4EVER CNMI wood art are ready to get customized. (Bea Cabrera)

Cultural diversity may be the operative term of the day, but local heritage remains steadfast and celebrated with the help of businesses like 4EVER CNMI. In fact, it is the company’s raison d’être.

As a new player in the retail business, 4EVER CNMI’s motto is written on every apparel, product, and service that they offer: “Made in the CNMI.”

According to 4EVER CNMI owner Sheanna Pangelinan, her business plan was simple—to promote and preserve island culture.

“The CNMI has relied almost entirely on imported goods and it is difficult to find ‘Made in the CNMI’ gifts, décor, and memorabilia. …Shirts say ‘Saipan’ but it was produced in China,” she said.

“Many locals and visitors alike seek out ‘Made in the CNMI’ products…that represent the beauty and special cultural identity of the Northern Mariana Islands. …The goal is to put logo, create art and write sayings on wood, shirts, hats that [promote] the island culture,” she added.

Pangelinan comes from a business-oriented family but her passion for art is the real driver of 4EVER CNMI. “I got my first exposure when I joined the Flame Tree [Festival] in 2016 and sold handcrafted and hand-painted wood signs. The experience was really good and then we started to supply products to other stores like Zori-Zori,” she said.

“Eventuall,y we decided to open our own store after we switched from sole proprietor to LLC in February last year. We secured the location and, with the help of my partner, Victor Flores, we did everything with our bare hands… Our target market are Chamorros, tourists, and anyone who has ties with the CNMI,” she added.

4EVER CNMI’s unique business culture has already garnered a following. Aside from apparel and artwork, the store also custom-make wood signs, stickers, T-shirts caps, sand-carving on glass, stainless steel, and metal.

“I get feedback where I have customers say that finally we have a shop that they can go to have an item customized and not get asked to get the order in bulk,” Pangelinan said.

“…Sometimes the customer walks in with a design on hand and others come to me for ideas and we work on it,” she added.

Pangelinan does the whole process—from art design to final product. “It has always been my passion to do art and I just never saw myself actually doing something about it. My whole career has been in the Human Resources field at Commonwealth Utilities Corp., Northern Marianas College, and Commonwealth Healthcare Corp. so this was a hobby that became a store,” she said.

“I don’t charge customers extra art fee. As long as you buy a shirt and you give me a design, we will be glad to produce it for you… I want everyone to feel free to come in and express themselves through artwork,” she added

Pangelinan admits that starting a business is tough. “During the planning stage, I was anxious thinking of other responsibilities like rent, etc., and was in panic with thoughts of ‘I am just going to sell wood art and apparel, nobody knows me yet and I am not going to make money.’ I realized that many locals that have talent and want to open a business give up halfway because they don’t know which office to go to for guidance and then the funding… I know all of that,” she said.

“The CNMI Small Business Development Center gave me a lot of support, so whenever I was on the verge of giving up, they would give me that ‘push’…Today, my reward is seeing a person at the store holding a piece of my art work and is happy about it. …The experience of the customers moves me and it makes all the sacrifices worthwhile,” she added

4EVER CNMI is open Monday to Saturday from 11am to 6pm in Chalan Monsignor Guerrero in San Jose. For more information, call (670) 235-CNMI (2664),

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Toyota Atkins Kroll marketing manager Jeffrey Borja, left, poses with Saipan Chamber of Commerce executive director Maxine Laszlo, second left, and Atkins Kroll general manager Clark Boswell, third right, next to a 2020 Toyota Corolla. (Erwin Encinares)

Toyota Atkins Kroll last weekend sponsored a hole-in-one prize for an annual golf tournament fundraiser organized by the Saipan Chamber of Commerce.

Toyoto AK, led by general manager Clark Boswell, and sales and marketing manager, Jeffrey Borja, last weekend announced that they are sponsoring hole No. 7 of the Laolao Bay Resort & Golf and donating a 2020 Toyota Corolla as a hole-in-one prize.

“The model just launched in February 2019,” said Boswell, adding that the specific model is manufactured in Japan instead of North America.

Boswell further noted that the company is looking to continue its tradition of supporting the Saipan Chamber of Commerce, which raises funds through its annual golf tournament.

“We are proud to sponsor the Saipan Chamber of Commerce, we have been doing this for years and as one of the leading groups in the business community on Saipan, we are happy to support the Chamber,” Boswell told Saipan Tribune.

Borja, who arrived fresh from Guam, noted that Toyota AK also seeks to support the upcoming generation through the Chamber’s Saipan Young Professionals, which is an organization within the Chamber that is comprised of a group of young professionals.

“That aspect of the Chamber is near and dear to me because I used to be a member of it before I aged out [in Guam],” he said.

Toyota AK is one of the many sponsors of the annual golf tournament that will support the Chamber’s operations and programs.

“Proceeds of the event are instrumental in supporting all of the Chamber’s current and future programs. Initiatives such as our scholarship program and professional development trainings as well as future initiatives around entrepreneurship and workforce development are integral to sustaining the private sector,” a statement from the Chamber noted.

