YNIVERSITY 0~ HAWAII LIB~'( arianas ~riet~~ Micronesia's Leading Newspaper Since 1972 ,. ®,Views
r·--·------··-·-···-··-·-··· ···-·····-w----·- i 1 Speaker urges caution tail prices 1 ~n residency for aliens Lt. Gov.Jesus R. Sablan' s state I ment to reporters that the CNMI I could again grant permanent residency status to non-residents I who have stayed in. the com of eldo i monwealth for at least five con i secutive years, or who have chil By Aldwin R. Fajardo ket are dropping at an average of prices would drag mark-up prices ! dren born here. i Variety News Staff 0.02 to 0.04 cents per gallon. of commodities down, former ! "I was very surprised when I IF IT IS any· consolation to con Prices ofunleaded gasoline for Saipan Chamber of Commerce heard about it," Benavente said sumers faced with skyrocketing both Mobil and Shell dropped president Joe C. Ayuyu said the i in an interview. prices of household commodities from $1.809 per gallon in De development would translate to "Administration and legisla due to the economic crunch, the cember last year to$ I .779 during savings for both individual con tors should discuss this first. I government has recorded a de the January 5 survey, while super sumers and investors. Diego T. Benavente really feel.that we 're so faraway creasing trend in the retail prices unleaded decreased by 0.04 cents Ayuyu said the dropping retail from suggesting such actions, of fuel in the Northern Marianas. from$ I .909 to$ I .869 per gallon. prices of petroleum products will HOUSE Speaker Diego T. which mightevencreateconfu- A monthly survey of gasoline Retail prices of diesel sold in have a dire.ct positive effect on Benavente (R-Prec. 2, Saipan) sion and problems within the individuals driving theirown cars, stations conducted by the energy Shell gas stations fell from $1.669 · yesterday said any proposal to community." or. companies that provide trans division of the Department of to $1.639 per gallon, while it is grant permanent residency sta- The speaker said it is unlikely Public Works disclosed that retail sold at $1.645 in Mobil retail out portation to their employees. "It is going to affect us in a tus to qualified aliens should be that local resident would accept prices of oil products in the CNMI lets, according to the survey re considered "very carefully," any permanent residency pro- have been slowly decreasing since port from DPW's energy divi positive way espeC:ially now when it is more badly needed because adding that it could sow "con- posal. December last year. sion. fusion" in the localcommunity. "All morning I've been re- According to the survey report, Although business analysts of.the worsening economic situa- fuel prices in the local retail mar- doubt that the reduction in fuel Continued on page 23 ...__Th_e_s_p_ea_k_e_r_w_a_s_r_e_ac_t_in_g_t__ o ____ Continued on page_2~ DPL. starts homestead inspections· on Monday By Jojo Dass Variety News Staff GOVERNMENT will start an island-wide inspection of home steads occupied by permit holders, Monday as part of efforts to take back lot~ issued to applicants who have failed to build structures on their designated-sites.. . · The revoked permits will be issued to new applicants according to the Division of Public Lands (DPL). ' · "We are scheduling inspections for Saipan village homesteads in February," said DPL Homestead Administrator Louise Morisheta. Morisheta said the inspections will cover homestead villages in As Matuis, Dandan, Koblerville and Kagman. "We will be revoking (permits) if_ there are no structures yet," warned Morisheta. Homestead permit holders are being given at least three years to start constructing a house at their lots. Government has implemented a financing plan enabling lower~ income permit holders to acquire loans at low interest to be used for the construction. There are no readily available estimates on the number of home Continue·d on page 2·3. Gra.de school students of G.arapan Ele'!'entary School show their 100 Days of Scho.o/ ;·nner yesterday I dunng a march to the Amencan Memonal Park· Ph oI o b y L ouie· c . A lonso Report: Minimum wage ·· Fishermen · Judge in Guam election hike to help beat deficit lost' at sea · fraud case warns counsel By Eric F. Say The cross-examination by By Haidee V. Eugenio offChuuk the Commonweal th' s labor and Guam Variety News Staff plaintiffs' lawyer Curtis Van de Variety News Staff immigration. The move would HAGATNA-The finance chair veld, however, drew a critical re RAISING the cu1Tent minimum raise the cuITent CNMI mini By Jacob Leon Guerrero Variety News Staff man of the '98 Committee to Elect m ark from Judge Joaquin wage for resident and non-resi mum wage from ~3.05 to$5.25 Carl· Gutierrez and Madeleine Manibusan. "You can't go on a dent workers in the CNMI per hour. HAGATNA-The government of the Federated States of · Bordallo has said no party money fishing trip trip relating to your would reduce or eliminate the The repo11, submitted to OIA was ever spent to solicit votes previous questioning. There must last week, found out that the Micronesia yesterday sought as government deficit, thereby from off-island. be relevancy, Manibusan warned very low income of many sistance of the United States Coast improving the economic situa Tony Sgro, who served as trea Van de veld. CNMI households contributes Guard Guam in its search for three tion in the islands, according to surer for the Democratic guberna Manibusan took notice of Van to the low revenue base for the,' fishermen believed lost at sea. a recent fiscal impact report de veld's questions to Sgro re government. In all likelihood, The Coast Guard Rescue Coor torial team of Gutierrez and prepared for the Office of Insu Bordallo in the Nov. 3 general garding expenses incurred lar Affairs. these workers are more depen dination Center was notified yes dent on government for ser- · terday about the missing men. An election, answered questions on throughout the gubernatorial race. Such a finding is similar to The lawyer's questioAing con vices. Air Force C-130 aircraft from the witness stand on day IO of the what will be contained in the cerned dealings in 1995 prior to The report also indicates that Andersen air Force Base is also trial on the poll fraud case filed by White House-sponsored legis former governor Joseph Ada and Sgro assuming the chair of the lation for federal takeover of Continued on page 2·3 aiding in the search. Contmuedonpage 2·3 ex-senator Felix Camacho. Continuea on page22 ~PAC NEWSPAPER STACl~J~ilUB~m seatiniinpeach1nent MAJORITY of pharmaceutical Maryland-based firm contracted SINGAPORE (AP) - Influ up. fo 50 perceritreceritly, •said Teno wants impediments to CUC needs and prescription drugs that by the U.S. Department of Health tion.········ <······ <.·•········.··.····························· Instead, even before the pro enza has . spread tllrough doctorsinierviewedbyTlfoSgaits > ~~use.layofts•·#e·at4.re1:qrd ceedings began on Jan. 7, it has are bought and used by the CNMI and Human Services. Singapore over the last month, Times. Although· no life--threat high•.itj this slofying~qno.rny;·· been a difficult, daily balancing power plant project award settled Department of Public Health takes DPH has long been sourcing though some victims are reluc ening cases hav~ been reported, sick Singaporeans are scared of act with implications for the Re instructed utilities officials and reporters, adding that he has so much time arriving in the is the bulk of its drug needs from the tant t.o take leave from work for the infltiellZ/1 have been being •fire
"If the United States takes ac fully." ···thf·...... ··.·•,· .. •.B.~¥.k···.~o·.h.;w·.···.n ....•..•.· ,u.·.. ..••.•..•• ·.·.m·.· ..•.·.• .. •.·.•.~.l ...• he..··.·.···Jri·.·.··.·.'·····on·.~.·.l;)··.•·.·~.•·.r ..1·.• "··.•··PY .•...... ~llQyl .. Charlene Barshefsky told the Sen areas of the Philippines," said Treleaven during the launching for the review of the proposals. the review done by end of March frid,l.iri¢$i!ll.Efi~y;im~ar,P~§.ffi~Xll~r11, w.here l;)ightWl5rt4 . w...., ~.~.str,uggles.;'saj~i.•.. :.. .••••. • ...· ...•...r ...... u ~ .... ffi1iYrcl·\ ···::';',-:':-:'.-:-<:::::-:·:::;-:(:::-:::·:::-:::::-::::•:,·,,':::-·,,·,:-:-.-:··,·,·-:-:-,::.::.-::-:-:.-::-:-:-:-:-:-:, ..;,·. tion unilaterally, I will be seri Japan, like many other U.S. ate Finance Committee 011 Tues- ceremonies for the program at the Philippine foreign office. She said the firm, as part of Continued on page 22 ous] y concerned about it," Obuchi trading partners, views the Super . <'.:ontmued on page 22 ______11-IURSDAY,.=_c::__ __ ...:__ JANUARY 28, 1999- MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS-5 Tinian eyes longer runway TINIAN (CPA)-In an effort to port improvements and the reali million required to complete the in a 7,800-foot runway in just a salvage Tinian's gaming-based ties ofTinian's immediate eco airside improvements which also one-year period. economic miracle, members of nomic needs. include the construction of a con A major snag in the proposal is the Tinian Legislative Delegation Prior to yesterday's discus necting taxiway, a new apron and the fact that while the FAA has yesterday pledged up to $3.5 mil sion, the most recent develop the conversion of the existing run pledged $3.9 million for a new ... ANDAFTE'R lion in local Capital Improvement ments regarding airside im way. runway, it has indicated it will not FLzqh!,_~C.Munar THE IMPtACHMENT Project (CIP) funds to extend the provements for Tinian came in Furthermore, the completion of pay for a runway extension. TRIAL HE WAS existing runway at the WestTinian September of last year when the the airside improvements may Still Cing feels the runway TURNED BACK Airport. FAA approved a grant of $3.9 take up to three years. extension is the way to go sug The Delegation announced its Million towards the partial con- Facing a lengthy construction gesting that replacement fund INTO ATOAD, ing might be available from Who us? Scared? intentions at a meeting with the -struction of anew 8,600-footrun time frame and the uncertainty of Board and executive staff of the way. securing an additional $20 Mil Tinian local CIP funds. Commonwealth