Beach Road Magazine - September 2014

Pieces of culture

Traditional arts & crafts

Young Professionals of Saipan

Elegant dining

Isla Teppanyaki

September 2014

About the Cover:

Photo taken at the Shack (From left) Yole Panganiban Aldan, Rose Nelly Taman Ada-Hocog, Joe Erra Ayuyu, Jr. and Krizia David Mendoza.

Photo by Corey Shadow wayangphotography@gmail.com

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Cover feature

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2014 Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Fair open for the whole family

Young Professionals of Saipan

Special feature

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HANMI: Building a Better Commonwealth

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An unforgettable experience at Isla Teppanyaki

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Tourism feature

Restaurant feature PUBLISHER Maureen N. Maratita

The art of heritage: Artists in traditional arts and crafts Art feature

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Glimpses Publications include Guam Business Magazine, Marianas Business Journal, Beach Road Magazine and R&R Pacific

On the Road Photos from readers and events

We’re Online!

www.brmsaipan.com beachroadmagazine

ASSISTANT EDITOR Joy White PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR Rosanna Dacanay SENIOR DESIGNER Vikki Fong SALES MANAGER Annie San Nicolas ACCOUNT MANAGER Minda Castro MANAGING DIRECTOR Marcos W. Fong

Beach Road Magazine, September 2014. Entire contents copyrighted 2014 by Glimpses of Saipan, Inc. Beach Road Magazine is published monthly by Glimpses of Saipan, Inc. P.O. Box 502080, Saipan, MP 96950 • 2/F Transpac Business Center Gualo Rai, Saipan • Tel: (670) 235-7645 • Fax: (670) 234-1801 • E-mail: saipan@glimpsesofguam. com. All rights reserved. No material may be printed in part or in whole without written permission from the publisher.

COVER ON THEFEATURE ROAD

(From left) Yole Panganiban Aldan, Rose Nelly Taman Ada-Hocog, Krizia David Mendoza and Joe Erra Ayuyu, Jr. Photo by Corey Shadow

Young Professionals of Saipan

By Joy White

Saipan has a thriving business community. The island’s younger businesswomen, businessmen, entrepreneurs, and proffessionals are a diverse group, each bringing his or her own flavor to the mixing pot of industries.

Joe Erra Ayuyu Jr. Manager, McDonald’s of Saipan and board member, Commonwealth Zoning Board Ayuyu has been at his current position with McDonald’s of Saipan since February, but has had a lifetime relationship with the company. “My father, Jose C. Ayuyu, established McDonald’s of Saipan two years after I was born and so I practically grew up with the business. I was exposed to the business at an early age and it was my parents’ passion that fostered my interest for McDonald’s in particular,” Ayuyu says.

The fast-food industry offers a highly competitive and fast paced environment. “It’s very dynamic and it keeps me on my toes,” he says. With McDonald’s in particular, new products are constantly being introduced, requiring Ayuyu and his staff to learn new procedures and create new and efficient ways to 4

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maintain quality and service.

Before entering the fast food industry, Ayuyu worked at the Bank of Saipan as an accounting trainee in the summers of 2009 and 2011. Looking back, he feels a sense of accomplishment.

“Before, I was intimidated by financial statements and now I look forward to reviewing them. The terminologies I learned back then are applicable to my job today; the difference is that coupled with experience, I now have a better understanding of it all,” he says. Ayuyu holds a bachelor’s in business administration with an emphasis on economics.

As a manager, Ayuyu is working to develop his skills. One of the biggest challenges is managing people, he says. In dealing with people, each has his or her own character, interests, and priorities. Dealing with uncontrollable or unexpected events is a challenge to his leadership abilities. “I’m still working on this

COVER FEATURE

Joe Erra Ayuyu Jr.

Rose Nelly Taman Ada-Hocog

but in time I know I will get better,” Ayuyu says.

At the end of the day the happiness of his customers and crew is what Ayuyu enjoys the most. “If the customers are happy then I know I’ve done my job. If the crew is happy I know their smiles will go a long way,” he says.

Ayuyu aspires to climb all the way to the top. In the next couple of years he sees himself becoming the general manager.

“What really excites me is the decision making that goes on at the senior level. I really like the thinking processes that go on up there. It’s often [on] both [the] micro and macro [level],” he says. Once he reaches the top, he looks forward to making decisions in the company’s community involvement. “I’m very much into sports so I think my approach to community involvement will come more from this angle,” Ayuyu says.