Showtime for the golf tournament starts at 6am with a shotgun start at 7am. The registration fee is $130 per person, and Chamber members would enjoy a discounted fee of $120 per member.

The tournament is followed by a banquet and raffle after the closing of the tournament.

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Members of the Tinian Women’s Association collect trash over four miles in The Marianas on March 16, 2019. The cleanup was supported by the Marianas Visitors Authority’s Beautify My Marianas program. (MVA)

In celebration of Women’s Month, women of Tinian and their allies attacked littering on their island head-on with a 4-mile clean up last March 16.

In partnership with the Marianas Visitors Authority’s Beautify My Marianas program, the Tinian Ladies Organization rallied participants from five multi-ethnic groups for the campaign, which was led by Rosita Aldan, the wife of Tinian Mayor Edwin Aldan, and 17th Tinian Municipal Council Chairwoman Thomasa Mendiola. Over 25 bags of debris were collected.

“I want to thank all those who woke up bright and early to participate in our trash-a-ton, especially the women of Tinian,” said Mrs. Aldan. “I encourage all Tinian residents to help keep our island clean and to join us as we celebrate March as Women’s Month.”

The group started at the small marina dock at 6:30am and was able to divide and conquer the territory, due to the large number of participants. One group covered the main roadway and beach leading to the Tinian breakwater, while a second group collected trash along the roadway leading to the historic Japanese administration era Nanyo Kohatsu Kaibushiki Kaisha building. Another group covered 8th Avenue, passing several historic Korean memorials along the way. All groups converged at Lazarino Beach.

“Unexpectedly, there were so much trash collected and much more to be cleaned,” said MVA Field Operations manager Vida Borja, who also joined the cleanup.

Beautify My Marianas offers $100 to student or other groups that pick up trash over 1-mile in an assigned area. For more information on Beautify My Marianas or an application, visit the MVA official website at www.mymarianas.com. Groups must apply to participate and document their cleanup with a written report, list of participants, and photos. (PR)

Members of the Tinian Women’s Association clean the roadway to the historic Japanese administration era NKK Building on Tinian in The Marianas on March 16, 2019. (MVA)

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Kinpachi Restaurant serves “takoyaki” (octopus balls) hot at the Taste of The Marianas International Food Festival & Beer Garden on May 5, 2018, at American Memorial Park. The Marianas Visitors Authority will host the 21st Annual Taste of The Marianas International Food Festival & Beer Garden every Saturday evening in May 2019 in Saipan. (MVA)

The Taste of The Marianas International Food Festival & Beer Garden will be held in Saipan every Saturday during May Tourism Month at American Memorial Park. The 21st Taste of The Marianas is an annual signature event of the Marianas Visitors Authority and is one of the largest celebrations in The Marianas.

The MVA has confirmed 23 food and drink beverage vendors for the event, which features international cuisine at affordable prices from local hotels and restaurant vendors, non-stop live entertainment on the main stage, nightly contests on the secondary stage, sales of arts and crafts sales, and more.

“The Taste of The Marianas International Food Festival & Beer Garden is the place to be on Saturday nights in May, and we’ve working on another great month of festivities,” said MVA managing director Christopher A. Concepcion. “‘Taste’ meets an important expectation across all The Marianas’ major source markets for the opportunity to experience authentic local cuisine and has the added benefit of offering a full international menu from some of the best kitchens in The Marianas, all in one stop. It’s a must-do for visitors and locals alike during Marianas Tourism Month.”

Supporting businesses include Platinum Sponsor Hyatt Regency Saipan and Silver Sponsors Ina’s Kitchen, Dave Electronics, and Hawaiian Rock Products. The festival will be held from 6pm to 10pm each Saturday (closing at 11pm on the final night). For more information, visit www.mymarianas.com, www.facebook.com/mymarianas, or email communityprojects@mymarianas.com. (PR)

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A relief distribution drive for Super Typhoon Yutu recovery was held on Tinian this past weekend. (Contributed Photo)

The Office of the Governor, through the Office of Grants Management & State Clearinghouse, held a relief distribution drive for Super Typhoon Yutu recovery on Tinian this past weekend.

The project, which was funded federally by the Office of Insular Affairs’ Technical Assistance Program, drew a large crowd to the Tinian Department of Community & Cultural Affairs’ gymnasium. Over $200,000 worth of relief supplies were distributed to assist Tinian in its recovery efforts.

According to OGM-SC administrator Epiphanio E. Cabrera Jr., approximately 750 packages and fuel vouchers were distributed for the island’s residents.

“Items included hygiene and cleaning products, mosquito nets, pillows, linens, water drums, butane gas stoves, butane fuel, and gas containers. Approximately 80 percent of people who received a tent through the TETRIS program availed of additional fuel vouchers, while almost 800 residents received 10-gallon fuel vouchers for generators,” Cabrera said.

