Vol. 3 Issue No. 1
food guide on island
nside:
6
Sustainable Solutions
11
Captain’s Log
14
Saving Retirement Fund No Easy Task
16
Picnic Table Discussion
Spicy Squid
Charcoal BBQ - CNMI Local BBQ Taste
You can’t have
just one, that good! it’s just
CNMI Local BBQ Taste
Beef Fingers
Lumpia
Baby Back Ribs
nside
H ghlights Marriages: CNMI Chapter Worldwide Marriage Encounter
Wayne Pangelinan Publisher
Contributing Writers Ray Austin
Niño M. Flores Graphic Designer
Editorial Office Chalan Piao, Saipan P.O. Box 503674 CK Saipan, MP 96950, CNMI, USA
Donna Liwag Rivera Executive Marketing Manager
Tops+More is a reading/information resource published by Bison Relations. Our office is located in Chalan Piao with mailing address at P.O. Box 503674 CK. For customer service, advertising rates and other inquiries email at bisonrelations@gmail.com or call (670) 989.6505/989.6550. Articles, manuscripts, photographs and other information published herein are property of Tops+More Magazine and or with permission of the writer/ author. We are online and search us on:
Tops+More http://www.issuu.com/topsmagazine/docs/tops_plus_more
A Marriage in its first few years is known to be the honeymoon period. After the honeymoon is over, reality kicks into high gear and stress from finances, children, work, family and more start to kick in. Most couples move into a state of complacency, forgetting about much needed couple time.
1
Building Opportunities One Week at a Time
Coconut-Tei Restaurant
2
Lobster
sashimi
Korean Food on Saipan seafood
Lunch
Everyday 8:30 am - 2:00 pm Free delivery in Morning and Lunch time (Garapan area only)
Dinner
Set menu comes
with miso soup, ice tea, 2 side dishes ast order 9:30
10:00pm (L ay 5:00pm -
Everyd
For order call: Tel. No.: 670-234-3923 1
Faces examining showcases of food, laughter, smiles, loud voices competing against lively heart pumping music bringing life to an overwhelming amass of people.
Tops + MORE October 2013
steak
pm)
Although hundreds of miles away from major destinations, Saipan possesses authentic foods from around the world. Its decadent flavors come mainly from Asian countries but if you look carefully, that’s not all you’ll find. Italian, European, Russian and American tastes can also be found in Saipan’s 14-mile stretch.
17
Lemon Chicken
Marriages: CNMI Chapter Worldwide Marriage Encounter A Marriage in its first few years is known to be the honeymoon period. After the honeymoon is over, reality kicks into high gear and stress from finances, children, work, family and more start to kick in. Most couples move into a state of complacency, forgetting about much needed couple time. The CNMI Marriage Encounter, through its religious movement sees the importance of the sacrament and for years has built programs to enhance couple power throughout the island. Hundreds upon hundreds of couples have been or are still very active with Marriage Encounter. A community that gathers to express the values of marriage while continuously learning communication skills to strengthen, reignite and build upon love that will last a lifetime is what M.E. is all about. By no means are the people behind M.E. marriage counselors. They simply are your day-to-day couples who go through the same ordeals as anyone in long term relationships. The difference is they speak a language that is designed to build and not tear down. They take the tools from the Weekend home and use them to strengthen their lives. This language is available to any married couple that wishes to experience the glorifying love of the Lord Jesus Christ that is shared in marriage.
marriage encounter marriage encounter
Each year, the CNMI chapter of Worldwide Marriage Encounter hosts two weekends. The upcoming weekend is slated for November 8-10, 2013 at the Mariana Resort. For interested couples, getting in to the magical weekend is simple. Contact the coordinators or co-coordinators of the weekend, they are Joe and Reyna Saures at reynasaures@ gmail.com, via cel at (670) 483-4646 or Jay and Joyce Santos at jjamdsantos@gmail.com , via cel at (670) 287-1209. Turn your good marriage into a great marriage by simply taking the first step. Get into the weekend and experience what many have been saying about CNMI Marriage Encounter.
Tops + MORE october 2013
2
Garapan Street Market (GSM)
Building Opportunities One Week at a Time
F
aces examining showcases of food, laughter, smiles, loud voices competing against lively heart pumping music bringing life to an overwhelming amass of people. A hodgepodge of diversity, a culmination of ethnicities sharing a common bond of great foods, flavor and camaraderie all make up the Garapan Street Market!
GSM appeals to the senses. A vibrant and energized atmosphere, colorful with all walks of life found on island, it’s patrons slide in and out of lines, eyes roaming and glittery from the reflection of lights, beaming with excitement. Children tugging and pulling family members to whatever catches their attention. Scent of foods - sweet, sour, tart, tangy - the variety builds the GSM festivities in magnificence to that comes once a week on Saipan. Grilling and frying, the aroma of flavorful delights from corner to corner, lights and entertainment keep the Garapan Street Market (GSM) as if the July 4th celebration never ended. Music, food and dance bring the Thursdays night experience fun-filled and fulfilling for families and visitors alike.
