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Matson cancels Marshalls voyage, shifts cargo to Kyowa

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Friday • August 31, 2012

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Fitial can’t fool NMI voters in Boise

By Emmanuel T. Erediano emmanuel.erediano@mvariety.com Variety News Staff

GOVERNOR Benigno R. Fitial will meet CNMI voters who will be in Boise, Idaho this week for the Goodwill CNMI Labor Day Softball Tournament, “but he’s not going to get anything from them — he can’t fool them,” according to one of their family members. The tournament is an annual event that gathers former NMI residents from several West Coast states It was launched in 2005 by former NMI residents who recognized the importance of “maintaining connections, language, and heritage of the islands with extended family and friends who have relocated to

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Wiseman to issue preliminary injunction on $190M power deal their first amended complaint that included Rep. Ray Anthony N. Yumul, and the CNMI Senate as THE 45-page $190 million power additional plaintiffs. purchase agreement was duly The plaintiffs want the signed by the Fitial adcourt to stop the illegal ministration and Saipan expenditure of public Development LLC on funds. They are alleging Aug. 3, 2012, according breach of fiduciary duty to documents submitted and breach of trust, and in Superior Court which are seeking declaratory yesterday said it will issue relief as well as an ina preliminary injunction David Wiseman junction and damages. that stops the implemenAmong the documents tation of the no-bid contract. submitted by the plaintiffs yesterAlso yesterday, attorney Ramon day was the 45-page copy of the K. Quichocho, who represents Rep. Janet U. Maratita, submitted Continued on page 3 By Andrew O. De Guzman andrew.deguzman@mvariety.com Variety News Staff

This image from a video posted on YouTube shows Gov. Benigno R. Fitial and his Press Secretary Angel Demapan on the Republican convention floor in Tampa, Florida.

the U.S. mainland for school and job opportunities.” Variety was told that Fitial,

who just attended the Republican Continued on page 3

Another Fitial ally says no to impeachment By Emmanuel T. Erediano emmanuel.erediano@mvariety.com Variety News Staff

OF Gov. Benigno R. Fitial’s allies in the House of Representatives, only two have so far taken a stand against the move to impeach him. Rep. Stanley T. Torres said yesterday Stanley Torres he will vote no to House Resolution 17-111 which calls for the impeachment of the governor. Torres, Ind.-Saipan, said the Continued on page 3

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BREAKING GROUND. Acting Gov. Eloy Inos leads the ground breaking ceremony for the Mt. Tapochao Development Project yesterday. From left, Marianas Visitors Authority director K.J. Kim, Hotel Association of the Northern Mariana Islands director Ivan Quichocho, Rep. Edmund Villagomez, HANMI Chairman Nick Nishikawa, Inos, Rep. Joseph Deleon Guerrero, Tournament of Champions chairman Ben Babauta and Saipan Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Richard A. Pierce. Not in photo are Rep. Antonio Sablan, acting Secretary of Public Works Anthony Camacho, MVA director Chris Nelson, HANMI director Mike Johnson, chamber director Alex Sablan, and MVA Managing Director Perry Tenorio (Story on page 6) MVA photo

8/31/12 12:47:32 AM

Local

FRIDAY - AUGUST 31, 2012 - MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS

Newly hired cop arrested for failure to appear in small claims action

Library Friends book sale

THE Library Friends will be having their book sale tomorrow, Sept. 1, from 8 a.m. to 12 noon. The Library Friends meeting will also be held right after the book sale.

By Andrew O. De Guzman andrew.deguzman@mvariety.com Variety News Staff

Any interested person who wants to become a member is welcome to attend. For more information, call the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library at 235-7322 or 235-7316.

SUPERIOR Court Judge Kenneth L. Govendo yesterday ordered newly hired Police Officer Kui Rogopes to pay $50 every payday to satisfy an earlier monetary judgment. Rogopes will pay $50 bi-weekly to Hi-Mart starting Sept. 7, 2012 — otherwise he will face stiffer court sanctions, the court ordered. Rogopes was arrested after Judge

Joseph N. Camacho issued a bench warrant for Rogopes’ failure to appear on a July 23, 2012 show cause order hearing. It was Camacho who issued the monetary judgment in favor of Hi-Mart, represented by attorney Michael White, on March 22, 2012. Rogopes was supposed to start paying $50 bi-weekly on April 6, 2012 to satisfy his $478.81 debt, as well as a $30 attorney’s fee. The action started in 2011 in

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the amount of $397.37 plus interest for merchandise plus interest and costs. The Superior Court had been serving judicial summons regarding this small claims for Rogopes who was an officer at the Corrections facility at the time, according to court records. Rogopes is among the seven former law enforcement officers recently re-hired by the Department of Public Safety as police officers.

EZ MART 8/31/12 12:47:37 AM

MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS - FRIDAY - AUGUST 31, 2012

Local / Pacific Islands

Matson cancels Marshalls voyage, shifts cargo to Kyowa By Giff Johnson For Variety

MAJURO — After repeated delays caused by engine problems, a Matson vessel scheduled to arrive at Kwajalein, Ebeye and Majuro last week has been scrubbed and cargo on that vessel is now to be transported on Kyowa Lines. Matson, the primary delivery company for cargo — particularly fresh fruits and vegetables — from the United States to the Marshall Islands, announced Wednesday a

Fitial... Continued from page 1 National Convention in Tampa, Florida, was on his way to Boise where he is expected to campaign for his candidates in this year’s midterm elections. A family member of the former NMI residents said his relatives left the islands due to the eco-

Another... Continued from page 1 allegations against Fitial have not been proven yet. Torres wants the governor’s controversial $190 million power purchase agreement investigated, but said if he does not find anything wrong with the deal, he will not vote to impeach the governor. Torres also wants to be part of the special committee that Speaker Eli D. Cabrera will create to review H.R. 17-111. Another Fitial ally, Rep. Joseph M. Palacios, R-Saipan, earlier

plan for Kyowa’s Cattleya vessel to arrive with Matson cargo at Kwajalein this Saturday, Ebeye on Sunday and Majuro on Monday, Sept. 3. Matson was originally scheduled to arrive Majuro on Thursday, Aug. 23. Matson’s Islander vessel developed an engine problem while at sea enroute to the Marshall Islands on

August 19 and pulled into Pohnpei for repairs. Matson dispatched mechanics to Pohnpei to fix the problem in an effort to continue the voyage. When they were unable to fix the problem, Matson made the decision at mid-week to have Kyowa Lines pick up the Marshall Islands-bound cargo.

Kyowa was in Pohnpei Wednesday for a cargo transfer and is expected to arrive Majuro on Monday. “Due to a mechanical problem, the MV Islander was unable to complete its scheduled voyage 159,” Bernadette Valencia, Matson’s Regional Manager for Sales and Customer Service, said Wednesday. The vessel was headed back to Guam for repair work after offloading its cargo to Kyowa. “We have done our best to move

the cargo booked for that voyage using other available resources. The Islander is currently being repaired and is expected to resume service from Guam with voyage 160.” She said Voyage 160 would arrive Majuro next week Friday, one day later than its originally published schedule. Matson normally provides a fortnightly shipping service from Guam to the Marshall Islands and the Federated States of Micronesia islands of Kosrae, Pohnpei and Chuuk.

nomic crisis that has worsened under the Fitial administration. Many of them, the family member said, are former government employees who were fired or whose contracts were not renewed by the administration. “These are the people who left the islands because they could no longer stand the sufferings here,”

said the family member who declined to be identified. He noted that Boise now hosts thousands of former NMI locals. “It’s the little Saipan in the U.S.,” the family member said. Many former NMI residents who now live in Boise are among those who have signed the online petition calling for Fitial’s im-

peachment. One of them said the governor “has been doing far more damage to the general stability of the islands I call home. I find it incredible that he has made it this far without impeachment being an option sooner. But better sooner than later.” Her fellow Boise resident

wrote, “It’s about time to take back what we entrusted to our government. The future is at stake in the hand in that tyrant.” Another former NMI resident who now lives in Boise said she signed the online petition because the governor “is a true criminal and brings shame to the CNMI.”

said he will not support the impeachment move. House Floor Leader George N. Camacho, Ind.-Saipan, in a separate interview said he will not take any position on the impeachment move and will decline to serve on the special committee. His sister-in-law is acting Attorney General Viola Alepuyo. Aside from the seven co-authors of H.R. 17-111, a House leadership member, Rep. Ralph S. Demapan, Covenant-Saipan, has also vowed to support the impeachment move.

Led by House Minority Leader Joseph P. Deleon Guerrero, R-Saipan, the minority bloc members calling for Fitial’s impeachment are Reps. Francisco S. Dela Cruz, R-Saipan; Ray A. Tebuteb, R-Saipan; Tony P. Sablan, R-Saipan; Ray N. Yumul, R-Saipan; Janet U. Maratita, R-Saipan; and Trenton B. Conner, R-Tinian. Those who have not expressed any position on the impeachment resolution are Vice Speaker Felicidad T. Ogumoro, CovenantSaipan; Reps. Sylvestre I. Iguel,

Covenant-Saipan; Ramon S. Basa, Covenant-Saipan; Raymond D. Palacios, CovenantSaipan; Edmund S. Villagomez, Covenant-Saipan; Fredrick P. Deleon Guerrero, Ind.-Saipan; and Teresita A. Santos, Ind.-Rota. Rep. Froilan C. Tenorio, Covenant-Saipan, is still off-island for medical reasons. The minority bloc pre-filed H.R. 17-111 containing 16 articles of impeachment against Fitial. Four of these are for commission of actions constituting multiple felonies; five are for multiple

acts of public corruption; and seven are for multiple instances of neglect of his sworn duties of office. In an interview yesterday, acting Gov. Eloy S. Inos told reporters that he does not think the impeachment movers need his advice. “They acted on their own,” he said, adding that calling for the impeachment of the governor “is their decision.” He said if they are going to make those allegations, they must back them up.

that they can simultaneously sign different copies and when taken together, shall constitute one and the same agreement.” Judge David A. Wiseman yesterday said the preliminary injunction to be issued “shall follow the restraints imposed by the temporary restraining order” he earlier imposed on the controversial deal. Wiseman directed Quichocho, to file another motion for a temporary restraining order on or before 2 p.m. today, “only with respect to the items requested to be added for injunctive relief.” The court set the preliminary injunction hearing for Sept. 4, 2012 at 1:30 p.m. If there is any objection to the preliminary injunction hearing, Wiseman said the matter will be continued until Sept. 14, 2012 at 9:30 a.m. If defendants Gov. Benigno R. Fitial, former Attorney General Edward T. Buckingham, the Commonwealth Utilities Corp., and Saipan Development LLC object to the preliminary injunction on the additional items submitted by Quichocho, “then the subpoeana duces tecum presently returnable on Sept. 5, 2012 shall be modified

to be due and deliverable to the plaintiffs’ attorney on or before Sept. 11, 2012 close of business,” Wiseman said. Maratita through her lawyer earlier subpoenaed acting Gov. Eloy S. Inos to produce documents “related to an alleged power purchase agreement between defendants Saipan Development LLC and the Commonwealth Utilities Corp.” The court said if there is no objection to the preliminary injunction motion scheduled for Sept. 14, 2012 then the case will be taken off calendar and will proceed pursuant to the Civil Rules of Procedure for litigating a civil matter and the subpoena duces tecum will also be quashed. For his part, Assistant Attorney General David Lochabay submitted a manifestation that acting Attorney General Viola Alepuyo has substituted Buckingham. Lochabay further told the court that “they do not oppose, and do hereby consent, to the issuance of a preliminary injunction in this case enjoining them under the same terms and conditions as they are currently restrained by the temporary restraining order previously issued by the court.”

Wiseman... Continued from page 1 power purchase agreement that bore the signatures of Gov. Benigno R. Fital for the Commonwealth Utilities Corp. “pursuant to his authority under executive order” that placed CUC under state of emergency; then-Attorney General Edward T. Buckingham; and PWJ Fisher who signed on behalf of Donald R. Kurz. The contract date was Aug. 3, 2012. Saipan Development LLC was formed by Allegiance Capital Corp. and Keystone Shipping Co. Allegiance Capital founder and chairman David J. Mahmood earlier told Variety: “Quite frankly, we are surprised at all the controversy this has generated. While an agreement was signed by Governor Fitial, Saipan Development, represented by Mr. Kurz, has not signed the agreement and hence there is no agreement in place.” But Quichocho said the contract was signed by Saipan Development. He said PWJ Fisher is an executive of Keystone Shipping Co. According to Quichocho, “The power purchase agreement has a counterparts clause, which means MV 8-31-12.indd 3

Rep. Janet U. Maratita, center, confers with her counsel Ramon K. Quichocho and the lawyer’s wife Frances, shortly after the preliminary injunction hearing in Superior Court yesterday afternoon. Photo by Andrew O. De Guzman 8/31/12 12:47:38 AM

Local

FRIDAY - AUGUST 31, 2012 - MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS

Gov’t eyes tax hikes to fund CHC

By Alexie Villegas Zotomayor avz@mvariety.com Variety News Staff

THE Marianas Public Land Trust is willing to help the financially strapped Commonwealth Healthcare Corp, but it has to ensure

that the $7 million loan will be paid back. The administration, for its part, is expected to propose tax measures to help raise funds for CHC. MPLT Board Chairman Pedro

R. Deleon Guerrero expressed the trustees’ concern regarding the state of healthcare in the commonwealth and their willingness to help resolve the crisis. “MPLT is still finding ways to help,” Deleon Guerrero said.

During the MPLT board meeting with the administration to see what last week, the trustees looked into else could be done to remedy the the situation facing CHC and said situation. they were concerned with its abilThe MPLT chairman said ality to pay its obligations. though they have not acted on Deleon Guerrero said the request to issue the the MPLT is not releasing $7 million loan to CHC, any funds yet to CHC as they also discussed the it has to show that it can matter with acting Gov. service the repayments for Eloy S. Inos. the $3 million loan. He said they had an Variety learned that the agreement regarding new CHC pays about $17,000 revenue generation. monthly to MPLT in inter- Pedro Deleon Deleon Guerrero said Guerrero est alone. the administration is reSo far, CHC is current with these viewing draft legislation that payments. would identify revenue sources But the trustees on Friday were such as sin taxes. concerned with the healthcare “The bill has been drafted and corporation’s financial position. it is now before Lt. Gov. Eloy S. “There is no way under their Inos for his review,” said Deleon financial status that they will make Guerrero adding that the draft will the payments,” Deleon Guerrero be submitted to the Legislature said. Continued on page 5 Still, MPLT is working closely

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8/31/12 12:47:40 AM

Local

MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS - FRIDAY - AUGUST 31, 2012

Tinian to celebrate Labor Day By Alexie Villegas Zotomayor avz@mvariety.com Variety News Staff

THE municipality of Tinian and Aguiguan is set to honor workers at the fiesta grounds today. Tinian Mayor Ramon M. Dela Cruz is looking forward to recognizing the efforts of employees on Labor Day with a special ceremony. “Labor Day is a day of celebration, a day to honor all our government and private employees, a day to say ‘Thank You’ for all that you do for our government and

our community. It is indeed my 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., the Tinian mayor honor and pleasure to thank you said Northern Marianas College, all,” he said. Public School System, and private The mayor, in a special sector employees will be message, also said that recognized. Labor Day is a day to Dela Cruz, along with celebrate the accomplishawards committee chairments and achievements woman Lydia Barcinas of the employees and “recand Erlinda Sanchez of the ognize those individuals Office of Personnel Manwho have gone above and agement, will be handing Ramon beyond to make an impact out the 2012 Government Dela Cruz in the efficient operation Employee of the Year of our government and business awards to outstanding employees sectors.” of the municipality. In a special program today, from In a program honoring workers

to be hosted by Tinian Department of Commerce Resident Director Jose Kiyoshi, Mayor Dela Cruz will be delivering the opening remarks, Fr. Sid Ogumoro, the invocation and committee cochairman Jose M. Dela Cruz, the closing remarks.