As Super Typhoon Yutu devastated the island of Tinian, it has been imperative to provide much-needed recovery efforts to its citizens. This project aimed to provide much-needed supplies for those in temporary dwellings, items of which that could not be purchased directly by FEMA. The award from the Office of Insular Affairs allowed the OGM-SC to collaborate with the Tinian Mayor’s Office to supply basic necessities to many displaced residents.

“Super Typhoon Yutu devastated our islands. Extensive damage was caused to critical infrastructure, and lasting impacts have been made to our Commonwealth. Relief and recovery efforts have been ongoing since the typhoon. While we have made great progress in strengthening our infrastructure, providing assistance to our people will continue to be a top priority,” Gov. Ralph DLG Torres said.

“We would like to extend our appreciation to the Office of Insular Affairs for their continued assistance to our islands. It is because of projects like this that we are able to provide much-needed supplies to the Commonwealth’s residents,” said Lt. Gov. Arnold I. Palacios.

Tinian and Aguiguan Mayor Edwin P. Aldan expressed his sincere gratitude for the Office of the Governor, OGM-SC, and Office of Insular Affairs for all the aid they have provided for the island and its residents.

“The recovery is still an ongoing process that has proven to be very challenging for our people. However, we have remained strong because of the spirit of ina’famaolek. We greatly appreciate all the help that each agency involved has given during these recovery efforts.”

The Tinian recovery drive proved to be a success. The next relief drive, sponsored by OIA and Office of the Governor, for the island of Saipan is forthcoming. (PR)

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ASAN, Guam—The U.S. Navy extended the public comment period by 15 days from April 2 to 17 for the Mariana Islands Training and Testing Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement.

In the Draft Supplemental EIS/OEIS, the Navy evaluates the potential environmental impacts associated with ongoing and future military readiness activities conducted within the Study Area at sea and on Farallon de Medinilla. The Navy requests and welcomes substantive public comments on the Draft Supplemental EIS/OEIS.

The Navy is seeking public review and comment on the Proposed Action and alternatives, and the accuracy and adequacy of the environmental analysis. The Draft Supplemental EIS/OEIS is available for public review online at www.MITT-EIS.com and at the following locations:

GUAM
Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Library
University of Guam
UOG Station
Mangilao, GU 96923

Nieves M. Flores Memorial Library
254 Martyr St.
Hagåtña, GU 96910

SAIPAN
Joeten-Kiyu Public Library
Beach Road and Insatto St.
Saipan, MP 96950

TINIAN
Tinian Public Library
San Jose Village
Tinian, MP 96952

ROTA
Antonio C. Atalig Memorial Library
Rota, MP 96951

The Navy will accept comments throughout the extended public comment period, which ends April 2. All comments must be postmarked or received online by April 17, for consideration in the Final Supplemental EIS/OEIS. Comments may be submitted online at www.MITT-EIS.com, at the public meetings, or by mail to:

Naval Facilities Engineering Command Pacific Attention: MITT EIS/OEIS Project Manager 258 Makalapa Drive, Suite 100

Pearl Harbor, HI 96860-3134

The Proposed Action is to conduct at-sea training and testing activities within the Study Area. These activities include the use of active sonar and explosives while employing marine species mitigation measures. The purpose of the Proposed Action, which remains the same as the 2015 MITT Final EIS/OEIS, is to maintain a ready force to ensure the military can accomplish its mission to maintain, train, and equip combat-ready forces.

The proposed at-sea training and testing activities are generally consistent with those analyzed in the 2015 MITT Final EIS/OEIS and are similar to activities the military has conducted in the Study Area for decades.

Visit the project website at www.MITT-EIS.com to download the Draft Supplemental EIS/OEIS and submit substantive comments online. (PR)

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Members of Mount Carmel School’s Concert Band, under the direction of Julian Greening, gather for a group photo at the 14th Annual Tumon Bay Music Festival.(Contributed Photo)

The Mount Carmel School Band took home the silver award in its category at the Tumon Bay Music Festival. This was the first time the school’s band, led by Julian Greening, competed in the festival. It was a new experience for those students who have never competed before, and especially for those who have never held an instrument before the creation of the band. 

Aside from competing and performing, the students were able to attend band clinics and socialize with other experienced musicians.  Asked about the experience, Greening said, “I loved seeing my students improve as musicians in the festival. Watching them listen to other performers, and enjoying the experience was my favorite part!”

In addition to Greening, longtime collaborator and conductor for the Saipan Pacific Winds, Atsuko Eck, also helped the band prepare and perform.

This was new territory for the young musicians. As this was their first time competing, they didn’t know what to expect. The Knights performed their competition pieces in three different venues. First, they played in a ballroom at Guam’s Lotte Hotel. Second, the Knights performed at Santa Barbara Catholic School in Dededo. Lastly, the MCS Band performed and competed at the mall, drawing in large crowds of shoppers and bystanders who weren’t expecting a live performance. All performing venues were supported by large audiences with a mix of age groups, ranging from toddlers to the elderly.