“If the customers are happy then I know I’ve done my job. If the crew is happy I know their smiles will go a long way.” ~ Joe Erra Ayuyu Jr.

Rose Nelly Taman Ada-Hocog Consultant Schóóbwut Premier, LLC Ada-Hocog has made success in balancing both her career and home life. She is an entrepreneur, as well as a mother, and is involved with various community organizations. She started Schóóbwut Premier, LLC, a public relations, programs, and marketing consulting business, to be able to be more involved with her children and to care for her aging parents. She and her husband Derek John Tamanao Hocog raise four children: Tamleen Naema’ulane-lei Taman Ada Hocog, Loria Dee Ada Hocog, Trey Loren Ada Hocog, and Tito Songao Hocog III. “I literally woke up one morning and realized that my children, especially my girls, were grown. My heart ached because while I was working my way up the ladder, I missed out on so many important things. Not to say that I was never there for them, because I was, but the memories that I had back then were more of my work life and not my home life,” she says. In addition, she was concerned about her parents’ health.

The very next day she announced her resignation. “I can always find employment, but I will never be able to find a re-

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COVER FEATURE placement for my family,” Ada-Hocog says. She has been with Schóóbwut Premier, LLC for about four years.

Her job offers variety, allows her to be flexible and allows her to bond with her children. “I love the fact that I am not stuck doing the same thing every day. I most especially love that I can bring my kids with me and involve them in the different projects I am tasked with,” she says.

Her long term goals are to grow her business and involve her children, possibly pass the business on to them. “Like any parent who has a business, my goal is to get my children involved, teach them the ropes, and then put them in control,” she says.

“I love the fact that I am not stuck doing the same thing every day. I most especially love that I can bring my kids with me and involve them in the different projects I am tasked with. ” ~ Rose Nelly Taman Ada-Hocog

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Maria Krizia David Mendoza Underwriter Traders Insurance Co. Mendoza started helping out in the family business at a young age and has since been taking gradual steps to move up in her career. She works with a great team at Traders Insurance Co., she says, including her parents, who have always been her mentors. “It’s really a family endeavor. The support we give each other makes working that much more enjoyable,” she says.

It was not a surprise for her to begin working in her current career path. “My parents are my biggest inspiration and one day I aspire to be like them,” Mendoza says.

Aside from working at Traders Insurance Co. when younger, Mendoza’s first official job was as a front desk agent for the Holiday Inn Boise Airport while going to college in Boise, Idaho.

“From my first job as a front desk agent to an underwriter at Trader’s Insurance, I continue to learn new ways of how to improve myself as an individual in the workforce,” she says.

She has been and underwriter with the company for about two years and feels her work helps a lot of people. “Providing services such as auto and home insurance as well as workers compensation makes me feel good knowing that in some way our

COVER FEATURE

Maria Krizia D. Mendoza

Yole Panganiban Aldan

company helps people feel secure in their lives,” she says.

Although it is important for her in her profession to help the people in the community, one of the challenges she faces as an underwriter is being firm on implementing the rules and regulations to applicants.

“Risk management is a big factor in this profession and as much as I want to help and provide coverage for all applicants.

There are times when an applicant is not able to provide all essential documentation. As much as it pains me to turn them away, it’s one of the things I have to be firm with considering our mandated guidelines,” Mendoza says. However, she looks at these challenges as a way to become better and wiser.

In the future, Mendoza has her eye on trying something new.

“I have wanted to own a restaurant since I was younger. I want that childhood dream of mine to turn into a reality. In doing so, I will be able to apply the knowledge and experience I have gained through college and work within my own establishment,” she says.

Yole Panganiban Aldan Store manager Kentucky Fried Chicken and Taco Bell

“It’s really a family endeavor. The support we give each other makes working that much more enjoyable. ” ~ Maria Krizia D. Mendoza

Aldan has been with Kentucky Fried Chicken in Saipan for almost a decade. She has been the store manager for three years.

Aldan served as the operation manager for five years, before taking on her current position. She is married to Tyrone Aldan and has a six-year-old son, Reyone Kent Aldan, who attends Grace Christian Academy.

She is a long-time veteran of the fast-food industry. “I started working when I was in college in one of [the top] fast-food chains in the Philippines, where I worked as a marketing assistant and later applied to the managerial position after I finished my studies and graduated college,” Aldan says.

For Aldan, her job is about having a positive attitude and being of service to the community. The best piece of advice she was given has been, “Customer Service is not a department, it’s an attitude,” and she strives to fulfill this on a daily basis. “For me the challenge is [finding the] inspiration to pursue something and whenever and every time I do something I always do it huge, do it right and do it with behavior.”

The fast-food industry is fast paced, but she rises to the challenge. “In my job, I like meeting new and different people and learning how to respond quickly to a changing circumstances SEPTEMBER 2014

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COVER FEATURE and customer needs,” Aldan says. She looks forward to the good feedback from her customers.

“What I enjoy about my industry is the fulfillment in serving people and imparting my knowledge to other employees and winning the respect and loyalty of customers and the affection of children,” she says Aldan’s goal is to be a part of the opening of a new location and to serve the company and the community the best she can.

“For me the challenge is [finding the] inspiration to pursue something and whenever and every time I do something, I always do it huge, do it right and do it with behavior.” ~ Yole Panganiban Aldan Orrin Ogumoro Pharmin shown with Denise Samson, DYS Summer Camp 2014 volunteer.

Orrin Ogumoro Pharmin CEO, Marianas Elite Marketing, Program Manager, CNMI Area Health Education Center, Northern Marianas College, Director of the Kid’s Athletics Program, Northern Marianas Athletics and Cultural Athletics, and staff member, Community Development Institute Pharmin has recently embarked on his newest journey as chief executive officer of Marianas Elite Marketing, which he started in July. “I believe I could make a difference in helping businesses market and boost their business online with the many different useful marketing strategies and tools we hold,” he says of his new endeavor.

His positions with the NMC has brought him fulfillment in helping to train and educate the community, and his position with the Cultural and Northern Marians Athletics Federation was rewarding in itself working with and learning from the youth. “I think my family instilled in me at an early age the importance of education and working hard to achieve goals that I set for myself,” Pharmin says.

He is also does his best to volunteer his time to events in the community that promote family, health, and wellness in general.

Although he enjoys working with the NMC and the team there, he hopes to apply what he learned in pursing his own business goals. “When I returned home from college, jobsearching led me to my current position at NMC. However, I have a passion for business, and this is the direction I’m now

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heading towards. The wealth of experience and knowledge I’ve gained from NMC is incredible, and this also has contributed to the plans I have towards developing a business,” he says. His goals are devoting himself to the business he has in mind and developing it successfully.

Pharmin’s entry into the employment world was in high school when he was charged with maintaining his family’s yard.

“My father not only believed in academics, but in being responsible as an individual and taught this through physical labor; ‘It all begins in the home’, he’d say,” Pharmin recalls. From there, Pharmin received his first paycheck — as a dishwasher.

Looking back on his career so far, Pharmin says it seems to be progressing. “I think I’ve always known that almost everyone starts from the bottom-up; and I believe every moment of where you are in life counts for something, so where I was years ago played a role in where I am today,” he says.

“My father not only believed in academics, but in being responsible as an individual and taught this through physical labor; ‘It all begins in the home’, he’d say.” ~ Orrin Ogumoro Pharmin

COVER FEATURE

Michelle Villacrusis Villaraza Operations manager Infinity 8 Salon & Spa Songay’s Boutique Operating a business is a challenge, but Villaraza loves her job.

“I guess the challenge is introducing the business into the market but once it is established, everything falls into place,” she says. So far, the business has become well known through word of mouth, as well as from advertising efforts. Villaraza says the company also does its best to show appreciation to its regular clients by offering affordable packages.

Villaraza has been with the company for three years. “It just started as a hobby. I loved to go to the spa and beautifying myself as well. I loved to pamper myself from time to time to be able to be more enthusiastic and inspired, and look younger than my age,” she says.

Although beauty and fashion are her passions, Villaraza started out working in a call center in Ortigas, Philippines when she graduated from college. During that time, she received training in communication skills, speech, and personality development. “I think my first job prepared me for what am I today. It was a good training ground for me since it enhanced my personality,” she says.

The best piece of career advice she received was to love her

Michelle Villacrusis Villaraza

job. “I believe that if you love your job, everything is possible. You will have enough reasons to strive harder and reach your dreams,” she says. Because she enjoys her job, it is not stressful for her. And it’s a kind of job where, she says, “Gumagandana, kumikita pa ako,” which translates to “I’m looking good and getting financially stable at the same time.”