Ports Authority. While the Tinian Delegation lion. Tinian CPA Board member In light of Cing's proposal, THE article written by Robert Collier in the Jan. 22 of the San Francisco CPA has requested an official Chronicle basically has nothing new to offer. Its title ··saipan Workers Say The meeting centered on the welcomed the federal assistance, Ray Cing proposed an alterna Ray Ging difference between FAA ap the $3.9 million dollar grant is but tive. Instead of proceeding with position on guaranteed funding They Are Slaves·· is a giveaway. from the Tinian Delegation What's amusing was Mr. Collier's brief remark in his article which proved plans for long range air- one-eighth of the estimated $24 the original runway plan as ap- proved by the FAA. which would allow a revision of virtually depicted us- "alien reporters"- as spineless automatons. Cing suggested a modifying the the already approved West Mr. Collier wrote. '"The two daily newspapers-one of which is owned plan to extend the existing run Tinian airside improvement by Tan- are staffed exclusively by Filipinos on one-year renewable way before building a new one. plan. contracts. Like the garment workers, hotel workers, housekeepers, and This, felt Cing, would better Once that official position has myriad other foreigners, these imported journalists must practice self been formally adopted by the censorship for fear of being deported." serve the urgent needs of the people of Tinian by providing a Tinian Legislative Delegation Ha-ha-ha! it will be considered for action Obviously, like other parachute journalists from the mainland, Mr faster and less expensive method of accommodating wide-body air at the next meeting of the CPA Collier came here with a preconceived notion that this island is inhabited Board of Directors. by lkspotic monsters. Considering that. his preconceived judgment about craft. The alternative could result alien reporters may be "understandable ... Unfortunately, such judgment JACK ANDERSON and JAN MOLLER stemmed from ignorance which is not forgivable. My editor, Raffy, and I COMPUTER SERVICE AND SALES met Mr. Collier when he was on-island. It was basically a social meeting, WASHINGTON MERRY-GO-ROUND 100"/o Pµte Customer but I wish he had asked us for clarification. - . , · 1 Satisfaction! First of a!L we ·re not sc.ared of deportation. , ~ *It Doesn't Get Ar.y Better Than Thls" \Ve may be practicing self-censorship, but not the kind of self-censorship ~,. that Mr. Collier has in mind. We practice self-censorship in our language Government's Y2K readiness is doubtful to "accommodate·· a conservative audience and to avoid personal offense, IN 1993, Mary Bandar became one of the few But Gary Christoff, a Y2K specialist contracted 1201 •GAb~tte"~,._ but to suppress certain stories that we believe should sec print. We _..-,;.r~ Comput•r Servic-e aml S•I"" Coote,- people keenly aware of an impending computer by the agency, says such worries are premature and ~ .y.1,;! "°"""' censor ourselves based on decent editorial judgment. It is the resort of weak crisis now referred to as Y2K. The Winona, Minn., that Congress is relying on a year-old scoring minds and vain egos to cry about censorship whenever a sober judgment resident was I 04 years old at the time, born in 1889. system that doesn't reflect the agency's recent BEACH ROAD CHALAN LAOLAO (Next to Triple J Motors and CNMI Travel) is being exercised. Phone 235-6111, Fax 235-6714 But a federal computer system, programmed as preparations. Indeed, the CNMI government has its own anomalies, misdeeds and almost all computer systems are to assume the first "The way our system is structured is very com shenanigans. Stories about these go to the press, and Mr. Collier would two digits of a year are "I 9", read her birth date as plex - it involves many contractors, many differ have known had he checked our newspaper files. Tamu11ing Plaza Hotel (Guam) . 1989 and issued Bandar a notice to attend kinder ent systems," Christoff told our associate Kathryn I don't wish to sound like an apologist for the CNMI, but I believe . , Ph:,(671) 649-8646 E~mail: .t hotel@kuentos. · uam:net · garten. Wall ace. "We doubled our original cost estimates, our host deserves credit for being fair to us, "alien journalists." The • This wasn't the government's first warning that and since then we doubled them again, but we are 45.00 + Tax (Economy Room) local government can be accused of anything but suppressing freedom CPA Board members and executive staff sit with Tinian legislators to discuss improvement plans for the West there would be problems with the six-digit dateline convinced Medicare will be functioning Jan. I, 1 Double' Bed or 2 Twin Beds for 2 persons of the press, otherwise the 26-year-old Marianas Variety, which is Tinian airport. CPA photo inscribed in billions of lines of computer code. 2000." owned by an independent-minded Palestinian, would have been eone $63,00 + Tax (Family Room) The programming industry recognized by the Don Meyer, spokesman for Bennett's commit a long time ago. - Up to 4 persons for 2 Double Beds mid-80s that the six-digit convention, adopted in tee, is still cynical. "I don't think anyone seriously Of course. we always get harassed by some irascible - - - - (1his is CPXs debt plan banks on arrival trends Rates valid with local ID until January 31. 1999 the early years of computer programming when believes HCFA could tum around the system so a \\'ord 1ha1 I ll'an1ed 10 use bur which my edilor "censored'" for space was at a premium, would cause most systems fast," he says. "The senator is used to people lying By Aldwin R. Fajardo Casino's plan to fly its clientele decency reason). We get nasty calls. We deal with a kind of harassment to go awry. But the federal government has taken its to him. (All the agencies) say they are going to Variety News Staff to the island remains "too specu that we can shrug and laugh off. Those cry babies-they do nothing sweet old time responding to the crisis and is now make (the March 31, 1999 deadline); there is no UNLESS local tourism indus lative at this point in time." more than annoy us. hut it doesn't bother us because it comes with our paying the price for its indolence. way they are all going to make it." try is revitalized, cash-strapped The feasibility report did not trade. s.e.i.s.hi,n Most agencies waited until a few months ago to The official line from all the agencies we spoke Commonwealth Ports Author consider additional As for the othcr local paper. Mr. Collier is certainly aware of the begin repairing computer code for thousands of with is cheery, but reports issued by the Inspector ity [CPA] is not likely to incur enplanements as basis of ob interest it hos 10 protect. Mr. Collier could not have be;n so naive not "mission criticar· systems. Computers that gener General - the watchdog of the government - additional debt for the rehabili taining an investment grade rat dba 'Yellow "andkercbief 'F amity ~staurant to know \\'hat :1 corporate newspaper is all about. Why would a ate Social Security and Medicare payments, posi paint a far more sobering picture. tation and improvement of the ing for CPA since Tinian Dy businessman buy a newspaper for no reason·> tion satellites in space, monitor airplane traffic, At the Department of Defense, for example, we West Tinian International Air nasty is yet to demonstrate that As a ··journalist" working for a big paper, Mr. Collier should know '(el. no. 235-5948 dispatch emergency services, monitor the parole of found 142 audits of critical systems that all indi it has found sufficient demand better. If a reporter is being "forced" to write for a particular audience port. prisoners, and control ground-based missiles have cate the same thing: The Pentagon's reporting is CPA executive director to provide package charter jun in a particular way, he is not obliged to do violence to his conscience all yet to be fixed, according to Rep. Stephen Hom, shoddy and unreliable, and the majority of systems Carlos H. Salas said potential kets to the casino. "6ffers best 'Filipino cewsine at 'Lowest Cj)rices" but is merely experiencing the normal risk of his trade. R-Calif., who is tracking the government's Y2K remain untested. Worse, computer jockeys there revenue to the Ports Authority Salas stressed that airport We have other critics who think we have a secret agenda. This should compliance. are grabbing the low-hanging fruit first-correct from any gaming activity on project feasibility consultant natter us, but- as I wrote several Flights ago- th;t's not the sort of 6ne CW eek CJ>romo The president's response has been to establish a ing low-priority systems and leaving critical ones Tinian could not meet funding Rieondo and Associates [R&A] credit that we deserve because we diln 't co°;ne here on any messianic high-profile-but utterly toothless-commission for later. requirements for annual debt could not document any gam mission. We 're neutral when we came here.just as we should be. We 're 'Lunch to monitor pl'ogress. The commission's job is to The Army's Global Positioning System, for service, debt service coverage ing junkets as of November armed with no political agenda. We only have our pens, skills in monitor government-wide deadlines, but it has no example, has yet to be tested for Y2K. This is the and additional operating ex 1998, and that Tinian Dynasty 2 choices of main dish, iced tea, soup & rice $3.50 reporting, our voracity for learning and passion for adventures. We authority to force compliance. Nor does it have any satellite system used to track international military penses for construction of new has yet to reflect profitability. came here with an open mind, cager to learn about the place, to unravel 3 choices of main dish, iced tea, soup & rice means of verifying the information it's given. movement. which is so precise that it managed to terminal and runway. "The report points out that it $4. 75 its people, heritage. character and I ifestyle, to face new challenges, and With $6.4 billion already spent, and many key find downed Air Force Captain Scott O'Grady Citing a report by its financial would be extremely difficult for contribute whatever we have and however we can. 