The festival was divided into four categories and different age divisions. The categories were choirs, soloists and small ensembles, jazz, rock and beyond, and bands and orchestras. The MCS Band competed in the band and orchestra category in the 6th-8th grade division. They competed against schools in Guam like St. John’s School, L.P. Untalan Middle School, and Guam Adventist Academy. 

The performances, regardless of category or age division, were judged based on a set of criteria. The tone, rhythm accuracy, presentation, and appearance of the performers added up to the groups final score. Based on their score, the performers were awarded a bronze, silver, or gold award. The Mount Carmel School Concert Band received a silver award based on their performance.

The students were just as excited as their mentor to put their hard work, and long practices to use. Although the MCS Band has performed multiple times on Saipan, this was their first time performing and competing off-island. According to the students of the MCS Band, their favorite part of the whole experience was performing in front of new people in new places

This was Guam’s 14th annual Tumon Bay Band Music Festival, which was founded by Maximo Ronquillo, Jr., the 8th music director of the Guam Territorial Band. The festival featured a wide variety of musical performances from dozens of groups from around the region. Events included a Choral & Hand Bell Festival, a Solo & Small Ensemble Festival, Jazz, Rock, & Beyond performances, a Band & Orchestra Festival, and an Encore Concert & Award Ceremony. (PR)

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Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child children’s events and distributions begin this weekend March 29-31. Events are for all children ages 2-14 who have registered. Remember you must bring your ticket with you to your assigned event. One ticket per child. Children must be present to participate. If you have any questions or wish to register for a future event please email OCCCNMI@gmail.com. (PR)

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The CNMI Drug Court team, Chief Justice Alexandro Castro, and First Lady Diann T. Torres pose with the new graduates. (Contributed Photo)

The CNMI Drug Court Program celebrated its fifth graduation last March 15 at the American Memorial Park Theater by notably graduating two women: Emma Iriarte and Waedynne Maratita.

Iriarte was one of the few early participants of the program when the CNMI Drug Court was first started back in December 2016. Both graduates have been sober for over 200 days and have successfully met all the Drug Court conditions required to pass the program.

It was symbolic though coincidental that the event happened during the National Women’s History Month, a celebration that honors the extraordinary achievements of American women. The occasion was marked by keynote speaker, first lady Diann T. Torres. Torres is an educator, a mother of six young children, and a mentor to many members of the community. Her leadership exudes through the Lady Diann Torres Foundation, which has made tremendous contributions to the islands, including promoting youth advancement, cultural sustainability in the CNMI, and recovery efforts from Super Typhoon Yutu.

In her remarks, Torres recognized the achievements the CNMI Drug Court has had since 2016 and the struggles the CNMI community had with addiction. She then recognized the women graduates saying, “We celebrate the bravery and the commitment of two great women, who one day decided to take on a challenge to change [their] lifestyle, to be better citizens in our community, to be loved by friends, to be trusted by family.” She closed by thanking the CNMI Drug Court team, overseen by Superior Court Associate Judge Teresa Kim-Tenorio, that included caseworkers, program partners, families, friends, and the participants themselves, and recognizing that “a strong support system is the key to a successful program and positive outcomes.”

After the charges and motion to dismiss were presented by assistant attorney general Chester Hinds, Kim-Tenorio dismissed the charges. The judge then presented the certificates to the women graduates along with acting governor Arnold I. Palacios, Senate President Victor B. Hocog (R-Saipan), House Speaker Blas Jonathan T. Attao (R-Saipan), and Chief Justice Alexandro C. Castro.

It was apt that, in her closing remarks, Kim-Tenorio highlighted to the graduates that the graduation is not the end but the beginning of their real journey. Both women intend to continue their work towards maintaining their successes by taking it a day at a time. Maratita, for one, plans to return to school and possibly get a degree so she can help others who also struggle with their addiction. (PR)

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Guest speaker Dr. Craig Elevitch, director of Agroforestry Net, from Hawaii shared suggested efforts to revitalize breadfruit in the CNMI. Participants of the workshop included interested college students, local farmers, and community agencies (Photos by NMC)

The Northern Marianas College Cooperative Research Extension Education Service recently partnered with the Commonwealth Development Authority, the Office of Grants Management, the Department of Lands and Natural Resources, and other agencies on a workshop that focused on the nutritional and economic benefits of the ma’afala breadfruit.

Other contributing sponsors of the breadfruit workshops include Agroforestry Net, Bank of Guam, Global Biodiversity Heritage Council, Hawaii Homegrown Food Network, Ho’oulu ka ‘Ulu, Olohana Foundation, Permanent Agriculture Resources, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the Western Sustainable Agriculture and Research Education.

For more information about the breadfruit workshop, please call 237-6740 or visitcrees.marianas.edu. (PR)

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In last Wednesday’s Saipan Tribune issue, in the story titled “Peter sworn in as House member,” the number of votes for independent candidates David C. Sablan and Mariano DLG Fajardo were inadvertently switched. Sablan came in third in the four-way race with 233 votes while Fajardo was fourth (194). The story also mistakenly spelled Fajardo’s name as Mariana. We apologize for the mistake.