According to the mayor, “Labor Day is also a day to just have fun, to take a day off from our busy schedules and enjoy the company of our co-workers and staff. I urge you to participate in the many activities today and have fun and relax.”

Gov’t... Continued from page 4 this week. He said the proposed sin taxes should provide CHC with immediate funding for its operation and also address the commonwealth’s health concerns. Sin taxes are levied on commodities deemed injurious to health: alcohol, cigarettes and food that causes diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, among other diseases. Deleon Guerrero said MPLT will disburse the requested funding once the Legislature has earmarked new revenues strictly for CHC operation. MPLT is also awaiting the outcome of CHC’s comprehensive assessment of its staffing, operation and financial status. Back in July, Deleon Guerrero wrote CHC chief executive officer Juan N. Babauta and

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then-Attorney General Edward T. Buckingham, stating that the MPLT’s position on the $7 million loan hinged on the completion of the assessment to be conducted by HealthTech. HealthTech was chosen by CHC to conduct the assessment to be funded by a $170,000 grant from the U.S. Office of Insular Affairs. Deleon Guerrero reiterated in that same letter that CHC, the Attorney General’s Office and MPLT had agreed during a June 25 meeting that the parties were committed to marshalling the resources and assets necessary to assist CHC. But CHC has yet to provide the pertinent documents required by MPLT to satisfy the requirements for the $3 million loan that the healthcare corporation had already spent. Prior to the passage into law of

H.B. 17-278, which authorized the $7 million loan to CHC, MPLT had been requiring documents from CHC for its approved $3 million line of credit and additional $1.58 million for the hospital’s electronic health record project. Since the release of the funds to CHC, the MPLT has yet to obtain the hospital’s business plan, forecast of operations, statement of cash flow, drawdown schedule, projected balance sheets in the next two to three years beginning the end of fiscal year 2012, among other documents. In approving MPLT Resolution 12-1A on the $3 million loan back in March, the MPLT trustees asked CHC to set the schedule or timeline within which it would implement and complete these goals or objectives and identify the persons or department responsible for its completion or implementation. Last week, Variety asked Deleon Guerrero if the CHC had complied with the requirements. He said, “We are still waiting for those documents.” But he said MPLT will continue to find ways to help CHC.

To all our valued customers and readers,

In celebration of Labor Day, Marianas Variety News & Views office is closed on Monday, Sept. 3, 2012 Thank You!

8/31/12 12:47:42 AM

Local

FRIDAY - AUGUST 31, 2012 - MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS

Mt. Tapochao development project breaks ground By Raquel C. Bagnol raquel.bagnol@mvariety.com Variety News Staff

Residents enjoy the panoramic view from Mt. Tapochao, Saipan’s highest peak.

Photo by Raquel C. Bagnol

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REPRESENTATIVES from government agencies and private businesses as well as community members braved the heavy rain to witness the groundbreaking ceremony of the $48,000 Mt. Tapochao Development Project yesterday. Acting Gov. Eloy S. Inos led the groundbreaking assisted by tourism industry representatives. The project, which is expected to be completed in 90 days, took years of planning, preparation and a search of a funding source before work can finally start. The Marianas Visitors Authority is the lead agency that will finance over half or $25,000 of the total project cost. The remaining amount will come from participating organizations such as the Hotel Association of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Saipan Chamber of Commerce and the Tournament of Champions beautification fund. The project will improve the railings, stairs and the viewing area at the island’s highest peak. House Minority Leader Joseph P. Deleon Guerrero, R-Saipan, who was among those who broke ground for the project said the improvements are necessary to entice more tourists to visit the island. “This is a great partnership between the government and the private sectors. Mt. Tapochao is a beautiful spot but it has been neglected for a long time,” Deleon Guerrero said. As soon as the rehabilitation project is done, he hopes to have all the right of way issues resolved so that the projects for paving the road to Mt. Tapochao will follow. Deleon Guerrero said federal highway funding is available but nothing can be done without first resolving over 30 right of way issues involving more than 30 landowners in the area. Mt. Tapochao is Saipan’s highest point at 1,560 ft and is the only area that provides a 360 degree view of the whole island.

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Marianas Variety News & Views is circulated by home and office delivery throughout Saipan, Rota, Tinian, Guam and Palau as well as mail delivery to the Federated States of Micronesia, the Marshall Islands, South Pacific, Hawaii, Japan and the U.S. Daily coverage also can be read from our Web site via www.mvariety.com. MV 8-31-12.indd 6

8/31/12 12:47:43 AM

MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS - FRIDAY - AUGUST 31, 2012

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Local / Pacific Islands

8/31/12 12:47:43 AM

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FRIDAY - AUGUST 31, 2012 - MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS

It’s back-to-school sale at Modern Office Supply Text and photos by Raquel C. Bagnol raquel.bagnol@mvariety.com Variety News Staff

THE opening of classes is just a few days away, but the timely release of the child tax credits have helped a lot of parents as they buy school supplies for their children. Island retailers, however, are also doing their best to meet the parents and students halfway. Modern Office Supply/Modern Stationery Supply outlets in Garapan and San Jose have budget friendly school supplies for children of all grade levels. They offer huge savings and a big discounts — from 30 to 50 percent on school items, and an additional 10 percent discount on school bags like Jansport and other brands. This is Modern Stationery Supply’s way of giving back to the community — helping students, parents and teachers stretch their budgets so they can buy quality products at affordable prices. Modern Stationery Supply outlets carry a complete and wide selection of school and office supplies — notebooks and notepads, pens and pencils,

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coloring pens and crayons, backpacks, binders, folders, laptop bags, calculators, lunch boxes, educational tools, computer accessories, and more — all at discounted and very affordable prices. Check out the special discounts for newly arrived flash drives — Kingston, Sandisk, TDK and Toshiba brands — $13.95 for 4GB to $99.99 for 64GB flash drives. For teachers, Modern Stationery Supply carries complete office needs and supplies. But the back-to-school promo will only be until Sept. 14. Modern Stationery Supply San Jose store manager Wilma DeLeon said they have a list of the necessary school needs of students furnished by different schools so parents who don’t know what to buy need not worry. Just ask for a complete list from the cashier and you can start shopping without worrying you will forget something. Wide, spacious alleys between shelves loaded with supplies and conveniently arranged within a customer’s reach make the shopping experience at Modern Stationery Supply fast, easy and stress-free.

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Modern Stationery Supply has proven its service to the community as the CNMI’s reliable retailer of school and office supplies for over 30 years. If you need help, any of the friendly store assistants are ready to help you out. Modern Stationery Supply is open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. in San Jose and from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. in Garapan Monday to Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday on both outlets. For more information, call 234-6832 (San Jose) or 233-8900 or 8902 (Garapan).

MODERN OFFICE SUPPLY

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SALE UNTIL SEPTEMBER 14, 2012 TWO BRANCHES TO SERVE YOU IN SAIPAN MV 8-31-12.indd 8

BEACH ROAD, SAN JOSE • TEL. NOS. 234-6832/FAX. 234-7176 OPEN 8:00AM-7:00PM MONDAY-SATURDAY • 9:00 AM-5:00PM SUNDAY

BEACH ROAD, GARAPAN • TEL. NOS. 233-8900, 234-8902 OPEN 9:00AM-7:00PM MONDAY-SATURDAY • 9:00AM-5:00PM SUNDAY 8/31/12 12:47:47 AM

MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS - FRIDAY - AUGUST 31, 2012

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Local

8/31/12 12:47:47 AM

Local

FRIDAY - AUGUST 31, 2012 - MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS

Precinct 2 residents object to beach park renaming bill By Junhan B. Todeno junhan.todeno@mvariety.com Variety News Staff

MOST of those who spoke against House Local Bill 17-78 said they have utmost respect and admiration for the late former Speaker Vicente “Pacho” Masga Sablan, but they don’t want Susupe Beach Park named after him. Of the seven individuals who testified during a public hearing on Wednesday night at the multi-purpose center, only former Speaker Oscar M. Babauta expressed support for the measure. He said he spoke on behalf of the other residents who supported the local bill which was introduced by Rep. Ralph S. Demapan. For his part, Rep. Raymond D. Palacios, who co-sponsored H.L.B. 17-78, said: “As representative of this precinct, I opt to remain neutral and respect whatever will be the outcome” of the public hearing. “I will respect and honor whatever the committee will recommend,” he added. The public hearing was conducted by the Saipan and Northern Islands Legislative Delegation Committee on Natural Resources

Reps. Jose Palacios and Ralph Demapan listen to the testimony during the public hearing for House Local Bill 17-78 at the multi-purpose center in Susupe on Wednesday night.

Former municipal council member Felipe Atalig explains why he opposes renaming the Susupe Beach Park. Photos by Junhan B. Todeno

chaired by Rep. Joseph M. Palacios. Demapan attended the hearing along with over 40 members of the community — a good turnout. Such public hearings are usually attended by less than a dozen individuals, including the legislators and their staffers. Eric Atalig, a House candidate in Precinct 2, told the public hearing on Wednesday night that there’s a petition of more than 50 people opposed to the local bill.

to it. “I will never go against him. He’s a wonderful person, he was my buddy and friend,” he said, referring to the former speaker. Francisco DLG Demapan asked lawmakers not to ignore the wishes and rights of the residents. “Do not try to dominate the people of Susupe,” he said. Ike Demapan said as a lifetime resident of Susupe, he is asking lawmakers to retain the park’s current name. In 1960s, he said, the Susupe

He said instead of re-naming the park, the late speaker and other former NMI leaders should be honored instead at the Saipan and Northern Islands Leadership Courtyard in Chalan Kanoa. “I just want to make it clear: there’s no disrespect to the former House speaker or to anyone else,” Atalig said. Precinct 2 resident Antonio Mareham said the name Susupe Beach Park is very well known and the people are already attached

Beach Club, of which he was one of the members, as well as the island’s Boy and Girl Scouts cleaned the beach area so residents would have their own recreational place. “As executive director of indigenous affairs I ask for your consideration to please respect the rights of Susupe’s indigenous people,” he told the committee. As former House member who represented Susupe and Chalan Kanoa in the 4th Legislature, Ike Continued on page 12

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MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS - FRIDAY - AUGUST 31, 2012

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Local / Pacific Islands

8/31/12 12:47:51 AM

Local

FRIDAY - AUGUST 31, 2012 - MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS

Medical mission this Sunday in San Jose/Oleai By Junhan B. Todeno junhan.todeno@mvariety.com Variety News Staff

RED CROSS ANNOUCES CLUB 200 DONORS. The American Red Cross-NMI Chapter would like to recognize Bridge Capital for its generous support of the Club 200 this year. “Bridge Capital has been a great supporter of the Red Cross over the past several years” said John Hirsh, chapter executive director. “They feel strongly about supporting the arts as well as those who are in need,” said Hirsh. Bridge staff presented a check for $5,000 to help assist the Red Cross with its humanitarian work. In the photo are Bridge Capital office manager Alan Perez, John Hirsh, Bob Coldeen Teresa Kim-Tenorio and Juan Diego Tenorio, Club 200 Committee members. Contributed photo

AS part of its 13th anniversary celebration, the Pentecostal Mission Church of Christ 4th Watch will conduct a medical mission outreach program this Sunday. Church Pastor Claire Javillonar said the occasion is also their Thanksgiving Day. The medical mission will be their last event for this year, and it will be held from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. inside their temple in San Jose next to the San Jose Hotel. The free services to be offered include blood pressure and blood sugar check, eye screening, body massage/reflex, facial cleansing and haircut.

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Javillonar said they will also offer counseling, prayers and refreshments to participants. The first 100 participants will get free health items such as toothbrush, dental floss, toothpaste, medicines, antibiotics, mouthwash and other personal hygiene products. “I encourage community members to avail themselves of these free health services,” Javillonar said. Their last medical mission was held at the Children’s Park in Sinapalo, Rota. Javillonar said their first offisland medical mission was conducted to coincide with the church’s spiritual summer camp last June.

There were 65 people from Rota that received free assistance during the medical mission, she added. Their major sponsors for the Rota mission were the Pentecostal Mission Church of Christ 4th Watch on Guam and the Joeten group of companies.

Precinct 2... Continued from page 10 Demapan said he has “no personal animosity against the late former speaker who happened to be the husband of the oldest daughter of my oldest sister.” He added, “I admire the late former Speaker Vicente Masga Sablan. We were in good terms up to the final days of his life.” He said it was him, then-Rep. Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan and Speaker Sablan who named the area Susupe Beach Park. For his part, Felipe Atalig, who spoke as a concerned citizen, said H.L.B. 17-78 should have been a resolution commending the former speaker for his services to the CNMI. He said he loved, respected and admired the former speaker, adding that his testimony against the local bill should not be misconstrued. “Let us not put him by the beach — that’s for fishermen. He was not a fisherman. He deserved to be at the leadership courtyard and that’s where he belongs,” he said. In an interview, former Speaker Babauta said the bill’s author felt, after talking with the former speaker’s family and constituents, that there was a need to honor him in the community he once served. He said inclusion in the leadership courtyard is a different matter. Babauta said he was surprised that who testified against the measure also mentioned their admiration for the former speaker and his achievements. “They say one thing and do another,” he added. One of those who attended the hearing said that former Speaker Sablan was charged in federal court for taking endangered birds in Obyan and Dandan. But Babauta said it was the former speaker’s son, Frank Sablan, who was involved in that case. The committee, according to its chairman Palacios, will continue to accept written testimony until Sept. 7. Former Speaker Sablan served the government for over 20 years starting with the Department of Finance from 1970 to 1972; the Saipan Credit Union from 1972 to 1976; the Peace Corps office from 1976 to 1980; and in different capacities prior to becoming a member of the Legislature. “He was a valued member of the commonwealth community who offered his wisdom to aspiring leaders prior to his passing on Dec. 25, 2009,” H.L.B. 17-78 stated. 8/31/12 12:47:51 AM

MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS - FRIDAY - AUGUST 31, 2012

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Philippines / Asia

8/31/12 12:47:51 AM

Local / Pacific Islands

PUBLIC NOTICE Puerto Rico Dump Closure – Phase I, Consensus Building

The Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands through the Capitol Improvement Project Office (CIP) is currently considering several ideas and design concepts for the closure of the Puerto Rico Dump (PRD), the subsequent use and development of the site and adjacent area in accordance with regulatory requirements. A preliminary report evaluating these concepts has been prepared. The report and plans were developed in close coordination with interested stakeholders, and local and federal regulatory agencies. The PRD closure concepts range in scope, public benefit, aesthetic value, and cost. The concepts are briefly described as follows: 1. Minor modifications to the existing site to minimize closure costs, and environmental impacts. 2. Incinerating waste on-site. 3. Removal of the waste (Clean closing) to the Marpi Depression Solid Waste Facility. 4. Reducing the height of the dump site by moving a portion of the waste to Marpi, capping and closing the dump site, and enhancing the property to serve as a park area that would provide pedestrian walkways, and recreation areas. 5. Further enhancing the site by providing waterfront / marine facilities. The CIP Office would like to provide the interested public an opportunity to review the preliminary report and proposed closure plans in detail, and to provide their written comments to the CIP Office Administrator, Ms. Vickie Villagomez. The report and concept plans are available for review at the CIP Office in Capitol Hill during normal working hours beginning on August 27th and will remain available for comment through September 14th, 2012. After September 14, written comments received will be taken into consideration in selecting the final closure program.