'Dinner departments like Defense, Energy and Treasury after his plane crashed behind enemy lines in consultant, Salas said additional CPA to incur additional debt missing last month's deadlines to correct all mis Bosnia in 1995. debt for Tinian improvements until such time as the CNMI 2 choices of' main dish, iced tea, soup & rice plus sion-critical systems, time is running out. Of course, Investigators also found problems with the cannot be undertaken until the tourist market is revitalized. It 1 serve of' lechon Islands Variety writes -30- all agencies report they will be completely ready by Pcntagon 's Chemical Agent Disposal System, inbound traffic to the Northern also indicates that it is prema $3.50 Most writers end their raw copies with digits 30, usually written with a the end of the year. But both Horn's committee and which is used to destroy chemical warfare agents. Marianas increases. ture to reasonably estimate the 3 choices of' main dish, iced tea, soup & rice plus hyphen on each side. I don't know the real origin of this practice, but a Senate panel chaired by Robert Bennett, R-Utah, A November audit discovered that the military He added that the Ports Au full revenue potential resulting according to one theory the writer who started it wrote ·· -30-" on his are worried that federal agencies aren't reporting falsely reported that all its systems were ready for thority wi II not be able to float from gaming activities of mul serve of' lechon $4. 75 unfinished manuscript before taking his coffee break. He wrote it to mean accurate numbers - and that there's no way to Y2K. Every week that the plant is down wil I cost new bonds in the absence of a tiple casinos on Tinian," he said. '"I'll be back in 30 minutes and write some more." double-check and make sure that agencies are tell taxpayers $2 million. pledge of revenue from another He explained that CPA will "Come visit us and try the difference ... " Eventually, -30- has also become part of the writers' lingo to mean a ing the truth. We found much of the same when reviewing source Ii ke the Ti nian Dynasty also be asked to address a num writer died (as in he wrote 30); or a newspaper is folding up. A major point of concern is Medicare. The Health Y2K readiness on a state level. While some states, Hotel and Casino that would be ber of issues in order to main Incidentally, the Islands Variety magazine, which I have edited for seven Care Financing Administration (HCFA), which like North Dakota, arc ready for the millennium, back-stopped by an entity such tain a financial position that months, is writing -30-. oversees Medicare, has consistently received the the vast majority aren't even done assessing the as the Tinian Legislative Del permits the Ports Authority to I didn · t think the much abused phrase "regional economic crisis" would lowest marks for Y2K remediation. This agency problem. Many states, like West Virginia, Ala egation. continue to adequately service get too close to home. But sadly, it did. dispatches payments to the elderly and disabled and bama and Ohio, don't even have a Y2K budget yet. Salas, quoting a report from its future debt, prior to incur This week's issue (Jan 30J would be the last, for now al least. their health providers. Any lapse of service within Rosy scenm·ios, we've leim1cd over the years, m-c a bond rating agencies, said ad ring new debt for a new termi Of allow ~andkercbtefs And when I said the Islands Variety writes -30-, I mean, "We 'II be back the agency would disrnpt treatment for patients and common Washington staple. Nobody likes being the ditional revenues from the nal building and runway. 'ramlly 'R.9staurant later and wri tc some more." cash now for hospitals. bcmer of bad news. A year fmm now, we fear these Tinian Dynasty Hotel and Continued on page 21 Tel. 235-5948 Hasta la vista. forecaster.; wi 11 have a lot of explaining to do. 6-MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS-THURSDAY-JANUARY 28, 1999 . No money yet for EICs THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 1999 - MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS-7 By Aldwin R. Fajardo the fiscal year 1997 will have to refund checks which the govern Variety News Staff be paid by the end of calendar ment has to release Tenorio has year 1998. RECIPIENTS of the long-delayed signed into law a legislation that By Jojo Dass offered is not commensurate to could have been bigger had CRM ment," said Atalig. importance" of the site. Tenorio said, however, that his Earned Income Credits [EIC] may eliminates EIC and increases li Variety News Staff the nature of the violation," said not considered that the Chalan Atalig said the $5,000 fine is Variety repeatedly tried to administration is facing a dilemma have to wait longer in light of the censing fees for poker and THECONS1RUCTIONfirmthat CRM Director Felipe Q. Atalig, Pale Arnold Road expansion CRM's "final offer," adding that reach Wongchuking for com in terms of looking for possible absence of concrete financial pachinko machines. has recently damaged a vital ar in a letter responding to a request project is being done for the gov future negotiations must be done ments but was told by his secre sources that would help the gov financial resources amid the pro House Bill 11-262, or the Fis chaeological site at a Tanapag by Western Equipment Corp.'s ernment. in an enforcement hearing. tary that the WE president was ernment raise some $6 million for jected revenue deficit of $32.5 cal Integrity Act of 1998, offi road expansion project is asking (WE) President Manuel DY He said the $5,000 fine is 25 The Historical Preservation out in the field and could not be the payment of the tax incentive. million for fiscal year 1999. cially became Public Law 11-25, government that the correspond Wongchuking II regarding the percent of the original amount Office (HPO) has raised concerns reached. But Gov. Pedro P. Tenorio yes "We want to settle this, as soon which also lifts the limit on the ing fine be lowered to $2,000. fine. levied. over the damage saying the ar Variety has nevertheless terday said his administration has as possible. But we are still trying number of gaming machines in But the Coastal Resource Man Atalig said CRM is "willing to "(It) is being offered in consid chaeological site has "the only learned that the incident was been exploring all possible to look for more funds," the local Saipan, as well as, repeals the agement (CRM) appears bent on settle the matter with a fine of eration of WE's willingness to evidence of early settlement ( of caused by a "communication sources of income that may be chie1f executive said. sunset provisions in the local tax imposing $5,000. $5,000 and the waiver of the in take corrective action and the fact people) to the Marianas." problem." Pedro P. Tenorio used to release checks for the EIC Lucy Nielsen Officials previously disclosed laws. "After considering the matter, I kind contribution requirement." that the project is being performed The materials date back to the The Chalan Pale Arnold Road which should have already been that the government is consider But even when the measure was feel (that) the figure you have Atalig implied that the fine on behalf of the CNMI govern- CNMI's Pre-Latte period. which stretches from Sadog Tasi issued by the end of December low income-earning residents of finally rele.ase the more than $6 ing an EIC-payment scheme passed, the I 00 percent tax im Atalig, in an earlier interview, to Marpi is being upgraded to 1998. the Northern Mariana Islands who million in total EIC checks. that where recipients of the tax break posed on EICs will be retroactive alleged WE "totally just disre accommodate a steadily increas He admitted. however, that no have dependents under Public have now become overdue. may have to be paid on a quarterly startingJanuaryoflastyear, which garded the notif:ations on the incrI:> vehicle traffic in the area. concrete sources of funds for the Law 9-22. Finance Secretary Lucy Nielsen or on a semi-annual basis. means the government has to · purpose have been identified yet. Tenorio said he has asked the had said that EICs earned during This is the last batch of EIC cough up funds for the payment EIC is a government incentive Department of Finance to fast 01 mes earned 111 t!)!)7. awarded in a form of tax breaks to track the identification offunds to ·sTANFORD. ' . . RESORT. ·' . HOTEL. . . GTA backs amendments to · . . SAN VICENTE HILL• SAIPAN Tel: (670) 235-8500/4 • Fax: (670) 235~3042 · · J"on~f3····••Pre~•~.~~······~~t~~-~~-···•••sector•·.·tJ:l.at's···Jg~~J.~i The Around the Islands section covers community stories, local events, and cultural activities. Should you have a story you would like to share, or an event that needs to be covered, contact Laila at 234-6341 President's Day contests By Louie C. Alonso of the contests is to challenge the Elementary school students Marriage Day events slated Variety News Staff students· creativity . must have a one-page handwrit THE PUBLIC School System has Deadline for the submission of ten essay. THE MARIANAS Chapter of Anicia Dela Crnz at 322-0531, or opened this year's essay-writing entries is Feb. 8. The winner for Participants from the middle Man"iage Encounter, has chosen to Ben and Lavey Salas at 235-2250. and poster-making contests as part each contest will get $100. school students are required to celebrate this year's Mani age Day On the evening of Valentines of the celebration of the PSS said the contests are di have a 250-word essay, prefer Mass at the Santa Remedios church Day, the committee for this year's President's Day. vided into two categories each ably typewritten. in Tanapag commencing at 9:00 World Mani age Day celebration is Saipan ke and Water. Inc. is the first catego1y is for students High school students must have a.m. on Sunday Febma1y 14th. organizing a Sweetheart's Dinner co-sponsoring the contests which from first to 6th grade, the other a minimum of I ,000-word essay All persons are invited to join the and Ball. The event will be held at are open to public and private for 7th to 12th graders. that