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SAN FRANCISCO—The 2019 Ninth Circuit Civics Contest, an essay and video competition for high school students sponsored by federal courts of the western United States, has been extended. The new deadline for entries is 11:59pm Pacific Time on Monday, April 8, 2019.

For more information, visit http://www.ca9.uscourts.gov/civicscontest.

The contest is open to young people in Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon and Washington, the U.S. territory of Guam, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. Students in grades 9-12 in public, private and parochial schools or home- schooled students of equivalent grade status may enter.

The theme of the contest is “The 4th Amendment in the 21st Century—What is an ‘Unreasonable Search and Seizure’ in the Digital Age?”

Students are challenged to write an essay or produce a short video focusing on how the federal courts have applied 4th Amendment protections to electronic data devices, particularly the cellphones upon which almost everyone relies.

Students may enter both the essay and video competitions. A student is allowed to submit one essay and to submit one video either as an individual or part of a team of up to three members.

The contest is cosponsored by the Courts and Community Committee of the Judicial Council of the Ninth Circuit and the federal courts in the 15 judicial districts that make up the circuit. A total of $7,000 in cash prizes will be awarded. The top three finishers in both the essay and video competitions will receive $2,000 for 1st place, $1,000 for 2nd place and $500 for 3rd place.

The 1st-place winners along with a parent or guardian also will be invited to the 2019 Ninth Circuit Judicial Conference in Spokane, Washington. The conference is an annual gathering of federal judges and lawyers practicing in the federal courts.

In addition to the Ninth Circuit contest, many students also have a chance to win cash prizes in preliminary competitions sponsored by the individual judicial districts to select finalists.

For more information about the Ninth Circuit Civics Contest, contact the Ninth Circuit Office of the Circuit Executive, (415) 355-8873 / civicscontest@ce9.uscourts.gov. (PR)

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A former social worker in the Child Protection Unit of the Division of Youth Services who sued her then-supervisor last month in federal court for alleged sex harassment has been left with no lawyer.

This developed after the former social worker’s counsel, Joseph E. Horey, withdrew and asked the court to appoint a new counsel for her.

Saipan Tribune opted for the meantime to withhold the plaintiff’s name. She appeared via telephone at the hearing since she currently lives in Vancouver, Washington.

According to the minutes of the hearing last week, U.S. District Court for the NMI Chief Judge Ramona V. Manglona granted Horey’s motion to withdraw.

Horey agreed with Manglona that the complaint has not been served yet on defendant Julian R. Camacho and co-defendants.

The minutes of the hearing did not indicate as to why Horey withdrew as counsel.

Manglona gave the plaintiff some time to find a new lawyer.

She informed the plaintiff that she was now proceeding pro se (without a lawyer) and if she has questions regarding the procedural aspects of the case, she may contact the clerk’s office.

The plaintiff said she contacted a total of six lawyers, including Horey, to represent her.

Aside from plaintiff’s then-supervisor with DYS, Camacho, she also named as co-defendants the CNMI government, and the Department of Community and Cultural Affairs.

The plaintiff is suing Camacho for alleged violation of her civil rights, and the CNMI government and DCCA DYS for unlawful employment practices and violation of her civil rights. She demanded a jury trial.

She asked the court to hold the defendants liable to pay her damages, court costs, and attorney’s fees in unspecified amount.

According to the complaint, the plaintiff was employed by the Commonwealth as a social worker in the Child Protection Unit of DYS from December 2012 to May 2014.

Camacho, the plaintiff’s male supervisor in the CPU, allegedly repeatedly subjected her to verbal and physical conduct of a sexual nature, including making sexual advances.

The plaintiff said she complained to the heads of DCCA and DYS about the supervisor’s conduct, but they failed to take adequate or effective action to protect her.

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The University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability joined other sustainability partners in the community on March 29 as the governor signed a proclamation declaring April as Island Sustainability Month. (UNIVERSITY OF GUAM)

The University of Guam Regional Conference on Island Sustainability will mark its 10th year of fueling discussions on how to meet the needs of the current generation without comprising the needs of future generations.

This year’s weeklong conference will be held from April 8 to April 12 at the Hyatt Regency Guam.

The conference coincides with a series of activities and events in collaboration with the Guam Nature Alliance throughout April, which was recently proclaimed “Island Sustainability Month” by Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero.

The 10th conference will reflect on a decade of renewed focus brought to the ancient island value of sustainability. The 2019 conference theme, “Sustainable Then. Sustainable Again?” recalls the island’s past as a sustainable society and asks if and how we can be sustainable again.

Traditional island navigators teach the importance of looking back to where you came from in order to sail forward to your destination. A blend of historical perspectives and modern innovations will provide conference participants with new tools and ideas to move the islands of the region toward a sustainable future. Decreasing reliance on imports, improving energy independence, and increasing food security all reduce the export of money and build a thriving local economy, more resilient to disasters and global changes.

Amanda Ellis

“The conference will continue to encourage action to achieve sustainability, not only because it is the right thing to do, but because it is the smart thing to do,” said Dr. Austin J. Shelton, executive director of the UOG Center for Island Sustainability. “The ideas that come out of these productive discussions are relevant to all sectors of society, so we encourage all to participate.”

The 10th UOG Regional Conference on Island Sustainability opens at 3pm on April 9 beginning with a report from the Presidential Summit on Island Sustainability. Main conference events will be split between April 10 and April 11, or Day 1 and Day 2. Pre-conference workshops and trainings will take place on April 8 and the morning of April 9.

Day 1’s keynote presentation will be delivered by master navigator and canoe carver Larry Raigetal and his students of the Traditional Navigation and Climate Change Adaptation course at UOG.

Larry Raigetal

Raigetal is the co-founder of Waa’gey, an organization that encourages the passing of traditional knowledge to future generations. He also served in several capacities related to sustainable development and the impacts of climate change as a representative of the Federated States of Micronesia.

Amanda Ellis, a former New Zealand ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva, is the keynote speaker for Day 2.

Ellis served many roles in the public and private sectors relative to sustainable development, gender equality, financing, and policymaking, among other roles. She is serves as executive director, Hawaii and Asia-Pacific, and director of strategic partnerships for the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Institute of Sustainability at Arizona State University.

For registration, conference schedules, and more information, visit www.uog.edu/cis2019.

For a video of the proclamation signing ceremony, visit facebook.com/uogcis. (UOG)

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A former convict has been arrested anew after admitting to stealing an iPhone. His bail was set at$1,000 cash.

Peterson Keju, 27, who served a seven-month prison term for assault and battery in 2017, was arrested again, this time for stealing an iPhone X worth $1,300 from the owner of Serene Restaurant in Garapan.

Keju is now facing charges of theft. Superior Court Associate Judge Kenneth Govendo set his bail at $1,000.

Keju was remanded back to the Department of Corrections following his bail hearing last Wednesday.

Keju is set for a preliminary hearing on April 4 at 1:30pm and is scheduled for an arraignment on April 8 at 9am.

According to court information, Keju was arrested after police reviewed surveillance footage acquired from Serene Restaurant. Keju was spotted stealing the iPhone after the victim reported the matter. Keju also admitted to the theft.

Last March 13, police responded to a call from Serene Restaurant owner Lin Lin Chen, who reported a theft that occurred in her establishment. It wasn’t until the early hours of March 14, 2019, however, that surveillance footage from the restaurant was reviewed and a suspect was identified.

The surveillance footage spotted a man wearing a green T-shirt, black shorts, black- and blue-colored hat, and slippers take the phone from the cashier’s counter where Chen had left it and slip it into his front pocket.

After acquiring the description of the suspect, police spotted a man at Winchell’s Susupe that fit the description. The man spotted was later identified as Keju. Keju was immediately remanded to DOC.

At DOC, Keju admitted to stealing the cellphone and told police that he sold the phone to a man named Ed, who was reportedly homeless but knew how to unlock phones.

According to CNMI law, if the value of the property is at least $250 but less than $20,000, theft is punishable by up to five years imprisonment.

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The Torres administration issued the following statement about the Palauan abai project:

The Palauan abai (community hall) project has been an ongoing community project in the works since 2006 with open dialogue between government agencies, the Legislature, and the community at-large. It wasn’t until this administration’s collaboration with community partners, the Legislature, the attorney general, the Department of Community and Cultural Affairs, and the Department of Public Lands that the project’s current agreement for designation of use was finalized.

The Department of Public Lands signed an agreement for designation of use of public domain lands on May 29, 2018 with the Department of Community and Cultural Affairs, which was signed by the attorney general on May 29, 2018.

The document, filed in the CNMI Superior Court and recorded as having File No. 18-1056 was a legal transaction between two government agencies. The CNMI Department of Public Lands is constitutionally mandated to manage and dispose of public lands. The assignments of public lands from one government agency to another fall within the confines of DPL’s mandates, and was approved by the attorney general.

The assignment allowed for the transfer of Lot No. 124 E 40 containing an area of 7,000 square meters to DCCA to construct a Palauan abai. The document stated, “This designation shall not be construed in any manner, substance or form as a grant of permanent interest in the premises, whether freehold, leasehold or by prescription.”

Furthermore, this is not a permanent interest, as Article 6 of the assignment document states that at the end of each 10-year period, or sooner at grantor’s discretion, may conduct a land use review of this designation to ascertain compliance with the intended use of the premises stated herein.

