday, April 22, 2004 'Survivor' Insider: Wake up, Big Tom! It looks like you're out of the big threesome SANDRA DIAZ-TWINE Well, loyal "Survivor" fans, only four episodes left until the finale in New York, and this is where it really starts getting good. I had my fingers crossed for Kathy, hoping that somehow she would get through to Big Tom, Alicia and Rupert to get rid of Amber or Jenna. But, unfortunately, everyone just stood by and did nothing -- nothing to save Kathy and nothing to help themselves get further along in the game, and so, in a 6-2 vote, Kathy was sent home. But all is not lost for those hoping to see the collapse of the Amber, Jenna and Rob alliance because Shii Ann can still try to finish what Kathy tried to accomplish and maybe sway Alicia, Big Tom and Rupert to turn the tables on the tough, seemingly untouchable trio. If I were Big Tom I would be asking right about now if Jenna somehow managed to take my spot in the final three. Because that's what it looks like to me: You've been replaced, Big Tom. Last Thursday's episode reminded me about the awful weather on the Pearl Islands, but it never rained for days at a time. I really felt bad for the remaining castaways, cold and shivering. The letters from home, the ponchos and the hot chocolate from the reward/immunity challenge I'm sure made it all worthwhile. That's when I saw Rob in a different light -- a more caring, loving, strategic Rob. Although everyone appreciated the letters from home, they all knew there was a reason behind Rob's generosity. Rob is something else. He amazes me every time. And I'll say it again: It wouldn't surprise me if he went all the way to the end, because his game plan is tight. So what to look forward to tonight? Well, Alicia is really upset about something, and Rob is scared, which leads me to believe that whatever happened in the challenge, Rob does not have immunity! Then there's the question about whether or not Amber is playing Rob. Who do I think is going home? We all know things are not looking good for Shii Ann, which is why I'm gonna have to say that her torch will be snuffed today unless some kind of miracle, like winning immunity, saves her, but not likely. Lucky for us viewers that Shii Ann will not go down without a fight. seattlepi
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Rslover
Member
11-19-2002
| Tuesday, May 04, 2004 - 3:19 pm
Thursday, April 29, 2004 'Survivor' Insider: Congrats, Shii Ann; you deserve to gloat By SANDRA DIAZ-TWINE You guys will not believe it, but YES, YES, YES, I was cheering Shii Ann on at the immunity challenge and I'm not afraid to says so. Shii Ann knew that she had to win immunity or else. I don't know where her strength came from since she only dined on cold rice and water from camp at the restaurant, courtesy of Rupert. But, hey, when it counted the most, she handled her business, so congrats to you Shii Ann. I can't believe Alicia had the nerve to tell her, "Don't get cocky." Shii Ann, you deserved to gloat 'cause nobody else congratulated you, so I'm glad you patted yourself on the back. You go, girl. Was I sad to see Alicia go? Nope, not at all, and that's because when I saw that Rupert had gotten those two votes against him, I was like "OHH, MY, please don't let it be Rupee, heavens no." Now back to seņorita Alicia, who suffered under the false assumption that she was the smartest one out there, but had no clue she was the least deserving of being on all star! Wow, I would be hurt too, and mad as well, so don't come console me, Jenna, when we all know that you are the least deserving to be out here! Then there's the "Don't get cocky" bit. But remember, didn't Shii Ann go up to Alicia to talk and what did she say? If I can remember correctly, something to the effect of "There's a plan, Shii Ann, and it's too late for anything to change!" Well guess what, Alicia, it's never too late, but I guess you learned that the hard way. Talk about cocky, weren't you cocky and confident then. So the minute Shii Ann wins immunity, she can't be happy, cause now she's cocky? Well, we'll just leave that alone for now. Rupert, what are you doing? Didn't you learn anything in the Pearl Islands? Like, for instance, TRUST NO ONE! You guys can't all be blind. Here's what I think. I truly believe no one has made a move against Romber because the numbers are just not there, like when I tried to get rid of Jon numerous times, people were afraid to jump on board for various reasons, but still the numbers were not there. I'm guessing and I hope I'm right that again this is the problem. I just wanna say one thing to the Rob father: If the rest of the tribe can't see what's going on, then you do deserve to win. What to look forward to tonight? Well for starters, Jenna and Shii Ann are just not getting along, but then Rupert can't stand Jenna either. Then there's a controversial family reunion. So who do I think is going home this week? Unfortunately, Shii Ann, unless she wins immunity again, which is not likely. After getting those two votes, I know Rupert will be fighting tooth and nail against Shii Ann at this week's Immunity. So folks, all in all, "Stupid people, stupid, stupid people." Shii Ann, that was funny. I'll remember those five words always. Oh, one more thing. Only three episodes left. Why, oh, why, does it have to end? seattlepi
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Essence
Member
01-12-2002
| Thursday, May 06, 2004 - 3:01 pm
Thursday, May 6, 2004 'Survivor' Insider: A tense buildup to the mother of all finales By SANDRA DIAZ-TWINE Well, people, we are down to two episodes -- tonight's and the Mother's Day finale (and, by the way, I will be in New York City for that one). I want to start off talking about Shii Ann and how she almost got immunity. I had a feeling that had she pulled this one off, Rupert would be gone. She wasn't too thrilled when Big Tom beat her to immunity and was doing his dance. Did you see her rolling her eyes and all? Was I sad to see Shii Ann gone? No, because she was already on borrowed time. But you have to admit she didn't go down without a fight. Shii Ann, you played a hell of a game. You go, girl. Well, you did go, girl! Big Tom not only got immunity, but thanks to his son, he also won the reward challenge (an unusual test of visiting family members' ability to eat scary foods). Big Tom's son had the honor of chowing down on fish heads, tarantulas and coconut palm worms -- nasty, nasty, nasty. So my congrats this week goes out to Big Tom and his son, who shared their reward with Boston Rob and his brother, Mike. They all got to indulge in pizza and beer. Everything at camp was great until Big Tom's son went fishing and lost a spearhead. But Rupert wasn't nasty about the situation, he simply said, "If they wanna keep eating, then they'll let me use the damn spear." Brings back old memories of the spear incident between Rupert and Shawn on Pearl Islands (Rupert got really upset when Shawn lost a spearhead, though that one was found later). Poor Jenna is not looking good this week. First, she had the argument with Rupert over the fish and then displayed her dislike for Shii Ann. Jenna's brother tried his best at the family reward challenge but was disqualified when he took a sip of water early. Then there's Amber, who's doing a wonderful job staying low-key. I'm beginning to think that Amber decides what's going down and Rob does the dirty work. This is perfect because if "Romber" were to end up in the final two, I can see how everyone's resentment of Rob's actions throughout the game could lead Amber to victory. Amber is so approachable and seems easy to get along with. When Shii Ann called out Amber at tribal council, I thought she was talking about Rob; too bad her words were in vain. What should we look forward to tonight? For starters, Rupert and Jenna talk strategy without even realizing Boston Rob is standing right behind them. Uh-oh, you two are in big trouble now! And then there's a humongous fight between Rupert and Big Tom over Boston Rob, and guess who's hearing the whole argument? Yep, Boston Rob in the flesh. So who will not make it to the final four? I didn't want to say this but I think I know who won't: Rupert. And I say this because he seems to be in the middle of both commotions we'll see tonight. I hope I'm wrong -- I'm not ready to see Rupert gone. seattlepi
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Carlito
Member
03-26-2004
| Thursday, May 06, 2004 - 6:38 pm
Great post Sandra!!!!!! Almost but not even close. Big Tom bit the big one. Rob and amber were smart enough to know Tom was a snake and could not be trusted. I bet the stress is awesome!!!! I was so happy for your win by the way. Loved you from the 1st episode.!!!!
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