must be computer printed or Mass and the ceremony. the Plumeria Resrn1. school students. Participating schools must se typewritten. At the Mass, all manied couples For information regarding the The contests wi JI focus on the lect the best essay and best poster The entries must include the in attendance who have been mar evening dinner and dance, please importance of celebrating the each and submit them to the student's name, age, school and ried for 25 years or longer, will be call any member of this year's event. Commissioner's Office at the 3rd Language Art teacher's name or recognized. committee. Education Commissioner Rita floor of Nauru Building on or teacher-advisor in the upper right All manied couples will also have Maniage Encounter is a world H. !nos said one of the objectives before the deadline. hand corner of the entry. (From left) Frank Strasheim, 9th Circuit Regional Administrator for OSHA; Adrienne Huey, OSHA San Francisco; and SGMA 's chairman the opportunity to renew their vows wide organization sponsored by the James Lin and Executive Director Richard A. Pierce pose for a photo at during this Mass, the Chapter said Catholic Church to foster and recog the Hyatt. SGMA Photo in a news release. Following the nize maniage as an enduring institu FCC to conduct va.rious exams·. Mass at Santa Remedios, light re tion throughout the world. freshments will be served. ''Maniage is a universally appreci THE FEDERAL Communica commercial examinations on Feb tains operating commercial ves SGMA holds training World Mani age Day is being cel ated bond between man and woman. tions Commission (FCC) repre ruary I, 1999 from 5:00 pm to sels. ebrated on Val en tines Day, Febiuruy World M,miage Day is a celebration sentative will be conducting Ma Couples that are part of the World Marriage Day organizing committee, {from left) Rex and Clarie Kosack; 7:00 pm. For testing location and exam 14. The theme for World Mru1iage and recognition ofthat institution and Rita and Ben Cruz; Maggie Camacho; Jerry and Irene Facey; Lovey Salas; Jess Sonoda; Eric and Rhoda rine Radio Operators (MRO) ex All concerned are reminded that reservations, please call 321- on 'Code of Conduct' Day has been permanently adopted custom." the release said. Smith; Tokie and Wolf Mojica and Anicia Dela Cruz. ams, GMDSS exams and other the MRO is required for all cap- 6969. THE SAIPAN Garment Manu nel wanting confidential consul as "Love One Another." facturers Association (SGMA) tation. Federal and CNMI 902 The World Man'iage Day com concluded the first round of train representatives attended these ses mittee would like the names of all ing under its SGMA Code of Con sions, also. couples who have been married for duct this past Friday at the Hyatt U.S. Labor and Federal 902 rep 25 years or longer, who plan to Regency Hotel. resentative Dan Sweeney and attend, so they will be recob'Ilized presents: Some 120 people participated FrankStrasheim, OSHA Regional during the Mass. in the three days of sessions aimed Administrator congratulated and Jfyou. or family members, wish at the eventual full implementa supported SGMA on its effort to to be included in the Mass. please tion of SGMA's newly adopted train factories to implement and contact by phone or fax as soon as Code. maintain their Code of Conduct. possible, any of the ME committee Nearly 100 factory managers SGMA Executive Director Ri members. and representatives, brands rep chard A: Pierce congratulated all Anicia and Jes~ Sonoda at tele resentatives, Business for Social those attending and taking the sec phonenumber234-736 I ,233-26CXl Responsibility presenters and ond step toward total compliance. (or by fax 234-3658), Tom and trainers, and four U.S. Labor "The first step was when we Wage & Hour and OSHA spe admitted and accepted our prob cialists, conducted sessions for lems. Steps 3, 4 and 5 will come BuE·mulls· SGMA Code of Conduct theory with the faith in this process." and practice, occupational safety SGMA Chairman James C. Lin newsletter· at practices and law, and wage and offered an incentive for the most hour computation and law, SGMA compliant factories by promising By Louie C. Alonso said in a news release. to send two factory individuals, Variety News Slaff A special closed door session all expenses paid, to the Business THE BOARD of Education is con was conducted by US Labor Wage for Social Responsibility 7th An sidering the publication of a news The and OSHA officers and adminis nual Conference in San Francisco letter that would update the entire trators for those factory person- this coming November. CNMI community on different policies affecting education. - In a meeting yesterday, mcrn Guam Calendar bers agreed that the publication of a newsletter will be vital in infor University of Guam mation dissemination on various The UOG RFK Memorial Library website can be visited at http:/ education issues. /uog2.uog.edu/rfk. BOE member Thomas The web site won honorable mention in the Asian Libraries Pangelinan said the newsletter Website competition. would update the community on The competition was judged by three universities in Britain. the issues the board is cuITently Join our MCB University Press in West Yorkshire, England presented the addressing. Use your rebate as a down payment award. BOE Chairperson Esther · S4-() /person Super Bowl Party! The judges noted that the website was an exceptional example of Fleming stressed that the local com a library web site in its ability to provide basic information to meet munity has the evc1y right to know · All-You-ran-eat buffet Monday, February 1 or just put it in the bank! the needs of library patrons. what policies and regulations the 1 Guam Telephone Authority board is coming up to. stam -6ame s tnd GTA Board of Director's will hold its regular meeting today in the Other aspects related to the news . All-YOU-ran-drink. GTA Conference Room, located in the Administration Building at 6 letter publication will howcverstill p.m. be discussed. Uud family beers c::;~~-t=- BOE is yet to find out when it 7 On the meeting agenda will be the election of officers. will be published, the funding 1oam -6ame's tnd Individuals who require special accommodation, auxiliary aids or sources, who will be writing the services may contact and submit requests to the board secretary at stories in the newsletter and the 479-8607. Hasso Guam new or revised policies that will be ~ !~!~~!;D~R~P2:r~~ included in the publication. Guam Environmental Protection Agency will hold its quarterly "I don't think it will going to be Beach Road, Garapan Phone: 234-7133 •·Fax 234-3052 hazardous household waste collection program Saturday, Jan. 30. "On 1pprcw,1 of cr~1t. !.tt dt:1!ttlhip '°' complet, dtllilt. a monthly newsletter because we 13ud Environmental personnel will be on-hand to properly package and don't pass policies that much. I am dispose waste at the following sites: looking at it more at the quanerly • Yigo Mayor's Office b,L~is. I think that should give us Vrize,! • Barrigada Library parking lot enough information mid enough • Inarajan Mayor's Office Make it ahabit, read Marianas Variefy everyday things to putout ratherthan monthly ( Limited seating. Take part in the free community service and help protect the island. basis because the board only meets Tickets available at The Field ) lt'liPAC] Continued on page 23 once a month," Fleming said. 12-MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS-TIIURSDAY-JANUARY 28, 1999 TIIURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 1999-MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS-13 Witness in Kmart case OIA gives Palau $445K O&M grant Senate hears is accused of perjury By MA LOU L. SA YSON $1 oo;OOO; hospital O&M im By CLARO CORTES The Visiting Forces Agreement, committed while off duty. American soldiers who commit pact. For the Variety provements, $80,000; hiring of MANILA, Philippines (AP) - By Eric F. Say Judge Frances Tydingco reached a plea agreement about signed lastyearby U.S. and Philip crimes and also would promote "In a perfect world, our country The United States halted major KOROR (Palau Horizon) - highway O&M engineer, The Philippine Senate began hear Gatewood said yesterday state three months ago with the two pine officials, provides legal pro prostitution. would not need a Visiting Forces exercises in the Philippines and Variety News Staff The United States Department $30,000; Environmental Qual ments by Tisha Tavelera. which other accused in exchange for ings Tuesday on the ratification of tections to U.S. troops in the Phil Outside the Senate, about 200 Agreement," said Defense Secre visits by U.S. military ships in De HAGATNA-The judge pre of Interior (USDI) has given a ity Protection Board laboratory would have been important for testimony against defendant anagreementthatwouldallowU.S. ippines. Critics say it would se protesters shouted "No to U.S. tary Orlando Mercado. cember 1996, when the Manila siding over the trial of the Kmart $450,000 dollar grant for seven equipment and training support Michelle Lujan Aguon. troops to resume large-scale joint verely limit the Philippine bases" as government officials "Unfortunately, ours is not a per government ended a legal loop theft case conspiracy is expected the prosecution, will be set aside. project, $35,000; and a new At the plea agreement hear major operations and mainte military exercises in the country. government's right to prosecute urged the senators to approve the fect world." hole that had shielded U.S. military to throw out testimony by one of Tavelera was caught on sur water rate study and water util ing held three months ago Judge nance projects in Palau. The Senate hearings are sched personnel from prosecution by the the three key prosecution wit veillance cameras while under ity billing module, $35,000. Tydingco-Gatewood had asked "This is the first ever grant uled to continue until March. Mili Philippines for crimes committed nesses. under a charge that she ringing at the checkout register The contract for the water given to Palau under a new ap tary ties with the United States, here. committed perjury. along with two accomplices. She