This document was also supported by House Resolution 20-26, HD1 which was passed by the Northern Marianas House of Representatives and sent to DPL. This resolution was supported in an open public session by the following representatives from the 20thg Northern Marianas Commonwealth Legislature: Speaker Rafael S. Demapan and Reps. Angel A. Demapan, Francisco C. Aguon, Edwin P. Aldan, Blas Jonathan “BJ” T. Attao, Donald C. Barcinas, Ivan A. Blanco, Francisco S. Dela Cruz, Joseph P. Deleon Guerrero, Lorenzo I. Deleon Guerrero, Joseph Leepan T. Guerrero, Alice S. Igitol, Jose I. Itibus, Glenn L. Maratita, Janet U. Maratita, Edwin K. Propst, Gregorio M. Sablan Jr., John Paul P. Sablan, Vinnie F. Sablan, and minority leader Edmund S. Villagomez.

As background information, DPL issued property in Navy Hill for the abai. This was filed in court and referenced as No. 06-2798, where DPL then-acting secretary Ray Salas transferred part of Tract 26-9 to DCCA, which was signed by Daisy Villagomez-Bier in November 2006. This was also signed by DPL legal counsel Alan Lane and the attorney general back in 2006.

Therefore, the documents are legal, and not a violation of the Constitution, as some claim it to be. It is not a lease and not a permanent interest of land.

Similar community projects of public benefit are under the same legal framework including the CNMI Soccer Training Center in Koblerville and the Kagman Community Health Center in Kagman. For reference, DPL utilizes this same legal instrument for a designation of use for any government department or agency.

In light of a recent protest about the project by a few constituents, it is quite appalling that the expression of opinion and thought by three individuals was not conducted during the earlier stages of this public process or in a more formal setting when the opportunity was available.

While constructive dialogue is welcomed, it is our belief that the misinformed rhetoric expressed by a few misinformed individuals is seeking to divide our diverse community and the numerous contributions made by our Palauan brothers and sisters. Constituents had ample time to publicly comment on this project, which followed all legal procedures and was properly conducted as a legal agreement for designation of use between two government agencies with approval by the attorney general.

There has been concrete commitment expressed by both President Tommy Remengesau Jr. and the CNMI Palau Abai Association that this community hall will be open to the public for our collective benefit. Gov. [Ralph DLG] Torres has fostered the strong relationship between the CNMI and Palau directly with President Remengesau and has expressed that the relationship is a long-term partnership connecting the two island nations. The governor will continue to support the building of the abai and will continue to pursue community enhancement projects that displays the cultural history and unique diversity of the Marianas. (PR)

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High school and middle school participants register for the annual Guam History Day competition on March 23. (Photos by UOG)

Twelve students from Guam middle and high schools have qualified to present their projects on Guam history at the National History Day contest this June in Washington, D.C.

The students were winners of the Guam History Day competition on March 23 held by the University of Guam Micronesian Area Research Center and the Guam Preservation Trust.  

“The kids compete annually for the opportunity to represent Guam at the National History Day competition in Washington, D.C.,” said Guam state coordinator LaVonne Guerrero-Meno. “There are about 23,000 kids, and we’re talking about students from every state, territory, and some international schools all competing at this competition.”

Guam History Day is a yearlong historical research program geared toward middle school and high school students to develop their perspectives of Guam’s history.

This year 26 students from nine middle and high schools in Guam received awards for their projects pertaining to the theme “Triumph and Tragedy in Guam’s History,” and 12 students’ scores were high enough to qualify them to compete in the national competition. 

Their projects were submitted in the form of documentaries, performances, exhibits, research papers, and websites and are judged based on historic quality and accuracy, adherence to the theme, and project guidelines. 

“The projects I’ve seen have been creative and the students were determined,” said Guerrero-Meno, who has been involved with Guam History Day since 2011.

She noticed that in previous years, a large portion of the students’ research was dependent on the internet.

“This year, I was so proud to see that Andersen Middle School, SIFA Learning Academy, Untalan Middle School, Father Duenas, and St. John’s all had field trips into the MARC,” she said. (UOG)

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The CNMI Emergency Operations Center State Warning Point with the Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services, in conjunction with Joint Region Marianas-EOD, would like to inform the general public that the U.S. ilitary Unit will be conducting WWII Live Ordnance Detonation at Saipan Marpi Blow Pit tomorrow, April 4, from 8am to 12pm.

The general location of this activity will be at Marpi Blow Pit within 360 feet radius on all quadrants to 400 feet above sea level.

We would like to inform the general public that the Department of Public Safety will close the blow pit main entrance and the back road coming in from Grotto, from 8am to 12pm for the duration of this operation.

Grotto back road will be closed for the time period of this operation.

Due to the danger imposed by these activities, Gov. Ralph DLG Torres is strongly advising the general public especially fishermen, commercial pilots and marine tour operators to stay away from these areas during the time and dates indicated.

The cooperation and understanding of the general public is greatly appreciated. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the CNMI Emergency Operation Center- State Warning Point at telephone number (670)237-8000, VHF MARINE CHNL 16, and HF Single Side Band Radio on 5.205.0 for this advisory. (PR)

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House Speaker Blas Jonathan T. Attao (R-Saipan) said getting creative in generating revenues for the CNMI government were among the topics that they discussed when they met with Gov. Ralph DLG Torres last Monday. The administration is currently finishing up the government’s budget proposal that they plan to submit to the Legislature within the week.