In the future, she sees herself as a wife and mother with a successful career. Villaraza is currently engaged to Jhun dela Cruz Rueda.

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GUIDE TO

September Sunday

Tuesday

Monday

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Coke Fact: The Coca-Cola Company manufactures beverage syrups and concenrates that are certified as kosher under rabbinical supervisions.

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Thursday

Wednesday

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4 Garapan Street Market

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11 Garapan Street Market

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18 Garapan Street Market

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25 Garapan Street Market

Sprite was added to the Coca-Cola beverage line in 1961 and is currently ranked as the numberfour soft drink worldwide.

Sponsored by:

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MOVIES • The Identical • God Help the Girl • Frontera premiere at Regal Cinemas

12 MOVIES • No Good Deed • Dolphine Tale 2 • The Drop premiere at Regal Cinemas

19 MOVIES • The Maze Runner • This Is Where I Leave You • A Walk Among the Tombstones •Tracks premiere at Regal Cinemas

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MOVIES • The Equalizer • The Boxtrolls • Laggies • The Two Faces of January premiere at Regal Cinemas

Point Break Championships Location: Pacific Islands Club Time: 5 pm

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Saturday

Friday

13 The International Festival of Cultures 2014 Location: Paseo de Marianas Time: Booths open 5-11pm; Performance from 6-11pm Admission: free Interested groups who would like to join can contact Ryan Calvo at the Marianas Visitors Authority office at 664-3200.

20 The International Festival of Cultures 2014 Location: Paseo de Marianas Time: Booths open 5-11pm; Performance from 6-11pm Admission: free Interested groups who would like to join can contact Ryan Calvo at the Marianas Visitors Authority office at 664-3200.

27 The International Festival of Cultures 2014 Location: Paseo de Marianas Time: Booths open 5-11pm; Performance from 6-11pm Admission: free Interested groups who would like to join can contact Ryan Calvo at the Marianas Visitors Authority office at 664-3200.

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The Polar Bear was featured in ad campaign “Always CocaCola” in the early 1990s. The creator, Ken Stewart, drew inspiration from his puppy, which he thought looked a bit like a polar bear.

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Proudly serves refreshing

beverages.

VISIT US ONLINE: WWW.BRMSAIPAN.COM

For showtimes: 234-9000 or visit www.regmovies.com

*Event times and dates may change without notice.

“Coca-Cola” is a registered trademark of The Coca-Cola Company.

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HEALTH & FITNESS

The treadmill misses you – getting back your fitness mojo

By Joy White

emember in January when you hit the gym every day? This was the year you were going to shed R those extra pounds, you told yourself. Then February came and you only went a few times week.

Then, work or school or family got in the way and you went a little bit less. Oh, and your good friend was visiting for a couple of weeks over the summer, so of course you had to free up your schedule.

Now the year is more than halfway over. You don’t remember where you left your gym card, much less your drive and self-discipline to work up a sweat on a daily basis. But there’s still time.

There are a few things you can do to get back on track, or at least lose a few pounds to fit into your holiday outfits.

Set realistic goals and bench marks. Setting achievable goals is a strategy for all workouts. But if you’re planning on losing some pounds by the end of the year, remember that it’s only four months away. Take a step back and evaluate what you can achieve at a healthy rate. An average of one or two pounds a week with diet and exercise is usually the norm.

Learn from the past. By looking at the first half of this year,

map out when you usually have free time and see where you can pencil in a work out. Try to recall when your energy level seemed to be up. Did you feel more productive in the evenings or early morning? Are there certain days where you may have to spend a little extra time at work? Was it really possible to do a few laps early Sunday morning after a robust Saturday night? This will help minimize procrastination and personal pitfalls.

Develop a plan. After determining when you will be working out and how much time you have, choose the intensity and frequency of your work outs The CDC states adults need muscle-strenghening activities on at least two or more days a week combined with at least two and a half hours of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, such as brisk walking every week; one hour and 15 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity such as jogging or running every week; or an equivalent mix of moderate and vigorous intensity aerobic activity.

So, mix and match to meet your lifestyle and needs.

Rekindle your motivation. Remember why you made that

New Year’s resolution all that time ago. Keep at least one of those cute outfits you’d love to be able to fit in again. Think of the health benefits. There are many ways to get you interested in fitness again. Trying new activities may also help get you excited to start working out.

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SPECIAL FEATURE

The 2013 Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Fair organizers and staff. Photo courtesy of Michelle Villacrusis of Marpac

2014 Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Fair open for the whole family

By Joy White

This year the Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies (and Daddies too) Fair returns to appreciate families and bring them the resources they need to be healthy. The fair will be held at the Multipurpose Center Building in Susupe from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event is free and open to the community; mothers, fathers, and children are welcome to attend.

The 2014 Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Fair will feature all of its signature events, plus some new activities for families. There will be government and private agencies, as well as non-profit organizations promoting healthy living and awareness. Activities included live entertainment, games, free health screenings, and free product sampling.

Families will get to show off their creativity and their little bundles of joy at the annual Huggies Baby Costume Beauty pageant.

Babies will get the chance to showcase his or her best customdiaper-made outfit. The most creative costume wins a stroller and other prizes. Babies must be of diaper-wearing age to enter.

The number of contestants is limited to 10, so enter the contests now. For more information and registration, contact Michelle Villacrusis at 234-7113 or mvillacrusis@marpacspn.com. This year, new games may be offered, including adult diaper contest and a “Name that Food� competition.

There will be an on-going raffle drawing during the fair. Purchase any of Huggies and Enfamil products at participating stores to enter for a chance to win the grand prize: a year supply of Huggies diapers and wipes or a year supply of Enfamil. Participants must be present to win.

Huggies Baby Costume Pageant Winner, Ariah Jade Carreon Villagomez. Photo courtesy of Michelle Villacrusis of Marpac

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TOURISM FEATURE

(From left) Haruo Kitami, chairman – retired; Gov. Eloy Inos; Gloria Cavanagh, general manager; Min Hi Won, former general manager; Yoshihiro Kitami, president; Sen. Pete Reyes; Takeo Kitami, vice president – retired; Naoki Kitami, president – retired; and Louie Kapileo, former assistant general manager. Photo courtesy of the Marianas Business Journal

HANMI: Building a better commonwealth Contributed by Catherine Perry

The Hotel Association of the Northern Mariana Islands represents a number of long-standing hotel investors with a proud tradition of undergirding the NMI’s tourism economy, supporting the local community, and providing gainful employment.

Kan Pacific Saipan, Ltd., doing business as Mariana Resort and Spa, is one such development. Mariana Resort & Spa was incorporated in July 1975 to operate a golf course and hotel and to engage in other activities designed to promote sports, leisure, or recreation. The family of current President Yoshihiro Kitami procured the majority shares of KPS in 1980, the same year the development opened its first ninehole course in Marpi.

“We invested before it was popular,” Kitami says, speaking of a time when the NMI’s tourism industry was just beginning. “At that time, the golfing activities at Mariana Country Club greatly assisted other major hotels in attracting tourists to Saipan.”

When Japan’s financial bubble burst in the 1990s, the Kitami family boldly answered with the construction of its Reefside Hotel in 1996 and the opening of a go-kart race track. As tourism woes continued into the 2000s, the Kitami family opened 16

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the NMI’s first spa facility in 2001, renovated and expanded the Mandi Asian Spa facility in 2004, renovated 50 original cottages into Bali style villas in 2007, and added a driving range in 2009.

Most recently, the Kitami family opened Mariana Ocean this year, producing and retailing body products made in Saipan.

Kitami says the resort is far from done with development and upgrades.

“We plan expansion of a new hotel and Food and Beverage facilities,” he says. “Our design will be very unique, using the beauty of the natural landscape.”

But for Kitami, like many long-term investors, the investment has become much more than just business.

“I have made Saipan my home for over 25 years. We are proud of our longevity and have every plan to continue our familial relationship with the NMI,” Kitami says. “I was transferred a legacy in Mariana Resort and Spa from my father and uncles.

My plans are to transfer a legacy of doing business in the CNMI as Mariana Resort and Spa to my two sons.”

For more information about HANMI member hotels visit www.saipanhotels.org.

RESTAURANT FEATURE

The staff of Isla Teppanyaki are ready to cook up perfection. (From left) Eddie Taniegra, Teppanyaki chef; Marco Parayaoan, supervisor; Bhoie Hernandes, Teppanyaki chef, and Jasmin Calilap, captain waitress.

An unforgettable experience at Isla Teppanyaki

By Joy White

No need to visit Japan for delicious teppanyaki cuisine. Isla Teppanyaki, in the Pacific Islands Club, offers an elegant dining experience for all ages and occasions. “Every meal promises a unique culinary experience that is highly entertaining for everyone to enjoy,” says PIC executive sous chef Rino Cacaida”, executive chef of Isla Teppanyaki. Guests will leave with a sense of satisfaction and a memorable dining experience that will make them want to return.

Teppanyaki derives from the Japanese words teppan, which means iron plate, and yaki, which means grilled, broiled, or pan-fried. At Isla Teppanyaki, professional chefs prepare dishes in full view, so that guests can watch as their steak, seafood, chicken, vegetables, appetizers, noodles, fired rice dishes, and more are prepared to their preference.

“Each chef brings their own sense of humor and spontaneity to the table,” Cancaida says. Guests will be amazed by 20

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the flashing of knives as their mouths water from the exotic aromas of cooking food.

Isla Teppanyaki offers a wide range of choices. “We offer a good selection from our a la carte or set menu,” Cancaida says.

Local residents with a valid CNMI resident ID receive a 20% discount from the a la carte menu. Some of Isla Teppenyaki’s popular dishes include the Live Main Lobster set menu, the Seafood on Board set, the boneless short ribs set menu, and the kids set menu.

In addition, the restaurant has a weekend Teppanyaki promotion from Friday to Sunday, which includes a featured plate of steak and seafood with a buffet of cold appetizers, salads, sushi and sashimi, freshly baked desserts and tropical flavored ice cream All ingredients are prepared daily by the chefs.

Isla Teppanyaki opened its doors in January 2014 with a

RESTAURANT FEATURE

newly built structure. The restaurant boasts a classy interior, with an island style dĂŠcor. Emphasis is focused on first class hospitality and excellent service, Cancaida says.

The restaurant can cater for a maximum of about 30 to 40 people per event. Isla Teppanyaki is ideal for celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, graduation dinners, and other special occasions, and for holding special events, such as wedding rehearsal dinners or receptions and other special events. Please contact Frances Mafnas at the banquets department at 2375014 to make a reservation at least two days in advance.

(Left) Isla Teppanyaki is located at the Pacific Islands Club. (Above) Chef Bhoi Hernandes cooks a dish with a flash of knives and utensils.

ART FEATURE

The art of heritage

Artists in traditional arts and crafts

By Catherine Perry and Joy White

Local artists are sharing their culture through selling and displaying handmade traditional arts and crafts. The pieces are small testaments to the heritage of the islands.

Pete Lemei, carver The details in Pete Lemei’s wood carvings amaze. Lemei’s signature work is wooden storyboards that depict legends. The works, which can be seen at Gallery Pacific located on Beach Road, Chalan Kanoa, are carved into the shapes of turtles and fish.

Originally from Palau, Lemei has been living in Saipan for 14 years. Some of his notable works include a carving of the CNMI quarter and a standing latte stone on kalaskas wood depicting the legend of Taga.

Lemei learned his craft from friends. His natural drawing skills aided him in building his skills as an artist. Finding good wood for carving is a challenge, Lemei says. His preferred medium is redwood.

Carving is a talent, hobby, and means of income for Lemei. Having his art on display makes him happy that people are able to see his work. “Someday I’d like to win a big prize for my work,” Lemei says.

Although his work is appreciated by the members of the public, he continues to work on developing his skill.

“I look up to master carvers, since I am still new at carving,” Lemei says.

When it comes to perpetuating the craft, Lemei says he would teach carving to anyone who would like to learn.

Dellina “Del” Reyes Lieto, traditional bead work Traditional Carolinan beadwork is Dellina “Del” Reyes Lieto’s specialty. Lieto

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Pete Lemei, shows off carving shaped like fish found in the Pacific waters at the Gallery Pacific. Photo by Catherine Perry

crafts traditional beaded necklaces and nylon stocking flowers. Lieto sells her work and often gives them to family members and friends. One of her favorite pieces was made for her cousin for his wedding. “I liked the intricate patterns and how they turned out. Most importantly, I loved seeing the look of appreciation and excitement,” Lieto says.

Lieto first displayed her beadwork alongside her mother’s in the late 1990’s. “I was just happy that people liked my beadwork and actually bought them. We made good money back then,” she recalls.

Her interest in the craft came as a surprise to her. She often watched her

grand aunt making lighatutur, which is a Carolinain (Refaluwasch) beaded necklace. One day in 1994, Lieto sat down at her great aunt’s work station and tried to figure out how the necklace was being made. “I started working on the piece she was working on. That’s when I realized that I actually liked making the necklaces. It was like working on a puzzle,” she says.

That same day she asked her sisterin-law for beads and began making a lighatutur. “I did not stop until I made one that I thought looked like the one my grand aunt was working on. . . .

The lighatutur opened the door to my interest in arts and crafts,” she says.

ART FEATURE

a bassinet is made of coconut leaves, but she used the different leaf because it lasts longer and is stronger. Her work can be seen at the Gallery Pacific in Chalan Kanoa.

Libow started weaving from a young age. She was very talented and enjoyed the work. “The first time my work was bought, I felt overjoyed. I was very young, and earning my own money was something big for me,” Libow says, with the help of translator Abel Taman.

“I enjoy starting to weave something new from scratch, and it turns out to be something more than I expected,” she says. She imports her materials from Yap. Libow hopes to be a well-known craftsperson in the community. “I’m sure a lot of people still value locally-made rather than imported,” she says. She hopes to help other craftsmen by selling her works to tourists for additional revenues to the islands.

A native of Yap, she was a culture and crafts teacher at Bael Elementary School in Yap for nine years.

Dellina “Del” Ryes Lieto’s beadwork is traditional Carolinian style.

Time and the availability of supplies on island are challenges she faces in creating her crafts, but she could not imagine living elsewhere.

In addition, she must balance her other job. On top of doing her beadwork, Lieto is also a baker; she designs and makes cakes. “It is really hard being both actually — most especially if I have baking to do and bead-work on the side.

Like I said, Time is the biggest challenge. I usually prioritize what is needed immediately.”

Lieto resides in Koblerville with her six sons and her husband Lee Lieto.

Madlina Ligow, weaving Weaving is a traditional craft that is widely associated with the islands. Madlina Ligow is a weaver. Her work includes baskets, and hats, to name a few. Each has a unique style , size and design. Her most recent work is a bassinet made of pandanus leaves. Usually,

Madlina Ligow displays her weaving at the Gallery Pacific. Photo by Catherine Perry.

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AGRICULTURE

Saipan Farmers Association shows of their produce at the Sabalu Market in May 2014. Photo courtesy of Saipan Farmers Association

Tuesday and Saturday Farmer Market produce pesticide free

By Joy White

Whether you are craving local squash soup with chicken, or grilled local eggplant with fresh Kangkong, you could rest easy knowing the produce that farmers at the Tuesday and Saturday markets offer are pesticide free.

This is thanks to the Department of Lands and Natural Resources, Bureau of Environmental and Coastal Quality, and Bureau of Environmental Health who have begun their initiative to test locally grown produce in Saipan, Tinian and Rota for the purpose of instilling consumer confidence in locally grown produce and promoting the consumption of fruits and vegetables.

The initiative is known as “Eating Healthy is Living Healthy” and its main purpose is to educate vendors and consumers about the safe use of pesticides in local produce. A team of key staff members have been trained to conduct the test for chemical or pesticide residue on fruits and vegetables by using an onsite field test kit. And so far, all the produce tested at the 24

SEPTEMBER 2014

markets are pesticide free or contain no pesticide residue.

“This is great news for us and it shows that our local farmers are working to provide the best fresh produce without the harmful chemicals,” says manager Reina Camacho, pesticide manager of BECQ. Pesticides and herbicides are intended to impair the reproductive system, breathing and brain functions of pests and insects and unregulated exposure could be harmful to people, especially children and infants. The onsite test provides a quick response to confirm or eliminate the presence of chemicals or pesticides on the tested produce.

“This test is strictly a fact-finding endeavour to identify the current pesticide usage and pesticide residue level. The focus and intent is to raise awareness about the safe use of pesticides in local agriculture,” Camacho says.

“Our local vendors have been cooperating in these field

AGRICULTURE

tests and the goals of this initiative are to assure the community that locally grown fruits and vegetables are safe commodities, promote the sales of participating vendors and to foster a healthier CNMI,” she said.

The local farms tested so far are Acho’s Gualo, Triple J Enterprises, William Ada Farm, Greg Calvo’s Farm, Saipan Farm & Garden, Rose’s Farm, Greenlife Local Fresh Produce, Camia Garden, R/D Enterprises, Guerrero’s Farm Produce, Jess Multi-Farms, KET/ Roberto Farm, Lizama Farm, YAS Farm and Frank Castro Farm.

“If there is residue, the farm or business will be asked to take a pesticide handling course,” Camacho says.

For more information on the “Eating Healthy is Living Healthy” campaign, please call 664-8500 or visit http://www. deq.gov.mp/sec.asp?secID=38 under Special Project: Pesticide Residue Testing.

“...it shows that our local farmers are working to provide the best fresh produce without the harmful chemicals” ~ Reina Camacho Pesticide manager, BECQ Local farmers produce a wide variety of produce. Photo by BRM

Eating Healthy is Living Healthy!

Locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables in our Tuesday and Saturday Farmers’ Markets are

pesticide free!

Our certified pesticide inspectors have tested locally grown produce in the two weekly farmers’ markets for the purpose of instilling consumers with the confidence in locally grown, pesticide-free produce and promoting the consumption of fruits and vegetables!

Tips to Clean Fresh Fruits and Vegetables • Wash your hands for 20 seconds with warm water and soap before and after preparing fresh produce.

• Cut away any damaged or bruised areas.

• Gently rub produce while holding it under plain running water.

• Wash produce before you peel it.

• Use a clean vegetable brush to scrub firm produce.

• Dry produce with a clean cloth or paper towel.

• Throw away the outermost leaves of a head of lettuce, cabbage or leafy greens.

Support your local farmers and buy fresh vegetables and fruits today!

For more information,

call 256-3319.

SEPTEMBER 2014

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ON THE ROAD

Carol Cabanas at Bansai Cliff last August 12.

Mildred Pabilando and Kenneth Quemado provide courteous service with a smile to shoppers at San Jose Mart on Aug. 15.

Mount Carmel School Theatre Club’s Kids Drama Camp presented its production, “Shakespeare Meets Disney” July 21 at the Pacific Island’s Club Charley’s Cabaret

The production was possible through a CNMI Department of Community and Cultural Affairs (DCCA) Child Care and Development Fund. (Clockwise from top) The Cast of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” gather to sing “Can You Feel the Love Tonight”; (From left) Ophelia, played by Mikaehla Mendoza, suffers from insanity as her sister, Lareta , played by Tiffany Reyes; King Claudius, played by Ivan Sitchon; and Queen Gertrude, played by Ranasia Bocago, look on; Titania, Queen of the Fairies, played by Talia Bocaco, argues with Oberon, King of the Fairies, played by William Blake Deleon Guerrero, as fairies look on; Fortinbras, played by Oscar Buenaflor, conquers Denmark at the conclusion of the play SEPTEMBER 2014

27

ON THE ROAD

2014 High School Summer Course on Marine Fisheries & Resources in the CNMI Photos by Rose T. Hocog, program coordinator

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SEPTEMBER 2014

ON THE ROAD

Tito Hocog III will turn 11 years old on September 29. Happy birthday wishes from Mom Rose, Dad Derek and the whole family.

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SEPTEMBER 2014

(From left) Local musicians Canice Rabauliman and Ben Ayuyu, better known as Dos Amigos on May 14. They are regular performers at the Sabalu Market in Susupe, Saipan. Photo by BRM.

ON THE ROAD

The Class of 1994 Mount Carmel Alum-Knights visited the school campus to view the progress of the monkey bar installation. This project is part of the MCS playground expansion project and the Class of 1994’s commitment to give back to the school. Contributed photo.

Wishing a happy birthday to the energetic Ms. Annamae Adaza, U.F.O. president, who celebrated her birthday on Aug. 23rd. Love, Tita Minda and all your friends from the United Filipino Organization CNMI. Also shown in photo is her daughter Ramhae.

Eating Healthy is Living Healthy!

Locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables in our Tuesday and Saturday Farmers’ Markets are pesticide free!

Our certified pesticide inspectors have tested locally grown produce in the two weekly farmers’ markets for the purpose of instilling consumers with the confidence in locally grown, pesticide-free produce and promoting the consumption of fruits and vegetables!

Support your local farmers and buy fresh vegetables and fruits today!

For more information,

call 256-3319.

Tips to Clean Fresh Fruits and Vegetables • Wash your hands for 20 seconds with warm water and soap before and after preparing fresh produce.

• Cut away any damaged or bruised areas.

• Gently rub produce while holding it under plain running water.

• Wash produce before you peel it.

• Use a clean vegetable brush to scrub firm produce.

• Dry produce with a clean cloth or paper towel.

• Throw away the outermost leaves of a head of lettuce, cabbage or leafy greens.

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