Continued on page 21 treatment plant was signed last proach," Tom Bussanich, USDI which ruled the Philippines as a Senator Blas Opie, chairman of Monday and will be completed Office oflnsular Affairs' (OIA) colony for nearly half a century, the Senate foreign affairs commit fiscal program specialist told in a year. have remained a sensitive topic tee, said Monday the Senate might Interscholastic games on KGTF Palau Horizon. A highway engineer will be since the Philippine Senate forced reject the VFA if the United States The grant, which amounted to hired to oversee all the mainte the closure of the last U.S. base in does not guarantee it will come to By Tanya M.C. Mendiola ger Underwood announced Tues ity teams as they open up the $445,500, shall be used for the nance and repair needs of roads 1992. the aid of the Philippines in any Variety News Staff day that the games will be simul season at the St. Paul's gym. operations and maintenance under a three-year program. The VFA generally gives the military confrontation with Beijing HAGA TNA-Viewers will get cast starting at 7 p.m. today. The games will be simulcast on (O&M) services for Koror-Airai The USDI has committed to United States jurisdiction over U.S. over the disputed Spratly Islands in to watch the first High School Commentators Pencil Boone KTGF-TV Channel 12 and can water treatment plant, $90,500; fund, in particular, operations, soldiers who commit crimes while the South China Sea. Boys and Girls Interscholastic and Wayne Frost will give live also be caught by tuning your O&M services for Koror-Airai maintenance and repair of vari on duty in the Philippines, and the The United States has not taken Basketball games live when they play-by-play accounts of the ac radio to KTWG AM 800. water distribution system, ous infrastructure projects in the Philippines jurisdiction over crimes Confriruecl on page 21 air on tonight on KGTF public tion between the Guam Interna Regularly scheduled program $75,000; O&M service for hope of prolonging their life television Channel 12. tional Christian Academy and the ming will air after the games at 9 Koror sewage treatment plant span and enable the government KGTF General Manager Gin- Guam Community College/Trin- p.m. and 10:30 p.m. and collection system, to save money. According to Bussanich, the OJA grant will have counter part funding from the govern ment of Palau. The Olbiil Era Kelulao (OEK) shall make the appropriation for the counterpart money also amounting to $455,500. "This is a good investment for Palau," said Joe Barboo of the U.S. Army Corps of Engi Philippine Marines block dem_(!nst:ators outsi~f! _the Senate in Manila where the legislators are conducting neers, as it allows "matching" a heanr,_g T_uesday on the ratlf1cat1on of the V1srtmg Forces Agreement {VFA) signed between the U.S. and ofresources with infrastructure the Phtl1ppmes. AP development needs of a nation. The upfront spending is big, but, according to Barboo, would RP suspends talks with Marcoses in the long run translates to big savings as it ensures long-term By OLIVER TEVES sion of the Supreme Court," investment. MANILA, Philippines (AP) - Estrada told reporters. "If it's The USDI-OIA has empha PhilippinePresidentJoseph Estrada legal, then we go ahead." sized the importance of support said Tuesday he is suspending in On Monday, Ferdinand ing the culture of operations, formal talks with the family of the Marcos Jr.• Imee Marcos :iill•t:?~™op~r~q~~~(gJ~i maintenance and repair with fo late dictator Ferdinand Marcos on Manotoc and Irene Marcos •thefuifffiaHs< cus on planning, training and a sharing of the Marcos wealth. Araneta filed a motion asking ft ·· · manpower development in mak Estrada said he will wait for the the court to reconsider its Dec. 9, llltl~~r ing infrastructure development Supreme Court to decide on a peti 1998, decision nullifying the a reality. tion by Marcos' children that seeks agreement. IL would be noted that in the to implement a 1993 agreement for The Marcos children said they seven O&M projects listed for a 75-25 percent sharing of the were denied due process and de the $445,500 funding, all are wealth in favorof the government. nied a chance to defend their considered of primary impor Joseph Estrada "We will just wait for the deci- Continued on page 2l tance as they would be instru mental in facilitating the deliv Saie go_od.now_ th.rof!gh••• Feb.ruary ··13) °{99~ - ery of basic services to the pub lic. + Electronic Banking The week-long visit of the Services USDI-OIA officials had been very smooth, satisfying both parties in meeting the objective rrs SHUWAnkC .....,______ACCESS by Sh1DWL. ACTIVE bv Shuwa fll AMIGO by Sbuwa - Numeric pager• Stores 16 messages AlphaNumeric pager• Stores 30 messages ~SAIPANCELL~ & PAGING .a Numoric pager• Stores 15 messages 2 lino display (up to 37 charactars) • Memo pad "Ill" Time/Date display• Alarm clock Time/Date stamping & display • Alarm clock Time/Date stamping & display • Alarm clock ==== The Choice is Clear. MEMBER EQUr\l lJV!'OKTLJNIT'r' 1:Ml'I UYEII 8 Muslc alerts • Single or Dual tone 4 Music alerts• Sllent-Vllflrtor or Sngle tone 4 Music alerts• Silent-Vibrator, Single or Dual tone FDIC! For more information call 235-PAGE. .__•?ap: ______12moo~cootractalilSOOJrilyOlX)Sit11i7243 DllliXl ilkinMlioltOl'<1ipliluoogi2/t1.'39. _;____:___ Gualo '--'-----·Rai Commercial Center, Main Building next to First Hawaiian B,nk on Middic V.oad . . '. ·'.'' ... ' ...... C ~ .'•• t •. :•·••••• • ,._,.,. ••·•·-·---················-·------• • '• • • •. -· • ••.•..•••• • • •••• •··-·--•••• • •.•. ,' ••••' '' • • ...•...• ' -' ...... - . - .... ·• • •• -• w• • • • • • • • •• •• ••---• --··--·• . .,. ... ,,.,,,.,._ ,...... _ •-.. ,··, .... -~-,. ,-· .... --··--·--· .------=-- ·- - 14-MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS-THURSDAY-JANUARY 28, 1999 ______TH_U_R-'----SD_A_Y--'''-J_ANUARY 28, 1999 - MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS-15 US experts called in to guard US embassy South Pacific studies SUV A (Pacnews) - The United Military Forces for annual train States Embassy in Fiji has brought ing exercises. Susupeand in American experts to boost se As part of the extra security rampant wife beating curity at its office in the capital, measures at the embassy, police Suva, reports the Fiji Times. have sealed off the road on which SUV A, Fiji (AP) - A five-year toriously high rates of violence aimed at devising strategies to Personnel from the US Depart the embassy is located and are study of the wife-beating habits inflicted by men on women, espe persuade Pacific Islands men to ment of Defence arrived in Fiji patrolling it. of Pacific Islands men is being cially in Papua New Guinea, become less inclined to beat and Saturday. Visitors to the embassy will launched by the United Nations where the Social Services De kick their women about as casu The embassy's public relations undergo stringent security checks. Chalan Piao M@bil and regional agencies, working partment said Wednesday the in ally are they are apt to do now. officer, Nirmal Singh, is quoted The measures are in line with with women's rights organiza cidence could be the world's . The study is funded by the as saying that during their stay, the US response worldwide fol tions, churches and government worst. United Nations Fund for Popula the US experts .would conduct lowing threats of terrorism against social service departments. Beginning in the Solomon Is tion Activities (UNFP A) and cov coordinated planning with the Fiji US embassies around the world. Although often portrayed as lands in March, the study on the ers Oceania's three distinctive languid places of love, nearly all prevalence and frequency of vio ethnic regions of Melanesia, Pacific Island countries have no- lence against women will be Polynesia and Micronesia. Police say rape victim in Fiji was left to die Dip & Win Prizes with every $8 fuel purchase! SUV A (Pacnews) - Police in fered facial injuries. January 29·31 Only (Limit 5 prizes per transaction) Fiji are treating as murder, the The mother of one was rushed death of a woman found naked to hospital but died hours later. and unconscious during the week Post mortem results show that she Grab a colored rocket and end, the Fiji Times reports. died as a result of internal inju Varanise Marama was found ries. win the corresponding prize: outside the Korovou Methodist Police have questioned people Church early Sunday morning, in the area: according to the Fiji Times. They have found that Marama, She had been raped and suf- a caretaker, was at the nearby Korovou Hotel on Saturday night. The Fiji Women's Crisis Cen tre has described the crime as appalling. Centre coordinator, Shamima Ali, says unless relevant legisla 91-0VW ou, tion is reviewed and attitudes changed, crimes against women will continue. s~LE . . . . Solomons:body says gov't die\ "IT OOESN'T GET ANY BEI'IER 1HAN TlllS" ·not divert funds for disaster relief INTEL PENTIUM II OOT A CEL1£RON BUT THE FULL Intel Pentill11 233 Intel 333l3s::J MMX P II Pro::essa- - PC11.ER OF A:NTIUM II Intel 233 MMX PS Processa- HONIARA (Pacnews) -·The 4. 3G Ultra IDE Hard Drive 3.2G Ultra IDE Hard Drive Solomon Islands National Disas BMAGPVideo 1/4M Video Sound Blaster Sourd Card Sound Blaster Sourd Sound Card ter Council has refuted reports 56K V.00 Voce/Fax/Modem 56K V.00 ModEm that the government has diverted 1a5WrdOllS KeyBoard 1OSWindo.vs Keyboard Mouse & Mcrophone Mouse & Mcroohone funds donated for disaster relief. SP 70 Speakers System SP 70 Speaker Systm, The Secretary to the National WooOllS 95'98 CDhvlanual Windcws 95'98 CD/Manual Cael SuiteJLotus Suite a-. McAfees Anti Ca-el Suite 8/Lotus Suite or Mi::rosoft Disaster Council (NDC), Randal Vru, Preloaded Small Business Editicn, McAfees Biliki, was reacting to accusa .Anti\/irus Preloaded Free Internet Seti.