Commonwealth Utilities Corporation

Job Vacancy Announcement Job Vacancy No. 12-031

Opening Date: Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Closing Date: Until Filled

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Duties: The Commonwealth Utilities Corporation (CUC) is a government utility providing power, water, and wastewater services in the Northern Mariana Islands, a U.S. commonwealth that is about a three (3) hour flight south of Tokyo and about a half hour flight north of the U.S. territory of Guam. Under the direct supervision of the Governor of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) OR his/her designee, the incumbent’s duties and responsibilities are to: Supervise staff (including prioritizing and assigning work; conducting performance evaluations; ensuring staff are trained; and, making hiring, termination, and disciplinary decisions). Assumes full management responsibility of all CUC’s divisions and services. Monitors and evaluates efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery methods and processes; assesses and monitors service delivery levels; identifies opportunities, weaknesses and strengths of divisions; directs the implementation of changes. Plans, directs and coordinates work of divisions through the upper management team by meeting with management to identify, prioritize and resolve problems. Manages the development and implementation of goals, objectives, missions, policies, priorities and allocations of resources. Participates on a variety of board and committees and attends a wide variety of management meetings. Performs short and long-range strategic planning. Performs other duties of a similar nature or level. Minimum Requirements: Required Training and Experience: • Master’s degree in management, engineering, finance, or public administration, OR, in the alternative, a bachelor’s degree in engineering and registration as a Professional Engineer pursuant to the National Council of Engineering Examiners standards in the civil, mechanical, or electrical branch. • Senior management experience of at least ten (10) years in a similar wastewater, drinking water, and/or power utility (preferably combined utility), with similar or greater capital and operating budgets, capital improvement projects, human resource needs, utility financing issues, operation and maintenance training and implementation needs. • Proven management and communication skills; demonstrated ability to lead, motivate, and develop staff; experience with managing major drinking water and wastewater systems during periods of planning, design, and construction; and experience with drinking water and wastewater systems; user fee system development; bond funding; staff training and development; and federal drinking water and wastewater requirements. Desired Knowledge and Skill: • Leadership principles; supervisory principles; strategic planning principles; budgetary principles; CUC operations and systems; project management principles; applicable laws, rules and regulations. • Monitoring and evaluating staff; prioritizing and assigning work to staff; preparing and administering budgets; balancing competing and varying resources and needs; developing and administering strategic plans; managing large, complex projects; giving presentations; preparing technical reports; using computers and related software applications; communication, interpersonal skills as applied to interaction with coworkers, supervisor, the general public, etc. sufficient to exchange or convey information and to receive work direction. SUBJECT TO PRE-EMPLOYMENT DRUG SCREENING Location: Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands, USA. Salary: $125,000.00 to $160,000.00 per annum. (If hired from outside the NMI, relocation costs are negotiable. However: (1) not to exceed $15,000.00 for moving to the NMI and at least one year of employment must be served. Otherwise, employee may be required to refund employer the accommodation. And (2) not to exceed $5,000.00 for moving away from the NMI, and the employee must work to the contract’s expiration date. Otherwise, employee may not be provided the accommodation.) Position: One (1). Contract: Two-year; subject to renewal. Drop off your CUC Employment Application at the CUC Human Resource Office located on the 3rd Floor of the Joeten Dandan Building on Saipan. Otherwise, you may drop it off at the Tinian and Rota Administration Office. CUC is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer MV 8-31-12.indd 14

FRIDAY - AUGUST 31, 2012 - MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS

FSM seeks Philippine expertise to develop rice industry MANILA (GMA News) — The Federated States of Micronesia is seeking technological assistance from the Philippine government to learn how to develop its own rice industry. “Micronesia, particularly in Pohnpei, has so many natural resources. We need to maximize these resources for consumption, and to start reducing importation such as rice from other countries,” said FSM Sen. Shelten Neth in a statement released

by the Philippine Rice Research Institute. In a recent tour of the Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija province north of Manila, and PhilRice headquarters, Neth said his country wants to explore a possible “country to country” collaboration on rice production. A net importer of food products, FSM imports rice and other food from Australia, the United States, Japan, among other countries.

While in Nueva Ecija, Neth also visited a premier rice milling plant in San Jose City. PhilRice is an agency of the agriculture department, dedicated to developing high-yielding and cost-reducing technologies for farmers. It has reported recently that the new commercialized hybrid rice varieties it developed in coordination with the University of the Philippines-Los Baños withstood infestations of the rice-attacking tungro virus in several tests.

Red Cross urges everyone to plan for emergencies (American Red Cross-NMI Chapter) — September is National Preparedness Month and the American Red Cross- NMI Chapter is encouraging all households to create a family disaster plan to make sure they are ready for the next emergency or disaster. Plans should include designating a meeting place right outside the home in case of a sudden emergency like a fire, an out-of-area emergency contact person and a location where everyone should meet if they can’t go home. All members of the household should work together on the emergency plan and each person should know how to reach other family members. “Disasters can strike at any time and being prepared is a family’s best defense,” said J.D. Tenorio, emergency services director of the NMI chapter. “Making a plan is an important step in making sure all

household members know what to do in an emergency.”During the month of September, the local chapter will be coordinating disaster training classes as well as various outreach activities on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota. The Red Cross together with various government agencies will also be conducting school presentations to teach students how to prepare for disasters. Other ways to get ready The Red Cross has several programs to help people, businesses, schools and communities be better prepared. • Be Red Cross Ready is an online tutorial that teaches people to be ready for emergencies. • Red Cross Ready Rating is a free, web-based membership program that measures how ready

businesses, organizations and schools are to deal with emergencies and helps them improve their readiness level. • The Ready When the Time Comes program trains employees from businesses so they can be used as a community-based volunteer force when disaster strikes. • Red Cross First Aid and CPR/AED training courses provide participants with the knowledge and skills to respond to emergencies in case advanced medical help is delayed. • People can visit redcross.org for information on what to do before, during and after emergencies and disasters. For more information on the American Red Cross or to become a volunteer, contact the local chapter at 234-3459

JOB VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT OPEN DATE: CLOSE DATE:

August 27, 2012 September 6, 2012

SALARY:

POSITION: Guest Relations Officer Minimum Wage/Negotiable

Qualifications: High school graduate or equivalent. Proficiency in Japanese Language highly preferred. Minimum two (2) years in hotel front desk or concierge services strongly preferred. Must have excellent people skills, willingness to provide service, friendly attitude and ready smile. OPEN DATE: August 27, 2012 POSITION: Front Desk Clerk CLOSE DATE: September 6, 2012 SALARY: Minimum Wage Qualifications: High school graduate or equivalent. Minimum two (2) years in hotel front desk and / or concierge position strongly preferred. Applicants must have excellent people skills, willingness to provide service, friendly attitude and ready to smile. OPEN DATE: August 27, 2012 POSITION: Server CLOSE DATE: September 6, 2012 SALARY: Minimum Wage Qualifications: High school graduate or equivalent. Minimum two (2) years experience in food service preferred. Must have excellent people skills, willingness to provide service, and friendly attitude. Position may require employee to receive food handler related health examinations and clearances as condition to their continued employment. OPEN DATE: August 27, 2012 POSITION: Lifeguard CLOSE DATE: September 6, 2012 SALARY: Minimum Wage Qualifications: High school graduate or equivalent. Obtaining a lifeguard certification may be required for continued employment. Must have friendly and outgoing personality. OPEN DATE: August 27, 2012 POSITION: Housekeeping Attendant CLOSE DATE: September 6, 2012 SALARY: Minimum Wage Qualifications: High school graduate or equivalent. Minimum two (2) years in housekeeping or commercial cleaning preferred. Must have a friendly and outgoing personality. OPEN DATE: August 27, 2012 POSITION: Laundry Attendant CLOSE DATE: September 6, 2012 SALARY: Minimum Wage Qualifications: High school graduate or equivalent. Minimum two (2) years in housekeeping or laundry services preferred. Must have a friendly and outgoing personality. OPEN DATE: August 27, 2012 POSITION: Cook (Chinese/Western/Korean) CLOSE DATE: September 6, 2012 SALARY: Minimum Wage/Negotiable Qualifications: High school graduate or equivalent. Minimum two (2) year experience in culinary experience. Applicants with formal training / education in culinary arts strongly preferred. Position may require employee to receive food handler related health examinations and clearances as condition to their continued employment. OPEN DATE: August 27, 2012 POSITION: Maintenance Repairer/Electrician CLOSE DATE: September 6, 2012 SALARY: Minimum Wage/Negotiable Qualifications: High school graduate or equivalent. Formal electrician education or training highly preferred. Must have friendly and outgoing personality. For more information, please contact Human Resources Office at (670) 234-5900 ext. 576/266. Employment application forms are available at the Saipan World Resort, Security Office, located next to the Wave Jungle Water Park. Applicants must submit the completed form and all the necessary requirements to the Security Office. Incomplete application will not be received by the Security Office. 8/31/12 12:47:54 AM

Forum

MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS - FRIDAY - AUGUST 31, 2012

OPINION

â&#x153;&#x2018; Letters to the editor

E-mail your letters to editor@mvariety.com. Letters must carry the full name of the writer, with a telephone number for verification. Letters addressed to other publications or to third parties and those endorsing particular political candidates are discouraged. All letters are subject to editing. The Variety reserves the right to reject any letters. Name withheld and unsigned letters will not be printed.

The surge... Continued from page 14

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Local

FRIDAY - AUGUST 31, 2012 - MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS

Roe, Doe: Fund EO bad for NMI By Alexie Villegas Zotomayor avz@mvariety.com Variety News Staff

Retirement Fund legal counsel Braddock J. Huesman reports to the then-board members on the ongoing federal litigation during a meeting in March. Photo by Alexie Villegas Zotomayor

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THE public interest will be devastated if the governor’s executive order is allowed to take effect. So stated Jane Roe and John Doe in their response to the government’s opposition to their emergency motion for temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction. The anonymous retirees, and similarly situated retirees, represented by former HawaiiAttorney General Margery S. Bronster, Robert M. Hatch, Bruce L. Jorgensen and Stephen Woodruff, said the CNMI Office of the Attorney General’s claim that the governor’s “police power” is unbounded by any constitutional or judicial constraints is an affront to the fundamental public interest. “The governor’s claim that he can impose Executive Order 2012-06 without regard to the Commonwealth Constitution must be stopped by this court,” they added. If this claim were valid, then “there will be no limits on his power and the very foundations of a society based on the rule of law will be threatened.” They find it incorrect for the AG’s office to assert that the governor has police power to overrule the CNMI Constitution. Bruce The plaintiffs Jorgensen said the governor could not show an “emergency” as defined by law and could not completely nullify an existing statutory scheme or violate the CNMI Constitution under the guise of reorganization. Moreover, the governor could not show there’s an emergency or a disaster as defined by the CNMI Constitution. They said the governor, under CNMI Constitution Article III Section 10, can only declare a state of emergency in the case of invasion, civil disturbance, natural disaster, or other calamity as provided by law. “The governor simply does not have ‘emergency’ powers when there is no emergency powers beyond ‘mobilizing available resources to respond to that emergency,’ ” said the plaintiffs. They said the defendants failed to show that the Fund’s financial difficulty is an “emergency” as defined by law or the executive order is the “mobilization of available resources to respond to that emergency.” They said the governor and the Legislature’s “chronic failure” to pay the Fund as required by law is not an emergency as defined by law. Continued on page 17 8/31/12 12:47:55 AM

Local / Pacific Islands

MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS - FRIDAY - AUGUST 31, 2012

US group awards additional FSM scholarships COLUMBIA, S.C. (Habele) —Thanks to a pair of generous last-minute donations, Habele has awarded two additional K12 scholarships for the 2012-13 school year. The announcement brings the scholarships total to 25, with winners attending independent schools

in three of the FSM’s four states. “We’ve let the families know and we’re always happy to convey that good news,” explained Neil Mellen, a Habele director. “Every year we face the same challenge of soliciting donations from private individuals in the U.S. to support our programs. The need and interest

in Micronesia always outpaces our ability to raise money, but we do our best.” Habele was founded in 2006 by a group of former Peace Corps volunteers. They’ve been supporting lowincome students at independent,

non-public, K-12 schools through tuition scholarships for six years. The group also supports after school programs such as high school robotics clubs and the Waa’gey canoecarving project. Last month they donated a thousand

English dictionaries to the middle schools across Yap state. “This is another small step in our journey to empower students in Yap, said Regina Raigetal, a Yapbased Habele director. “While we can’t always support every deserving student, we’ll keep doing the best we can!”

Roe...

the Fund is ridiculous,” the plaintiffs added. They maintain that the governor cannot abolish the Fund under his “reorganization powers.” The plaintiffs said these reorganization powers do not allow the governor to legislate nor to violate other constitutional provisions which, they added, his executive order intends to do. They pointed out that the Constitution does not sanction a governor’s complete abolition and overhaul of

existing statutes that are the foundation of executive branch entities. Roe and Doe said they will suffer irreparable harm. They said they have shown that where the defendants have exhibited a history of frustrating collection of money judgments or the health of a pension fund is at stake, irreparable harm exists. The plaintiffs said they want to enjoin the governor’s illegal attempt at seizing the Fund and failure to pay

on the judgment which shows that irreparable harm will still occur even if damage to the class will be reduced to a check as the defendants claim. The plaintiffs said the government does not have to pay the over $300 million it owes the Fund to save it from collapse. Moreover, the defendants’ claim they have no obligation to pay the judgment is wrong and simply illustrates that the government does not have any intention of honoring its obligations, which again shows that imminent harm is present, the plaintiffs said.

Their amended complaint, they added, allege violations of the U.S. Constitution. They reiterated that the government has admitted that it has no intention of paying any judgment and believes the Superior Court has no power to enforce any judgment. The plaintiffs said if the federal court allows the EO to stand, the governor will have the power to immediately end the local court action and dispose of the Fund’s assets however he pleases which will irreparably harm the plaintiffs and the class.

Continued from page 16 The plaintiffs said the pension fund’s financial crisis is not a catastrophe that requires federal emergency assistance to supplement local efforts to save lives and property. Not only did the defendants fail to show an “emergency,” they also failed to show a “disaster,” the plaintiffs said. Disaster, they added, is an “occurrence or imminent threat of a widespread or severe damage, injury or loss of life or property resulting from any natural or man-made cause….” The plaintiffs said the defendants anticipate a “loss of life” when the Fund runs out money in two years as it may not be able to provide health insurance to beneficiaries. The plaintiffs said they deplore such possibility and they would like to prevent it from happening by seeking relief in federal court. But the projected demise of the Fund in two years, the plaintiffs said, is not a disaster as defined by law “because it is neither an ‘occurrence’ not is it ‘imminent.’ ” They said the executive order that lasts only for 30 days “clearly does not apply to prevent potential injuries that are two years in the future.” In citing the case of Rep. Stanley M. Torres and his staffer Jack A. Angello against the Commonwealth Utilities Corp. in 2009, the defendants only weakened their case, the plaintiffs said. Torres and Angello brought action against CUC and appealed the trial court’s decision that ruled the governor did not exceed his reorganization powers. But Roe and Doe said the court in that case also condemned the emergency order as an illegal usurpation of the prerogatives of the legislative branch by the governor. “The court did not simply condone anything,” the plaintiffs said. They disagree with the defendants’ contention that only through the governor taking control of the Fund can the disaster be averted. The plaintiffs said the AGO did not back up this “outrageous claim.” “The governor himself is responsible for the Fund’s current financial shortfall because he signed the laws that irresponsibly and illegally refused to pay the CNMI’s legally mandated contributions,” said the plaintiffs referring to P.L. 15-15 which the local court later ruled as unconstitutional. The plaintiffs said the governor himself failed to timely appoint to fill three vacancies on the Fund board which, they added, is a violation of Article III Section 21 of the CNMI Constitution. “The claim that only he can save MV 8-31-12.indd 17

delta

8/31/12 12:47:56 AM

FRIDAY - AUGUST 31, 2012 - MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS

FORUM A Meeting Place For Our Opinions. . .And Yours. . .