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Tops + MORE October 2013
For many years the GSM has become the pinnacle of weekday activity on Saipan. Developed at first by the Marianas Visitors Authority to enhance presence and awareness of culture and food, it has now evolved into a food and entertainment extravaganza, operated and organized by the Department of Community and Cultural Affairs – Commonwealth Council for Arts and Culture. The tourism industry benefits from these events as businesses have the pedestal to showcase their foods, drink concoctions, other local delights and pastries making the GSM a premiere outlet for great tasting tourists and family oriented exhibits each week. Angel Songao Hocog, Executive Director the Commonwealth Council for Arts and Culture, the agency heading and managing the Garapan Street Market has this to say, “As of today, we have a total of 49 vendors, 31 in the food category and 18 in the non-food.” He also adds, “CCAC envisions an expansion plan to consider operating twice weekly to accommodate the surge of tourist arrivals having each guest have the chance to see and experience the Street Market. In the years to come under the management of CCAC, they
revenues for the islands. Our dream is to have GSM grow exponentially and accommodate our neighboring islands.” “With schools opened, we will be extending invitations for interested schools (public and private) to utilize the GSM as grounds for their fundraising activities,” he adds. While GSM is a venue for commerce in dealings with both locals and tourist, it also encapsulates a venue for gatherings – family and friends – to share an evening. Executive Director expresses his appreciation. “My sincere appreciation to our vendors especially those that had been with the GSM since day one and of course without our community GSM would have not been this successful. To Secretary Ogumoro thank you for giving CCAC the opportunity to oversee and lead this event. Also, to all the GSM Staff, thank you for your dedication and countless effort! Keep up the good work! Thank you CNMI!”
hope to have a line up where vendors, artists, cultural performing talents from Tinian and Rota can participate. A plan to incorporate more local arts and crafts to the scene is being assessed allowing artists to display and sell their items in the business arena.” GSM is one of the governments income generating projects that has proven successful over the years. With CCAC at the helm to making it better, bigger and more exciting, the efforts to bringing GSM to new heights is in constant review. From professional service staff of DCCA and CCAC, the impact of their presence ensures control and cleanliness of the surroundings. They too monitor the entrepreneurs by ensuring all health related licenses are abided with. Partnering with the Commonwealth Health Corporation divisions on sanitation and food handling, patrons can expect that each establishment at the GSM are compliant. Hocog adds, “We at CCAC would like to see this event flourish to its maximum potential and be a contributing activity to government Tops + MORE october 2013
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Local Business:
F
Pacific Air Condition & Auto
or almost two decades, Pacific Air Condition and Auto has been providing quality services on island. It is locally owned and operated by Gonzalo “Freon Man” Pangelinan. Pangelinan maintains his business by providing excellent services and communication with his clients. Pangelinan offers his support and services to Tinian as well when called upon. Recently, Pangelinan started offering auto mechanical services at his shop in Gualo Rai. From common wear and tear on brakes, cooling systems, or simply maintaining your ride to be efficient, Pacific Air Conditioning and Auto is a one-stop shop. At first it was keeping the island cool with air conditioning sales, technical support and services on homes, businesses and auto units. Today he expanded opportunities to include mechanical services for cars and trucks of all makes, models and sizes. Their business base has grown, but the cost of doing business on island remains a challenge. Even with high
$38.99* 5 quarts of conventional Motor oil and oil filter
* Add $3.50 for oil disposal fee.
utility rates coupled with high shipping charges, Pangelinan still tries to provide their best services and cost to their clients making them a valuable customer oriented shop on island for all your cooling and auto mechanical needs. While expanding on services, Pangelinan sees a busier environment for his people. Christopher, Pangelinan’s brother, joined him a few years back as a tech mechanic. His vast experience in auto mechanics and AC refrigeration as well his friendly customer service has garnered more clients with Pacific Air Condition and Auto. “We offer auto mechanical works with a 28 point inspection on preventive maintenance ensuring proper fuel consumption, lengthening life span of vehicle and reducing long term effects of repair,” states Christopher. Anthony Arriola and Juni Pasturan along with many others make the team seen around island providing excellent services in homes and businesses and government establishments. Give Pacific Air Conditioning and Auto a call and let them get you feeling cool all day, everyday!
Tel. No.:
234-9267 Also available
2 Part Oil Change
Motor craft, exact fit or napa wiper blades
Pacific auto Gualo Rai, Saipan
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Tops + MORE October 2013
Free installation of wiper blades
Sustainable
Solutions by: Ray Austin
W
hen the going gets tough, the tough get going! Sustainability is the capacity to endure. Is the CNMI and the world able to endure the difficulties that come with a growing population that lacks employment for every available person? Not Yet But, with sustainable programs and projects, a growing economy means everyone here will have opportunities to gain a better quality of life. This can be achieved with the cooperation of government agencies, corporate and business management, families and individuals that strive to find sustainable solutions to growing difficulties. If our goals were to get to and stay the center of the diagram below, it would help guarantee long-term sustainable profit growth. Let’s take sustainable decision making more seriously because our survival in difficult times will depend on it. Some of the world’s natural recourses are being exhausted with growing world populations; this means the forces of supply and demand are pushing us to seek ways to rebound. If we do not seek sustainable solutions, more people in the world without jobs, without food or clean water will die; it’s as simple as that. With sustainable solutions, we know how to fix poverty the right way and we know how to help grow the economy the right way as well. So let us get off our behind CNMI, and become one of the leaders and innovators of sustainable solutions, and reap in the benefits at the same time. Food Sustainability: Our CNMI Islands is the perfect place for aquaculture and aquaponics fresh and salt water projects provided we would have a clean water supplies. Thanks to a team of pioneers involving NMC, our governments and local businessmen, the CNMI is off to a great start, but much work is yet to be done in the areas of salt water fish farming, more inland fresh water fish farming and agriculture / aquaponics projects. Several locations in the CNMI have started sustainable aquaponics/aquaculture projects that have successfully started to export products. The CNMI is also a great place to further develop ocean fisheries and aquaculture businesses to help supply our own food, the tourism industries food, and export items at the same time. The sales revenue is waiting for anyone who
is able to get these projects off the ground. The information required is almost free and starts up costs are relatively low. Ongoing costs, except for labor, can be low as well. Business Sustainability in my opinion is more than just going green. It helps companies manage risks and identifies new business opportunities by replacing non-green items. Businesses benefit from healthy communities, create value for customers, investors, and the environment. A sustainable business must meet customer needs while, at the same time, treating the environment well. Sustainable business can be a powerful force for positive changes in the world. Firms around the world are undertaking measures to improve their environmental and social practices—and, in doing so, many are reaping economic benefits. These firms go far beyond meeting legal requirements, by undertaking voluntary initiatives to improve social and environmental conditions that have a long-term impact. With the Principles for Responsible Investment, we have the clearest of signals…that environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations have to be part of mainstream business and investment.” (Source: Achim Steiner, United Nations Environment Program Executive Director) Research also shows that should an employee have a choice, they prefer to work for sustainable businesses over non-sustainable businesses. Residential Sustainability is an area where I do my best to practice what I preach. I have started an aquaponics project to grow my own fish and vegetables that allow personal food cost to shrink. I am working on restarting a small farm using fish and rain water supplies. September of this year, I must have had over 5000 gallons of water coming off of my roof as a water supply. I enjoy the fruit trees on the property to make my beverages and a source of desert snacks as well. With help from the energy office, I had my roof painted and no longer need an air conditioner or even a fan running at certain times. I plan to use natural pest control methods with neem trees and corn meal. There are multiple uses for lemon juice and vinegar. You can even unclog your drains with vinegar mixed with baking soda and hot water. I plan on cutting electrical costs further by using batteries and a power inverter along with being able to make my own solar panels and water generators. I do enjoy learning about sustainable solutions, even if a certain person laughs at me and my sustainable plans, but guess what; I am the one supporting that person and the rest of my family. We can go on and on about sustainable solutions, new sustainable inventions, having the poor feed themselves, and helping to fix individual, community and national economies, but the internet is full of free information and online / local education is available for a people to pursue the subject. I hope that this article will have encouraged you to do the right thing, keep going green and profit from it. The future of the world and the next generation is increasingly becoming dependent on you and your encouragement in pushing for more sustainable solutions. Tops + MORE october 2013
6
FREE ON-SITE SAFETY AND HEALTH CONSULTATION SERVICES FOR SMALL BUSINESS Serving the Small Business Community CNMI-OSHA provides free and confidential safety and health advice to small and sized businesses committed to improving workplace safety and health.
Hey Parents, Remember, you are “REQUIRED BY LAW� to have your child vaccinated against vaccine preventable diseases prior to enrolling your child in any daycare facility or school in the CNMI. Here are some things to do with your back to school activities: 1. Make sure your child is up to date with all required shots. 2. Obtain a Health Certificate. 3. And you have met the health requirement for enrollment & you have one of these as proof:
1+1=2 We love our children. We want them to enjoy playing with their friends at the park; swimming at our beautiful beach or just hang out with their friends. So Parents, the best we could do is to protect them from crippling and deadly diseases and give them a “shot” at a healthy, productive and enjoyable future. Let our kids be kids... Bee wise..Immunize
FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT CHCC’S IMMUNIZATION CLINIC
ON SAIPAN AT 236-8745/8780/8781/8734, ON TINIAN AT 433-9233, AND ON ROTA AT 532-8700. NO APPOINTMENT IS NECESSARY.
Captain’s Log
O
ne would have to give utmost respect to fishermen. Bringing to shore their catch from out in the deep blue is no easy task. It is dangerous and risky, but it is a profession taken for granted in most cases. Let me explain as my story is written with true experiences.
I started picking up fishing as my newfound passion, hobby if you will, to stave off the stress of everyday life. I shared many exciting points and views about past fishing expeditions with my grandfather and father. Those were great memories only because I left the thinking to them. Today, the skills I learned in my past are put to the test. Reality is, I feel like the character Tom Hanks played as Forest Gump. I’ve been out and about as much as I willed and sometimes spent hours with nothing to show for it. It reminds me of the scene where Forrest Gump had just purchased his shrimp boat and would go out and come home with rubbish in nets, but in my case, I come up empty handed and rightly so as friends-fishermen- tell me its spawning season now so it is quite difficult to catch fish and in particular Wahoo, Tuna and Mahi Mahi (July and August). Feeling uneasy from the empty-handedness, I plot my next attempt. Looking at coordinates, tides, water temperature and weather all play a role in my decision to go out again. I spoke to various experienced fishermen. Soaking up pointers from super lures, baits, hook sizes, types of colored squids or island lures with coconut leaves, feathers, or get a shiny metal and don’t forget presentation. That list of pointers can go on and on. There is one advice that was given by most of whom I spoke to. It was “You just have to go out and try it. You will eventually learn in the process.” This was the most profound advice given to me by Judge Alex Castro. Thank you Judge! I am determined and want to learn in order to make this new experience a worthwhile venture, but there it was, not once, not twice, but several more times...my Forest Gump experience. I felt down. My feelings of joy withering like a plant malnourished as I see an empty cooler and bags of ice unopened yet melting away as time passes. Wondering whether its my lures or wait is it the water temperature? Is it my location? Is it my timing? Hmm. I continue to wonder. Recorded in the captain’s log of memories was another day of trying. Trying to capture a flood of fish in hopes to bring back glorious tales of the fight, the fight against nature and the relentless waves
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Tops + MORE October 2013
and their pounding against the boat, the fight to save my skin from burning, intense heat from the blazing sun, its piercing rays from above and below reflecting from the water, a fight all day long and yet glorified with a catch I can be proud of. Unfortunately, this is something you can’t avoid. The wind, it feels good as it blows, and while doing so it brings waves and more waves. The rain. Hitting like bullets when traveling at trolling speed between 9-14mph depending on how far your lines are placed in the water. Hiding behind the plexi-glass pane windshield to avoid getting hit by large collated water drops breaking on your face. Wiping off water from your sunglasses to see how the water is changing form as fast as the wind blows. Drenched in cold fresh rain is truly invigorating on a hot sunny day, even for that moment. A refreshing moment right before the burning rays of the Greek sun God Apollo make it’s presence known again. I’m out miles and miles on international water. Saipan, Tinian and Aguiguan are nothing more than silhouettes at this point, almost a shade of dark mist on the horizon. From this angle you know you
are far away. Hitting what they (fishermen) call 300. A reef many fathoms deep. Fish galore at its depth, but without an electric motorized reel my arms would give out if trying to reel manually if I was to go bottom fishing. I’ve got almost 900 yards on my reels, and even letting out a few hundred yards is a challenge to reel back in. The end result is look for schools of birds. Here we go, Tuna chasing it is. Low and behold, a congregation of sea birds feeding on the pond. Straight away we rev up and fight our way to its location. Engine noise revving, music on the radio playing island tunes, we are geared up and heading at faster speeds. I Communicate with my crew of 3 and state words of command. “Hold on! Prep our tuna lures! Presentation boys...” our voices louder than the engine, louder than the music playing, we were psyched, focused and eager to make a good catch. Splash after splash the boat skids through the water to get to the school of birds feeding. The view seen with so many birds in flight shade the sky they hovered over. A great big school on a feeding frenzy and we are heading straight there. “Hold the lines boys! Out off their cleats, get ready...” a shout from behind “whoah! We got one!” Pulling it in, the other line goes, the reel goes and continuously and harmoniously one after the other. This is exciting! We are not coming in zero today! This was a catch I was satisfied with. The effort, the thought process, the preparation and cost involved to fishing is work in itself. A tough one I might add. From experience I throw my hat off to all fisherman. Fishing by coolers on the side of the road is convenient while fishing for yourself in the deep blue pond not so, but the reward for doing it is validation that you now have just become one of them, a fisherman. Today, I go bottom, trolling, inside reef fishing and I have to admit, it pays off. Hats off to all fishermen in our Commonwealth!
29th Annual Fishing Derby the elusive Marlin experience. My crew prepped and consulted with many fishermen prior to the derby weekend. Prepped lures and had the prize on mind. It was nothing short of the 10k pipe dream but more on getting our name on the board. Eager to place I believe we the inexperienced team had much more to show for, but lost out to the pond. Yes, we did hook up a Marlin. But lost it just as fast as when we caught it due to error. Our inexperience of fishing for the elusive and magnificent Marlin had us lose our only hook up in the two full days of the derby. Back on land we told our story when asked how did we do. Right away the experienced guys said “Ah, you slowed the boat down huh?” As embarrassing as the way it was said, as in, “we should have known better,” we accepted fault to our own lost. I guess when you really look at it, now we know what we need to do come that day we hook up another on derby day or non-derby day. Great experience in fishing is not measured by the results of how many fish caught, but that of what was gained in knowledge and skill. This is how I look at it now. And with more days out there I will expect to one day memorialize our lost of the elusive one with a catch to solidify and validate our skills as young fishermen. When out fishing in the deep blue pond, always prioritize safety over anything else as told to us by many. We do not take for granted the beautiful pond as it can change just as fast. Note taken and we will remember that safety always comes first. With the derby and coming in with zero, we did win, a win with an experience you cannot fathom. Now we can say we are a part of a group that has competed win or lose. I am grateful for doing this as I would believe my crew as well would agree – Christopher Pangelinan and Louie Guerrero. Tops + MORE october 2013
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d o o F quet ban
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roo
every
monday to saturday
Open from Monday to Saturday
5:00 pm-12:00 am
Good Food. Good Friends. Good Time.
Sales • Repairs • parts • Services
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TM Refrigeration & Airconditioning Services P.O. Box 502712, Saipan, MP 96950 Tel. No. 670-235-1418 • Cell. No. 670-287-1112 (Mario) 670-989-6505 (Wayne) A Bison Relations Affiliate Company
S avi
ng R
C
etire m
ongressman Mariano Taitano (Ind-R Saipan) speaks with Tops + More on issues facing the retirement Fund and how he views what he thinks would save the retirement fund. While his views are his to state, Tops + More appreciates his comments on the issue. While the community may or may not disagree, his intentions clearly state his motive to save the Retirement Fund. Tops + More requested from Congressman Taitano what was he and his colleagues doing to address the Retirement Fund demise. He stated that he (Taitano) had hopes that HB 18-45, the Casino Bill would pass. Saipan Chamber of Commerce voted against the bill indicating a 69 percent rejection and a 29 percent approval from the same poll. The CNMI community in a decade has voted against having Casinos on Saipan. The Saipan Chamber, Comprised of about 160 business members strongly advocate their voice on the bill seeing it a negative effect for the island, but have also voted in higher favor of the electronic gaming in hotels on Saipan with 41percent in their online survey conducted this year for HB-51. HB 18-51 acts on legalizing electronic gaming machines in hotels. The session version of HB-51 in discussion stated a raise on fees for each gaming machine from $2,500 to $10,000 or 10 percent of net proceeds
ent F
und
k s a
t y
No
s a e
or whichever is greater will be paid in one installment. Senator Pete Reyes addressed the fees as too high. He expressed that for any investor, the fees are too high initially when income is not generated and adds that a $5,000 fee may be more appropriate. He states, “It saddles the investors with huge license fees before generating any money.” From these revenue-generating bills, Congressman Taitano stated that about $20M is included in the package for the Retirement Fund. However, as the bill passed the Senate, an amendment to the allocation of expected generated revenue is broken down to accommodate budget needs of the Commonwealth. The Senates version passed down to the House indicated electronic gaming revenues would restore 25 percent towards pension deferment, 15 percent to the defined benefit plan interest and 5 percent each to Tinian and Rota. Another means of saving the Retirement Fund Taitano says, is the Pension Obligation Bond or POB as it is known. The POB would float funds primarily for the Retirement Fund the amount of $50M to $70M. “The POB that the Governor signed in to law is currently in process of getting a bond counsel on board to assist the CNMI government float the $50M to $70M bond which will be used for the Retirement Fund. The Commonwealth Development Authority is working on the process,” he adds.
Other measures Congressman Taitano seeks to address this issue are trimming down of retirement benefits. These may not be favorable initiatives for his re-election, but as businesses look to trim fat, the government or in this case the Retirement Fund must do the same as well. Taitano expresses that he is working on bills to trim excessive drain on Retirement Funds. He says, “to cease allowance of surviving child(ren) benefits for legally adopted child(ren). There is prevalent abuse in this type of benefit. Additionally even those receiving disability retirement annuity, abuse is seen too.” He adds, “On December 5, 2003 pursuant to Public Law 13-60 1 CMC Section 8341(f) of the Retirement Act was repealed. Prior to it being repealed, it allows granting of retirement benefits for those who had served in government boards or commissions for 10 years and becoming 62 years of age without contributing a penny into the system are eligible to receive benefits.” The Public Law continues to drain resources and Congressman Taitano will be clarifying this in his bill. As a lawmaker, he is devoting his time and resources towards finding alternative measures that cold cost him his re-election, but sees it prudent to do so now to address the hemorrhaging at the Retirement Fund.
Tops + MORE october 2013
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Birth-12 months
1-3
years
4-7
years
8-12
years
The Click It or Ticket campaign combines the efforts of the CNMI Department of Public Safety on Saipan, Tinian and Rota, Highway Safety Office, (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Motor Carrier Safety Assistant Program (MCSAP). For more information contact DPS.
Everyone in the CNMI must do their part to make travelling on our highways and roads safer.
www.dps.gov.mp Saipan 664-9001/9122/9125 • Rota 532-9433/9530 •Tinian 433-9222/2041
Picnic table discussion
M
Governor Eloy Inos
Senate Pres. Ralph Torres
ost ideas, suggestions and plans about our island politics can be heard at most gatherings on picnic tables. Shared discussions stream from newscasts or the daily papers. People gather, each with their own perspective and opinion on subjects making headlines and island politics never fails to surface. Table talks revolve around current politicians, what is being done by the elected and who is expected to run. The gubernatorial election is coming up in 2014 and talks have begun. Interested hopefuls seeking re-election or to be granted an opportunity to be seated are being discussed and favored individuals can be heard on the tables from patrons. Our picnic table dialogs express and depict how the election may take place. The gimmick, the public relation activities, events, fundraisers, the high times of getting exposed in the papers, magazines, online polls, online newsletters and television ads will soon start. Incumbents will find themselves scrutinized by the media on what they are doing for the people. A report card for each of the elected incumbents needs to be seen, but how will this come through? Each voter will decipher what they have seen over the years for themselves, as today’s voters are not so determined to follow party affiliations, but that of their own conscience making their voice, their vote, count for the change demanded of the government. Elections in our Commonwealth begin with announcement of candidates from supporters. Friends and family start with endorsing who they want in their respective precincts and their choice of who’s who for the CNMI’s top spot. Islands politics, the holocaust of bittersweet party affiliations with families and staunch supporters seeking the election bid of their favored politicians and at times taking to extremes by mudslinging. For now as the Saipan Tribune reported on its September 27th edition indicated the “This is IT! Inos/Torres for 2014” (Eloy Inos and Ralph Torres) and on the same issue the Heinz Hofschneider and possible Diego Benavente for Independent. The Democrats have yet to announce their hopefuls. Career politicians as they are described seek the privilege of serving as elected public officials once again and may have another go at serving at the will of the people. Our people have spoken when they ousted then Governor Fitial. This historical feat has got all elected officials accountable for their actions. It is no surprise that all elected officials walk a fine line. Yes, people are watching. They are scrutinizing everyone’s movement or non-movement for that matter. And while campaign parties start to organize, they are starting with their plans and ideal platforms as well other potential candidates that
Heinz Hofschneider
Diego Benavente
will enhance their party chances. Picnic table discussions talk about who they feel would best fit the political arena. Sure names thrown into discussions, but no commitments. A discussion rallying support and outburst of laughs and points of each individual keep discussions at all focus. Our gubernatorial election is the pinnacle democratic privilege. A drama filled with action, a soap opera played each day until the wee hours of morning tabulations. Individuals seeking seats in the elections may see a dramatic change in the way our voters vote. Past history has shown voters are no longer yielded by promises, but seek change. Change where our island nation is progressing with economic stability. Health care, education, safety are of grave concern in the Commonwealth and yet the challenges faced with each issue boils down to the funds available. The current issue plaguing the CNMI at present day is the Retirement Fund. Will it be saved? If so, how? How will $40M in legal fees be a thing of the past and not at the mercy of the government resources and its retirees? Tough times for sure and many express their disappointment as well their surprise of this outrageous claim of legal fees. The CNMI government is facing a total budget of 123.4 million for fy 2014. Will this be enough? Will public service improve given circumstances that each employee will now have to be more efficient and multi task? More picnic table discussions go in depth with the CNMI budget, but with no answers, there are still questions that people want answers to. Can this budget all the pet projects, CIP funds, etcetera, and be sufficient to bail out our islands from its sluggish economy? In Tourism, are we competing globally? The only economic generator for the CNMI that has insufficient funds to compete on global scale needs to be rethought. While neighboring island Guam continues to grow larger, the CNMI needs to step up and this requires funds. It is tough enough to stay ahead with constant competition and promotions for tourism cost money! We all know that by strengthening our islands economy through tourism we can avail of funds to cover related cost to health, safety, education and more. So why do our elected officials reduce, take away, or keep status quo funds that are desperately needed for the island economy to build with tourism? Picnic table talks are now of the gubernatorial elections. And with aspirations for new candidates and incumbents seeking their place, it all comes down to how well you’ve reached the picnic table discussions. Pull up your sleeves and get ready to work as the people today want no less, but more of each elected person in position. Good luck to all! Tops + MORE october 2013
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Honey Wallnut Shrimp
lbi
Beef Ka
Korean Food on
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Tops + MORE October 2013
Saipan
A
lthough hundreds of miles away from major destinations, Saipan possesses authentic foods from around the world. Its decadent flavors come mainly from Asian countries but if you look carefully, that’s not all you’ll find. Italian, European, Russian and American tastes can also be found in Saipan’s 14-mile stretch. It’s a flavorful island, if you think about it. From Japanese, Thailand, Chinese and Korean cuisines to local mouthwatering rich and exquisite delicacies to savory American burgers and soups of traditional Russia such as borscht give the island a taste of the world. Thinking of foods to satisfy your craving? Most eating establishments are located close by each other in Garapan or Susupe. Simply driving on beach road there really are countless establishments usually open from 10am to 2pm and again for dinner from 5pm to 10pm while a few offer the 24-hour dining experience of local Chamorro and Filipino style dishes. So I start my own adventure. I guess it would be what I feel like having. Let’s look at savory and spicy Korean dishes. You can avail of many Korean restaurants. Korean pork barbecue ( Sam gyeop sal), bibimbap (korean fried rice), and sen kalbi (un marinated short ribs). But for this issue I’ll mention Yummy Land in Chalan Kanoa and Chung Ji in Garapan. Considering the variety of both restaurants I would do lunch at Yummy Land and take my already spiced palate further to Chung Ji for dinner. Yummy Land, fusion Korean dishes, reasonably priced and it’s good portion size gets you through the day. Korean kimchee, kimchee base, other condiments complimenting its dishes culminating sweet, spicy, tart, and sour all popping in your mouth with each bite. My order for today was the spicy squid. Funny, I found myself counting how many pieces of squid I found on my plate. 7-9 pieces is the usual portion. Let alone the cabbage added with a spicy sauce made it great for mixing up a plate of flavors I was ready to indulge in. The Korean owner brings my dish and with a smile and a voice of welcoming service, enthusiastically she says, “the sauce is spicy, but mixing it with your rice will make this very special.” I agree. I enjoy the “pika-ness” (pika – Spicy hot in Chamorro) of foods. The hotter it is, the better it tastes. As I mix it up, steam carries the scent in the air. Smelling the pungent spices, my ears begin to tingle. Yummy Land is what some would consider a hole in the wall, but after eating there myself, it is a definite contender for my lunch appetite. I pick up a spoonful of mixed rice, squid and cabbage with its red bright spicy sauce. I blow on it to cool its steam. Alright, here I go, the countdown begins, 3,2… 1! Korean spices engulf my palate. A sure pop of grainy peppers marinating in the steamed cabbage and hints of garlic and kimchee base attack my senses. This dish surely does give off an acidic aroma. A great tasting dish for that quick lunch on the go, yet filling. Dinner arrives and as promised I stuck with the Korean theme. I’m heading to Chung Ji. I know what I want and I’ll try and describe in detail in hopes you’d follow me on my Korean food journey. It’s about 6:15pm. I walk up the staircase to find an open kitchen counter where line cooks prep cuts of meat and fish for the evening dinner guest. Opened windows behind them cooling with the island breeze you feel this too as you walk up the staircase. This is right across the Godfather’s Bar and above Taste of India. I get seated and typically with Korean restaurants you get the table with an indentation in its center where the hot ember goes underneath an iron like skillet to heat up and sizzle what you desire to consume. My order, pardon my spelling of these Korean words as I put them in.
“Agashi..agashi.. hana sen kalbi, hana pajeon, hana soju.” I laugh at myself knowing I do not speak proper Korean, but the good thing is my waitress understood everything with ease. She smiles and accepts my order. What did I order? I said, Misses. Misses. One unmarinated Kalbi, one Korean pancake and one bottle of soju. At least it was understood and I know it was not in proper form, nevertheless, it was done and taken. Lemon Chicken
She brings my hot ember in a bucket and places it in the area on the table covering it with the iron skillet surface. It gets hot real quick. I throw in some kimchee. Yes, you read me right! Grilled kimchee adds a distinctive flavor to any dish. It transforms the usual cold and rich kimchee base flavor to a bit sour veggie with added spices. After grilling kimchee, it dries up leaving its unique taste. Just the way I like it. While its grilling I start placing the sen kalbi. …Shshshsh… it starts to sizzle. Sizzling it goes on the side down. Smoke starts to build and the exhaust pipe above conveniently takes it right out. A true convenience to grilling indoors! Condiments continue to fill my table. Tasty flavors of different types of kimchee flavors of radish, cucumbers, squash and the typical cabbage style offered with bean sprouts or deep fried shrimp spiced up. All this comes with an order of their main entrée of meats. The salted oil dip sauce and a korean style finadenni that isn’t spicy for dipping pajeon adds other flavors on the table. Now if you are hungry, there is no doubt the condiment dishes will start to fill you. Needless to say they are replenished when requested free of charge! For many who have not had korean kalbi, just think of chocolate and how rich and creamy it melts in your mouth. Well kalbi is your meat that melts in your mouth. Rough at first while cooking, but easy eating as this meat is high grade and cuts against its grain make this type of beef melt in your mouth. Hence the term, “easy eating.” Don’t take it from me. Try it yourself and be the judge of your own adventure. You may also want to try other meats from bulgogi (shredded beef) or pork meat for grilling. You are definitely satisfied at Chung Ji. Start on your food adventure and hit us up at bisonrelations@gmail. com if you want to have your adventure featured. Don’t forget to send high quality photos we can use! Tops + MORE october 2013
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Caller Box 10007, CK, Saipan, MP 96950 Tel: (670) 664-3018 • Fax: (670) 664-3067 Website: http://www.pacificsbdc.com
GREEN FLASH COMICS
Be a Hero
CAPITAL HILL, SAIPAN – Glenn Keaton, proud owner of Green Flash Comics, arrived in the CNMI in 2002; where he was an instructor for the Northern Marianas College in Mathematics and Science. Glenn is a father to two wonderful children, Jack and Sara, and a humbled husband to Susan Keaton. Growing to love the CNMI for “Saipan’s beautiful lush greenery, lovely tropical climate, clear air, and cleansing rain “, the Keatons have made the CNMI their home. Glenn has been a Comic enthusiast since the age of 12, growing to love the favorites such as Spiderman, Thor, Iron Man, and the Xmen. Seeing the comics transition from comic to movie, he observed a growing market as more comic enthusiasts & collectors came about. Attending a comic convention in Dubai, he stated, “there were thousands who attended a much larger attendance than I expected, especially for a region that had no comic books stores.” Glenn saw a demand in Dubai and the CNMI. Glenn stated, “He would like to establish reputation as a business in the CNMI, then utilize Gold Key Services, referred to by the CNMI SBDC, to expand operations to Dubai, what more then to bridge English literacy than Comics, learning the fun was,” stated by Glenn. Glenn Keaton’s experience as a comic collector and pursuing comics at many different comics at much different comic retail stores alive and physical location throughout the years as a hobbies. Now, “I would like to start my own business and have comic collectors & children purchase comics from Green Flash Comics,” stated by Glenn. Glenn states that “the CNMI Small Business Development Center helped with creating a definite plan for getting the business that need to be considered. The CNMI SBDC outlined the process, starting with setting me up with writing a business plan that clearly described and set down costs and
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Tops + MORE October 2013
By Perry Inos Jr. Director (CNMI SBDC)
budgets, schedules and strategies, objectives and goals, etc.” Glenn admitted that “the start-up process is a bit harrowing, and often scary; mainly because this is the first time for me to have my own retail business.” There was many processes to follow getting “the business from an idea to a reality and I utilized my own personal funds to properly start up the business at a planned rate of preparation and growth.” The biggest challenge for Glenn was finding the best location to fit his target market. “There were lots of spaces on Saipan for rent, but picking only one could be disastrous when they didn’t fit my budget needs.” The most memorable triumph for Glenn was “Committing to my dream and turning the idea into a reality.” The short-term goal for Green Flash Comics is to gain control in market and being known in the community with marketing campaign. Green Flash Comics’ long term goals is to “contribute to literacy campaign in the CNMI by working with local library, expanding business to meet local needs, bringing affordable, and giving local artists an outlet for their talents, and then eventually expand to Dubai.” The advice Glenn of Green Flash Comics provides to other entrepreneurs first is “to contact CNMI SBDC. They will get you started in the right direction and give you a realistic outlook to your plans.” Lastly, the advice Glenn Keaton of Green Flash Comics give to others in starting a business is “to contact CNMI SBDC. They will get you started in the right direction and give you a realistic outlook to your plans.” Green Flash Hours of Operation is open on weekdays and weekends from 10am – 6pm, located in Garapan, Saipan Across TSL Plaza 2nd Floor. For inquiries contact Green Flash Comics via email at gkeaton2007@gmail. com.
CN CO M N ON I-O SU S S LT ITE HA AT IO N