\'.) tions by trade unionist, Charles 15' SVGA Digital Mcnita- Free Internet Setup Y2K Canpliant Certified 15" SVGA Digital Monita- Karaori, that the government has Y2K Canpliant Certified been using NDC as a rubber stamp 00 00 $1,099.00 to beg for outside funding. $ 1,599. /$1,699. ~-ooa,d Sal,s6,;t¥te Karaori claimed the disaster re lief funds were put into govern ment coffers and used to pay em Beach Rooo Chalan LaoLao, (Next to Triple 'T'Motors and CNl\1I Travel Agency) ployees of the financially troubled FREE government. lollipops & balloons for the kids! Fu 111 Year Warranty On Parts & Labor. Ask About Our .Additional Warranty ~c-o-nt~m-u-e~d~o-n_p_a_g_e~2~1 Packages Too Australia· donates Exdusi,e Disttluta; ot. Largest Selection of Software RlackOut Busters On Island to Fiji relief Ei311ByE!n4J&~Ploro01 OO by PK Electrcncs $ 159. Network Supplies Harcl to Find !tans CANBERRA, Australia (AP) Australia on Tuesday donated ~T[C FlatBed Scanners 200,000 Australian dollars OOXJ dpi 1.6 Billm C-Obrs $ 125.00 Store Hours ($128,000) to help Fiji overcome disastrous floods that claimed M-F 9-6 seven lives and devastated large Sat 10-2 MAC parts of the main island of Viti Nestle Yes, We Carry tl1r,JMAC Levu. . Ph 235-6111 $1,489. Fax 235-6130 Fiji declared a natural disaster Chocolates I in the western part of the island state after flooding last week left the international airport town of $1 2 for Supplying the Pacific for Nearly a Decade With Custom Nadi and nearby areas under six Computer Systems feet (two meters) of water. cs .. Hundreds of homes in low-ly 99¢ ing areas were almost submerged, roads, bridges and buildings wrecked and the sugarcane crop, the mainstay of Fiji's economy, was wiped out in many areas. THURSDAY,JANUARY 28, 1999-MARJANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS-17 Caution urged on Japan For alleged human rights violations forces for UN missions I .I".. VietnaDl condemns U.S. TOKYO (AP) - Japan's gov Monday, Prime Minister Keizo Forces) is permissible so long HANOI, Vietnam (AP) - For the champion of human rights would be condemned by public has included Vietnam on its list Washington for alleged human ernment spokesman said Tues Obuchi said the constitution al as it is not tied to the use of the second time in a week, Viet- elsewhere, was not prevented." opinion in both countries and of countries with human-rights rights violations against migrant day more time was needed before lows the Self Defense Forces to force. But it is very difficult to nam on Tuesday sharply criticized A judge ordered Truong to re- the world community. violations. workers at U.S. companies in Japan's military could be allowed provide weapons and ammuni separate logistic support from the United States for alleged hu- move the portrait and flag after The U.S. State Department Nhan Dan last week slammed Saipan. to provide logistic support in U .N. tion for U.N. forces as long as the use of force," Nonaka said. man-rights violations; saying it the owners of the shopping mall led multilateral forces. such missions are not tied to the Foreign Minister Masahiko should clean up its own act before where his shop is located sought a Chief Cabinet Secretary use of force. Komura told the same parlia lecturing others. court order, complaining the dis- Hiromu Nonaka told reporters He said that the government mentary session at which The Communist Party newspa- play was disruptive to other after Tuesday's Cabinet meeting should decide whether such mis Obuchi spoke that the govern perNhan Dan(People) said it was businesses. that even if the Japanese Consti sions should be sent on a case-by ment would not rule out the pos tution allows such missions, the case basis Cabinet members are sibility of allowing the Self unacceptable that "extremists" .. A Foreign Ministry statement, hadbeenallowedtoattackaViet- quoted by the Vietnam News government should exercise cau split over the role of the country's Defense Forces to deliver weap namesenativewhoputupaposter Agency, said Truong was act- tion as there is no legal frame military as rear-support for U .N. ons and ammunition. PCI .has openings in our of Ho Chi Minh, the late Viet- ing in conformity with U.S. and work for dealing with multina led forces. The Japanese Constitution namese leader, and a communist international law. tional forces. 'There has been an understand prohibits any use of military Guam office in the following areas: Vietnamese flag in his video- "Truong's acts should be pro- Speaking in Parliament on ing that (sending the Self Defense force other than for self-defense. rental shop. tected by U.S. law-related agen- Up to 500 Vietnamese natives cies, particularly the adminis- Applications Programming Moody~s .downgrades 3 ·banks' ratings protested for several days last tration of the place where Responsible for programming and mainraining business and telephony applications in weekagainsttheactionbyTruong Truong lives," the statement Visual FoxPro and Microsoft Access. Van Tran in the Little Saigon said. likely to impair the creditwor TOKYO (AP) _ Credit rating ability to satisfactory levels in neighborhood of Westminster, Nhan Dan used the incident We are looking for at lease 2 years programming and analysis experience in X based thiness of borrowers. particu programs in a Windows/local area network environmenr. Excellenr communication skills agency Moody's Investors Ser the medium term. California. He was assaulted at to take a swipe at Washington for larly medium-size and small a must. Knowledge ofWindows 95/98/NT and telecommunications technologies also vice Inc. said Tuesday it has The New York-based rating one point. its continuing operations in Iraq. companies, that have been able helpful. downgraded ratings for three company downgraded long Southern California is home to "It is ironic that Americans to service their bank debt until major Japanese banks, citing de term deposit and senior debt about 300,000 Vietnamese immi- use warplanes and weapons in a Credit Administration ratings of Bank of Tokyo the present." teriorating asset quality and grants, two-thirds of them clus- country tens of thousands miles We are looking for a BS/BA in Business, Finance or Accounting with 5 years experience in Mitsubishi Ltd. andSanwaBank Moody's also said the down Chiharu lgaya, chairman of the International Olympic Committee's eroding capital. tered around Little Saigon. Many away to protect human rights, credit & collections supervision and a thorough knowledge of credit & collections la:". Evaluation Commission for the Olympic Winter Games in 2006 (left) is Ltd. to "A2" from ;'Al," and graded banks have established Strong analytical skills as well as strong verbal and written communication skills, PC The downgrade also reflected of them fled South Vietnam after but they remain silent and even chased by reporters in Tokyo Tuesday. lgaya reported to the Japanese Moody's view that the banks those of Sumitomo Bank Ltd. to significant reserves against their literacy including Microioft Word & Excel, and Internet Experience. media that the IOC decided to expel six IOC members accused in the it fell to the communists in 1975. ignore the brazen violation of are unlikely to raise their profit- "A3" from ''A2." exposures to Indonesian bor largest corruption scandal in the games' history. AP "The violence by extremists human rights right in their coun- rowers, but their reserves re Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi is against Mr. Truong Van Tran in try. Strategic Planning garding other Asian borrowers Japan's largest bank. The other U.S. territory is a gross violation "Closing their eyes·intention- We are looking for MBA or BA in Business plus a minimum of 5 years experience in are modest. business planning and strategic development. Strong analytical skills, experience in finan two are among Japan's top I 0 ofhumanrights, causing profound ally before this truth could only "Moody's expects that the cial/project modeling; srrong verbal and written communication skills, PC literacy in banks. discontent," Nhan Dan said in a be understood as an attitute of banks' results will be con cluding Microsoft Word & Excel, and Internet Experience. Asian language capabilities It also cut financial strength commentary. tolerating crimes." strained by the need for sub and Asian business experience a definite plus. ratings ofTokyo-Mitsubishi and "It is sad that the obstinate ac- Nhan Dan said the incident stantial credit expenses in the Sanwa to "D+" from "C" and tion, taking place right in a coun- was not conducive to promot- medium-term," it said. Executive Support Staff PCI has openings in our that of Sumitomo to "D" from try which loudly lectures (others) ing cooperation between Viet- We are licking for 5 to lO years experience in working with top exewrives. Strong verbal "'D+." The capital bases of many on human rights and claims itself nam and the United States and Saipan office in the following areas: The credit rating for each of Japanese banks have been eroded and written communication skills, PC literacy including Microsofr Word & Excel, and the three insurers was reduced by write-offs of huge bad loan lnterner Experience; strong organizational skills. by one step, but all remain in the burdens. In addition, their asset Customer Service investment grade category cushions have shrunk due to a Secretarial/Clerical Staff Experience with customer relations; strong written & verbal communica above junk bond status. prolonged slump in the Japanese Responsibilities include word processing, filing, general office duties and pick-ups/ tions skills; computer literacy including Microsoft Word & Excel. Able to Lower ratings signal in stock market. deliveries. creased risks for investors and The steps taken by the three work flexible hours a plus. \Ve are looking for :u leasr 2 yl'ars experience. Strong verbal and wrim:n comrnunic..1rions tend to increase a company's institutions to improve profitabil skills, PC literacy including Microsoft Word & Excel, and Imcrne, Experience. Requires borrowing costs. ity have been modest and "do not own vehicle during working hours. Although the banks have in demonstrate a fundamental Cashier/Receptionist creased their loan loss reserves change in the banks' pricing of Customer Service substantially, these provisions risk, nor do they indicate a sub Experience with customer relations; able to work evenings and Saturdays; fMxpcricncc is preferred, bur we will train the right