The administration, based on the report given by acting Finance secretary David Atalig, is looking at a projected decrease of $12,048,321 in revenue collections for the first quarter of the current fiscal year. Super Typhoon Yutu hitting the islands of Saipan and Tinian last October is a major reason of the revenue shortfall as economic activity was stagnant for a few months.

“[The budget] is pretty much the gist of the meeting. To address those revenue-generating legislation. To take care of the issues on Medicaid, the hospital, and the massive damage of the Public School System and the Northern Marianas College from the typhoons. Currently, that’s where we are right now,” Attao told Saipan Tribune.

“We talked about the budget and their submission and the other issues that we’re facing. Like, how are we going to get creative in generating revenues. So, we could take care of the pressing needs, the heavy damages incurred during Yutu on Saipan and Tinian, and also taking into consideration what Mangkhut did to Rota.”

Attao said they need to figure out other revenue sources that would address the issues in the CNMI, like Medicaid, in order to spread out the budgetary allocations. The CNMI Medicaid Office, in a letter by Torres to Delegate Gregorio Kilili C. Sablan (Ind-MP), has spent the $270,000 funds provided by the expanded Affordable Care Act or Obamacare.

House Ways and Means Committee chair Ivan A. Blanco (R-Saipan) added they also discussed several solutions that could generate additional revenues like having a fuel tax or pass the amendment bill of Public Law 20-66 or the Taulamwarr Sensible CNMI Cannabis Act of 2018.

“There were several solutions discussed on ways to raise money, especially for our share on Medicaid and uncompensated care. I don’t know where the fuel tax is going or if they want to include another funding language,” Blanco told Saipan Tribune.

“Another one is the Cannabis [amendment] bill to move along, because we’re going to miss the 180 days as stated in the statute. We first need to have a Commission and after 180 days, we need to have the regulations. The problem is, we don’t have yet a full working Commission that needs to be funded.”

Nadine Deleon Guerrero and Matt Deleon Guerrero (Saipan), Valentino Taisacan Jr. (Northern Islands), Lawrence Duponcheel (Tinian), and Thomas Songsong (Rota) are the members of the CNMI Cannabis Commission that were confirmed by their respective legislative delegations in the 20th Legislature.

Blanco added the 180 days has not yet kicked in since the commission, according to P.L. 20-66, needs to get organized first and come up with the regulations for the new industry in the CNMI. “Right now, we have the commission as appointed but it is not yet a working commission. Until we have the accompanying bill, so the 180 days has not kicked in.”

“The governor wants us to make a move on that [House Bill 21-13]. I understand that the bill was adopted out of the [House Cannabis] committee. Now, it is just a matter of the Speaker [Attao] setting a date for our session so we could discuss the bill on the floor that could be another possible revenue source for the CNMI.”

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A man who was arrested on Tinian for allegedly beating his girlfriend and throwing a tire at her pleaded not guilty to all the charges made against him.

Brandon Mundo Aldan, 21, through his lawyer Joey Patrick San Nicolas, offered a not guilty plea to the charges of assault and battery, strangulation, and criminal mischief.

Aldan appeared out of custody with his third-party custodian during his arraignment last Monday.

Superior Court Presiding Judge Robert Naraja scheduled a status conference for Aldan on May 13, 2019 at 9:30am on Saipan.

San Nicolas requested that the pre-trial hearings be held on Saipan because his client is currently working on island.

Assistant attorney general Frances Demapan, who appeared in behalf of the government, did not object to the defendant’s request.

Aldan, a Tinian resident, was arrested after attending a party last March 9 for throwing a tire at his girlfriend in a fit of rage after also allegedly choking and punching her.

According to court information, the victim contacted Department of Public Safety last March 9 at about 10:14pm, requesting police assistance because her boyfriend, Aldan, was allegedly beating her.

At the scene, officers noticed that the victim had a slight swelling on her face and damage to the vehicle she was in.

The victim told police that she and Aldan had attended a family party prior to the incident. She said Aldan got drunk at the party and tried to pick a fight with everyone at the party, even his own brother.

As the victim and Aldan were leaving, she said that they offered Aldan’s brother and his girlfriend a ride but, during the ride, Aldan and his brother got into an argument, to the point where Aldan allegedly chased his brother and his girlfriend out of the car and told them to walk home.

The victim said that, after the argument, she pulled over at the Natibu Park to talk with Aldan and she told him that she did not want to go home with him when he is angry.

Aldan began to argue with the victim and she told him to get out of the car. Aldan then allegedly slapped the victim and punched her before exiting. Aldan then walked over to the passenger side and allegedly choked the victim. After that, Aldan allegedly took a spare tire from behind the car and threw it at the windshield of the vehicle. Aldan also took a pipe from behind the car and continued to hit the victim’s vehicle.

Aldan ran away after the victim called the police but he was later traced back to his residence where he was arrested.

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