Not ‘ashame’ BACK on island after a two-month vacation in the states, Speaker Cabrera has yet to call a House session. Obviously, he is waiting for the governor’s return. The speaker says he will also form a special committee to “review” the impeachment resolution. Again, another delaying tactic. Other members of the House leadership say their priority is the budget. They say they want to avoid a government shutdown. They are seemingly unaware that the government has shut down for all intents and purposes. One very critical public service, the hospital, is virtually non-functional. It has 600 employees, including an estimated 18 physicians and 30 nurses. Its physicians and other medical staff have disclosed, out of desperation and concern for the welfare of the general public, that they have one central intravenous line dated one year ago, no epidurals for expectant mothers, and no air-conditioning in the neo-natal unit. They said life-saving drugs and critical medical supplies are unavailable. Working conditions at CHC have become so abysmal that contracts are not getting renewed — a situation that will leave the hospital shorthanded and unable to recruit qualified physicians. In response to this health catastrophe, the administration’s hand-picked CEO hires a spokeswoman because “there is a lot of misinformation out there.” But although the bits of information disclosed so far by key medical staff have been very disconcerting, they’re also true. The people, in any case, have to make informed healthcare decisions, and the new spokeswoman is obligated to report the facts and cannot spin them to please the CEO.

Zaldy Dandan

• Variations

Stiffing the poor yet again THE administration has retained the bulk of Medicaid patients for itself, believing that it should get that money once it can pay the local share. This leaves Medicaid patients with no choice but to go to the hospital where their options are now very limited. Sure, all the federally funded programs are still open. We’re still reminded that eating too much is bad, and so is smoking. Posters are hung and T-shirts are printed. Records are kept and the routine is maintained, but there is little actual medical treatment. And if there is, it’s because of the physicians, nurses and technicians who are still working for CHC — for now. If legislators are in a hurry to pass a budget that would give the hospital its operational cost and repeal the ludicrous hospital corporation law — then yes, the budget should be the priority. But they won’t do it. It is easier to continue to do the same thing, which is why the CNMI is in its current mess. The administration and the Legislature would rather appropriate money to hire political supporters. This is how they guarantee their political survival, all the while compromising the CNMI’s own existence.

A fair settlement WITH talks of a global settlement of the Retirement Fund lawsuit in the air, one can only hope that the judges who will be assigned to it will be more realistic about the prospects of collecting what the government owes, and will finally open discussions about why reducing benefits is unavoidable. No one, incidentally, is publicly advocating that the Retirement Fund remain autonomous and intact. The senators merely proposed to impose restrictions on the administration’s handling of the funds as though that Continued on page 19

Serving the Northern Marianas for 40 years Published Monday to Friday by Younis Art Studio, Inc. Publishers : Abed and Paz Younis Editor: Zaldy Dandan P.O. Box 500231, Saipan MP 96950-0231 Tel. (670) 234-9797/9272 Fax: (670) 234-9271 E-mail: mvariety@pticom.com URL: www.mvariety.com © 2012, Marianas Variety All Rights Reserved

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Let it be over JUST one word from the lt. governor and most of the House leadership will join the minority bloc to impeach the governor. But in an interview last week, Eloy recommended “caution” instead. He said the “process will take some resources and we will spend public funds,” and then there’s “the pain the people will have to go through.” Clearly, however, removing the governor from office will be less costly to the CNMI. Public funds will be spent anyway with or without an impeachment trial. But the likelihood of another multi-million-dollar, graft-reeking, no-bid, taxpayer-funded contract will be significantly reduced. It’s a no brainer. On the one hand, a constitutional process that allows the people to hold their chief executive accountable for his actions; and on the other, an administration that has run the CNMI into the ground. Even if you do not include his broken promises and the several alarming examples of the governor’s abuse of power, his administration is still the worst in commonwealth history. Under his watch, the feds took over minimum wage and immigration which further harmed the economy. CUC was taken to court by the feds, CHC is about to collapse, the Retirement Fund is dying, and the underfunded PSS faces power disconnection and may have to hold double-session classes in the coming school year. His supporters blame the feds for the crises of the past six years, but the governor is in charge here, not the feds. It is his “solutions” to the CNMI’s pressing problems that have made things worse and created more difficulties for the islands. Instead of negotiating with the feds regarding federalization, he sued them, and lost. His solution to the worsening economy is a casino on Saipan — and unseating Senator Paul and Kilili. CUC’s financial problems are mounting so he saddles it with a $190 million obligation to a Delaware company created five days before it secured a contract from the governor. CHC, too, lacks funds so he provided it with an annual budget of…$5 million. The Retirement Fund couldn’t collect from the government so he signed a law making it “legal.”

Then he placed the pension agency under his direct control. PSS needs more funds so he further reduces its budget. These are the governor’s policy decisions. These are the choices he alone made. They’re bad for the CNMI and its people. If Eloy is worried about the “pain” involved in the impeachment process then he, as the governor-to-be, should ensure that Uncle Ben will not have a chance to inflict further harm on the people. A former CNMI government lawyer who now resides in the states claims that impeachment “would merely exacerbate the problem, forestalling economic development in a morass of legislative power-grabbing that could last decades.” What problem will get worse if the source of it is removed? What economic development will be forestalled if the primary author of its collapse is replaced? Impeachment is a “power grab”? Surely the former government lawyer who likes to cite the Constitution knows better. He says the impeachers “have not thought this through.” He says “rational outcomes to our problems cannot be attained by irrational, emotional, frustrated actions.” He says we should “focus on the many and real needs facing the CNMI.” But who acts as if he has no regard for consequences? Who has been implementing “irrational, emotional and frustrated” policy decisions? Who has been unable to focus on the CNMI problems? CHC doctors and nurses are on the verge of a mass walkout but off he goes, the governor, to attend a coral reef meeting and the RNC. Asked what the CNMI’s main problem is and he replies: Paul. He publicly threatens the Rota and Tinian senators and calls them stupid. He tells independent Republicans to drink milk and to come to Jesus. He asks DPS and Corrections to escort a federal detainee to his house so she can give him a massage. He allows his AG to leave the islands despite the charges filed against him. He declares a CUC state of emergency due to the supposed need for Continued on page 19 8/31/12 12:48:01 AM

Forum

MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS - FRIDAY - AUGUST 31, 2012

OPINION

The war on drugs: Because prohibition worked so well By John Stossel

FORTY years ago, the United States locked up fewer than 200 of every 100,000 Americans. Then President Nixon declared war on drugs. Now we lock up more of our people than any other country — more even than the authoritarian regimes in Russia and China. A war on drugs — on people, that is — is unworthy of a country that claims to be free. Unfortunately, this outrage probably won’t be discussed in Tampa or Charlotte. The media (including Fox News) run frightening stories about Mexican cocaine cartels and marijuana gangs. Few of my colleagues stop to think that this is a consequence of the war, that decriminalization would end the violence. There are no wine “cartels” or beer “gangs.” No one “smuggles” liquor. Liquor dealers are called “businesses,” not gangs, and they “ship” products instead of “smuggling” them. They settle disputes with lawyers rather than guns. Everything can be abused, but that doesn’t mean government can stop it. Government runs amok when it tries to protect us from ourselves. Drug-related crime occurs because the drugs are available only through the artificially expensive black market. Drug users steal not because drugs drive them to steal. Our government says heroin and nicotine are similarly addictive, but no one robs convenience stores to get Marlboros. (That could change with confiscatory tobacco taxes.) Are defenders of the drug war aware of the consequences? I don’t think so. John McWhorter, a senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute, indicts the drug war for “destroying black America.” McWhorter, by the way, is black. McWhorter sees prohibition as the saboteur of black families. “Enduring prison time is seen as a badge of strength. It’s regarded (with some justification) as an unjust punishment for selling people something they want. The ex-con is a hero rather than someone who went the wrong way.” He enumerates the positive results from ending prohibition. “No more gang wars over turf, no more kids shooting each other. ... Men get jobs, as they did in the old days, even in the worst ghettos, because they have to.” Would cheaper and freely available drugs bring their own catastrophe? “Our discomfort with the idea of heroin available at drugstores is similar to that of a Prohibitionist shuddering at the thought of bourbon at the corner store. We’ll get over it.” The media tell us that some drugs are so powerful that one “hit” or “snort” will hook the user forever. But the government’s own statistics disprove that. The National Institutes of Health found that 36 million Americans have tried crack. But only 12 percent have used it in the previous year, and fewer than 6 percent have used it in the previous month. If crack is so addictive, how did 88 percent of the users quit? If drugs were legal, I suppose that at first more people would try them. But most would give them up. Eventually, drug use would diminish, as it has in Portugal, which decriminalized all drugs, and the Netherlands, which allows legal marijuana. More young men would find real jobs; police could focus on real crime. When the public is this divided about an issue, it’s best left to voluntary social pressure instead of legal enforcement. That’s how most Americans decide whether to drink alcohol or go to church every week. Private voluntary social networks have their own ways of punishing bad behavior and send more nuanced messages about what’s unacceptable. Government’s one-size-fits-all rules don’t improve on that. “Once the principle is admitted that it is the duty of the government to protect the individual against his own foolishness,” economist Ludwig von Mises wrote, “why not prevent him from reading bad books and bad plays? The mischief done by bad ideologies is more pernicious... than that done by narcotic drugs.” If we adults own our own bodies, we ought to get to control what we put in them. It’s legitimate for government to protect me from reckless drivers and drunken airline pilots — but not to protect me from myself. (Townhall)

Variations... Continued from page 18 renewable energy and then signs a sole-source $190 million contract with a company no one has heard of. He fires government officials and employees who do not support him enough or his candidates. Let it BE! says the former government lawyer who no longer lives here but whose paychecks MV 8-31-12.indd 19

were once signed by the administration. We say let it be over. The governor must be stopped. He should be impeached and convicted. Former government lawyer asks, “After impeachment, then what?” Well, what else, but dancing in the streets. Send feedback to editor@mvariety.com

✑ Letters to the editor

Guam bicycling group’s birthday I BIKE is one year old. When I Bike was started as a committee of Guam’s Cycling Federation a year ago, Darryl Taggerty and I wanted to raise biking awareness on Guam by creating a biking advocacy group. A long range goal of bike lanes and bike paths were also included in our plans. After nine village rides and more than 500 riders, we learned many things: 1. Biking is a great family event. Many families enjoyed the rides. In fact, 50 to 60 percent of the riders on the community rides were families. 2. Biking is safe on Guam. The vehicle accident statistics and our own community ride experiences have shown that when simple rules are followed, biking is the safest way to travel on Guam; safer than walking and much much safer than motorized travel. The rules are simple: Wear a helmet and good shoes; Stay to the far right of the street or on the side walk; Ride single file; Obey road signs and traffic lights;

Avoid streets with over 35mph speed limits; and Avoid riding at night. 3. GovGuam has not used any federal money for bike infrastructure projects. This is puzzling. Why would a tropical island NOT want to increase the health and quality of life of its people? There are conspiracy theories out there that I won’t get into. U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood is aware of Guam’s shortcomings with regards to no money being spent on bike infrastructure projects. We shall see what transpires in the coming months. Saipan has had a beautiful bike path for 10 years right along the beach. 4. The Japanese love to bike. I visited Japan for the fourth time this summer and my wife and I coordinate a Japanese student exchange program. Talking with many Japanese people and witnessing their biking habits, I have concluded: The Japanese would utilize and enjoy more activities on Guam such as riding bikes. Millions of Japanese have already visited Guam and they would come back if they had a reason to return. Biking

could be that reason. A fresh and healthy way to see the island that is family-friendly would appeal to Japanese who have already been to Guam. Japanese are comfortable on bikes. It’s the way millions of Japanese travel. 5. A bike route is a logical first step. The central bike route includes Guam’s major shopping areas, major hotels, schools, H-2 biker commuters, and the hospital along with the many attractions. Caley Johnson, a consultant for the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, designed a beautiful map of the central bike route. He is working with GovGuam on saving Guam petrol dollars. This map is a start. Come ride the central bike route this Labor Day at 9 a.m. starting at Micronesia Mall. With the help of NREL and the Department of Transportation, maybe we can achieve bike lanes and bike paths on Guam. Happy birthday, I Bike. It was a great first year. I’m looking forward to many more. TOM RENFRO Dededo, Guam

Labor Day message LABOR Day is a day of celebration, a day to honor all our government and private employees, a day to say “Thank You” for all that you do for our government and our community. It is indeed my honor and pleasure to thank you all. Labor Day is also a day to cel-

Editorials... Continued from page 18 will work. This administration has issued emergency declarations for its six dreadful years in office, directing contracts and hiking fees to suit its gross mismanagement policies, while increasing its budget to continue hiring nonessential personnel, leaving the commonwealth to suffer the consequences.

ebrate your accomplishments and achievements, to recognize those individuals who have gone above and beyond to make an impact in the efficient operation of our government and business sectors. Labor Day is also a day to just have fun, to take a day off from our busy schedules and enjoy the

company of our co-workers and staff. I urge you to participate in the many activities today on Tinian and have fun and relax. Happy Labor Day!

the Roe/Doe pension lawsuit have expressed profound reservations about the possible appointment of a local receiver. There is ample reason for concern, considering the candidates who remain lurking in the background, hoping for a lifetime appointment to wreak further havoc in the CNMI. The receiver should be an entirely independent and outside figure with experience and credibility — not someone tied to the powers that be.

pay tax refunds on a timely basis? No. Can it pay its own utility bills? No. What about its own vendors? No. Does the CNMI expect higher tourist arrivals? No. But the lt. governor still needs a study so he can find out if the CNMI can afford a $190 million diesel power plant.

Social Security

Of course not

LAWMAKERS have passed two versions of the Social Security bill, the details and implications of which remain sketchy. Still, the sign-up to Social Security will be mandatory for government employees and that is good prospectively. It will help some but not others, and this is why allowing active members to pull out their contributions is only proper. Judge Govendo designated a certain portion of the fund to be held in reserve for this purpose. For their part, the plaintiffs in

WILL legislators include the $700,000 monthly payments to the Delaware company in the FY 2013 budget? Or is that off the books because CUC is an “independent” agency? The lt. governor, for his part, wants to see an economic study first. Can the government pay for a hospital? No. Can it pay for more doctors, nurses, medical supplies or drugs? No. Can it pay for a well-run, reliable police force? No. Can it pay its pension obligations? No. Can it

MAYOR RAY M. DELA CRUZ Municipality of Tinian and Aguigan

Unsolicited advice SENATOR Taimanao should be encouraged to pursue legislation that will consolidate Commerce and Labor especially if it means savings in personnel costs. She should also consider placing CDA under Commerce. CDA now makes few loans, serves mostly as a collection and real estate agency but has too many employees. It also hankers for dividends from CUC, a reckless proposition given the CNMI’s current financial and economic straits. The worst, sadly, is yet to come. The good people of the commonwealth would be wise to plan accordingly. 8/31/12 12:48:01 AM

Local / Guam

FRIDAY - AUGUST 31, 2012 - MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS

Mount Carmel School introduced to anti-bullying program (Mount Carmel School) — This week, Mount Carmel School students were introduced to Teen Truth Live, an innovative anti-bullying program whose films have reached over 3.5 million people and whose speaker series has personally touched almost a million lives. The presentation was facilitated by freshman class president and authorized Teen Truth Live presenter, Thomas Manglona II. High school students gathered in the school’s main hallway at 7:35 a.m. as darkness set the stage for a gripping slide show about the effects of bullying, which has driven countless teens to commit suicide nationwide. Mount Carmel students were then treated to a special video message from Teen Truth Live cofounder, JC Pohl, who called on all the students to recognize that there many things to live for and strive for. After the video message, students then engaged in a moving activity in which everyone who had ever been

By Zita Y. Taitano zita@mvguam.com Variety News Staff

bullied or teased was invited to stand. In the darkness, every single student stood up. That was followed by an invitation for anyone who had ever bullied or teased another person to sit down. Every student sat down. The impetus for introducing Teen Talk Live came from Thomas, who had launched the program successfully at his former school. Thomas

said, “I wanted to get Teen Truth off the ground on Saipan since I did it on Rota and it became really successful.” As a result, Thomas noted, “Teens [on Rota] are speaking their truth now and becoming leaders, not just at school as students but outside in the community as well.” According to the program’s website, Teen Truth Live is North America’s premier student assembly

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Guam chamber releases survey results

experience. Through a trademark combination of award-winning, student-shot films and professional motivational speakers, the program uncovers the real truth on issues such as bullying, school violence, drugs and alcohol, and body image and self esteem. Each film and presentation is written and directed by Erahm Christopher and produced by JC Pohl.

HAGÅTÑA — The Guam Chamber of Commerce has released the results of its poll that surveyed senatorial and congressional candidates on whether they support the military buildup. Chamber chairman Mark Sablan said candidates who actually signed in favor of the buildup included Guam Delegate Madeleine Bordallo, incumbent Sens. Adolpho Palacios and Dennis Rodriguez, and senatorial candidates Frank Aguon Jr., William Sarmiento, and Ben Toves. He said the chamber also received general strong support letters for the buildup from senatorial candidates Javier Atalig Jr., Tina Muna Barnes (incumbent), Roland Blas, Judi Guthertz (incumbent), and Rory Respicio (incumbent). “We also received a very detailed support letter from the Republican Party of Guam,” said Sablan, adding that a number of candidates did not Judi Guthertz respond at all. Prior to announcing the results, Sablan encouraged everyone from organizations, businesses and the general public to “make a very loud and important statement to local leaders and Congress that we are in support of the military buildup.” “As a business community, it is important that we make a statement about how much the buildup will boost our economy. We currently have 44,238 people on food stamps. We have an unemployment rate of about 12 percent. Our crime rate is high for such a small island,” Sablan said. “These statistics are not acceptable if we want to raise the standard of living for every individual on Guam. We cannot be complacent and accept these figures. We need to take a stand and act now to bring these numbers down,” he further stated. Meanwhile, results of the We are Guahan “yes” and “no” questionnaire also sent out to candidates about a week ago should be completed soon.

8/31/12 12:48:03 AM

MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS - FRIDAY - AUGUST 31, 2012

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FRIDAY - AUGUST 31, 2012 - MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS

Marianas Variety News & Views

Friday, August 31, 2012

Crumbling and abandoned Text and photos by Raquel C. Bagnol raquel.bagnol@mvariety.com Variety News Staff

THE sight of abandoned, dilapidated buildings — former garment factories, hotels, offices, stores, houses and other structures — has already become too familiar in the CNMI. If you find beauty in crumbling and abandoned places, then read on. I have always found abandoned buildings and ruins fascinating. They are also a very intriguing and interesting subjects to photograph, and time and again I find myself driving over to snap some shots and to just feel the place. The eerie feeling of stepping into the past and the fear of waking up sleeping ghosts is irresistible. Then there is the excitement of discovering objects that give you an idea of what life was in that particular building. Show me a rusty padlock on a door or gate and that will ignite my imagination. I found an old phone book in one of these abandoned places and it made wonder how many fingers “walked” through its pages and how many business or personal transactions were conducted as a result. Drive all the way to La Fiesta Mall in San Roque and you will get a good grasp of what the word “ruins” means. Each piece has its own story to tell — from the shards of broken glass doors and windows to the signs or what’s left of them outside the stalls, the empty hallways and stairways. Across the street you will see Palms Resort Hotel — padlocked and abandoned pending “developments.” Across from Palms Resort are more abandoned

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houses that have known better days. A mile or so away are the ruins of Plumeria Hotel that stand white and blue against a green backdrop of tall bushes. The once flourishing garment factories and the houses occupied by thousands of workers are now abandoned buildings — exposed to the elements and waiting for their final collapse. These ruins are scattered all over the island from Capital Hill to Lower Base to San Antonio and all the way to San Vicente. Each building carries its own history and stories about a once-flourishing island that teemed with businesses and people. Even boats and fishing vessels have been abandoned. Some consider them eyesores, but I find beauty in these rusting pieces of recent history and the way they resist the forces of nature. Rota doesn’t have abandoned garment factories but it has numerous hotels and businesses that have shut down, and they, too, have their own stories to tell. Driving around Rota and taking photos of the once beautiful villas and hotels in a paradise setting is heartbreaking: Coconut Village, Sunset Villa and Pinatang Park with its broken railings, peeling paint, cracked pavements and rusty benches. At the very far end of Songsong past the last row of houses and almost lost in the thick bushes below a small plateau, I was surprised to see a fading sign that declared: “Rota Paupau Hotel.” I had never even heard of the name before. I did not witness the CNMI as a booming island paradise, but for those who did, I suggest that you take a look at these abandoned structures one of these days and ask yourself: Why?

8/31/12 12:48:05 AM

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MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS - FRIDAY - AUGUST 31, 2012

Friday, August 31, 2012

Marianas Variety News & Views

Christian Mothers present Immaculate Concepcion feast program

By Junhan B. Todeno junhan.todeno@mvariety.com Variety News Staff

DRESSED mostly in white, over 40 members of the “Christian Mothers” slowly walked down the aisle then formed a big circle. They paused for a moment of silence and sat down on the floor. One member started reciting a prayer and everyone responded in chorus. After the prayer, another member led the singing of a traditional worship hymn dedicated to Mary Immaculate Concepcion. MV 8-31-12.indd 23

The almost hour-long ritual was the third of the four major gatherings each year of the Chuukese community on Saipan. Over a hundred members of the Catholic Chuukese Association, including some of their friends, celebrated the feast of the Immaculate Concepcion at the Garapan Central Park on Sunday. Neftis Sablan, president of the Christian Mothers, who sponsored the event, said they attended a Mass at Kristo Rai Church on Aug. 15, the actual date of the Immaculate Concepcion feast.

However, they decided to celebrate the feast at the park to coincide with their third annual gathering. John Kasiano, president of the Chuukese Association on Saipan, said this year’s theme was “One faith, one love, one salvation,” which he described as “very appropriate.” He said August is very significant to the people of Chuuk because it is dedicated to Mother Mary. Each year, the Chuukese Community on Saipan also celebrates the Diocese of Carolines anni-

versary, which is also observed by the Catholic faithfuls in Yap, Pohnpei and Palau. The gathering last Sunday at the park was highlighted by traditional songs, dance numbers and a skit — all dedicated to the Blessed Mother. The performer came from the five major regions of Chuuk: the Southern Nomoneas group members wore red shirts; Faichuk, blue; Moen, yellow; Namonuito Atoll (Maug Islands) northwest group, green; and Mortlock Islands, black. Romeo Semion said all the

presentations highlighted the event’s theme. “The gathering brought us together and strengthened our bonds,” he added. Henry Smith enjoyed singing with the Christian Mothers. “It’s nice to see each other in this kind of gathering as we prayed together and shared the Good News,” he added. The other officers of the Christian Mothers are Marci Pisalem, vice president; Antolina Narbaez, secretary; Karumy Phiylim, treasurer; and Romino Semion, adviser. 8/31/12 12:48:08 AM

Local

NMHC confirms in writing 2-year funding commitment to school project By Alexie Villegas Zotomayor avz@mvariety.com Variety News Staff

THE Northern Marianas Housing Corp. has provided the Public School System an official correspondence indicating the NMHC board’s decision to set aside two years of federal funding for the school project. Newly appointed NMHC corporate director Jesse Palacios said, “We provided PSS a letter that we are going to commit the two program years’ CDBG funding.” Palacios said PSS requested that the housing agency “memorialize” its approval. He said PSS wanted to get the commitment prior to getting price quotations. In previous meetings, the NMHC board committed Community Development Block Grant funds worth $659,490 for program year 2011 and $793,489 for program year 2012. Initially, NMHC was given an estimate that the construction of the school would cost around $8 million. T h i s prompted the Jesse Palacios housing agency to look into whether the CNMI could apply for a Section 108 loan which would commit five years of CDBG funds to the project. In a recent report by NMHC planner and grant writer Jeannie P. Mafnas to the board, she said that if PSS would go for a two-story classroom with toilets, construction of the usable facility would cost $975,000, excluding the $500,000 they expect to spend for parking. Variety asked Palacios if Gov. Benigno R. Fitial has exercised the government’s power of eminent domain to convey to PSS the three lots in Koblerville bought by NMHC for the school project. Palacios said Assistant Attorney General James Stump is still reviewing it. Variety earlier reported that time was ticking for the agency to put to eligible use the property it bought using federal funds. Otherwise it has to pay back the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development the close to $1.2 million in CDBG funds it used to acquire the property. NMHC has five years from the acquisition of the property in 2011 to put it to eligible use that meets the CDBG national objective. MV 8-31-12.indd 24

FRIDAY - AUGUST 31, 2012 - MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS

September is Childhood Cancer & Childhood Obesity Awareness Month By Raquel C. Bagnol raquel.bagnol@mvariety.com Variety News Staff

THE Division of Public Health and other participating agencies will lead the CNMI-wide promotion of September as National Childhood Cancer & Childhood Obesity Awareness Month. This morning, acting Gov. Eloy S. Inos is scheduled to sign a proclamation in the governor’s conference room at the administration building on Capital Hill to encourage organizations, localities, schools,

nonprofit organizations, businesses and the people of the CNMI to observe the month with appropriate programs and activities which promote healthy eating, physical activity while raising awareness about childhood cancer and obesity. Inos will encourage all individuals to cook healthy meals and participate in exercises with their children.

Public Health, for its part, will conduct a series of activities for the whole month of September under the “Let’s Move campaign” initiative of first lady Michelle Obama: America’s Move to Raise a Healthier Generation of Kids. The CNMI’s theme and subtheme are “Let’s Move Marianas! Yengyung With The Kankung.” The committee members of the

Let’s Move Marianas are inviting everyone to join the Let’s Move Marinas Expo which will be held at the Ada Gym track and field on the morning of Sept. 29. The event will feature over 2,000 children, parents and teachers who will dance to the beat of the localized version of the “Let’s Move” dance steps. Businesses and organizations interested to learn the dance steps and join the Let’s Move Marianas Expo can email letsmovemarianas@ gmail.com for more information.

MPLT investment consultant Daniel Roland reports to the trustees and officials during Friday’s board meeting on Capital Hill. Photo by Alexie Villegas Zotomayor

MPLT investments up in July By Alexie Villegas Zotomayor avz@mvariety.com Variety News Staff

THE investments of the Marianas Public Land Trust have performed better in July with 1.4 percent returns for the two trust funds. MPLT board consultant Bruce MacMillan told Variety, “July had a good return of 1.4 percent. For fiscal year to date, we got 8.97 percent overall.” MPLT handles two trust funds: the general fund and the American Memorial Park fund. Both trust funds, MacMillan said, had an identical 1.40 percent rate of investment returns as of July. For the general fund, it beat the benchmarks for the fiscal quarter 1.4 percent versus 1.32 and 0.63 percent. Its ending market value as of July 31 was $66.318 million. MacMillan explained that the uptick in the investments was due

to the equity market’s rally. “Dow has been hitting new highs recently,” he said, referring to the Dow Jones Industrial Average, an important index that indicates how well the overall stock market is performing. Back in July, MacMillan said the Dow breached the 13,000 mark. “The market at the end of July was high,” he added. MacMillan said the allocation was stable for the month. Based on the report, MPLT’s general fund allocation by asset and manager was core fixed income (Richmond), 39.2 percent; convertibles (Mackay Shields), 9.6 percent; emerging markets (Lazard), 3.1 percent; emerging markets (Newgate), 2.4 percent; large cap core (MetWest), 10.1 percent; global fixed income (Templeton), 12.2 percent; high yield fixed income (SEIX), 8.4 percent; CNMI advance, 6 per-

cent; CHC loan, 4.6 percent; and NMHC loan, 5.4 percent. The money managers for the trust funds, he said, had a good showing. He cited the equity manager’s 11.21 percent return for fiscal year to date. Emerging markets manager Lazard was above the benchmark at 2.7 percent. He said the high yield, fixed income manager posted a 2.17 percent investment returns for the same period. “Everything’s up for the month,” he said. In general, MacMillan said both equities and fixed income had a strong showing in July. In his report to the board, investment consultant and Morgan Stanley Smith Barney senior vice president Daniel Roland said that for the American Memorial Park trust fund, “returns for the month are exactly the same as

the general fund.” But for fiscal year to date, returns were higher. “We had higher equity exposure,” he explained. For both funds, Roland told the MPLT trustees last Friday, “Your fund is doing very well.” He said the MPLT investments were better positioned when the trustees adopted a more fixed income strategy. “You had a lot of value in bonds,” he said. Bonds are performing better than stocks, Variety learned. For the American Memorial Park fund, fiscal year to date investment returns were 10.96 percent and with an ending market value of $8.336 million as of July 31. Combining both trust funds’ ending market value for July, the MPLT’s invested assets totaled $74.65 million. 8/31/12 12:48:10 AM

Local

MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS - FRIDAY - AUGUST 31, 2012

$220K marine sanctuaries public outreach project moving along By Alexie Villegas Zotomayor avz@mvariety.com Variety News Staff

ANOTHER Northern Marianas project with U.S. congressional earmarked funding in 2010 is making progress. Under the Consolidated Appropriations Act for fiscal year 2010, the CNMI, through the efforts of U.S. Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan, secured funding for various projects in the amount of $1.35 million, $220,000 of which would go to marine sanctuaries public outreach project. Sablan said the Department of Land and Natural Resources’ marine sanctuaries scoping and public outreach project is gaining momentum. “DLNR is moving right ahead with the use of this congressionally directed appropriation,” Sablan said. DLNR recently provided a report to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration detailing the project’s progress. “This report details what the money is being used for and how much has been spent as of August

U.S. Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan poses with Saipan Southern High School student Hope R. Gomez who was selected by Junior Statesmen of America to represent the CNMI at the 2012 Presidential Election Symposium. Contributed photo

24. All of the funds have been obligated, according to NOAA, so they are not at risk of being lost this September,” Sablan said. Based on the DLNR progress report, there are four components: coral bleaching resiliency response, printing of A-Z coral reef activity

Inos signs Social Security bill By Emmanuel T. Erediano emmanuel.erediano@mvariety.com Variety News Staff

ACTING Gov. Eloy S. Inos yesterday signed into law one of the House bills that will allow NMI Retirement Fund members to join U.S. Social Security. Authored by Vice Speaker Felicidad T. Ogumoro, Covenant-Saipan, Reps. Ramon S. Basa, CovenantSaipan, and Sylvestre I. Iguel, Covenant-Saipan, House Bill, 17-312 is now Public Law 17-79. It “expresses the desire” of the CNMI to move its government employees to the federal retirement program. In an interview before he signed the measure at 4:45 p.m., Inos told reporters that the CNMI government must transmit a copy of the law to the U.S. Social Security Administration. He said he is happy to see prog-

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ress that will pave the way for the transfer of the Fund’s defined benefit plan members to the federal pension program. “Pretty much, we’re now in the final stage,” he said, but noted that H.B. 17-315 which the Senate passed with an amendment last Wednesday, “is still in the works.” H.B. 17-315 moves active members to U.S. Social Security and allows them to withdraw their contributions from the Fund, but gives them the option to stay with defined benefit plan. The Senate amendment offered by Sen. Ralph DLG Torres, R-Saipan, allows defined benefit members to roll over their money to the defined contribution plan while obliging the government to also remit its contributions. The bill now returns to the House.

book, marine protected area workshops, and engineering assessment of the old lighthouse facility on Navy Hill. The Division of Environmental Quality submitted reports directly to NOAA relating to the coral bleaching resiliency response.

$5,500 was appropriated for the contract; $2,500, boat rental; $750, supplies; and $1,250, outreach. As for printing of the activity book, DLNR reported that it was transferred to the Coastal Resources Management Office and the project had been completed for a total cost of $3,000, of which $500 was paid to the artist. For the $15,000 marine protected area workshop, DLNR Secretary Arnold I. Palacios wrote on Aug. 7 to Office of the National Marine Sanctuaries regional director Allen Tom to request that the workshop be rescheduled from 2012 to Jan. 2013 to give DLNR more time to look for presenters and venue for the workshop which is expected to draw the participation of over 100 stakeholders. So far, the project still has $12,723 to spend. As for the fourth project, the engineering assessment of the lighthouse on Navy Hill, DLNR reported that the contract was awarded to Herman B. Cabrera & Associates in June 2012. The firm had complied with 30 percent submittals by July 25 and

payments are now being routed. Based on the Gantt chart for the project “Historic & Building Condition Assessment for the Proposed Construction of the Marianas Trench Marine National Monument Visitors Center,” the engineering firm is set to finish the project by the first week of Oct. 2012. Of the $191,780 appropriated for the project, $152,643 has yet to be spent. DLNR special assistant Marianne Teregeyo prepared the report that was approved by Secretary Palacios for submission on Aug. 24. Congressman Sablan spearheaded the efforts in 2009 to have $1.35 million appropriated for various Northern Marianas projects — the first time that congressionally requested earmarks were made available to the CNMI. “That was the first — and last — year since I’ve been in Congress when I could get these special grants appropriated for the Northern Marianas,” he said. Unfortunately, Sablan said the U.S. Republicans ended earmarking when they took over the U.S. House.

Senate to propose merger of Commerce, Labor departments By Emmanuel T. Erediano emmanuel.erediano@mvariety.com Variety News Staff

THE Senate may soon introduce a bill that will merge the Commerce and Labor departments. The Senate tried to include this provision in the House Bill 17313, or the $114 million, fiscal year 2013 budget bill, but due to some technical and legal issues that may arise later, it was removed from the Senate version of the budget during the emergency session yesterday. In an interview last night, Sen. Juan M. Ayuyu, Ind.-Rota, said that although the provision can be included in the appropriation measure, the merger has to be permanent so they have to do it through a stand-alone bill. He said the Senate wants to merge Commerce and Labor because it is mindful of the government’s limited budget. Ayuyu said a merger will mean savings because there will be one department secretary, instead of two, and two resident directors on Tinian and Rota instead of four. Commerce and Labor used to be one department but they were split into two while the then-Division of Immigration was merged with Labor during the administration of then-Gov. Froilan C. Tenorio in the mid-1990s.

Senate Floor Leader Pete P. Reyes and Sen. Ralph DLG Torres confer during the session on Wednesday. Also shown are Sens. Juan M. Ayuyu, left, and Sen. Frank Q. Cruz, right. Photo by Emmanuel T. Erediano

The salary of a department secretary is now over $50,000 while a resident director gets $36,000. Ayuyu said merging the two departments may also eliminate other positions that may no longer be needed. In a separate interview, acting Gov. Eloy S. Inos said the Legislature and the administration have a month to enact a new budget law. If they fail to do so by Sept. 30, there will be a government shutdown except

for essential services. Speaker Eli D. Cabrera, RSaipan, House Floor Leader George N. Camacho, Ind.-Saipan, and House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Ramon S. Basa, Covenant-Saipan, separately said they will reject the Senate version of the budget bill and create a bicameral conference committee to draft a version acceptable to both houses. Inos said he hopes the conference committee will expedite its work. 8/31/12 12:48:11 AM

Local

FRIDAY - AUGUST 31, 2012 - MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS

Carmelita Guiao guilty of Corrections after the trial yesterday afternoon. Assistant Public Defender LOCAL jurors yesterday af- Matthew Meyer told reporters, ternoon convicted a woman “The jury spoke. We respect of assault with a dangerous it.” weapon for running over his Assistant Public Defender former partner using her car Daniel Guidotti also served as on March 11, 2012. Guiao’s counsel. For his part, Superior Court The case was prosecuted by Judge Perry B. Inos, who pre- Assistant Attorneys General sided over the four-day jury James McAllister, Shelli Neal, trial, handed down a guilty and Margo Brown. verdict on all the remaining McAllister told reporters misdemeanor offenses: hit that Guiao is facing over 20 and run, reckless drivyears’ imprisonment ing, pedestrian’s right for the two criminal of way on sidewalk, convictions. operators to exercise In the March incidue care, disturbing dent, the prosecution the peace, and criminal said while on pretrial contempt. release for the fryInos earlier rendered ing pan assault case, a judgment of acquittal Guiao chased Saimon, Carmelita Guiao on the charges of athitting him with her tempted second degree car, running him over and fleemurder, and aggravated assault ing the scene of the accident. and battery of John Saimon, Saimon sustained a fractured the victim. rib, lacerations to the left ankle Last Aug. 1, a six-member and heel, and multiple abralocal jury convicted Carmel- sions and contusions on his ita Guiao, 35, of assaulting torso and lower extremities, her common-law husband, police said. Saimon, with a hot frying pan Prior to the incident, police on New Year’s Eve. said Saimon accused Guiao Inos found Guiao guilty of of having an affair with a assault, criminal mischief and man with whom the couple disturbing the peace of her drank beer the night before partner. She was acquitted of the incident. three counts of disturbing the An argument ensued. Guiao peace of her children. later told Saimon to get out Inos said Guiao will be sen- of her house. Saimon grabbed tenced on Sept. 128, 2012 for his clothes and left their resithe two criminal convictions. dence, but Guiao followed Guiao was remanded to the him and hit him with her car, custody of the Department police said. By Andrew O. De Guzman andrew.deguzman@mvariety.com Variety News Staff

Northern Marianas Trades Institute officials led by president Tony Pellegrino, third right, second row, pose with the participants of the medical billing short-term course. Contributed photo

10 complete medical billing course By Junhan B. Todeno junhan.todeno@mvariety.com Variety News Staff

TEN participants in the medical billing short-term course recently passed the test for national certification of the National Healthcare Association. The course is one of the eight short-term training programs that the Northern Marianas Trades Institute offer to unemployed U.S. eligible workers. “It is rewarding to see that we can help the course participants make a positive impact on their lives,” NMTI president Tony Pellegrino said. He said the skills acquired by these participants will go a long way to helping the Commonwealth

Healthcare Corp. or any other place of employment that need such personnel. “I want to thank the U.S. Department of the Interior, Office of Insular Affairs and our local Department of Commerce, without which these training sessions will not be made possible,” Pellegrino said. In Nov. 2011 NMTI applied to be a sub-grantee for a federal grant provided by Interior through Commerce. NMTI wanted to use the funds to provide short-term skill specific training to unemployed U.S. eligible workers After NMTI received official notification of award on Dec, 12, 2011, it immediately began working to offer short courses that included barbering, agriculture,

sales and marketing, entrepreneurship, life guard, culinary arts and hotel/hospitality. Pellegrino said NMTI recognizes that providing the necessary skills is only “half the battle.” “These courses will only make a difference in the lives of these course participants if they are able to utilize these newly attained skills to secure employment,” he added. He said NMTI contracted a staffing firm to provide placement assistance to course participants. The medical billing course classes were conducted from April 16 to June 15, 2012. . For more information about NMTI and the courses it offers, call 235-6684.

US court allows pretrial release of ex-Corrections officer in ‘ice’ case

By Andrew O. De Guzman andrew.deguzman@mvariety.com Variety News Staff

U.S. District Court for the NMI Chief Judge Ramona V. Manglona has allowed the release of former Department of Corrections Officer Jesse Reyes Babauta, 35, pending the trial for his “ice” and possession of firearm charges. Manglona allowed Babauta to post a $100,000 appearance bond to be secured by a real property mortgage. Babauta will be restricted to his residence at all times with some exceptions approved in advance by the U.S. Probation Office. Babauta is also placed on local monitoring by the probation office. The defendant was ordered to return to federal court for his arraignment today. After the defendant’s detention hearing on Wednesday afternoon, Manglona remanded Babauta to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service until he had posted bond and/or complied with all other conditions for release. Court-appointed defense attorney Michael Dotts represents Babauta while Assistant U.S. MV 8-31-12.indd 26

Attorney Ross Naughton is the prosecutor. Judge Manglona heard oral arguments during Babauta’s detention hearing on Wednesday. A grand jury has indicted Babauta on charges of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine (one count); distribution of methamphetamine (four counts); distribution of methamphetamine in or near school (one count) using, carrying, or possessing of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence or drug trafficking crime (one count); and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number (one count). In his declaration in support of his motion for pretrial release, Babauta told the federal court that his wife is eight months pregnant and is expected to give birth to their first child “in a matter of weeks.” “My wife does not speak English very well and relies on me to coordinate medical care for her and our soon to be born child as I speak Mandarin. My wife has no family of her own on Saipan. I am seeking pretrial release so that I can assist my wife at this critical condition.”

During his 12 years’ in government service as Corrections officer, Babauta said, “I performed my duties in good standing and received multiple commendations for my work.” He added, “I am not addicted to drugs or alcohol and I do not have a history of any prior drug or alcohol related offenses. I am not a violent person and I do not intend to flee.” A day after his arrest on Aug. 22, 2012, Babauta was accused by Corrections of assaulting an officer while inside the local jail. As a result, Babauta, a federal

detainee, has been restricted to his prison cell from Aug. 25, 2012 to Oct. 23, 2012, or a total of 60 days. In 2011, a motorist said he broke his tooth after then-Corrections Officer Babauta punched him while he was in local jail in Jan. 2009. In May 2011, the motorist through his lawyer and the CNMI Attorney General’s Office asked the federal court to dismiss with prejudice the pending legal action against Babauta, the CNMI government, and other DPS officers In Dec. 2010, the CNMI Adult Probation Office said Babauta had

not paid his probation fee and fine for his disturbing the peace conviction in 2008. The status of this case was not immediately available. In Aug. 2010, the Superior Court dismissed without prejudice the criminal charges against Babauta filed by his wife after the AGO moved to drop the case as the victim could not be found. It could not be determined if the woman in the 2010 case is the same woman who is now Babauta’s current pregnant wife. The AGO said Babauta slapped the victim in the presence of a child and threatened to kill her on Aug. 1, 2009. In 2008, a jury acquitted Babauta of the charges of assault with a dangerous weapon and assault and battery. But the trial judge sentenced Babauta to six months for disturbing the peace, all suspended except for 30 days to be served under house arrest. According to the AGO, Babauta assaulted a taxi operator with a .223 rifle at his house in As Teo on June 9, 2007. The taxi operator dropped Babauta’s former girlfriend at his house prior to the incident, police said. 8/31/12 12:48:13 AM

Lifestyle & Entertainment

MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS - FRIDAY - AUGUST 31, 2012

JOB VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

Teach diving mostly tourist, knowledgeable in safety precaution. Must be able to speak their language to facilitate communications. Must have Diver Instructor License. 3 or more years experience.

Service, repair and replace airconditioning units in home and building. Trouble shoots and install any kinds of airconditioning and refrigeration units. Must be certified AC Technician. 3 or more years experience.

If interested, send resume and copy of police clearance to SK COMMUNITY, INC. PMB 293 Box 10001, Saipan, MP 96950 Telephone No. 789-8431

If interested, send resume and copy of police clearance to PACIFIC HOME APPLICANCES CORPORATION P.O. Box 501582, Saipan, MP 96950 Telephone No. 234-9380

WAITER/WAITRESS

Saturday, Sept. 1 • 7AM-12Noon Capitol Hill next to Capitol Hill Market (Beds, Ref, Dining Table, couch & princess house crystals)

Flexible Days/Flexible time

EMPLOYMENT Daniel Craig as James Bond in the action adventure film, “Skyfall.”

Thrills, chills, dramatic films dominate fall season LOS ANGELES (Reuters) — Fall “Taken 2” (October 5) when the brings colder weather across the kidnappers who swiped his daughNorthern Hemisphere and Holly- ter in the first “Taken” movie return wood’s major studios will usher into for revenge. theaters cool action thrillers, chilly The best-selling Alex Cross horror movies and some dramatic crime novels get a reboot with Tyler Oscar hopefuls looking for a head Perry taking the lead role previously start on awards season. inhabited by Morgan Freeman in From new James Bond flick “Alex Cross” (Oct 19). This time, “Skyfall” to another scary “Para- the detective psychologist takes on a normal” installment and the long- hitman played by Matthew Fox. awaited Paul Thomas Anderson On October 12, crime takes a Scientology drama, “The Master,” comedic edge in “Seven Psychothere is plenty for cinephiles to paths,” about a screenwriter (Colin dissect in the season, which begins Farrell) who gets involved in the after this weekend’s U.S. Labor Los Angeles underworld when his Day holiday and runs roughly to dog-snatching friend (Sam RockThanksgiving. well) makes the mistake of kidnapThe pace of movies is slower ping a Shih Tzu belonging to a crime than the U.S. summer when the boss (Woody Harrelson). studios bring out blockbusters like The season ends with a bang as “The Avengers” and “The Dark the highly anticipated “Skyfall” Knight Rises” weekly. But don’t comes out on November 9, amid let the pace fool you; fall 2012 is a celebration of 50 years of Bond neither short on quality nor quantity, movies. This time around, Daniel experts say. Craig takes his third turn as 007 “Early fall can often be with Oscar-winning filma little bit of a lull at the maker Sam Mendes at the movies, but it can also be helm of the movie and a time when real quality Javier Bardem as the vilfilms can take advantage lain, Silva. of a quiet marketplace Fall is long on horror as and really stand out,” Enthe studios play to fears tertainment Weekly writer ahead of Halloween. On David Ayer Dave Karger said. September 21, Jennifer The season kicks into high gear Lawrence finds herself haunted on September 21, with Jake Gyllen- in “The House at the End of the haal and Michael Pena playing Los Street.” On October 5, a ghostly Angeles police battling a ruthless entity threatens Ethan Hawke and drug cartel in “End of Watch,” from his family in “Sinister.” writer/director David Ayer. If that’s not enough haunted Ayer, whose previous LA cop house-themed flicks, the hugely flick, “Training Day,” earned Den- popular franchise “Paranormal Aczel Washington a best actor Oscar, tivity 4” returns on October 19. said the film shows “what it’s like For family frights, animated to work the streets in a way very “Hotel Transylvania” (September few films have ever shown,” pulling 28) stars Adam Sandler as a hotelier back the curtain on the cops’ lives, to non-humans whose world turns personal and professional. upside down when an overexcited “It’s not your typical Hollywood human shows up. And Tim Burton movie. It’s very grounded, very real brings his usual ghoulish charm to — almost a pseudo documentary. the screen with the stop-motion aniYou’ll walk out of this movie want- mated “Frankenweenie” (October ing to hug a cop,” he said. 5) about a young boy who resurrects Guns continue to blaze on Sep- his late dog, Sparky. Arf! tember 28 when Bruce Willis and Then, there is the Oscar race. In Joseph Gordon-Levitt play the same recent years, as Academy Award person — only 30 years apart — in organizers moved their top film the time-travel flick “Looper” about honors up by a month, to Februassassins killing targets sent back ary from late March, the studios from the future. have been bringing more award Liam Neeson is back as the CIA- hopefuls to theaters in September trained, overly protective father in and October. MV 8-31-12.indd 27

(2) Civil Engineering Technician Rate : $ 5.05 to $ 7.50 per hour With minimum 5 years experience as a Civil Engineering Technician. With knowledge how to apply theory and principles of civil engineering in planning, designing, and overseeing construction and maintenance of structures and facilities under the direction of engineering staff or physical scientists. Must be able to work. Deadline for accepting application is on September 1, 2012. Applications are available at GPPC Inc office located in As Perdido, Saipan. A copy of valid Police Clearance must be attached to the application. Incomplete application will NOT be accepted. Skills testing may be required. GPPC, INC is an Equal Opportunity Employer

JOB VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

(2) A/C TECHNICIAN

DIVING INSTRUCTOR Salary: $875.00-$1,500/month

St. Jude Renal Care Facility, Inc. is looking for: Nurse Supervisor (1) Salary: $15.00 - $19.00 per hour. Qualifications: Must pass NCLEX-RN and current CNMI RN License. Attended a hemodialysis training program and management of hemodialysis inpatient and outpatient care. Must hold a degree in Bachelor of Science in Nursing. At least four years hemodialysis experience and plus three years as a charge nurse in dialysis. English language skills-proficient in verbal, written and comprehension. Certification in Basic Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation. Certified Nephrology Nurse - (CNN) Preferred. In-service train with Baxter phoenix machine. Experience with Ameriwater bicarbonate distribution system. Flexible with time schedule. Please submit resume or pick-up application at Saipan Health Clinic in Chalan Kiya or send email to Judy Arriola at hpcshc@pticom.com

WANTED

GARAGE SALE

FOR IMMEDIATE HIRING

OBYAN/KAGMAN PROPERTY FOR SALE

Call 256-4770/287-2680

APARTMENT FOR RENT

Apply at Kingfisher Golflinks 322-1100

For Sale/Lease for 55 Years

Going in to Capitol Hill Market go on the 1st right • 2 bedroom with washer and dryer outlet • front and backyard space • free trash and mowing •quiet and breezy Rent is only $ 300.00 every month plus security deposit required. Please call 287-4447 for more details.

• 1-storey, 3 units of 1 Bedroom Apartment Bldg. at Dandan Village $125,000.00 • Vacant Lot For Sale Good for Commercial or Apartment Bldg., located along ISA Drive, I-Denni/ Capitol Hill Area (3,379 sq. m.) • 1990 Toyota 4Runner, $1,000.00 Contact: 285-8189 Vince

Job Vacancy Announcement Counsel (1) Open: August 20, 2012 FLSA Status: Exempt

Closed: September 21, 2012

The CNMI Office of the Public Auditor (OPA) is looking for an experienced counsel. Detailed information about the requirement for the position and employment application may be obtained at the OPA website: http://www.opacnmi.com .

Cook (1) - 2 years experience required Please send application to KYS Enterprises, Inc. PMB 1336, P.O. Box 10003, Saipan, MP 96950 Tel. 2334865

Interested applicants must submit all the required information by mail, email, or hand delivery at the office/email addresses listed below. Submission must be marked confidential and must have the applicant’s name and returned address.

Baker (2) - Salary: $5.05 per hour; 3years experience Beautician (2) - Salary: $5.05 per hour; 3 years experience Cook (2) - Salary: $5.05 per hour; 3years experience Apply at Triple M’s Corp. dba Fong’s Bakery Chalan Kanoa, P.O. Box 502528, Saipan MP 96950 Tel. No. 235-1071

Office of the Public Auditor 1236 Yap Drive, Capitol Hill P.O. Box 501399, Saipan MP 96950 Email: jobs@opacnmi.com

IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE COMMONWEALTH OF THE NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS RENATO F. SANGCAP Petitioner, vs. EVELYN S. SANGCAP Respondent, FCD DI CIVIL ACTION NO. 11-0515 SUMMONS FOR PUBLICATION TO THE ABOVE NAME RESPONDENT: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED and notified to file any answer you wish to make to the Complaint, a copy of which is on file with the court, within thirty (30) days after service of the Summons upon you, and to deliver or mail a copy of your answer to the Petitioner whose address is P.O. Box 504575 CK, Saipan, MP 96950 as soon as practical after filing your answer or sending it to the Clerk of Courts for filing. Your answer should be in writing and filed with the Clerk of this Court at Susupe, Saipan, MP 96950. It may be prepared for you by your counsel and sent to the Clerk of this Court by messenger or Mail. It is not necessary for you to appear personally until further notice. If you fail to file and answer in accordance with this summons, judgment by default may be taken against you for relief of the complaint. Dated this 7th day of August, 2012.

SubmiSSion DeaDline

All advertisements should be submitted 12:00 noon one day prior to publication. Advertisers are encouraged to follow the deadline or ad placement may not granted.

StanDarDS

The publishers reserve the right to edit, refuse, reject or cancel any advertisement copy at anytime.

aDvertiSement errorS

The newspaper(s) will not be responsible to errors noticed after the first day of publication of any advertisements. Such errors should called to the attention of the Sales/Advertising Department on the first working day after publication.

All advertisement copies designed and created by the YAS graphic artists are the property of Marianas Variety Newspaper. Advertisers agree that it cannot authorize the production of any such advertising copy, in whole or in part, for use in any other medium without the written consent of the publisher.

/s/ Clerk of Court

8/31/12 12:48:14 AM

Sports

FRIDAY- -AUGUST AUGUST31, 31,2012 2012- -MARIANAS MARIANASVARIETY VARIETYNEWS NEWS&AND VIEWS FRIDAY VIEWS P.O. Box 500231 Saipan, MP 96950 • Tel. (670) 234-9272 • 9797 • Fax: (670) 234-9271 E-mail: younis@pticom.com • mvariety@pticom.com www.mvariety.com

By Zaldy Dandan • Zaldy Dandan

P.O. Box 6338, Tamuning Guam 96931 • Tel. (671) 649-1924 • 4678 • Fax: (671) 648-2007 E-mail: admin@mvguam.com

Snowdrops vs Oldhands

The best players from both teams: Humpy Koneru and Vlastimil Hort.

THIS year’s Grand Slam Masters final is taking place on both sides of the Atlantic: in São Paulo, Brazil which hosted the first half of this elite tournament; and in Bilbao, Spain. The participating GM’s are world champ Vishy Anand of India, world number 1 Magnus Carlsen of Norway, number 3 Levon Aronian of Armenia, number 6 Hikaru Nakamura of the U.S., number 7 Vassily Ivanchuk of Ukraine, and “the best Spanish player in history,” Francisco Vallejo Pons, ranked 28th in the world. After five rounds, Chucky leads with 3.5., Nakamura is second, half a point behind, Carlsen, Aronian and Anand share third-fifth places, while Vallejo is dead last. The Spaniard thumped Carlsen, but lost to the other players. Anand and Aronian, for their part, lost to Ivanchuk. Hikaru is the only undefeated player. Now to action shifts to Bilbao. Explaining Vallejo’s dismal score, Canadian GM Kevin Spraggett noted that the Spaniard “has played some enterprising chess in each game, but one finds oneself asking if such an uncompromising ‘poker-style’ of play is not just plain suicide at this level of play. Not that he is outclassed in the Grand Slam, but from my perspective Paco does not seem to realize that he is giving drawodds to his opponents. That is, it is Vallejo who assumes all of the risks and shows that he is not interested in a half point. All his opponents have to do is sit back and wait for him to crack.” Spraggett added, “This is in no way intended to slight Paco Vallejo, for whom I have the highest respect as a player and as a person. No doubt the first half of the Grand Slam has not been very kind to the Spanish star, but he can still surprise everyone in the second half and climb up the tournament table.” Game of the week. According to Mark Crowther, who annotates our featured partie, Carlsen defeated Ivanchuk with black “in an interesting French Defence but there were a number of strange decisions from Ivanchuk and it was more his loss rather than Carlsen’s win. It wouldn’t surprise me if Ivanchuk’s recent heavy schedule with the World Cup isn’t catching up on him a bit. Perhaps the break comes at an ideal time for him as his general form is obviously excellent.” On Twitter, Carlsen posted: “Beat Ivanchuk today, now anything is possible in Bilbao! Not a great game by any means, but I could not care less about that right now.” Stay tuned. White: V. Ivanchuk (2765) Black: M. Carlsen (2823) French Defense Sao Paulo 2011 1.e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.Nc3 Nf6 4.e5 Nfd7 5.f4 c5 6.Nf3 Nc6 7.Be3 Be7 8.a3 A rather strange move (2745)-Morozevich,A (2610)/ Amsterdam NED 1996 (60)] 8...0-0 [8...b6 1-0 Hernandez,ZVilarino,L/Bento Goncalves 2000/EXT 2001 (65); 8...a6 9.Bd3 b5 10.f5 cxd4 11.Nxd4 Nxd4 12.Bxd4 Bc5 13.Bxc5 Nxc5 14.0-0 Qg5 15.Rf3 Nxd3 16.Qxd3 0-0 17.Raf1 Bb7 18.Rg3 Qh4 19.Rh3 Qg4 20.fxe6 g6 21.exf7+ Kg7 22.Qe3 h5 23.Rg3 d4 24.Qd3 Qe6 25.Rf6 1-0 Diaz Caramazana,J-Haines,K/Asturias 1993/EXT 2005; 8...a6 9.dxc5 Bxc5 10.Bxc5 Nxc5 11.b4] 9.Qd2 [9.dxc5 1/2-1/2 Sepp,Y (1967)-Dolskiy,V (1929)/Dmitrov 2011/CB32_2011 (80)] 9...b6 [9...a6 1/2-1/2 Padurariu,V-Stojanovic,N/Rimavska Sobota 1996/EXT 1997 (50)] 10.g3 Kh8 11.h4 f6 12.exf6 Nxf6 13.Bh3 Bd7 14.Rd1 cxd4 15.Nxd4 e5 It seems to be very nicely calculated counter-play. 16.Nxc6 Bxc6 17.fxe5 d4 18.exf6 Bxf6 19.0-0 dxc3 20.Qxd8 Raxd8 21.Rxd8 Rxd8 22.b3? Why? 22.bxc3 Bxc3 23.Rf7 Be5 is about equal. Ivanchuk just makes problems for himself. 22...Re8 23.Bf2 Be4 24.Re1 Re7 25.Rc1 h5 26.Bg2 Continued on page 31 MV 8-31-12.indd 28

64... Continued from page 32 Bf5 27.Bf3 g6 28.a4 Kh7 29.b4 g5 30.a5 g4 31.axb6 axb6 32.Bc6 Re2 33.Bxb6 White has succeeded in creating some counterplay. The rest of the moves up to move 40 were played very fast as both players were in time trouble. 33...Be5 34.b5 Kg7 35.Ba5 Rxc2 36.Rxc2 Bxc2 37.Kf2? The losing error in time pressure. 37.b6 Bd3 38.Kg2 c2 39.Bd2 Kf6 40.b7 and it is hard to see White winning. 37...Bd3 38.Ke3 Bg6 39.Be4 c2 40.Bd2 Bxg3 This wins although it has to be accurately calculated especially as black has the wrong colored bishop for the rooks pawn. 41.Bxg6 Kxg6 42.Kd3 Bf2 43.Kxc2 g3 44.Bf4 g2 45.Bh2 Kf5 Black will drive his king into h3. 0-1. Puzzler. White: Ka5, Nb5, Qc1, Bd3, pawn on d4 Black: Kd5, Ne5, pawns on a6 and f3

White to play and mate in three moves. Send your answers to “64” c/o Marianas Variety, P.O. Box 500231, Saipan MP 96950. Our fax no. is 670-234-9271. You can also e-mail editor@mvariety. com. 8/31/12 12:48:15 AM

MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS - FRIDAY - AUGUST 31, 2012

MV 8-31-12.indd 29

Sports

8/31/12 12:48:15 AM

Sports

FRIDAY - AUGUST 31, 2012 - MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS

Kim Clijsters returns a shot against Laura Robson in the second round of play at the 2012 U.S. Open tennis tournament, Wednesday, in New York. AP

Laura Robson of Great Britain reacts after beating Kim Clijsters of Belgium in the second round of play at the 2012 U.S. Open tennis tournament, Wednesday, in New York. AP

NEW YORK (Reuters) — Disappointed but content, Kim Clijsters signed off her singles career with a second-round defeat at the U.S. Open on Wednesday, beaten but unbowed and with the praise of her peers ringing in her ears. Losing 7-6 7-6 to British teenager Laura Robson was not the way she would have wanted to go out but at 29, after two careers and four grand slam titles, the Belgian said she was leaving with no regrets. “I think in the first hour after the match there was still disappointment and a little bit of frustration,” the three-time champion said. “But after talking and thinking about the retirement, I’m happy.

extra special. “It does something to you when you hear other players talk about me like that,” she said. “Obviously in these two rounds that I’ve played here, I’ve played players that I spoke to and they said that I inspired them. That’s a great feeling because I was once in that situation as well.” Clijsters singled out being world number one, winning four grand slam titles and her WTA Championships as her best achievements, as well as becoming the first mother to win a grand slam title since 1980. “I feel proud that I was able to win a slam as a mother, just because

Happy Clijsters signs off with no regrets “In the last year and a half or even two years, it’s been kind of up and down and I’m happy that I stuck through it and was able to live a lot of these emotions that I’ve had. I’m kind of proud of myself that I was able to do that.” In her moment of glory, Robson led the praise for a player who is undoubtedly the most popular in the locker room, calling her a role model to young players, while Maria Sharapova and Sam Stosur were quick to add their feelings. “I can’t say enough nice things about her,” Sharapova said. “She was a tremendous athlete, a really good competitor.

“(But) the nicest thing you saw about her was her commitment to the sport but also wanting to have a great family life, retiring from the sport to have that and then coming back and achieving things in winning the U.S. Opens that she did and the Australian Open.” Defending champion Stosur said “the whole tour” was going to miss having Clijsters around. “She’s been a great player and a great person. She’s definitely one of those people that you can look up to and really admire with what she’s been able to achieve.” The Belgian admitted that hearing her fellow players talk so warmly about her was something

Man of metal Hewitt kicks on at US Open NEW YORK (AFP) — Eleven years after winning the U.S. Open, Lleyton Hewitt shrugged off his injury-plagued year to reach the second round at Flushing Meadows on Wednesday. The Australian, now ranked 125 and needing wildcards to play in all four Grand Slam events this year, is taking part in his 12th U.S. Open, marking the occasion with a 4-6, 6-2, 6-1, 6-4 win over 90th-ranked German Tobias Kamke. Next up is a second round matchup with unseeded Luxembourg lefthander Gilles Muller who came from two sets to love down to beat Russian 28th seed Mikhail Youzhny. Two foot operations and a groin problem have not dimmed the 31year-old Hewitt’s famed fighting spirit. “When you have metal in your feet, you can’t do a lot of rehab,” said Hewitt, playing in his 54th Grand Slam event. Hewitt underwent radical surgery in February this year when he had bone cut from his big toe and two screws and a metal plate permanently locked in. It was a desperate attempt to prolong a career that had brought him a Wimbledon title 10 years ago as well as the world number one ranking. As a result of the surgery, Hewitt has been limited to just 11 tournaMV 8-31-12.indd 30

Lleyton Hewitt of Australia returns a shot to Tobias Kamke of Germany in the second round of play at the 2012 U.S. Open tennis tournament, Wednesday, New York. AP

ments in 2012, making the final on the Newport grass courts after enduring first round exits at the French Open and Wimbledon. “It’s been rough since the Australian Open (where he made the last 16). I haven’t played many five-set matches,” said Hewitt, who only played one match on U.S. hardcourts — in Cincinnati — before heading to New York. “I don’t count the French Open and at Wimbledon I lost to a quality player (Jo-Wilfried Tsonga). “Since the surgery, I haven’t had that many matches on hard courts,

so I am not looking too far ahead in the draw. “I felt the foot a little after Cincinnati. It’s a big adjustment coming from grass to hard. You have to get used to the foot being pounded when you are going from side to side.” Hewitt’s fall down the rankings also means he is not regarded as a box office attraction for the showcourts. On Wednesday, he was out on Court 13 at Flushing Meadows, an arena closer to the nearby site of the 1939-1940 World’s Fair than the Arthur Ashe court.

I know how much work it took after I had Jada to get back physically, tenniswise, and mentally to get back into the sport.” In her “first” career before entering a two-year retirement in 2007, Clijsters was seen as something of a nearly-girl, losing her first four grand slam finals. But her win in New York in 2005 changed everything and when she returned in 2009 having had her daughter, she was even better, winning two more U.S. Opens and an Australian Open crown. “It’s been an incredible journey and a lot of dreams for me have come true because of tennis,” she said.

Venus, Serena and Federer in US Open action NEW YORK (Reuters) — Venus Williams continues her quest to claim her first U.S. Open crown since 2001 when she faces sixth seed Angelique Kerber of Germany in a second-round night match on Thursday at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Williams, who also won the title in 2000, is on the comeback trail after withdrawing from the U.S. Open ahead of her second-round match a year ago with an autoimmune disease. Younger sister Serena will also be in action at the National Tennis Center on Thursday when the fourth seed and three-time champion faces Spain’s Maria Jose Martinez Sanchez in a second-round match. On the men’s side, world number one Roger Federer, gunning for his sixth title at Flushing Meadows, will take on Germany’s Bjorn Phau, ranked 83rd, in a second-round affair. Venus, formerly the top-ranked player in the world, is convinced she can make the climb back into the top 10 despite tumbling to her current spot at 46. “I’m looking forward to the top 10, all that great stuff,” said the 32-year-old, seven-times grand slam winner. “I feel like I have it in me.” Venus beat Bethanie Mattek-

Venus, left, and Serena Williams talk while playing a doubles match in the second round of play at the 2012 U.S. Open tennis tournament, Wednesday, in New York. AP

Sands 6-3 6-1 in her first-round match, while Kerber routed Britain’s Anne Keothavong 6-2 6-0. In other matches, 12th seed Ana Ivanovic, also a former top-ranked player, takes on Sofia Arvidsson of Sweden while, on the men’s side, fifth seed Jo-Wilfried Tsonga of France battles Slovakian Martin Klizan, ranked 50th. The 31-year-old Federer, who lost to Serbian Novak Djokovic in the U.S. Open semi-finals last year, said he enjoys New York but it may not be too good for his tennis game. 8/31/12 12:48:16 AM

Sports

MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS - FRIDAY - AUGUST 31, 2012

KFC... Continued from page 32 complete shots. Sii Mafi commanded the game with his rebounds. This foiled MBI from adding more points. Herbert Maranan and Erick Dela Rosa then took the driver’s seat in the fourth quarter widening the stretch. Galarse tried to put up a fight, but failed to match the duo of Maranan and Dela Rosa as they kept the game physical until the end. Fernando kept the ball moving, tiring out MBI, resulting in a seven point difference. Gualo Rai 74, QQ Car Rental 63 Gualo Rai dominated their game against QQ Car Rental, 74-63. It was a disappointment for Elgene Mangali who made a gamehigh of 27 points. Alex Lauron of Gualo Rai grabbed the lead for them early on in the game, making 10 points in the first quarter. It was back and forth shots between the two teams, until QQ lost it with the many turnovers. Jun Estolas then contributed 10 more points to their score board in the second quarter. It was Estolas against Mangali in the second quarter, but Mangali was just behind four points to even out with Estolas. The team themselves were behind, QQ, was just behind four points, 37-33. QQ was at the verge of losing in the fourth quarter, with its foul trouble. Estolas was able to get the fouls and made the given charity shots to get closer to locking in the win. Finishing the game in double digits for KFC were Estolas, with 24 points and Lauron, 20; for QQ, Mangali led with 27 while Kermit Concepcion ended with 16 points.

Champions of the Summer Basketball Jam 2012 held at Garapan Basketball court, WannaBe. won over Mobil, 85-65. From left, Preston Basa, Zack Diaz, Jack Lizama, Mel Manibusan, Dan Barcinas, Pedro Lizama with his sons, Pete Mendiola, and Arvin Avila. Photo by Demalynn F. Sablan

Scores: KFC 64 – A. Fernando 24, R. Francisco 11, H. Maranan 9, E. Dela Rosa 8, S. Mafi 6, J. Lee 5 MBI 57 – L. Galarse 21, A. Tra-

jano 8, B. Samson 8, N. David 6, R. Hernandez 5, D. Tenorio 4, E. Mendoza 2 Quarterscores: 20-7, 29-22, 4441, 64-57

Gualo Rai 74 – J. Estolas 24, A. Lauron 20, Z. Diaz 7, D. Dayrit 6, V. Millari 6, J. Jose 4, Z. Babauta 3, R. Morales 2

QQ 63 – E. Mangali 27, K. Concepcion 16, Twon 6, J. Acosta 4, M. Bondoc 2, Montes 1 Quarterscores: 21-14, 37-33, 55-47, 76-63

Docomo Pacific Golf Classic kicks off tomorrow By Demalynn F. Sablan demalynn.sablan@mvariety.com For Variety

THE Docomo Pacific Golf Classic is kicking off this Labor Day weekend, Saturday Sept. 1 at the scenic Kingfisher Golf Links with a tee time set at 7:30 a.m. This year, the Marianas Tourism Education Council will be the beneficiary as Docomo Pacific hosts once again. “It is vital that businesses, both large and small, support MTEC in its mission of developing tourism related programs for our high school students. We must continue to reinforce the importance of our tourism industry to all, but most especially the generations that follow,” said James Nelson, Docomo Pacific’s General Manager. This is the third year Docomo Pacific will host the tournament and the responses received from the business community have been great. Major sponsors such as DFS Saipan Ltd, First Hawaiian Bank, Mobil, the Tan Siu Lin Foundation and have all stepped forward with MV 8-31-12.indd 31

their support again this year. Holein-one sponsors Joeten Motors, Bank of Hawaii and Triple J Motors have also lent their invaluable support with fantastic prizes. The Fiesta Resort, Delta Air Lines, the Marianas Visitors Authority and the Pacific Islands Club are back once again as sponsors along with Dickerson & Quinn, Kautz Glass and DataDot Micronesia. “We must continue to do all we can to support non-profit organizations that have a direct impact on tourism and our student community,” added Nelson. This year’s entry fee has been lowered to $85 and Docomo Pacific subscribers can enter for only $75. Entry forms are available at the Docomo Pacific store on Middle Road in Gualo Rai. Entry fees are accepted at Docomo Pacific. The deadline for entries is Thursday, Aug.30, 2012, so golfers are encouraged to enter as soon as possible. For more information, contact James Nelson at (670)483-4924 or email jnelson@docomopacific. com. 8/31/12 12:48:18 AM

By Zaldy Dandan • Zaldy Dandan

The father of Yugoslav and Serbian chess

THAT’S how Chess Informant’s Joseph Asik describes grandmaster Svetozar Gligoric, who passed away in Belgrade on Aug. 14 at the age of 89. From 1950 to 1980, Asik says, Gligoric “broke many national records. He won thirteen Olympiad medals, six European medals, and the championship of Yugoslavia 12 times. At the peak of his career he was seen as the best player As a world championship candidate in outside of the Soviet 1953. Union. He was a man who treated everyone with dignity and respect, and people befriended him because of his gentle nature. It is significant to his character that his games collection was titled ‘I Play Against Pieces.’ ” His death was prime time news in his native Serbia and thousands, including the prime minister, gathered for his funeral on the 17th. “There is a wonderful lucidity to his best games,” says Macedonian art historian Kiril Penusliski. “As a player whose style was a curious mixture of Rubinstein and Capablanca, he was extremely objective and never bogged down by chess dogma. All those things we ordinary mortals aren’t supposed to do, you will find them all in his games! But always as a part of a sound plan, and never as a whimsical frivolity.” Game of the week. Gligoric annotated our featured partie for the Chess Informant. His opponent was another member of the world elite. White: S. Gligoric (2600) Black: L. Portisch (2630) Queen’s Gambit Accepted Pula 1971 1.d4 d5 2.c4 dc4 3.Nf3 Nf6 4.e3 e6 5.Bc4 c5 6.0-0 a6 7.a4 Nc6 8.Qe2 cd4 9.Rd1 Be7 10.ed4 0-0 11.Nc3 Nd5 12.Bd3! Ncb4 13.Bb1 b6 14.a5! [with the idea Na4] 14...Bd7 15.Ne5 ba5 16.Ra3! [with the idea Nd5, Bh7! and White is winning] 16...f5 17.Nd5 Nd5 18.Nd7 Qd7 19.Ra5 (and White is superior) Nc7 20.Ba2 Bd6 21.Bc4 Kh8 22.Qf3 [22.Ba6 Bh2] 22... Bb4 23.Ra1 [23.Re5 Bd6] 23...a5 24.Bf4 Nd5 25.Be5 Rfc8 26.Qe2 Qb7 [26...Rc6? 27.Bb5] 27.h3 Rc6 28.Rac1 Rac8 29.Bd5 ed5 30.Rc6 Qc6 31.Rd3! Qd7 [31...Qc2 32.Bg7!] 32.Rg3 Bf8 33.b3! Ra8 34.Qc2 Rc8 35.Qd2 Ra8 [35...a4 36.ba4 Qa4 37.Qg5 Qd7 38.Rf3] 36.Qg5 Kg8 37.Rf3 g6 38.Rc3 Qd8 39.Qc1 Bd6 40.Qf4 Be5 41.Qe5 [41.de5] 41... Ra7 42.Rc5! Re7 [42...Rd7 43.Rb5 Kf7 44.Rb8 Qe7 45.Qh8 and White is winning] 43.Rd5 Qc7 44.Qc7 Rc7 45.Ra5 Rb7 46.Ra3! Rb4 47.d5 [47.Kf1!] 47...Kg7 48.Kf1 Kf6 49.Ke2 Ke5 50.Kd3 Kd5 51.Kc3 Re4 52.Ra4 Re2 53.Rd4 Kc5 54.b4 Kb5 55.Rd5 Kc6 56.Rd2 Re1 57.f3! (and White is superior) Rg1 58.Kd4 [with the idea Ke5] 58...Re1 59.Rc2 Kb6 [59... Kb5 60.Rc7] 60.Kd5 Re3 61.Rc6 Kb5 62.Rc7 h5 63.Rb7 Ka4 64.Kc4 Ka3 65.Ra7 Kb2 66.Rg7 and 1-0. Puzzler. White: Ka5, Nb5, Qc1, Bd3, pawn on d4 Black: Kd5, Ne5, pawns on a6 and f3 White to play and mate in three moves. Send your answers to “64” c/o Marianas Variety, P.O. Box 500231, Saipan MP 96950. Our fax no. is 670-234-9271. You can also e-mail editor@mvariety.com

MV 8-31-12.indd 32

P.O. Box 6338, Tamuning Guam 96931 • Tel. (671) 649-1924 • 4678 • Fax: (671) 648-2007 E-mail: admin@mvguam.com

KFC/Taco Bell prevail over MBI, 64-57 By Demalynn F. Sablan demalynn.sablan@mvariety.com For Variety

IT was a rough start for KFC/Taco Bell in last Wednesday’s Domino Lux Intercolor Basketball League at Gualo Rai court, as they started off way behind ending first quarter at 20-7 in favor of MBI, but prevailed in the end winning 64-57. Leo Galarse and Arthur Trajano of MBI led the assault in the first quarter adding 16 points together to their total 20 points startoff. Both shot three for three to open up the game. KFC could only manage to score seven points courtesy of Joon Lee with two, Angelo Fernando with two, and Ralph Francisco with three. MBI was dominating KFC from the start, employing a game plan that destabilized KFC. MBI kept the momentum going in the second quarter but KFC was finally catching up. With the scores at 29-22, Francisco and Fernando both picked up the pace and raised the level of their game to bridge the gap. It was just not enough to match Galarse’s swiftness under the rim that secured MBI’s lead. Fernando, not backing down, exploded in the third quarter and stole the lead of KFC making 12 Continued on page 31

Ralph Francisco attempts to shoot over opponent during the Domino Lux Intercolor Basketball League at Gualo Rai basketball court. Photo by Demalynn F. Sablan

Palau sends team to 40th Chess Olympiad By Jamie Kenmure For Variety

The Palau team members, left side of the photo, Roberto Hernandez, Elizabeth Manuel, Bernardo Garcia and Manendro Manuel in action at the Chess Olympiad in Istanbul. Photo by Jamie Kenmure

ISTANBUL, Turkey — For the first time, Palau is participating in the Chess Olympiad. This year, the 11-round biennial tournament has drawn the participation of 158 nations and over 1,500 players. Palau’s team members are Roberto Hernandez, Elizabeth Manuel, Bernardo Garcia and Manendro Manuel. In the first round on Monday, Palau, which is ranked 151st, was paired with 64th seed Qatar which fielded two grandmasters, one international master and one FIDE master. The result was 0-4 in favor of Qatar. In the second round, Palau faced 79th seed Iraq whose team has three FIDE masters and one international master. Palau lost 0-4 again. Palau will play against 134th seed Maldives in the third round and this reporter, who is also Palau’s team captain, believes they can finally achieve a better result. The team captain is also very happy that they are representing Palau in a prestigious international competition. 8/31/12 12:48:23 AM