candidates. Strong wrim:n & vcrbal stantially improved outlook for minimum l year cashiering experience. primarily address bad debts communicuions .skills; compuccr literacy including :\-1icrosoft \'\"'or Network Operations Network Operations Responsible to monitor, operate and maintain rc!ccommunications hard\l,';trc and soft ware. J\.1ust possess basic dara communii.:..1tions knowledge as well as familiarity ,vith com Responsible ro monitor, operate and maintain telecommunications hard munications rest equipment and trouble shooting procedures. Able to work flcxih\c hours ware and sofrware. Must possess basic data communications knowledge a plus. as well as familiarity with communications test equipment and trouble shooting procedures. Able ro work flexible hours a plus. Please send resume to Personnel Officer at: Please send resume co Manager at: PCI Communications, Inc. a Scarrec Global Communications company PCI Communications, Inc. A woman reaches to give money to a beggar with a child on the steps 135 Chalan Samo Papa of the entrance to the Sapa market in mountainous northwestern Agana, Guam 96910 a Starrec Global Communications company ~~m M Fax: 477-6054 P.O. Box 496 •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Saipan, MP 96950 Email: [email protected] Tel: 235-4724 ! Fax:234-8418 CONGRATULATIONS!: Or stop by our office in Agana to fill our an application, Email: [email protected] J~ 1~~P~litv,: Monday-Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm !'Cl is an Equal Opporruniry Emplo_vcr that complies wi,h INS Or stop hy our office in Susupe to fill our an application, (!Jn tk lwdh. o/ tkwi ki4 r;vJ, : rcquircmenrs for cligihiliiy to work in the Un ired Sta,es. Monday-Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Jan. :z:z, 1999 : PC! is an Equal Opportunity Employer that complies wirh all q.l/JJIH, ~ !(uewt.i at tk v~ : requirements for eligibility to work in the CNMJ. Cancer has no cure, but can be prevented. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• - ·.·,:... .: ···-·· ,• THURSDAY,JANUARY 28, 1999- MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS-19 18-MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS-THURSDAY- JANUARY 28, 1999 Thai Premier confident his India, Pakistan urged gov't will survive censure esident, Pontiff meet be some amendments, but in the size "moral ecology," or the ethos Novak, who has met with the to rely less on weapons end I believe that these mea needed to gird a free society. pope a dozen times, doubted sures will become law," Chuan In Mexico, the pope stressed that Clinton's troubles would come dia and Pakistan to sign an in WASHINGTON (AP)_ On the day with Deputy Secretary of said. the church speaks to the prosper- up. ternational test ban treaty, issue eve of a trip to India and Paki State Strobe Talbott and Air The censure debate will be ous as well as to the poor. 'The pope meets with every- a formal moratorium on the pro stan. a State Department offi Force Gen. Joseph Ralston for a conducted in the more powerful "With this pope, culture trumps body, and any confessor knows a cial urged both countries Tues South Asian tour that will in duction of fissile materials used House of Representatives and politics, and economics," said lot about moral failings," he said. day to rely tess on weapons as clude India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka to make nuclear weapons and will not address the proposed Novak. "No matter how rich or "Unless Clinton should choose to adopt restraints on nuclear-ca they define their strategic de and Maldives. laws directly, but rather set out how powerful you are, the question bring something up and speak as a pable missiles and aircraft. fense requirements. The U.S. delegates are ex cases of incompetence against is, 'How do you live? What do you penitent in some way, or as aChris- The U.S. delegates will also Karl Inderfurth. the assistant pected to discuss- strategic de Tarrin and corruption against live for? And what are you willing tian to a pastor, their meeting would talk about Afghanistan and bin secretarv for South Asian Af fense reviews for India and Pa the interior and communications to die for?'" be rather as heads of state.'' fairs. al;o said that Afghanistan kistan while there. The two Laden with ~fficials in Paki ministers. stan. would have to rid itself of nar countries carried out nuclear Chuan Leekpai It is not expected to make A Northern Mariana Islands Social Service ·. cotics traffickers and suspected tests last May. Bin Laden, the Saudi million serious inroads in Chuan's 255 aire who lives in exile in Af terrorist Osama bin Laden to "Both countries ... are in the BANGKOK, Thailand(AP) to 132majority,butifanyofthe ghanistan, has been indicted by return to a working relationship process of defining their strate Prime Minister Chuan Leekpai three ministers were censured, VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT ,,--- gic requirements and defense a U.S. court in connection with . with the rest of the world. believes his government will they would be expected to re the August bombings of the U.S. The Youth Development Program of Karidat . ~a:!'-!.~lt~:t "The United States wants bin posture for the future," said emerge unscathed from a censure sign. embassies in Kenya and Tanza has job vacancies for two (2) part-time Youth Assistant Laden expelled from Afghani lnderfurth. votethisweekandpredictedbank Chuan, generally viewed as nia that killed 224 people, in Coordinators. stan to a place where he can be "We are hopeful that they will ruptcy laws aimed at reviving the an island of personal honesty in cluding 12 Americans. brought to justice for the crimi define those requirements in a battered economy will overcome the corrupt world of Thai poli Taliban officials in Afghani Applications with Position Descriptions are now available and nal acts he has committed, .. way that are minimum but meet political opposition. tics, is not personally targeted. stan have refused to hand over may be picked up at the Karidat Office, next to the Korean Inderfurth said. their needs," he said. "The no-confidence debate is Thailand promised to enact Association Building in Chalan Kanoa. Office hours are from 8:00 Inderfurth will leave Wednes- The United States wants In- bin Laden. something that is normal in Thai bankruptcy and foreclosure laws a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; Monday thru Friday. Deadline for submission of land," Chuan said in a live call under the $17.2 billion bailout application form is 4 30 p.m. Tuesday, February 9, 1999. Please in show Monday on Cable Net package led by the IMF. Pope John Paul II and President Clinton clasp hands as they leave the stage after addressing the crowd in submit a current police clearance with your application. work News. "It happens every Criticism of Chuan 's govern St. Louis Tuesday. The Pope arrived in St. Louis Tuesday for his fifth visit to the U.S. mainland. AP year. I believe my government ment for following IMF de By KEVIN GALVIN from several ministers in recent U.S. missile attack in southern Iraq and I will be able to continue to mands reached a new height last For inquiries on this vacancy, please contact Simon Kihleng @ WASIIlNGTON(AP)-Apresi months, there was no indication he during which civilians were killed. work amid crisis." week following the 234-9026 or Pres Dela Cruz 234-6981. dent living through a modem mo would touch the Lewins)(y theme . The pope also has criticized the The opposition is targeting organization's assessment that rality play is meeting with the spiri Tuesday. economic embargo against Cuba. three ministers for censure in the it made early mistakes in the tual leader of the world's Roman 'The president enjoys carrying But there is much common two-day debate starting Wednes Asian crisis, making it worse Catholics. But White House offi on a dialogue with one of the pre ground, especially in the area of day, including Finance Minister than it needed to be. cials say human rights, Iraq and eminent religious leaders in· the human rights. On his.recent visit to TarrinNimmanhaeminda, whois But Chuan described the pro U.S. Coast Guard Cuba are the most likely topics of world," White House spokesman Cuba, John Paul stressed the need accused ofeconomic mismanage posed laws Monday as "some discussion for President Bill Clinton JoeLockhartsaid. "Hewilldiscuss for freedom and a rebirth of spiri ment for sticking closely to re thing that we need to do any Approved and Pope John Paul II. issues of mutual concern, includ tual values on the island. forms set down by the Interna way.'' Tuesday's visit marks the fourth ing human rights around the world. Lockhart deflected queries about tional Monetary Fund. Foreign investors indicated time Clinton has met with the pon 'Tm certain the situation in Iraq, whether questions of morality Among the reforms are pro last month that they are wary tiff, and the first since the Monica the situation in Cuba, which the would come up. HOUSTON MARINE TRAINING CENTER posed bankruptcy and foreclo of providing Thailand with new Lewinsky scandal became public pope has expressed particular in "I'll leave ittothe Holy Father to sure laws that have run into op capital without passage of a TRAINING COURSE FOR CAPTAIN'S LICENSE and led to the Senate impeachment terest in, will be part of the discus do his own briefings," he said. position in the Senate, which bankruptcy law that makes bad WILL HELD IN SAIPAN FOR: trial. Clinton was meeting with the sion," Lockhart said. Michael Novak, the director of contains a number of wealthy debts easier to sort out. pope for 45 minutes after a wel Not that those will be simple 8ocial and political studies at the businessmen whom critics say An auction of assets of failed *6PACKOUPV coming ceremony at a St. Louis issues to deal with. The pope has American Enterprise Institute and fear ruin if the laws pass. finance companies which had * 2snoo G.T. MASTER LICENSE airport hangar. been critical of the U.S. strikes and a longtime student of John Paul's They have accused the gov been billed as the world's big While Clinton, a Southern Bap U.N. sanctions against Iraq, and he career, said he expected the pope's ernment of opening up the Thai gest auction was a flop when tist, has sought spiritual guidance did so again Monday following a public pronouncements to empha- DATE START: FEBRUARY 1, 1999 economy, which collapsed in most bids failed to meet the mid-1997 to kick off the Asian required minumums. FOR MORE INFORMATION: GUAM (671) 649-4391 crisis, to takeover by foreign Chuan said that he believed CELL: 688-6298 companies. Thailand's crisis was "in a Coordinator Saipan (670) 322-5079 Lewinsky leaves Washington (ask for Simon) Chuan predicted the propos sense ... a warning to us that we may face even worse problems and longtime friend of Clinton, Indian soldiers stand next to Prithvi missiles during the annual Republic Day Parade in New Delhi Tuesday. als ''will be considered favor WASHING TON (Reuters) - *Radar Course is Available in Guam - Year Round* The Prithvi, a nuclear capable missile, is a medium range weapon with a strike capability of 155 miles. AP ably by the Senate. There may in the future." Monica Lewinsky, the woman at and Sidney Blumenthal, a White * AB, QMED All Endorsement - Guam* the heart of the impeachment case House adviser who is also a friend against President Bill Clinton, of first lady Hillary Rodham STATE OF CHUUK left Washington on Tuesday but Clinton. Qi:ommonl.tlealtb Witilities ,., ' 'I~ 20-MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS-THURSDAY-JANUARY 28, 1999 THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 1999- MARIANAS VARIETY NEWS AND VIEWS-21 Arms exports are a key source of today at 1:30 p.m. for closing Phillips argued that Romero, Russia . . . income for Russia, which desper Witness ... statements. Judge Tydingco who admitted lying to Kmart ately needs the hard currency. The Gatewood hesitantly denied the detectives, to Guam Police Of Continued from page 20 Continued from page 12 UN chief urges ban government has plans to sell arms request but said she may recon ficers and to the prosecutors ··we shall offer. advertise and worth $8.5 billion through the year both Tavelera and Maria sider it when attorneys meet this from the Attorney Generals of even impose our products on buy 2005, Raporta said. Romero if Aguon had asked ei morning to discuss jury instruc fice, was less than credible. MOSCOW (AP) ._;. Russia's . view'IVith the daily KommerSarU · ers. But arms exports cannot in Russia is the world's fourth larg ther of them to commit the theft tions. Romero was clearly seen on chief arms exponer wiH ncitin- • newspaper. on land mine sales crease many fold," he said in the estarmsexporter, behind the United scam. Both replied, "No." This is a major blow to the video camera bagging unpaid interview. States. Britain, and France. But on the stand Tavelera tes prosecution because now As merchandise some of which she crease sales this year because of • Raporta's statements contra By ALEXANDER G. HIGGINS and embark on meaningful nego tified that Aguon had asked her sistant Attorney General David had set aside for herself. more competition on the world . dicteffadailll byRussia's ~ GENEVA (AP)-U.N. Secre tiations for a nondiscriminatory, The Spratlys, a string of islands, .·nontics rriiruster late last y61nhat to under-ring merchandise. Sullivan has only the testimony Munoz, an off-duty Kmart market and Russia's economic tary-General Kofi Annan urged multilateral and effectively veri reefs and atolls straddling vital sea RP Senate ... Defense Attorney Michael of Maria Romero and Rhonna employee shopping on July 10, troubles, the company's director ~heniyewooklpoo~its world disarmament negotiators fiable treaty," Annan said. lanes in the South China Sea, are Continued from page 13 Phillips asked that the case Munoz. In arguments on the 1995, had asked her first cousin, said in ari interview. published · ~tb)r20pt?1tyntin 19.99. Tuesday to ban the sales of land He said there is strong demand claimed in whole or in part by the Tuesday. · against his client, Aguon, be Motion to Dismiss heard out defendant Aguon, if she could ·. J.l~sai By Tony Celis take up the call. · 234-6401 or 256-6563. Variety News Staff The try-outs for the 1999 South Also from the Saipan Golfers GOLFING has reached just about Pacific Games Golf team (s) is Association (SGA), the January every corner of the world, _wher just around the corner. Ace of the Month Tournament ever green grass can grow (or A meeting has been scheduled will be this Saturday Jan.30 at not), or a hole dug, golf enthusi for the Sunday at the Laolao Bay Laolao Bay Golf Resort, West asts will be there. Golf Resort, to iron out the de Course. TheSouthPacificGames(SPG) tails. The meeting will begin Registration time is at 7 a.m. are no exception. promptly at 9:30 a.m. with tee-off at 7:27 a.m. through With less than four months re 'Please be ready to play' after the 7:55 a.m. maining before the May, 1999 meeting, said a press release. The association is pleased to SPG, CNMI golfers will again TheSouthPacificGamesaresched announce that new members are have to improve their swing, fine uled to begin in May of this year. invited to join the tournament. tune their putting, and whatever For more information please Dues have been reduced for the else necessary to beat some of the call Judge Edward Manibusan at 1999 membership. regions best golfers, as they com pete for medals. SPORTS NOTES · In Tahiti, during the South Pa cific Games, Jeff Taylor won a Saipan Golfers Association } bronze medal for the CNMI. That The January Ace of The Month tournament will be played on was back in 1995. Saturday Jan.30 at Laolao Bay Golf Resort, :West Course. The chance to challenge others Registration time is 7 a.m. followed by tee-off at 7:27 a.m. until "Firebal/er" lriki of the Yomiuri Giants throws pitches during a light 7:55 a.m. · workout at Paseo Stadium in Hagatna, Guam. Behind him is Cho Sung and possibly win a medal is once Min. · Photo by Eduardo C. Slguanza. again available the those who will New members are invited to join the tournament. Dues have been reduced for this calendar year. Table Tennis Assocaition Karidat and the House of Manhoben in cooperation with the CNMI Table Tennis Association will begin intensive practice ses Olympic scholarship sions in preparation for the South Pacific Games (SPG) in May of this year. All interested players from age 13 on up who would like to try out awarded to A. Samo.an for the team should contact Simon at 234-9026, Joe at 288-2950, or Joe Lizama at Ada Gym, 234-1001/2 for registration or infonnation. SUV A (Pacnews) - Ameri IAAF top 10 in the Women's athletes from developing Practices at the House of Manhoben are conducted on Saturdays can Samoan athlete, Lisa Hammer throw, is based in South countries to help in their from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. beginning Jan. 30th. Misipeka, has been awarded Carolina, USA, and graduated preparation for and partici Ada Gym table tennis practices are on Tuesday and Thursdays an Olympic Solidarity "Sydney with a Bachelor of Science in pation in the 2000 Olympic from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. starting Feb. 2nd. · 2000" Scholarship by the In Physical Education in May 1998. Games. ternational Olympic Commit She is described as having an For Lisa, the scholarship NMIA WALKATHON Sl:T tee. excellent record in her event, will assist her with her living THE NORTHERN Marianas Insurance Association would like to Lisa joins Tony Philp (Fiji and was 1998 NCAA Indoor expenses, coaching announce and infonn the public that they will be sponsoring a Boardsai I ing) and Marcus and Outdoor Champion in the programmes, regular. medi walkathon at 5:00 p.m., on Saturday, January 30th. Stephen (Nauru Hammer Throw. She also came cal treatment, accident and The HAFA Walkathon which stands for Health and Fitness Weightlifting) as the third re 7th at the New York Goodwill illness insurance as well as cipient in Oceania of this pres Games last year. Awareness will begin at the Kilili Beach Park. Water will be the cost of her participation provided by the Association. tigious scholarship. The "Sydney 2000" Scholar in qualifying events for the Lisa, currently ranked in the ships are available for high level Everyone is invited.and encouraged to participate. 2000 Olympic Games. Let's start a Healthy New Year. Japanese tour splits with PGA of Japan } By DOUG FERGUSON ;I NEW YORK (AP) - A golf revolt is under way in Japan. Just as Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus helped pave the way 30 years ago for what is now the PGA.Tour, touring pros in Japan are prepared to break from the PGA of Japan. The Japan Tour Players Club, fonner Japanese tour director Kosaku Shimada and the Golf Tournament Promotion Association have "decided to separate from the PGA Policy officials who wish to follow the old way and not see the changes needed for the upcoming age," said GTPA director Michio Torii. The PGA of Japan operated much like the PGA of America-one division for teaching professionals and one for tournament profes sionals. Two years ago, the PGA Tour of Japan was established to better serve players'. needs. The tour tried to become independent, butTorii says the four PGA of Japan members on the tour's policy board - particularly chair man Fujio Ishii - have '.'rejected the basic premise of our four organization." Shimada represents Japan on the International Federation of PGA Continued on page 26. Patrick Tudela (center, left) poses with team players that make up the lslandwide Village Youth Basketball ;::::::::::::::::::::::==::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::==:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::~__ __'.:L~e~sa'.'.'~gue (IVYBL) in this file photo. ______.,"-~~s Pe>s~ ~ ..J... ~ ,o __ -- -...ii.-"*_..__,,..,,..,,...... SAIPAN P.O. Box 231 Soipan. MP 96950 960 SouthvPt~ • Tel. (670) 234-6341 • 7578 • 9797 !!f::,9-:rr~ ;~ Tomu~Xiio•. G't'.J 7 - • Fox: (670) 234-9271 ~11-1 • E-mail: [email protected] • Tel. (671? ~9316,7&,!)',~Pt92.6RoM ::;AIPAN MP 9 6 9 0 • Fox: (671) 649-4687 [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] \ 'j:'. . ; .:·.•. \\_; ~.... t,~t,~~~ -..: