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Jaki-ed ISSN: 0892 2096 auction P28 Friday, November 28, 2014 • Volume 45, Number 48 Ballot Yacht hits the reef numbers drawn for the 2015 election

The big event of the week was the so-called kubwe in kijidrik (drawing of lots) for candidates’ bal- lot numbers for the Novem- ber 2015 national election. Hundreds of people filled The yacht Ocean the ICC Tuesday for the Echo grounded event run by the RMI Elec- on the reef at toral Administration. The official list of candidates Enemakij Island. for council, mayor and sen- ator for next year’s election was expected to be released A yacht ran aground near Majuro’s pass The captain alerted local officials to the Enemakij owner Liene Rantak issued a by Electoral later this week. in the early morning hours before sunrise grounding, and Lomor and local yachts re- public announcement Wednesday on V7AB Candidates for the differ- Monday and is considered a total loss. sponded to the emergency to provide assis- advising everyone to stay away from the ent offices for each atoll or The Ocean Echo, which reportedly was tance. However, it became quickly apparent yacht. island — or their represen- waiting for daylight to enter the pass, hit the that the yacht was seriously damaged and “I’ve also lodged a formal complaint with tatives — trooped up to the reef at Enemakij Island, which is near the could not be safely refloated off the reef. the national and local police for investiga- table where Chief Electoral pass at Kalalen. The same day of the grounding, the Cana- tion and retrieval of items that were taken Officer Robson Almen and The vessel’s autopilot is said to have dian captain turned the vessel over to local off the boat without knowledge and autho- Electoral staff were sitting failed and the captain, who was manning landowners and gave items from the vessel rization from my family,” Yolanda Lodge- to pick a number from a the yacht singlehandedly, apparently fell to local residents and others who helped Ned, who is an assistant attorney general, container on the table. asleep. him that morning. told the Journal. The drawing is to posi- tion the candidates’ names on the ballots that will be printed at a later date. Mail held at airport Outbound mail to the United tive followed in December of the States was not allowed to leave same year. Majuro late last week when a Businesses concerned by situation DCA then submitted proof to scanner used to check packages show that security measures were broke down. an outstanding question. an International Civil Aviation this week. “The DCA worked to- implemented so ICAO would The problem was resolved A United official confirmed that Organization (ICAO) audit of the gether with US Embassy, Trans- clear RMI from the SSeC audit Monday when United Airlines all packages went out Monday RMI, which identified mail secu- portation Security Administration finding. fixed its scanner. But the issue of and as of Wednesday this week, rity issues. (TSA), and Post Office to resolve But then in August this year, who is responsible for scanning there was no mail backlogged in “ICAO audit on February 2012 the issue.” TSA told United that it did not mail — the RMI government or Majuro. listed RMI with significant se- This resulted in TSA giving a need to continue screening mail. the airline — in light of the secu- The DCA’s policy requiring curity concern (SSeC) regarding directive to United to screen mail, But, said John, United must still rity screening rule being a regula- x-ray scanning of all mail over mail flying out without proper by using explosive trace detection comply with the RMI DCA regu- tion imposed by the RMI Direc- one-pound went into effect in security measures,” DCA Inspec- (ETD) equipment, in June 2012. lations. torate of Civil Aviation remains December 2012 as a response to tor Alice John told the Journal The Marshall Islands DCA direc- Continued page 2 Talk to us at [email protected] • Subscribe to the Journal Online at www.marshallislandsjournal.com 2 Friday, November 28, 2014 — The Marshall Islands Journal MBA course Legal Services to gets thumbs up reopen Ebeye office from association Senior staff and The Micronesian Legal Services Corp (MLSC) alumni of the Univer- will reopen its office in Ebeye next month. The Eb- sity of the South Pa- eye office was closed since last year. cific (USP) gathered Now leased documents have been finalized and at the Laucala Campus MLSC is gearing up to bring the Ebeye office back on November 17 to into operation. According to MLSC supervising at- celebrate the accredita- torney William Fife, III, the office is expected to be tion of USP’s Master open for service to the public starting on December of Business Adminis- 8. tration program by the The office is located next to the Ebeye courthouse Association of MBAs and will be open during normal work hours Monday (AMBA). to Friday. It will be staffed by MLSC Ebeye Office’s Head of USP’s Roseann Muller, who was sworn-in to the RMI Bar Graduate School as a trial assistant last week. of Business (GSB) Fife, who is based in Majuro, will be available to Professor Raghuvar work with clients either through video teleconfer- Pathak said the uni- encing or in person during Ebeye court sessions. versity was delighted “Our motto is ‘Strengthening Communities that AMBA President through Advocacy,’ and we do this in three ways,” Sir Paul Judge (pic- Fife said. “Direct legal services, collaboration, Trial assistant Rose- tured) had come from and community outreach and education. Our legal ann Muller, above London to join in the services are for those who are financially eligible, left and inset right, celebration of USP’s meaning low- to no-income individuals or groups. was sworn in to the AMBA accreditation. “I met Sir Paul at the Interna- We seek to collaborate with and provide community RMI Bar as a trial tional AMBA conference in April this year and took outreach and education to those that cannot afford assistant last week. the opportunity of inviting him to our GSB. I am so legal representation.” She will work at pleased he has honored us by his visit to our Laucala This is to provide equal access to justice for all the reopened Ebeye campus,” he said. sectors of the population, he said. MLSC office. “As many of you now know, Association of MBAs delivers a world class accreditation service focusing on the quality assurance of postgraduate management programs at the top-tier business schools around the The poorest of the poor world.” He said AMBA accreditation will help GSB to further improve its international visibility and to Marshall Islanders have the highest manians or Chamorros, Native Ha- age of home owners at nine percent. position it to a global business school. level of people living below the pov- waiians, and Fijians. The average an- Marshallese were next at 10 percent. “AMBA gives you a worldwide reach,” said Sir erty line in the United States, accord- nual per capita income for Marshal- Palauans were in the middle at 27 per- Paul. “We now have 222 business schools accredited ing to a newly issued report on Pacific lese was $7,097, according to the re- cent owning homes. in over 70 countries and like many things, the density islanders living in the US. port. This compares to Tongans who Marshallese had the biggest house- of business schools in Asia Pacific has increased. “A Community of Contrasts: Na- were next at $11,892 and Fijians who hold size at an average of 5.7 people “Twenty years ago there were no accredited busi- tive Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders were at the top with $21,621. per house. Next came Chuukese at ness schools in Asia-Pacific. Now out of the 222, over in the US 2014” provides detailed in- In the “poverty rate” listing, Mar- 5.5. Others listed included Pohn- 40 of them are from this region and the fact that you formation on various Pacific islanders shallese were at the top with 49 per- peians (4.5), Yapese (3.5) and Palau- are one of those is really important,” he added. living in the US and its jurisdictions. cent. Tongans were next at 19 percent, ans (3.3) The report compares the status of followed by Palauans (18 percent) Overall, Fijians came out the best different groups of Pacific islanders and Samoans (16 percent). in four of the six categories: top in in six categories. Seventy three percent of Marshal- per capita income, lowest percentage Mail sent out Marshallese in the US scored low- lese were in the low-income bracket, of people in poverty, fewest people at est in average income when compared with Tongans next at 47 percent. low-income levels, and most (55 per- to Tongans, Palauans, Samoans, Gua- Chuukese had the lowest percent- cent) people owning homes. after United fixes scanning gear From page 1 Majuro Postmaster Aaron Lang said the PO is “work- ing with the DCA to try to sort this out.” Because, as was discussed at this week’s Chamber of Commerce meeting, if United’s scanning equipment breaks down, mail will be held up again. Lang said the US Postal Service and TSA have no issue about mail from the RMI as the accepted practice by both US agencies is that the RMI Postal Service Authority pro- vides a “chain of custody” letter to verify that no one other than authorized postal staff handled the mail before it was put on the plane. At the Chamber meeting at Sandy’s Restaurant Wednes- day, RMI Postal Authority board member James McLean said United has “kindly provided the scanner.” He pointed out that the issue of responsibility for a mail scanner is something that has been under debate for a year. “The Post Office cannot do it financially,” he said of the cost to buy, maintain and purchase spare parts for the equipment. The Marshall Islands Journal — ­­­Friday, November 28, 2014 3 Ingram says no to Huang

The High Court rejected an at- other things, an impediment to Mr. tempt by a Marshallese citizen to Huang’s travel to the United States,” change his name, saying a name said Ingram in his order. “The court change would help him cover up his records show Mr. Huang has been criminal convictions. charged with criminal offenses in Huang Peishu’s petition to the four cases and has been convicted High Court for a name change from of felonies in two cases. Under the Huang Peishu to Huang Aubrey change of name rules, aiding the was rejected by Chief Justice Carl covering up of criminal convictions Ingram earlier this month. Huang is a prohibited purpose and result.” said he has used Aubrey since arriv- Ingram also commented that the ing in the Marshall Islands and he petitioner, who was represented by had found it easier for non-Chinese local attorney Witten Philippo, did speakers to use this name rather not establish that “Aubrey” is easier than his Chinese first name. to remember than “Peishu.” Ingram said, however, that In a 2010 case that originally Huang’s petition did not follow the charged him with attempted mur- requirements of name-change peti- der, Huang was found guilty of as- tions. He did not include his birth sault and battery with dangerous certificate number, no address of his weapon and served eight months of parents was listed, he did not pro- a 27-month jail sentence. In a 2013 vide a verified list of criminal con- criminal case, he was originally Stanney Leon (left) and Jefereay Malolo were on the dock for a snapshot in front victions, and did not sign the peti- charged with sexual assault in the of the 240-foot super yacht Dragonfly while it was being fueled by Mobil last tion. first degree, and was found guilty of week Friday. The luxury vessel was getting 18,000 gallons of fuel, which com- “More important, the requested sexual assault in the fourth degree pares to our local vessels like Aemman, which fills up with about 5,000. Dragon- change of name would aid in cover- and sentenced to one year in jail. fly departed Majuro for a visit to Ailinglaplap. Photo: Isaac Marty. ing up Mr. Huang’s criminal convic- His one-year jail term ended on Oc- tions, which convictions are, among tober 18. Bonus Farewell El Niño increases for to Risen

Aur Mayor Risen Han- chance of storms Ebeye sen, pictured speaking Global forecasts indicate the onset of an sociated with irregular rainfall in the Pacific at an Aur Atoll libera- abnormal warming of surface ocean waters, region. In the Marshall Islands, El Niño tion day event in 2009, known as the El Niño effect. The resulting conditions cause extended dry periods. A sports died earlier this month. changes in climate, which will see both in- reduced rainfall could impact subsistence Funeral services were creased and decreased rainfall depending agriculture the most, causing a loss of cash held for the long-term Thanks to a grant from on the exact location, will threaten agricul- income and reducing people’s ability to sup- mayor at Uliga Protestant ture, freshwater resources, reef ecosystems, port themselves. the Embassy of Taiwan, Church earlier this week. Ebeye tennis and basket- fisheries, public health, and infrastructure, Meanwhile, the likelihood of cyclones His remains were sched- says the United Nations Economic and So- and severe storms for the Marshall Islands ball players can now enjoy uled to depart Wednesday cial Commission for Asia and the Pacific is predicted to increase by 30 percent. “Even playing in the cool breeze night to his home atoll for (ESCAP). The advisory for Pacific island a weak El Niño event could put Pacific is- of nighttime. burial. countries, issued jointly by the ESCAP land countries at high risk,” said Shamika A $20,000 grant was and the Regional Integrated Multi-Hazard Sirimanne, Director of ESCAP’s Informa- recently provided to the Photo: Early Warning System for Africa and Asia tion and Communications Technology and Kwajalein Atoll Local Karen Earnshaw. (RIMES) explains that El Niño will be as- Disaster Risk Reduction Division. Government for installa- tion of solar lights at sev- eral courts on Ebeye. The first of those were installed recently at the ten- nis and basketball courts near NTA and the local government offices as part of a partnership between KALGov and KAJUR, Ebeye’s power company. Basketball courts near the national police station and the north end dump are ex- pected to be lit up soon. Meantime, solar street lights for installation around Ebeye Island ar- rived on Ebeye earlier this month and are ready to be installed by KAJUR. Taiwan funded provision of the new solar street- lights for both Ebeye and Majuro. 4 Friday, November 28, 2014 — The Marshall Islands Journal Tony meets with Pacific leaders A meeting bringing together ministers of Korea and 14 Pa- cific island countries kicked off Monday at Hotel Shilla in central Seoul, providing an opportunity to step up regional partnerships and enhance co- operation in areas such as cli- mate and maritime affairs. Marshall Islands Foreign Minister Tony deBrum is at- tending the meeting, follow- ing his visit last week to Fiji to meet with Indian Prime Min- ister Narendra Modi and Fiji Prime Minister Frank Baini- marama. In opening remarks, S. Ko- rean Minister of Foreign Af- Minister meets fairs Yun Byung-se referred to the meeting, which convened for the first time since 2011, India PM Modi as an “excellent opportunity to broaden our diplomatic ho- Minister Tony deBrum met with India Prime Minis- rizons.” ter Narendra Modi (pictured above) in Fiji last week. In While the Pacific island na- a statement, deBrum extended greetings and apprecia- tions have traditionally forged tion from President Christopher Loeak and the people ties with countries such as the of the RMI to Prime Minister Modi for the opportunity United States, Australia, New and to Fiji Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama for fa- Zealand, Japan and China, cilitating this event for the Pacific. Yun added, “We are trying to Modi visited Fiji following the G20 summit held in bridge the wider Asia-Pacific Australia a few days before. region, not only in our part of DeBrum said the RMI was “fortunate to have India’s the world, Northeast Asia, but support during our trusteeship period in our political also in the rest of the Pacific.” history.” He said he looked forward to working with The second Korea-Pacific India to enhance relations and cooperate on areas of Islands Foreign Ministers’ mutual interest, including climate change. Meeting was themed “Build- Modi announced during the Fiji visit that India is ing Inclusive and Enduring changing its visa policy to provide visas on arrival for Pacific Partnership for Co- Pacific islanders traveling to India. He also announced Prosperity.” a $1 million fund for the Pacific. Ebeye hits 99 percent level The latest report from the Ministry of Health shows that while immunization levels for children are high on Ebeye, outer islands and Majuro completion rate is low. Ebeye reports that 99 percent of its 19-35 month old children are fully im- munized for five different vaccines, some of which re- quire multiple shots spaced over a period of time. In contrast, Majuro’s “fully immunized” rate is 52 percent and the outer islands are listed as 30 percent, which gives the RMI as a whole a 54 percent comple- tion rate for 19-35 month old children. The data was included in the Ministry of Health’s fourth quarter 2014 (July-September) report re- leased this week. The Marshall Islands Journal — ­­­Friday, November 28, 2014 5

Eni Faleoma- vaega pictured in Majuro in April, 2008, when he was here to take testimony from nuclear survi- vors.

Photo: Giff Johnson Faleomavaega praised by US politicians The US House Committee on Foreign for reelection from American Samoa ear- Affairs last week unanimously passed a lier this month. He has represented Ameri- resolution last week that was introduced can Samoa in the US Congress for 25 years. by outgoing Ranking Member Eni Faleo- Republican Members, including former mavaega calling for a peaceful resolution Foreign Affairs Chairman Ileana Ros- of territorial disputes in the South and East Lehtinen, Chairman Chris Smith of the China Seas. Subcommittee on Africa, and Chairman Both Republicans and Democrats joined Dana Rohrabacher of the Subcommittee on together to pay tribute to Faleomavaega for Europe and Eurasia also openly expressed his outstanding service during the markup their appreciation and admiration for Fa- discussions for the resolution. Chairman leomavaega, sharing personal anecdotes Ed Royce and Ranking Member Eliot En- of their work together, and noting that he gel expressed their love for him, referring will be deeply missed. Chairman Ros- to Faleomavaega as a “Member’s Mem- Lehtinen also made reference to Faleoma- ber.” Faleomavaega, they said, called for vaega’s photo with Elvis dating back to the the US to strengthen relations with the Asia time Faleomavaega was a student at LDS Pacific long before others ever did. Church College in Hawaii (now known as Faleomavaega, a Democrat, lost his bid BYU-Hawaii). 6 Friday, November 28, 2014 — The Marshall Islands Journal The Marshall Islands Journal — ­­­Friday, November 28, 2014 7 8 Friday, November 28, 2014 — The Marshall Islands Journal

The RMI Riddle No. 532: Sponsored by CopyMasters

ACROSS 3. Mr. Canoe. 8. Bit of a minute. 9. Chief Justice. 10. German philosopher Friedrich Engels wrote: “An ----- of action is worth a ton of theory.” 11. Voyage. 12. Cries. 13. Look! Plant in water. 15. Clever. 17. Noodles. 20. Green fruit. 21. Provide with tools. New wheels for waste guys 22. Desires. 23. Jack’s job at Bikini. The Majuro Atoll Waste Company has a new truck thanks to US 24. Bit of an act. Compact funding. Pictured from left are MAWC men Lewon Lauror, 26. Black wood. Richard Kious, Marton Johnny and Teliphen Neamon. 28. Removed the outer edge. 6. Breakfast treats. Answers to Riddle No. 531 31. Wahoo or tuna. 7. Risk. 33. Instrument. 13. Fastens papers together. 34. SP spot. 14. Died from submersion. 35. Outdoor meal. 15. Stairs. Rhea nan opiij 36. Gold’s girlfriend. 16. Entertain. 37. Hurry. 18. Orange-green fruit. DOWN 19. Evil. 1. Tony or Orlando. 25. Medical facility. 2. Clean TV show? 27. SP city. eo an WCPFC? 3. Love. 29. Boat opening. 4. James Cook’s name for 30. Rub out. Note: (abb.) = abbreviation Ilo kwelok eo week eo lok an minis- kajuon nan jijjot ilo jea eo an drouluul jab Hawaii. (8,7) 32. Arm’s end. (3,4) = indicates the number ter ro an Parties to the Nauru Agreement in elap an aurok ikijien kojebwebweiki 5. Relative. 33. Toy. of letters in words. eo (PNA) ilo Tuvalu, ear jab juon menin drouluul in eonod ko ibelakin jikin kein ilo bulon ke drouluul in ear rie im jutak ilikin Pacific in. Feleti Teo, bwe en bok jerbal in director Moss ej jokwe ilo Pohnpei im ear juon nan Western im Central Pacific Fisheries ri kabiloklok ikijien jerbal in eonod nan Commission eo (WCPFC). Federated States of Micronesia Congress Teo ej jen Tuvalu, im ej ri Pacific eo eo jen kar March in year in, im ej barein- drein ebed etan ibwiljin lalem ri jibadrek wot jea eo nan Technical im Compliance ro jet, im elap an emman pepa in jerbal kab Committee eo an WCPFC eo. Mokta jen imenene eo an ilo kar bok eddo in drouluul an kar jerbal ippen FSM Congress eo, kora ko an belaak kein bareinwot. in ear jerbal enwot Chief of Compliance Nan bar kile elaptata nan Marshall Is- ilo FSM National Oceanic Resource Man- lands, PNA minister ro raar bareinwot agement Authority eo – ak jenba fisheries jutak im rie Rhea Moss-Christian bwe en department eo an FSM – iumin emen year chairperson eo an WCPFC. ko. Mokta lok wot kora in ear jerbal ilo Elane ej etal jekjek in jen ro uwaan WCP- Majuro ilo Ministry of Foreign Affairs kab FC – eo im ekoba 17 lal ko jen ijokein, kab Ministry of R&D. Kora in ej nejin Satako 15 lal ko jen likin im rej ri eonod – Moss- Ysawa jen Ailuk im Dave Moss, juon kar Christian emaron in erom ri Majol eo kein Peace Corps Volunteer ilo RMI in. Ro rej kotobare jea in president nan CMI ISAAC MARTY jen Australia, im kab Theresa Koroivula- College eo an Marshall Islands (CMI) ono (kora jen New Zealand). ej kotmene an naaj kwalok won eo enaaj Dr. Nabobo-Baba ear tokeak tok ijin CMI President ilo naaj allon in lal, elkin Monday eo lok. Ear kwelok im ione ri an CMI board eo naaj kommane karok eo jerbal im ri kaki, kab board eo an college an elkin an bwebwenato ippen ri jibadrek in. ro jilu ilon tata nan jerbal in. CMI Student Body Association (SBA) CMI President eo kio Carl Hacker en President eo Sana Anien ear ba bwe SBA kar jemlok an jerbal allon in botaap ear ear bar kwelok ippen Nabobo-Baba im aetok lok kitien nan year in lal bwe en loe bwe kora in ekonan ejaake im kom- emman an wor oktak jen juon president man bwe en wor katak ko nan kora. “Me- nan bar juon president. nin enaaj jiban bwe kora ro ren wonman- Hacker ear bok eddo im kokman- lok wot,” Anien ear ba. manelok likjab ko kin jaan, kalonlok Nabobo-Baba ear ba bwe jibarbar eo woran ro rej kadriwojlok, im kokman- an ej nan jiban bwe CMI en kajibadrek manlok bwe en kadu lok kitien an ri jik- emman tata. CMI ej melele in emman uul ro bed ilo development mokta jen aer tata eo an RMI, kora in ear ba. nan ro ilo drelone credit course ko. CMI Friday eo lok. CMI Director nan Human Resources Chandra ear tokeak tok Majuro Mon- Bob Willson ear kabine bwe laajrak in ri day eo lak. Elkin Chandra enaaj Koroi- jibadrek ro rej Dr. Unaisi Nabobo-Baba vulaono, eo im rej kotmene bwe enaaj (kora jen Fiji) Subhas Chandra (emman tokeak tok ilo December 1 raan. The Marshall Islands Journal — ­­­Friday, November 28, 2014 9 10 Friday, November 28, 2014 — The Marshall Islands Journal

Energy consultant Jun Hagihara, left, speaks to the meeting. Right, Luis Ka- kefuku takes the microphone as audience members including Senators Ruben Zackhras, Dennis Momotaro and David Kramer listen. Photos: Hilary Hosia. R&D hosts seminar on renewable energy Renewable energy is a rising topic Plan that was established in Septem- sign of hybrid systems in remote is- for the RMI and a seminar on this ber 2009. lands, and minimizing power losses issue is planned for the Marshall Is- The National Energy Plan goals with improved management. lands Resort’s Melele Room on No- include more efficient fuel use, 100 Also an establishment of meth- vember 18 at 9:30am. The seminar percent electrification of households ods is aimed to improve the existing hosted by the Ministry of Resources in urban areas and 95 percent in re- operation of the Marshalls Energy and Development (R&D), Economic mote islands and atolls by 2015 (93 Company diesel generators that pro- Development Division, Marshalls percent of households on Majuro duce power for Majuro. Energy Company (MEC), and Japan completed as of 2009), and the sup- JICA and Japan-based Okinawa International Cooperation Agency ply of 20 percent of all energy from Enetech company agreed and are (JICA) will be open for all renewable renewables. working closely with MEC and R&D energy interested people, confirmed Tomobe said the RMI government to implement a project to support JICA Resident Representative Hide- requested Japan’s cooperation in De- technology development for an en- ki Tomobe. cember 2011. ergy supply system in the RMI. Ene- Through these agencies, the RMI Japan was asked to assist in devel- tech conducted surveys and technical government has been making efforts oping a legal system for introducing instruction in Majuro early this year. to achieve target goals in its National renewable energy, developing an The project is aimed at addressing Energy Policy and Energy Action evaluation method, planning and de- the National Energy Policy. Marshallese witnesses tragic crash A Marshall Islander was on his way media Facebook. The reporter saw the There are news reporters next to to visit his parents at Rancho Cordova photo post on Facebook and immedi- me setting up their gears. The girl’s in Sacramento, California when he ately contacted the Marshallese, who friends are on the site crying. From witnessed the death of a high school was able to provide real time informa- hearing the reporter, the girl is a high student who was struck by a train. tion as to what happened. Here is his school African American teenager “She was trying to crossover (the story: from Cordova high. The train is be- tracks) when she got hit,” the Mar- “It’s 4:29pm Thursday here (12pm ing washed up and traffic is piling up. shallese, who was 10 meters on the Friday Marshallese time). The police I was approached by a police officer opposite lane of the incident, told a stopped all vehicles. Medical teams and was advised to lower my phone Journal reporter on the popular social are handling the body as we speak. because I kept on taking photos.” The Marshall Islands Journal —­­­ Friday, November 28, 2014 11

Hemina Nysta with the Red Cross’ first birthday cake. Photo: Hilary Hosia.

Sixteen days to help end gender violence Women United Together Marshall Islands (WUT- MI) kicked off its 16 Days of Activism against gender violence at the College of Marshall Islands Tuesday, amidst a last minute cancellation of a Red Cross kemem scheduled walkathon from Delap Park to end at the Staff Sergeant Solomon Sam Memorial Court. Acting Internal Affairs Secretary Molly Helkena Marshall Islands Red Cross celebratory feast this week, the introduced a break down of events for the next two Society celebrated its first ke- organization was saddened with weeks that range from 5:30am walkathons at Laura, mem (birthday) at Marshall the departure of its first admin- Rita and Ejit on November 29 to domestic violence Islands Resort’s poolside istrator Hemina Nysta, who and sex trafficking awareness programs — all of Wednesday as the Journal went recently left her post to follow which build up to a grand finale coinciding with the to press, marking the first year husband US Army retired and Jambo Arts exhibition in December 12. anniversary for the society. former US Embassy military li- WUTMI Vice President Borja Milne shared the “We will be inviting donors and aison officer Frederick Nysta to origin behind the 16 Days of Activism: 16 Days of members of the community to Seattle, Washington for medi- Activism commemorates the movement set by the join MIRCS members in the cal reasons. “We will miss He- Coop School’s Victoria Jamodre three Mirabal Sisters from Dominican Republic celebration,” MIRCS President mina,” said Pinano. “She did wowed the crowd with a song at the that were assassinated for being political activists in Dr. Alex Pinano told the Journal fantastic work and was very WUTMI event. Photos: Hilary Hosia. 1961. The White Ribbon Day that is observed inter- a week before the occasion. productive. We wish the best for nationally in memory of the 16 women murdered by Although MIRCS hosted a her and Frederick.” a single man in Montreal, Canada. 12 Friday, November 28, 2014 — The Marshall Islands Journal AROUND TOWN

Happy birthday Weilun

Spotted shopping at K&K Island Pride Supermarket earlier this week was the fastest chef in Majuro Aliang Deng of Aliang’s Restaurant and son Weilun Ethan Deng. Weilun celebrated his kemem at the popular Uliga restaurant earlier in the month.

Photo: Hilary Hosia

‘Take a look at this: Gas under $3 a gallon. Stardom for Unemployment un- Wisdom der 6 percent, whoever Five regular RMI Riddlers proved themselves worthy of Stardom for thought? Stock market Wisdom this week by turning in perfect puzzles. Congratulations go to Herman Lee- breaking records every Enos, Becky Lathrop, Dyna R., Diane Myazoe, and Helber Namna. To join the competition, turn to page day. No wonder the guy eight and fill in the crossword and fax it (625-3636), email it ([email protected]), or bring it (ocean road is so unpopular.’ behind Formosa in Uliga) to the Journal by Tuesday —David Letterman on President Barack Obama at 5pm. Good luck!

UES, DES, Coop and Woja Elementary battle it out in Delap. Elementary tournament a tough battle of the littlies Although it’s too early to tell which game end results. Makes one another tie at 22-22, forcing the elementary school will dominate in wonder: How can a school with- game to overtime. UES finally this year’s elementary basketball little-to-no sports facility size up to toppled the bigger school DES by tournament, latest showdowns in- bigger schools? one point 28-27 following the five- dicate three potential champions: Words can only say so much. minute overtime. Rita Elementary School, Majuro Elementary basketball tourna- Rairok Elementary School Cooperative School and under- ment update from Friday, last (RRES) took a gamble with the dogs Uliga Elementary School. week. much swifter and taller players of RES, by statistics, is overall the Uliga Elementary School de- Rita Elementary School. Although top team in the league, bringing feated Delap Elementary School RRES demonstrated great drib- a questionable tie between Coop following a very intense game. bling skills, RES easily dominat- and UES. The teams tied with nine points ed by a large margin, closing the Coop demonstrates obvious on the scoreboard the first half of game with a twenty point margin, team discipline, something most the game. Each game is two- fif- 42-22. teams lack at such a young age. teen minute halves. Both teams Stop by the Delap mini court UES, on the other hand, continues threw and received equal punches around 4pm to witness future to awe the crowd with their close- during the second half to come to ballers battle each other. The Marshall Islands Journal —­­­ Friday, November 28, 2014 13

AROUND TOWN All the news that may or may not be fit to print...

Drawing lots at ICC There was hot action at the ICC with potential candidates and their agents focused on kubw- en kijdrik results (drawing lots) for the 2015 election. Above three candidates for Jaluit: Fred deBrum, Ricky Alik and Rien Morris. At right: Electoral staff call out the draw for candi- dates. Photos: Hilary Hosia. US Embassy is Ready for looking for a holiday joy? few great ideas Get ready for the holiday spirit. The Majuro Cham- ber of Commerce and the Women’s Athletic Club are Got an interesting project for the community? co-sponsoring this year’s Christmas parade, which is Good idea, but need a little “seed” money to make scheduled for Saturday December 13. it grow? Then you may want to keep reading. The Chamber has organized to purchase candy in Marshall Ferrin, who is the local representa- bulk from off-island, and Asia Pacific Airlines is fly- tive of the recently established Pacific American ing the goodies in next week. The Chamber is ask- Climate Fund, said this week that the US Embas- ing local businesses and anyone interested to donate sy is looking for interesting projects to fund. funds or candy to make the parade a success. Last The “Ambassador’s Fund” doesn’t give out year, a big turnout of 20 floats sparked Christmas large amounts of money but funds projects that excitement and the Chamber is hoping for a similar “make a difference” to the community up to about good turnout from local businesses and government $10,000, he said. So if you got something in mind, agencies to sponsor floats. put words to paper, and “kebak” the US Embassy Anyone wanting to contribute funds for the parade ilo iien eo emokaj tata. should contact Salome Andrike, and to donate can- dy, please drop at the United downtown office.

Traffic was held up a bit but the skillful maneuvering of Majuro Stevedoring & Terminal drivers in navigating this trailer home into a tight space provided some entertainment for spectators stuck in traffic. Photo: Suzanne Chutaro

Round 87 and still counting A request from the RMI government to the US mili- Previous assessments conducted by the Japanese tary to check the ECC gym received a favorable reply government have already been provided for the US from the Pacific Command at the Joint Committee military’s advance information. The request and re- Meeting held in Honolulu recently. This is the latest sponse was through a humanitarian assistance pro- development in the long, ongoing saga — now three- vision in the Compact of Free Association, he said. and-a-half-year-worth — of the former national gym While the RMI government’s aim is for a complete in Majuro. renovation of ECC, from what we hear, this is likely Chief Secretary Casten Nemra (who is on leave to be beyond the resources and mandate of a military because he’s a candidate) and who was part of the engineering unit. Nemra said the recommendations RMI delegation to the JCM, said the US side indi- from the US engineers will go to the US government cated that an engineering unit may visit Majuro early for its review and possible action. next year to look over the condition of ECC. Don’t hold your breath… 14 Friday, November 28, 2014 — The Marshall Islands Journal

Opinion pageS Send letters to PO Box 14, Majuro, MH 96960 or email [email protected] Why are over 2,000 children not in school? The establishment of the new RMI Board of Education is a welcome development. The board is an important feature of the country’s new Education Act, adopted by Nitijela in 2013. As the new board gets itself organized and into operation, we hope it will turn its attention to the find- ings of the Marshall Islands School Attendance and Truancy Situation Analysis that was produced last year by a 10-member task force headed by co-chairpersons Secretary of Education Gary Ueno and then-Single State Agency Director Julia Alfred. This report found that over 2,000 school age young people aged 5-18 are not enrolled in school. It also identi- fied many other impediments to improving educational achievement in the RMI. These findings and the report’s recommendations deserve review and action by the Board of Education. We look forward to the progress of the board as it moves into the challenging responsibility of overseeing education in the Marshall Islands. The case for Pacific regionalism SENATOR BRETT MASON The FFA is another much-touted example of success- ful collective action. Tuna, after all, is a migratory species A few months ago I stood on a beach Senator Brett Mason in Tarawa, Kiribati. It has a population that doesn’t respect national boundaries. Management and density up to twice that of Sydney or conservation can only work as collective efforts. New York, but only a fraction of their Bishop made it clear that we will continue to There are many other areas where the countries of the infrastructure and economic opportuni- play an active role in the region; it is after all Pacific could benefit from the economies of scale and re- ties. As I watched the villagers cast their our home, and the Pacific island states are source pooling that only closer regionalism can create. nets in the lagoon to eke out a subsis- among our closest neighbors. But we should Procurement, transport, telecommunications, customs, tence living, it struck me that one really not — and, indeed, will not — drive the re- standardization of commercial laws and institutions are needs to come to a place like Kiribati to gional agenda or try to impose any particu- areas which could benefit from collective attention by is- understand the sheer range of challeng- lar vision on the region. We will, however, land states. es facing regional cooperation across continue to encourage and assist where we There is a widespread perception that regional coop- the Pacific, but also the absolute neces- are needed and wanted because we know eration in the Pacific has, to some extent, stalled in recent sity for such cooperation if Pacific is- from our own experience that cooperation years at the same time as an ever growing range of chal- land states are to have a brighter future in the 21st century. and collaboration works, and we know it can deliver more lenges faces the region. Sparse population, vast distances and limited resources for the people of the Pacific as it has for other parts of the At the PIF Leaders’ Forum held in Palau in July, leaders make closer regional cooperation a necessity rather than world. agreed on a new Framework for Pacific Regionalism to a luxury for the Pacific. It is difficult to imagine Pacific The University of the South Pacific (USP) is perhaps replace the 2005 Pacific Plan, the original master strategy island states thriving in isolation. the best example of practical regionalism in action. USP for driving regionalism. The new Framework commits PIF Australia was a founding member of key regional orga- is jointly owned by the governments of 12 Pacific coun- members to advance beyond regional cooperation towards nizations like the Pacific Islands forum (PIF), the Secretar- tries and it maintains a presence in all of them. It shows deeper forms of regional integration. It also creates mech- iat of the Pacific Community (SPC), the Forum Fisheries what Pacific countries can do together, and something they anisms to enable leaders to better prioritize issues. Agency (FFA) and the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional would not have been able to do with nearly as much suc- Arguably, it is better to focus on a small number of truly Environment Program (SPREP). Foreign Minister Julie cess if pursued separately. regional challenges and address them effectively than risk getting bogged down in an attempt to fix everything at once. Whatever top priorities Pacific leaders choose to focus The Marshall Islands Journal on, it makes eminent sense to seek regional responses to Phone: (692) 625-8143/6 • Fax: (692) 625-3136 • email: [email protected] • www.marshallislandsjournal.com regional issues. The Pacific faces many of the same devel- opment challenges as other parts of the world, but they are Editor...... Giff Johnson received after deadline are subject to uniquely compounded and complicated by the human and Production/Advertising...... Brett Schellhase late charges. Letters to the editor may be edited or cut. natural geography of the region. Advertising Manager...... Suzanne Chutaro Please mail your letters to the above address, fax them to (692) By and large, the island states, particularly Pacific mi- Advertising Assistant...... Darren Lanki 625-3136, or email them to [email protected]. cro-states, are simply too small and too remote to succeed Assistant Production Specialist...... Joelee Anni The Marshall Islands Journal is a dual language, once a on their own. Reporter/Photographer...... Isaac Marty week publication of the Micronitor News & Printing Company. With some economic estimates indicating that by 2015 Reporter/Photographer...... Hilary Hosia It has been the newspaper of record for the Marshall Islands the Pacific will constitute the slowest-growing region of the world, there is a clear and urgent need for a new ap- Head Headline Author...... Karen Earnshaw since 1970. Subscription Rates are $87.00 per year for the print edition sent U.S. first class mail to U.S. domestic mail proach and as Pacific leaders themselves acknowledge, in Basic Advertising Rates are for display ads, camera ready zones ($50.00/6 months) and $227.00 per year for international our increasingly integrated and interconnected world, the copy: $5.85 per column inch. All material must be received by airmail. The digital (pdf) version sent by email is $52.00 per status quo is no longer an option. 12:00 noon Monday for that Friday’s paper. (5:00 pm Friday year. Please make checks payable to: MARSHALL ISLANDS The writer is a senator in the Australian Parliament. These are the main points from Senator Mason’s recent the week prior to publication for full page ads). All ads JOURNAL, P.O. Box 14, Majuro, Marshall Islands MH 96960. speech, “The case for Pacific Island regionalism.” The Marshall Islands Journal —­­­ Friday, November 28, 2014 1 5

Opinion pageS Send letters to PO Box 14, Majuro, MH 96960 or email [email protected] Climate $$ rules questioned I am writing in response to a Letter to program points out a reoccurring issue the Editor from Mr. Bruce Kijiner, Direc- with the OEPPC as the national coordina- tor of OEPPC, in the Journal of November ‘His (Bruce Kijiner) tor for all areas related to climate change. 21, “The EU grant’s real story.” letter provided a rare Many times in the past, issues arise due The letter is a response to an article in to OEPPC ‘s failure to coordinate at the the November 14 issue titled “EU funds opportunity to national level. However, with the Direc- diverted…,” which the OEPPC Director tor’s letter to the editor he has provided an claims to be misleading. highlight a critical avenue to bring this issue to the forefront. First, I wish to thank and convey my issue of lack of The issue pertaining to the ACSE Pro- sincere appreciation to Mr. Kijiner, who in gram is clearly due to lack of coordina- his capacity as the Director of OEPPC de- coordination within tion, respect, and recognition of other livered a passionate, emotionally charged Ministries and government protocols. and well articulated letter. His letter pro- the government by This is proven through the President’s vided a rare opportunity to highlight a Letter to EU Ambassador in which R&D, critical issue of lack of coordination with- high-level as the focal point for energy, was not con- in the government by high-level govern- government agencies sulted for proper information nor was the ment agencies such as OEPPC. ministry informed of changes in direction It is true that R&D energy was the only such as OEPPC.’ for program. representative from the RMI to attend the This is again illustrated through the CM inception workshop under the EU GIZ- — Angeline Heine in which OEPPC did not follow directions ACSE program. The program is designed pursuant of the EU GIZ ACSE program as for two areas: Climate Change and Sus- it submitted other concept notes — con- tainable Energy. of R&D, Minister of Health and Minister ACSE program is 650,000 Euros close to cept notes for which OEPPC failed to go Two invitations were sent out to RMI: In Assistance. It cannot be said, as allud- US$900,000. The MOH Energy Audit re- through internal procedures for approval To OEPPC, the national focal point for ed by the OEPPC Director, that the RMI ports that a total of $700,000 is sufficient from Cabinet members. Yes, it is a fact Climate Change, and to R&D, which is National Focal Point was not consulted to complete energy efficiency measures. that donors have their procedures but the tasked with overseeing the implementa- as his Minister is reflected in CM. Fur- Additionally, under the EDF11 package nation has its own internal procedures and tion of the National Energy Policy. The thermore, as intended by R&D Energy, RMI proposed to the EU that the funding protocols. Above all, these must be recog- workshop was held on May 29 and 30. It CM also provides leverage to direct GIZ be utilized through the energy sector for nized and followed. When protocols and is not known why OEPPC did not attend to utilize funds for national interest rather budget support not sustainable energy as procedures are not followed, drama is cre- the workshop. than national priority areas dictated by pointed out. ated. God bless RMI! Angeline C. Heine, Public Servant It is also correct that the EU GIZ ACSE GIZ through a scoring method. The incident with the EU GIZ ACSE Program reviews concept notes submitted • July 29: Meeting is held by the Minis- from countries based on competitive scor- ter In Assistance with Ministry of Finance, ing. R&D and OEPPC where Cabinet Minute However, the program calls for coun- was made known to OEPPC Director. tries to select projects on Adaptation to OEPPC was given direction to submit Climate Change and/or Sustainable En- CM. OEPPC transmits government docu- ergy. It also mandates countries to follow ment to EU rather than GIZ, administer of their own internal procedures to submit the program. and approve concept notes before submis- Cabinet Minute approves R&D as the sion. As protocol, R&D Energy has al- lead agency and to initiate energy effi- ways sought approval from Cabinet mem- ciency under the program. In following bers on national energy projects, thus the directions of the Cabinet Minute, the three perception for this program was no differ- other Concept Notes, two of which were ent. The following is a simple chronologi- produced by OEPPC, should have been cal order of the events that followed. rescinded. OEPPC, however, did not relay • June 12: Email is sent from R&D en- any such information to GIZ, administra- ergy to OEPPC director and Minister In tor of the program but instead transmitted Assistance, including R&D Minister and Cabinet Minute to EU. Minister of Health for advice or support in It was of great confusion to R&D En- an Energy Efficiency Project for Ministry ergy as to why OEPPC did not include it of Health. All three Ministers responded in any communication to GIZ after CM and agreed to show support except the Di- was provided. rector of OEPPC. OEPPC reports to the It was also surprising to learn that all Minister in Assistance. Hence, Minister’s concept notes were not rescinded and advice for direction was included in com- CM was not followed nor recognized by munication. OEPPC. Early October, R&D contacts • June 29: In following government GIZ and was provided a copy of a letter protocol and as dictated by the program by RMI President to EU Ambassador. guide, R&D energy sought Cabinet ap- • October 13: Without notice or in- proval through a joint Cabinet Paper by forming R&D, OEPPC directed GIZ to re- the Ministry of Resources & Develop- place R&D staff with its own representa- ment, Ministry of Health, and the Minis- tive in the ACSE first Steering Committee ter In Assistance for review and consider- Meeting in Suva. The staff member also ation. hand delivered a letter from the President • July 18: Deadline for submitting con- to the EU Ambassador. The letter reports cept notes to GIZ. Four concept notes that the total amount under the ACSE pro- were submitted by OEPPC, the RMI na- gram is insufficient to meet the energy tional focal point. Only R&D energy con- goals and objectives of the Ministry of cept proposal went through internal proto- Health. Furthermore, the RMI will utilize col and Cabinet for approval. the upcoming EDF11 package for sustain- • July 25: A Cabinet Minute (CM) per- able energy. This information advised by taining to the joint Cabinet Paper is made OEPPC to the President are inaccurate. available. CM calls for action to Minister The total package for RMI under the 16 Friday, November 28, 2014 — The Marshall Islands Journal

We used to make tons of money dur- The Journal interviewed a Marshallese woman who business, they get lowered down and ing our partnership. I got so close to the before we go, we are offered sev- Madam that at multiple occasions, I got used to be involved in the sex trade locally. She spoke eral huge fish, which my cousin (boat to know the Chinese girls. I got close on condition of anonymity. Here is her story: driver) takes home, and of course, with to them. some cash. They are so pretty. They all live on My friend, their boss, communicates picked up using this method to board My boss only sleeps with the boat the same room. Their boss, on the other with the boat captain before she tells the boat. The Marshallese observer on captains. She is worth a lot. hand, lives in a larger room. She has a me she needs the boat. We go during board sometimes call me names and Those were the days. I had so much special bed that feels like you’re lying daytime. We’d cruise around the boat a we exchange jokes and pass little flirts. money. At times, I tried getting my on water. The bed vibrates too. couple of times before making a com- Our boat has a covering that con- Marshallese friends to join in on the Other than getting regular clients — plete stop at the side where the land is ceals the girls during daylight. Plus, fun, telling them they’ll earn wads of Chinese on island, fishermen and local not visible to us. The boss calls the cap- they are wearing mumus so they look money, but the operation was shut men, sometimes we go on my cousin’s tain and something gets lowered down like Marshallese girls from afar. down and my friend was deported be- boat to the big ships. (a rig to pull up the boat). The girls are Once the girls are done with their fore any Marshallese girls joined. SEX IN THE CITY What qualifies as trafficking in involves both Chinese and Mar- persons or ordinary prostitution? shallese women. According to And perhaps more importantly, a veteran sex worker, a “short is it happening in the Marshall time” costs the customer $50. Islands? But the women get $100 if they For the second question, there sleep with fishermen. appear to be locations in vari- • Two other locations in Delap ous parts of downtown Majuro are said to be used for the sex where sex with Asian or Mar- trade involving Marshallese shallese women can be obtained young women. The operating Eastern Gateway Hotel for money. Inquiries by Journal procedure as explained to the reporters have produced the fol- Journal is for the male or female lowing information: “fixer” to approach potential cus- • There is one location in Uliga tomers at various bars in Majuro where people across the street to make the “sell” and match a witnessed Asian men repeatedly customer to one of the local girls. entering and leaving a plywood At one of the locations, a room Undercover Nauruans apartment structure with mul- cost $20 per night and a girl an- tiple doors closely spaced, pos- other $20. sibly indicating small rooms. At A local taxi driver not work- first the people watching thought ing for any of the people report- visit Delap ‘hooker bar’ it was people using toilets, the edly running the sex trade said Journal was told. But curiosity he’s happy to help the people Two non-Marshallese visi- caused the observers to continue involved because “the girls are tors went to the former Eastern watching and later, after the men good customers and they always Gateway Hotel “to find out if left, they saw Marshallese girls pay on time when they rent the there was any prostitution go- come out of the apartment block. car from me.” This taxi driver ing on at the (hotel),” according Simply an apartment complex told us that he has a friend who to an affidavit filed earlier this for workers of a local business or gets called when fishermen -ar year in an ongoing civil lawsuit a makeshift brothel? rive on the docks, so the taxi involving the hotel. • In one location in Delap, men chauffers them to and from a The two men said they did can have sex with Chinese and Delap location. this at the request of their rela- Investigators James Keppa (left) and Jamaica Adeang (right) local girls in exchange for mon- Even early teenage students tive, who is the head of the Na- with Eigugu Majuro Manager Vyko Adeang. ey. The Journal was told the en- seem to be aware of opportuni- uru company, Eigigu Holdings trance to the location is through a ties related to sexual favors, as Corporation, which is in dispute local store where there is a small seen firsthand during daylight with various people over leases on the hotel in Delap. time to check out the first-time customers. They said door buried behind merchandise. hours last month in Uliga: Four With the assistance of a fishing boat observer fa- they identified themselves as from Tuvalu and Kiri- A person would have to duck uniformed high school age stu- miliar with Majuro, James Keppa and Jamaica Ad- bati. They sat down, bought cigarettes and beers for down to enter. Going through dents were seen arranging a eang said they called a taxi driver who took them to themselves and several of the girls in the room. After the door connects to a larger area “date” during school hours. a section of the former hotel, where he asked a Mar- they had been socializing for a few minutes with the with many rooms. The local girls A reporter observed one of the shallese young woman “if there were any Chinese girls, three Asian men came in and stood looking at there are said to be from the Ajel- girls taking out her cell phone girls available for us.” them for about a minute before leaving, the affidavit take and Laura area. and calling a customer to meet According to the affidavit of the two Nauru men, said. • In another location in Delap, her and her friends at a nearby which was notarized at the High Court on May 26 Then they discussed arrangements for hiring lo- a “karaoke room” serves as the location. “Hurry up it’s me and this year, the Marshallese woman went to another cal girls for sex, selected the ones they wanted, and place where customers can meet my friends,” she said. room to talk to someone, and then came out and took were informed of what time they had to be out of the women to arrange for sex, which After the call, the girls were them to another room, which turned out to be a bar rooms by the next morning. As to cost, the affidavit can reportedly be had for $20. A seen walking toward a location and lounge with one Chinese woman and “about said they were told the charge was “sixty dollars per sign on entrance door to bar says, in Uliga. seven Marshallese, or who looked like Marshallese, night for the girls and the room, but it is up to us to “No Marshallese male allowed in A few minutes later, a Chinese young girls maybe in their late teens to early 20s,” help the girl if the girl ‘helps’ us.” bar.” According to the bartender, man, apparently the recipient of the affidavit said. They said they would return later in the evening who speaks fluent Marshallese the girl’s phone call, approached There was karaoke singing going on in an adjacent with their cousin to get together with the girls. They and Chinese, Marshallese males in his car the facility where the room, they said. then left the facility, returned to the local hotel they are not allowed because they girls were. But he did not stop The five-page statement describes the men asking were staying in and reported on what had transpired tend to fight and make trouble. because there were other people if there were women available for “sexual favors” to the Director of Eigigu “with no intention of return- The sex trade in this location around the entrance. while the operators of the bar and lounge took their ing to that bar,” the affidavit said. The Marshall Islands Journal —­­­ Friday, November 28, 2014 17 18 Friday, November 28, 2014 — The Marshall Islands Journal radio BUSINESS DIRECTORY Guam magazine Mobil cuts praises Michelle fuel Guam Business Magazine this week rec- ognized Michelle Kramer in its “40 under Forty” list of prominent young people in the prices Guam private sector. Guam Business Editor Jackie Hanson commented in her introduction to this year’s Mobil Oil Micronesia under-40 group: “The diverse group contains reduced gas and diesel individuals in Guam and the Marianas who prices last week by 15 have joined the family business, others who cents per gallon. are climbing the corporate ladder, and those The reduction in price who are busy developing a business of their goes to the Majuro ser- own.” vice stations in the down- Michelle, 34, is the managing director town area of Majuro who of Pacific International (Guam) Inc. and are serviced by Mobil. is decked out in a Marshallese handcrafted The price cut is Mobil’s necklace, earrings and wut (head lei) in her first this year and follows photo in Guam Business. a drop in world market A graduate of the College of the Marshall prices for oil. Islands and Hawaii Pacific University, her Gas prices at the pump “claim to fame,” according to Guam Busi- have been $5.60 per gal- ness: “Kramer has effectively grown her fam- lon at the downtown ily’s Marshall Islands–based wholesale and stations through 2014, shipping business in Guam and also manages PII Guam’s Managing while diesel has been the company’s Guam and NMI real estate Director Michelle Kramer. $5.65 per gallon. holdings including Nimitz Towers, Apusento Apartments and Saipan Laolao Bay. She was accepted into the first Marianas Pacific Cen- tury Fellowship program, based on a presti- gious leadership and public service initiative ‘The diverse group contains individuals in started by President Lyndon B. Johnson. She completed the first generation of the Pacific Guam and the Marianas who have joined Islands Leadership Program with Taiwan last the family business, others who are climbing November. She remains committed to the the corporate ladder, and those who are busy Marshallese community and is a registered court interpreter for Marshallese/English developing a business of their own.’ translations for the Court of Guam.” Japan’s Honda to test solar cars in Majuro Japan automobile com- pany Honda plans to provide three electric ve- hicles and solar-powered charger stations to Maju- ro, as part of a pilot proj- ect, by early next year. The team recently vis- ited the RMI to conduct a feasibility study through a site survey on Majuro and met with officials from relevant government min- istries and agencies to dis- cuss the official launch of the pilot project. Electric President Loeak and members of Cabinet vehicles offer environ- pictured with the Japanese team that mental benefits that sup- was accompanied by Japan Ambassador port government efforts Anzai at the Cabinet Conference room. toward cleaner and more Photo: Hilary Hosia. environmentally friendly energy sources. The Marshall Islands Journal —­­­ Friday, November 28, 2014 19 BUSINESS DIRECTORY computer repairs Heine closes deal on new AMI Dornier T&C Minister Thomas Heine on by AMI, which was manufactured in ever the aircraft is down, it causes a Saturday in Kathmandu, Nepal signed 1992, said AMI General Manager Jef- great disruption to the service and off on a purchase agreement and ac- ferson Barton. “Being from Nepal, hence, great inconveniences to AMI’s cepted a Dornier 228-212 aircraft which is about 5,000 feet above sea customers,” Barton said. from Tara Airlines on behalf of the level, and away from a salty environ- The plane is scheduled to depart RMI government and Air Marshall ment like the RMI, our Minister and Kathmandu on December 3 to fly over Islands. his team were struck to notice ‘a liter- to Manila where it will undergo paint- John Roberts of the British com- ally rust- and corrosion-free’ aircraft,” ing to put on AMI’s colors, which is pany Airflite helped both AMI and Barton said. expected to take up to four weeks. Tara Airlines close the deal, which is With the incoming Dornier, “we “We are hopeful that all the other valued at $2.1 million. Witnessing the expect the air service between Majuro necessary requirements prior to be- signing ceremony was AMI’s Quality and all the outer islands to improve ing ferried to RMI after the paint shop Assurance Director Dan Fitzpatrick significantly as there will be two Dor- will be smooth among the cooperat- and a Tara Airlines’ officials. niers servicing the country together ing entities that are tasked to carry out The Nepal Dornier is five years as compared to the current situation such important functions as mandated newer than the one currently operated whereby we have only one and when- by our laws,” Barton said. Ships help up by lack of funds Mobil employees delivered the first Scheduled ship vis- batch of fuel using their new truck to its to the outer islands Robert’s gas station in Uliga last week. were cancelled last month because Mar- shall Islands Shipping Corporation was wait- ing for its first quarter Mobil now more mobile subsidy from the Min- istry of Finance. Ship- Mobil’s newly arrived fuel delivery truck lon price reduction to local stations that it ping was unable to fuel went into use this past week with its first supplies, and the stations have followed by and stock the vessels delivery to Robert Pinho’s gas station in dropping their prices. Ace’s One Stop and so trips to the outer is- Uliga. Mobil had a team of trainers on is- Robert’s stations in Uliga dropped to $5.45 lands were halted for land to work with the local Mobil staff on per gallon for gas earlier this week, down the whole month of procedures for using the delivery truck. Last from the $5.60 price that has been in place October. week, Mobil announced a 15 cents per gal- for over a year. Photo: Darren Lanki. As of last week Tuesday, Shipping con- firmed that a $101,000 was provided by Fi- nance for a one-month RMI at the bottom operation. The money was to help Shipping get back on its feet. The funding was able in business ranking to get vessels Aemman, MV Majuro, and Ribuk Among Pacific island nations, the Mar- recognized Marshall Islands court system. Ae to do trips to the shall Islands ranks next-to-the-worst in “Registering Property,” another of the cri- outer islands. Shipping “ease of doing business,” according to the teria in the ranking, remained dead last two is expecting to carry World Bank. years in a row at 189. out a new schedule that Annually, the World Bank issues its Ease of paying taxes, getting credit, aims to visit every atoll global ranking of 189 nations in its Doing getting electricity and starting a business or island before Christ- Business report. The new report, Doing all received a worse rating compared to mas. Charter trips are Business 2015, shows the RMI is 139th 2014. However, “dealing with construc- also being made avail- out of 189 nations reviewed, with only tion permits” received the best rating at 10, able. Vessels operating the Federated States of Micronesia worse although this too declined from nine the under Shipping includ- (at 145). The RMI’s ranking is worse in previous year ing the three mentioned 2015 compared to 2014, dropping by three Other Pacific countries reviewed and and MV Landrik and points from 136 to 139. their rankings: Kiribati 134, Papua New MV Kwajalein to ser- In the 10 criteria for review, only the Guinea 133, Palau 113, Solomon Islands vice the outer islands. “Enforcing Contracts” improved from 87, Fiji 81, Vanuatu 76, Tonga 69, and Sa- 2014 to 2015, a nod to the internationally moa 67. 20 Friday, November 28, 2014 — The Marshall Islands Journal Hard work pays off for Valeria in US mainland

Fred J. Pedro, EMON-FM I am delighted to share the story of and introduce Valeria Ysawa, a dedicated professional, highly intel- Ysawa moves up the ligent, hard-working, admirable and wonderful Marshallese woman who has successfully established herself in the United States. She has risen to the top management of Union Hardware, a century old family-owned business that specializes in selling ladder in DC bureau decorative and authentic plumbing and hardware supplies for kitchen and bath in the Washington, DC Metro area. Valeria, or simply Beia by family and close friends, is the daugh- ter of Smith and Leline Ysawa, and grew up on Majuro Atoll. Her earliest memories were of playing with her sisters and friends at Tiete and Lomaka vil- lages in the Jenrok area (between RRE Complex and Marshall Islands High School). “I had a lot of fun in the early developmental days,” she told me earlier this summer over breakfast at Valeria Ysawa the Tide Table during a re- cent visit to see her parents and family. “Looking back,” she reminisced, “I can honestly say that growing up with ‘I wouldn’t make it at my three sisters — Hem- Lahainaluna High without the line, Naiomi and Carrol — was as challenging as encouragement of Kirt and it was frustrating at times. Like typical siblings, I Minna Pinho and family and had my share of catfights especially their son Robert over dolls, toys, books and space, and for what- Pinho, who was two years ever else little silly things ahead in school and looked and reasons that children fight over.” She attended after me like a true brother.’ elementary at Seventh Day – Valeria Ysawa School at Delap. “It is just amazing how time flies by so quickly,” she says. “It feels like only invoices. Accounting became a newfound yesterday that I cried and refused to let go interest.” of my mother’s dress when she dropped “But one thing for sure,” she said. “I me off at school on that first day. And be- wouldn’t make it at Lahainaluna High fore long, wow, my parents were hugging without the encouragement of Kirt and me on graduation from the 8th grade.” Minna Pinho and family and especially Valeria went on to graduate from La- their son Robert Pinho, who was two years hainaluna High School, a boarding school ahead in school and looked after me like a on Maui, Hawaii. “I am forever grateful to true brother.” my parents for the burdens and sacrifices After graduating from high school, Vale- — financial and emotional — they went ria was granted the Monbusho Scholarship through to support me at Maui,” she says. to study business administration at the Na- Valeria found boarding school life not kano School of Business in Tokyo, Japan. easy. She learned to juggle between chores She says having to learn a new language and schoolwork. Constantly thinking was tough, but definitely worth it. Upon of the sacrifices her parents were going completion, she landed a job as an ac- through on her behalf became a driving counting clerk in Hotel Sunroute on Guam, force and inspiration to finish. Moving to where she worked for two years. a new land was exciting but scary as well. She moved back to Majuro in the early Meeting new people, making new friends 2000s to be near her family and worked as and blending into a new environment and a business service representative at Bank culture was not easy, but a rewarding ex- of Hawaii, for two years. perience, she noted. “In the summers, I re- Those two years were a pivotal point turned home. During one of the summers, in her life as, “it was at this time of my my dad took me one Saturday to help post life that I met Lorina Pedro and boy, talk The Marshall Islands Journal —­­­ Friday, November 28, 2014 21 Hard work pays off for Valeria in US mainland Ysawa moves up the ladder in DC bureau about different personalities. With Lorina, I learned the meaning of a true and loyal friendship. And it was her support, no non- sense directness, and encouragement that Key to success is ‘giving it our all’ added valuable experience and continued progress in my life.” But the buck did not stop there because As we move towards the year 2023, many islanders. on our offshore families and friends in it was also during this time that she flour- when Compact grant assistance termi- A considerable number of Marshallese America. By sharing the stories and ex- ished professionally. “Former BOH man- nates, more and more Marshallese fami- too have enlisted and are serving honor- periences of Marshallese families, rela- ager Craig was a great mentor, and he lies are leaving the Marshall Islands in ably and advancing professionally in the tives and friends who are doing well in has become like a brother to me over the search of a better life, jobs and educa- US armed forces. America, whether working for the pri- years.” tional opportunities in Hawaii and the Likewise, a number of Marshallese vate sector, the federal, state and local When BOH closed its branch in Majuro, US mainland. have, through perseverance, hard work, governments, the armed forces etc., she headed to the United States in pursuit Already there are 30,000 or so Mar- dedication, and sacrifice, established I am hopeful their struggles and suc- of opportunities. shallese living in America. Most seem to themselves successfully and have risen cess could serve as inspiration and les- It was challenging to find a job, but giv- be coping well with the challenges asso- to supervisory and management posi- son to Marshallese struggling to make it ing up was never an option. Valeria’s per- ciated with starting a new way of life in tions in numerous companies, in the in America and more so to those on the sistence reaped rewards — her first job in their new home. land of opportunities, where individual home-front aspiring to relocate. the Mainland was at Union Hardware as an The lure of easy jobs, access to better dreams are achieved through hard and Whatever our personal goal or pursuit accounting staff. schools for their children and numer- honest sweat. may be — education, jobs, business and “I was thrilled but scared and nervous at ous social service programs provided by It is hoped that the Marshall Islands or military career — success is ours only the same time,” she said. After a year of be- some states to their citizens and lawful Journal will devote space to start a new if we give it our very best and give it our ing an accounting clerk, she was promoted residents are an attractive magnet for section designed to shining the light all. to Controller, Operations Manager, Hu- man Resources and Administration Man- Hardware (www.unionhardware.com). ager. In a rapidly globalized world it was “From where I stand today, I’ve come to no easy task, but she welcomed and took realize that it’s not only education and the on the new challenges that encompassed experience, but also being passionate about more than crunching numbers. For the bet- what you believe in, what you do and how ter part of a decade, she was also involved you go about doing it, and of course having with marketing, promotions, training and the right attitude has a great impact.” implementing new ways to enhance both Under their management, the company’s job and client services. It was not all busi- new direction is to separate themselves ness though. from commodity products with a focus on Her sense of humor is shown in one of designer products. her interview questions when she asks if Hence, the mission statement is to cre- the interviewee knows how to use the add- ate cherished spaces for the cultivated in- ing machine or if she/he knows who lives dividual. They will host the first Designers in a pineapple under the sea. for Designer event sometime in November In addition to that, she was also involved to celebrate 100 years of service and kick when the company recently took a turn to- off their new theme. wards a more hands-on approach in com- “We are planning to go exclusive — munity activities such as car shows, local very exclusive,” she said excitedly with parades, and festivals. a sparkle in her eyes. With the guest list For instance, while other companies including manufacturers from Germany, showcase their wares in the usual way in France, Italy and local designers and ar- these art festivals, Union Hardware brings chitects, Valeria and her colleagues hope to an edge to its displays by emulating fa- create their own niche in the market place mous artwork with their ‘out of season’ by dealing exclusively with unique spe- hardware. cialized products that will set them apart Visit the showroom and your artistic side from their competitors while giving them will appreciate depictions of Van Gogh’s firm control as the sole curator. Starry Night, Maryland’s state bird, and a Like each of us, Valeria had her fair butterfly — all made of door knobs, hooks, share of ups and downs, laughs and cries, etc. progress and setbacks, happiness and sad- In fact, they won the ‘Showroom of the ness. She is convinced that like Hispanics, Year’ award in 2013. On a lighter note, Asians and other groups of people that they entered a motorized toilet bowl in a have moved to America, Marshallese also car show and won second place against a can achieve their dreams and be successful Bentley. The quirky sense of humor and if they set their minds to it. unique displays is a testament of the fun, Undoubtedly one of the contributing fac- innovation and relaxed environment of tors to Valeria’s success is the discipline, Valeria’s workplace. perseverance, “resolute and untiring bu- Valeria’s flexibility and dedication did karar DNA spirit” she got from her grand- not go unnoticed for in early 2014, she parents Jerry and Tarmoj Lakabung. She became Managing Director, one of a trio lives in Maryland, single and available but of executives who manage and run Union not looking, at least for the time being. 22 Friday, November 28, 2014 — The Marshall Islands Journal Radewagen ewin nan US Congress Amata Coleman Radewagen (pija eo itu ej juon ri Majol ekkar nan juon kakien ear anmoon) raar maron in kelete wiik eo lok elle jen Nitijela ilo 1965, eo im ear lelok bwe en Delegate eo ekaal an Amercian Sa- citizenship nan Peter im Nora Coleman, im moa lok nan US Congress eo, ilo an kar nan aijri ro nejierro bareinwot. maron bok tup eo ion Congressman Eni Et in ej kakaruru in etan jibun: Amatau- Faleomavaega im ear etto an jijet ion jea pulevasegaotupu. jab in. Ej bareinwot ejja etan wot late President Ijelokin an oktak bwe ej kora eo kein eo elkin an kar family in tokeak tok ilo kajuon jen American Samoa nan jede ilo Aelon Kein ilo tore eo Amata Coleman ear etaer ilo US Congress eo, kora in ej barein- lotak im raar etonak ke et in. Bonbon ko wot ri Majol eo kein kajuon raar kelete bwe rejjanin kabine nan iakwoj eo ikijien Del- en erom uwaan Congress eo. egate ro ej kwalok bwe kora in ear bok tup Radewagen, juon Republican, ej kora eo eo kin 4,306 vote (42 bojan) ilo ien ek kalel nejin Peter im Nora Coleman. Jemen ear eo an wiik eo lok, ilo an Faleomavaega kar juon district administrator ilo Aelon Kein maron in tobare wot 3,157 ak 30.8 bojjan iumin elon year ko, im tokelik ear High in woran vote ko. Radewagen enaaj bok Commissioner nan Trust Territory. Kora in kallimur in jerbal ilo naaj January. Etale eo ikijien kejerbal jarom ilo MOH

• 68 bojjan in muri in jarom eo an nan kejerbal jarom ilo jimwe im je- tal eo, ak renaaj bareinwot komman MOH elap wot an jerbal nan kollaik jjet enaaj loori, ekoba bwe en jeniji jerammon nan belaak ko ilo aer naaj wonen air conditioning ko, kein jer- aolep air condition ko kio im kolake kadrikdrik lok komman mejatoto ko bal ko rellap, im nan kabbol lighting ko emman lok aer kejerbal jarom. retonon ilo aer naaj kadrikdrik lok ko bareinwot im rekij rualitok bojjan, • Ilo an naaj jinoe bunten ko rejane aer kejerbal jarom,” ripoot in kin im kein komman dren bwil ko rekij bwe en loori ilo jiljino jikin ko, in- kilen kejerbal jarom ear ba. “Project jiljilimjuon bojjan. nem Minstry of Health emaron in ko rejan kaki ekadrik in drik jonan • Jen October 2010 nan Septem- kadrikdrik lok an muri in jarom kin tore eo jej aikuij in kollaiki wonaer, ber 2011, MOH ear kollaik MEC 45 bojjan. kin menin relukkun in emman im rej $1,474,953. • “Naan ne bwe ebidodo kejebarok jet project ko rejjet kinke rej maron • Muri ko an “hospital eo mokta” juon tala jen jerbal im lo juon tala, jiban kadrikdrik lok jonan wonen ko rekiij 55 bojjan in jonan an minis- innem ej melele in bwe MOH ej ai- kollaiki iloan juon year. Ilo jerbal in try eo kejerbal jarom; “hospital eo kuij in lukkun komman kejebarok bejnej, kain project rot kein im ekadu ekaal” 41 bojjan. ko rellap im rej jeje (iloan ripoot jonan tore in kollaiki wonaer elaplok • $624,366 emaron in kejebaroke in), enwot ke kejebarok kein reban aer kanel tok ro rej letok jaan jen ilo kajojo year elane jekjek ko rejani komman jerammon wot nan hospi- likin.” 268 wheelchair ko letok jen LDS emoj ear jino jerbal ISAAC MARTY kan, nan MOH Technician ro ikijien im etal. Ilo juon ien, kimar loe bwe Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- ‘ewi wawein’ kejerbale, kokaale kab juon ri naninmij ear lon kinej ilo neen Day Saints (LDS) iumin LDS Chari- komman etale ko aikuiji nan chair im kilin, kinke chair eo ear kanuij in ties, ear maron letok 268 wheelchair kein kab nan ri naninmij ro rej kejer- drik nane botaap ear wonmanlok wot ko lok nan Ministry of Health ilo bali. Kumi in ear bareinwot etal nan im kejerbale mekarta ear wor jorrean raan ko lok. Wheelchair kein ekoba Ebeye im kommane ejja ien kaminene ewalok nan enbwinnin.” ko ekka kejerbali, kab ko reoktak lok in wot. Kin menin ear wor 13 armij MOH Rehabilitation Department jidrik ak rej ba roughrider type ko, ro raar bok kaminene ko ilo jikin kein technician ro, kab ri jerbal ro kio re- im ippen men kein ear itok spare part jimor. naaj komman etale aolep ien nan ri ko, walker ko, crutches ko kab cane “Kajojo ri naninmij rej aikuij etale naninmij ro kab chair ko. Missionary ak jokkon ko. Men kein raar litok nan bwe en etal nan er chair eo ejimwe im for Perpetual Education, Self Reli- jiban ri naninmij ro ilo Majuro im kab ekkar nan er, im bwe eban kemtak er ance, im kab Humanitarian Aid Elder Ebeye. ak komman aban,” Andy ear ba. “El- John Johnson ear kabine bwe elane Ekkar nan kemlet eo an World ane chair eo renaaj bineepe im etale ewor menin aikuij ikijien juon kein Health Organization eo (WHO) bwe wot ilo kajojo allon, im emman kejer- emakitkit einwot juon wheelchair, aolep drouluul ko rej lelok wheel- bale, innem emaron bed iumin lalem innem armij eo ej aikuij in kur lok chair ko, ren bareinwot komman ka- year ak lonlok. Rehabilitation Department eo im lale minene ikijien bobrae im kejebarok, “Kaminene eo ear kanuij in jiban. elane remaron komman ien ak ap- kin menin LDS Charities volunteer ro Mokta ke ear bar itok wheelchair ko pointment bwe ren etale elane ej ai- physical therapist Mark Anderson kab kimij kajju lilok nan ri naninmij ro,” kuiji juon wheelchair ak jab. Andy Schnebly, ekoba kora eo ippen MOH Technician Bob Solomon ear Ikijien wheelchair ko raar litok ilo Schnebly Roylene, eo im ej barein- ba. “Elukkun aurok nan lale elane ri- 2010 eo, ear bar itok ejja woran in wot juon retired nurse, raar kommane naninmij eo ekkar nan chair eo, kinke wot jen imon jar eo, ijoke ear jab koba juon kaminene jilu raan jonan aetok- elon wot ien rej bok wheelchair eo spare parts kab kaminene jab in ie. The Marshall Islands Journal —­­­ Friday, November 28, 2014 23

PreZ DaY reCyCle rAce Local elementary schools celebrated this year’s President’s Day in interesting ways, including with a race of boats built out of recycled materials. Uliga Elementary canoe racers Franky Job and Joseiah George were ready to go when we stopped by Delap Park last week. Photo: Hilary Hosia. HoW StudEnts picK up to bE a good role tiPs at caReer fAir moDel The International Conference Cen- ter was the venue for a recent career 101 fair. The event was a one-stop shop College of the Marshall for many of Marshall Islands business- Islands Sociology 140 section es, bringing high school and college two class produced projects students from all over Majuro together to encourage parents and for a closer peak at what employment guardians to be good role opportunities are available. models to their kids, through Students in red, blue and yellow and skits, brochures, and media blue uniforms joined students without outlets last week. According uniforms, indicating college level, ro- to (pictured from left) Floyd tated around different booths, each Chong Gum, Jakio Lanwe, booth representing a different entity. James Chutaro, Richard In each booth, students conversed Phillip, and Robert Ejli, and exchanged inquiries with repre- “do you want your child’s sentatives from each entity. A par- future to be as a drunk or a ticularly fun booth (Marshall Islands successful employee?” Visitors Authority) caught the attention of students because for every clever question brought up a lollypop candy Photo: Isaac Marty. is offered as reward. Both Bank of Marshalls Islands and Bank of Guam CMI instructor Kathy Jetnil lured in curious students, as did the Kijiner (above) talks to students three Embassies of US, Japan and about their employment options ROC, Taiwan. at the career fair held at the College of Marshall Islands students International Conference Center and staff helped coordinated the traffic in Delap, while (below) Laura flow, making the career fair a success- High School students sign in. ful one. Photos: Hilary Hosia.

for your safety and ours, please don’t drink & drive. 24 Friday, November 28, 2014 — The Marshall Islands Journal Tony praises US, China leaders Following a bilateral meeting in Beijing below 2 degrees Celsius. The proposed tar- between US President Barack Obama and gets are significant, but we are not yet on Chinese President Xi Jinping on November track. The next 12 months are a chance to 11 and ahead of the G20 Leaders’ Summit in further bend the curve towards limiting an- Brisbane this week, Foreign Minister Tony nual global emissions to 40GT by 2025, as deBrum issued the following statement: required by the latest science. “The US-China announcement is a wa- “The announcement sets the stage for all Fiji’s Prime tershed moment in the fight against climate other major emitters to quickly follow suit. Minister change. Having the world’s two biggest The G20 is the perfect opportunity for the Frank emitters step forward together is a critical world’s biggest economies to recommit to Bainimarama building block in constructing the 2015 having their proposed targets on the table chats with agreement. by March 2015, at the very latest. I look Minister “Most significantly, the US and China forward to discussing this personally with Tony have indicated that their post-2020 efforts both Chinese President Xi and Indian Prime deBrum. must put us on a pathway to a low-carbon Minister Modi during their respective visits global economy, and to limit warming to to the Pacific following the G20.” Medical issues in Hawaii CMI President to be named In an editorial about the ac- fair, cost-efficient coverage must cess of islanders to state-pro- remain the goal.” The Honolulu vided health care coverage, Star-Advertiser editorial also within a month the Honolulu Star-Advertiser said the cause of the funding warned that any money problem Hawaii faces has yet to savings the state hopes to be addressed. ISAAC MARTY gain could be lost if FAS citizens are “Community advocates fear that af- “The high court decision, of course, College of the dissuaded because of high costs to seek fected migrants’ out-of-pocket medical- did nothing to resolve the root problem, Marshall Islands early medical care and treatment. The insurance costs will rise substantially which is that the federal government (CMI) is expecting editorial said, in part: after the transition period. If this added has failed to pay the bills it generated to name a new CMI “It is essential that outreach to the expense results in patients failing to by opening up unfettered US residency President next month (FAS) population during this (120-day seek preventative or early treatment and to Pacific migrants under the Compact after the CMI board transition) period be consistent and instead suffering full-blown health cri- of Free Association, in exchange for makes its decision dogged, through all possible channels, ses that require emergency intervention, exclusive military rights. following interviews any savings to the state will be lost. including government agencies, non- “It was utterly predictable that most with the top three State officials must track medical costs profits and other affiliated groups. of the people who left their home is- candidates for the in this new environment to determine “The coming changes will affect lands would end up in Hawaii, which is post. the best long-term solution. “While the the healthiest members of this popula- the closest US state and has close cul- Current CMI Pres- high court clarified that the state is not tion. Noncitizen children and pregnant tural ties. Some migrants arrive needing ident Carl Hacker obligated to provide health coverage for women and aged, blind and disabled health care, which their advocates (pictured) was to noncitizens, it is just as clear that public individuals will continue to receive consider a consequence of the nuclear have ended his contract this month, but was ex- medical coverage at their current levels, health will suffer if a large segment tests the United States conducted in the tended into next year to allow for a smooth transi- uninterrupted, according to Department of Hawaii’s population falls through Marshall Islands. (The) Compact of tion to a new president. of Human Services. It is important to the cracks. Careful changes for the Free Association is a federal agreement; Hacker has overseen fixing financial deficits, preserve aid for these most-vulnerable Compact of Free Association’s healthy its attendant obligations should not be improving graduation rates, and shortening the groups. members might indeed be due — but left to the states.” time that students are in development before qual- ifying for credit course. CMI Director of Human Resources Bob Will- son confirmed that the shortlisted candidates are Dr. Unaisi Nabobo-Baba (female, from Fiji), Sub- has Chandra (male, Australia), and Theresa Koroi- vulaono (female, New Zealand). Dr. Nabobo-Baba was the first to arrive on is- land last week Monday. She went through a series of meetings and discussions with college staff, faculty, and board. CMI Student Body Association (SBA) President Sana Anien said SBA met with Nabobo-Baba and found that she wants to estab- lish and include women studies. “This will help our women improve a lot,” said Anien. Nabobo-Baba stated that her goal is to help CMI strive toward excellence. CMI excellence means RMI excellence, she said. She also aims at advancing students from developmental level to college credit level. She believes that improving the outcome of stu- dents graduating with their associates in a timely manner would gain the school possible opportu- nities to get bachelor degree courses, she shared with CMI club representatives last Friday. Chandra arrived Majuro Monday and was ex- pected to go through the same series of meetings with CMI students, staff and administration. Fol- lowing Chandra is Koroivulaono who is expected in by December 1. The Marshall Islands Journal —­­­ Friday, November 28, 2014 2 5 WWII remains now at peace HILARY HOSIA Left: The excava- As much as Japanese tion group at Santo words are embedded in Island on Kwajalein Marshallese language — earlier this year. iakiu (baseball), jambo Below left: Chief (cruise), amimono (handi- Justice Carl Ingram craft) ametama (candy) and and Camilla Ingram tenki (light) to name a few at the service in Ma- — so too is the memory of juro. Below right: the many fallen Japanese Yuichi Yamaguchi soldiers that met their end pays his respect to in Marshall Islands during the un-named fallen World Word II. They were Japanese soldiers remembered by a large from WWII at last crowd Saturday evening at Saturday’s Peace the Japan-built memorial Park ceremony. Peace Park. A recent finding of un- earthed Japanese remains at Santo Island in Kwaja- lein earlier this year and Hiroshi Yamamura con- a cremation service at the veyed condolences on memorial site in Peace behalf of President Chris- Park might be the reason topher Loeak. “The RMI this year’s turnout doubled shall do all in its power to in comparison to last year’s assist this important part of crowd. restoring Japan’s history, As observed in Japan, so that the eternal souls honored guests were given of the soldiers can be at floral gifts that they placed peace,” he said. Reliable at the memorial shrine as a Navy Commander Christo- nity, the President’s Office, Japan Ambassador Ka- ly assisted the mission at sources estimate Japanese sign of respect. pher Brough, RMI Liaison Foreign and Internal Af- zuhiko Anzai commended Santo Island in Kwajalein. soldiers stationed in RMI Marshall Islands top to Kwajalein USAG-KA fairs officials joined Japan the collaborative work HPO’s Chief Archeologist at around 8,000, but to date dignitaries, including US Lanny Kabua, Chief Justice Embassy and visiting Japa- done by IA’s Historic Pres- Micheal Terlep led the RMI only a few hundred are re- Ambassador Tom Arm- Carl Ingram, members of nese honored guests during ervation Office with Japa- team. corded to have been found bruster, Australia Royal Japan/Marshallese commu- the memorial. nese officials, which great- Public Works Minister and put to solemn rest. 26 Friday, November 28, 2014 — The Marshall Islands Journal 2 Joes meet in a bar... Journal 11/26/1974 a state of mind. Words, both written and spoken, are al- P3 Joe Murphy, Editor of ways subject to manipulation the Pacific Daily News visited and misinterpretation. Some Majuro this past week to find heavy-handed dictators have out if the rumors were true proved the feasibility of living that indeed there was another comfortably under the theoreti- newspaper man in the area by cal constraint of a democratic the same name. Instinctively constitution… following his journalistic in- tuition, he headed to the first Journal 12/1/189 bar on the way into the dis- P5 Confusion (photo trict center of the Marshalls caption) and laid in wait. It wasn’t long Confusion is very apparent before a yellow Volkswagen in Majuro resident Noel Big- pulled up to the bar driven by ler’s expression as he ponders an emaciated looking bearded What we were saying way back when whether to look in the direction white man in the company of fellow Majuran Jim Abernathy a crotchety old Quapaw half- Micronesia is shopping for were the Founding Fathers of Because of heavy American is pointing toward or the one breed. As the coral dust set- a constitution. We really don’t the Republic. agitation about it, nearly all Jim is looking at. Some claim, tled in the afternoon heat, the know why they need one. But The result of this has been nations, big, middle-size, and also, that this is just another bearded driver called out in a since somebody does, and that Americans developed a picayunish came up with some example of Noel’s refusal to raspy, irritated voice, “What a lot of money is going to be rather strange, but nonethe- kind of a constitution. Even the follow directions, a fault which the hell are you doing on my squandered expense account- less powerful fetish about their Marxists, in order to compete, nearly 20 years ago resulted turf?” ing politicians to discuss the constitution. climbed on the bandwagon. in Noel’s arrival in Majuro from Murphy looked startled at matter, let’s talk about consti- The extraordinary zeal em- This includes the Soviet California after starting off to the sour-faced driver. “Tickjle tutions. And that is dangerous ployed by the Americans in Union, which has a constitu- visit New York. your toes with a shamrock,” water! Because in modern so- exporting the cultural advan- tion that reads even better he said as he wiped the froth cieties, the word “constitution” tages of their constitution has than a French menu. It was Journal 11/28/1997 has become such a sacred of Schlitz from his moustache. created a highly motivated written by, of all people, Josef NTA, MEC earn a prof- cow that no one feels comfort- P3 “Faith and Begorrah,” came and at times disagreeably ag- Stalin, who must have really it in 1996 able mentioning it. This is par- the reply. The conversation gressive society. For theirs tripped on perverse mirth as Only two of 10 statutory ticularly true in America where then became garbled in a rush has been a frenzied, frantic trainloads of his “constitution- the national folklore evolves agencies and other programs of typically Irish drinking as the and formidable 200-year cru- ally protected” Soviet citizens from the American Constitu- funded by the government two editors performed an an- sade to yoke all nations with chugged out of Moscow sta- tion and around the legendary earned a net profit in 1996. cient Celtic rite. tion — Gulag bound. Which lives of those totally whole- a government tailored to the The Deloitte audit showed that American image. And they all goes to show that consti- P4 Peeking through the some, God-inspired, ultra- MEC earned $303,687 and have done right well at it, too! tutional law is in reality only palms by Dick Tullis intelligent heroic patriots who NTA $857,286. The Marshall Islands Journal —­­­ Friday, November 28, 2014 27

ka-meniñ kio, jerata tokelik ejjab endrein LEFT. Bully: Jab ba jaab ñe ibba juon men! Victim: Ekwe ak jab mane eo! Mama eo ej kobatata: Niñniñ etal im ikkure! Niñniñ eo: Warrar! Etto wõt ao kar right. Victim (roñoul iio tokelik): Ah! Kwoj ke ememij e io?! kattar am baat e tok meja, iar baj iakwe wõt bwin jikka jen tore eo iar bed iloan Bully (scared): Mol ke kwe ne ke? lojem. Eluukun enno lok jen milik.

the right choice Person outside: Brother, can you give me some food? Person inside: There’s no Candidate (School drop out): If I am elected, I promise I’ll never drink again! food! It’s all gone!

Bwebwe in rijikuul Rijikuul: Ah! Drol tok bwe ñain kobatat e eok! Jikka: Jab! Ij ko jen kwe! Planet Earth (thinking): Ewor tarin ruatimjuon–billion armij rej jokwe ilo ña im Kelemonlak jen eo an jikka eo: Ij abede eok! ijjab jela jete rinana –– menin ekamijak eo. 28 Friday, November 28, 2014 — The Marshall Islands Journal Eighth annual jaki-ed auction

Eighty percent of the entries in the upcom- ing eighth annual exhibition and silent auction of jaki-ed (clothing mats) are from Ailinglaplap Atoll, which is where a six-month fine weaving apprenticeship was held a few years ago. Five days before the November 28 deadline for receiving jaki-ed, staff at the University of the South Pacific, which helps coordinate the exhibition each year, had received 45 mats. And, as has happened every year, the quality is higher than in the past, according to organizers. “They are smaller than normal overall,” said USP’s Director Dr. Irene Taafaki as she went through the pieces in the university’s library. “Maria (Fowler) and I encourage them to think smaller, but with more quality. I definitely see that in the mats this year and Maria is delighted with the quality. “There are some that will really pop out be- cause of the fineness of the weave. The weavers have obviously learned from the previous auc- tions what is being looked for (by buyers).” ‘There are The jaki-ed exhibition is usually held to co- incide with Manit (Culture) Day in September, some that will USP Direc- but as some officials were off-island at that tor Dr. Irene time, it was decided to hold it in early Decem- really pop out Taafaki and ber. expert weav- “The exhibition and auction will be on Thurs- because of the er Susan day, December 4, at the Melele Room at Mar- Jieta review shall Islands Resort,” Taafaki said, adding “I fineness of the jaki- think this could be an advantage for sales with ed entries. Christmas so close.” Inset, Maria Hawaii’s Bishop Museum is sending two the weave.’ Fowler. historic jaki-ed from its extensive collection. They will be brought by Hawaiian fiber artist — Dr. Irene Taafaki and the museum’s Cultural Resource Specialist Marques Marzan. “Marques will be speaking to Trust Company of the Marshall Islands, which school children who are being invited to visit in have been steadfast supporters since the begin- the afternoon,” Taafaki said. Marzan has been ning. Income boost for women Next Thursday’s program will start in the af- involved in the Marshallese revival of the art “We’ve been thinking a lot of cent release of a draft analysis by of fine weaving as he has attended earlier auc- ternoon with school visits and be followed by a public viewing between 3pm and 5pm. “The about unemployment in recent days, the Asian Development Bank on the tions in RMI and a 2013 program in Tahiti ti- especially for Marshallese women,” findings in the 2011 RMI national tled Weaving As a Common Pacific Language, evening event will start at 7pm, with an entry fee of $10, which includes a range of appetiz- USP Director Dr. Irene Taafaki said census. “What it revealed was that which brought together Marshallese, Hawaiian, as she was studying the many mats there are a high number of women ers. We just did a tasting and it’s going to be and French Polynesian weavers. sent in for the eighth annual exhibi- on Majuro and the outer islands that delicious,” Taafaki laughed. As well as participation by the Bishop Mu- tion and silent auction being held on have no income. I believe in Majuro Another key element is that there will be a seum and USP, the other partners in the 2014 December 4. “These mats will bring the figure was 70 percent of women starting bid of $20 on each mat. “We’re hop- exhibition are the Marshall Islands Visitors some income to women who usually are unemployed. ing people will come and bid generously and Authority, the Marshall Islands Resort, and the have few options to bring income “The sale of these jaki-ed will cer- support the weavers.” By the look and feel of Marshall Islands Handicraft Association. A new into their families.” tainly have some sort of impact on this year’s offerings, this won’t be difficult to major partner this year will be United Airlines, Taafaki was referring to the re- their lives.” joining the Bank of the Marshall Islands and the achieve.

Graduates’ mats on show Of the 21 weavers taking part in the • Daisy Riklon, Dolly Jack, Emja Juej, eighth annual exhibition and silent auction Helsay Libokmeto, Joninean Katjang, and of jaki-ed, six are former apprentices in the Kalora Judej from Jabwon Ailinglaplap Jaki-ed Revival Program. They are Dores • Glory Tomar, Justina Jieta, Kenye Lan- Langidrik, Elisana Emos, Lirok Menwe, gidrik, Lynn Katjang, Rostina Isa, and Sa- and Litak Paul from Airok, Ailinglaplap; lome Rena from Airok, Ailinglaplap Zibora Lang from Mejit; and Moji Kelen • Neko Bokin from Ujae from Jabor, Jaluit, and Majuro. • Virginia Bulles and Susan Jieta from The other exhibitors are: Mejit. The Marshall Islands Journal —­­­ Friday, November 28, 2014 29

Rock Crushers Muller Veterans’ triple treats vs Do It Best Muller. Veterans 3-on-3 basketball is headed for Friday’s final. Do It Best defeated OTEC a championship showdown this weekend. 11-10 Monday night on a last second On Tuesday night, Rock Crushers defeat- shooting foul free throw by Rantly Kattil. ed Do It Best in a close and hard-fought On Tuesday, before a large and loud playoff game battle to remain undefeated crowd at the Lojkar court, Rock Crushers at 12-0. beat Do It Best 25-21. In the double elimination format for the The Veterans 3-on-3 Say No to NCDs three teams that made it through the 10- Basketball Tournament is supported by the team playoff schedule, Wednesday night’s Ministry of Health and Kumit, PII, Taiwan game between Do It Best and OTEC will Embassy, Riwut Corner, and the School decide which team faces Rock Crushers in Enrichment Program. 30 Friday, November 28, 2014 — The Marshall Islands Journal Glen: ‘Tuna Commission must act now’ PNA nations are enforcing conservation requirements for fishing inside their 200-mile zones, said Marshall Islands fisheries Director Glen Joseph (pictured). “Where is the high seas action by the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Com- mission?” he asked on the eve of next week’s fisheries’ sum- mit in Samoa. Joseph said for the past five years, PNA has lobbied the WCPFC to step up conservations regulations for high seas fishing without success. “The PNA conservation measure supports our (sustainability) interests,” said Joseph. “It should be taken by the WCPFC.” But Joseph is frustrated by what he says is not happen- ing to regulate high seas fishing. “The Tuna Commission needs to change its way of doing business and how it treats small island developing states,” Joseph said. The WCPFC annual meeting is from December 1-5. The Marshall Islands Journal —­­­ Friday, November 28, 2014 31 Dar,Tia Urok winners Teams DAR and Tia are the big winners Meantime, Bokan Kibed captained by from last weekend’s President’s Day Urok Whitney with crew Drebel and Jimba, Club-sponsored bottom fishing tournament caught the biggest fish, a 17.5lb jawe. Bu- — and Bokan Kibed and Bukarar II didn’t karar II captained by Bilton with fishing do too badly themselves. partner Hone caught a 14.5lb jilo for sec- DAR captained by Kony with fishermen ond place. Juda and Michael, and Tia captained Jajju Prize money of $416.67 was awarded in with fisherman Jason were one and two in the three categories, with the winner get- total pounds at 103.7 and 91.1 pounds, re- ting $250 and second place $166.67. spectively, while Tia had the highest aver- Twenty-two boats competed, with 13 age pounds of 45.6 pounds. weighing in their catch. 32 Friday, November 28, 2014 — The Marshall Islands Journal

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THAT more and more people are becoming vegetarians, so we thought it THAT in 1995 Lisa Simpson timely to give you some history on the became a vegetarian during the subject? seventh season of The Simpsons THAT in 570BC Greek philosopher (she swore off meat after spending and mathematician Pythagoras wrote: time with a lamb at a petting zoo)? “The earth, prodigal of its wealth, sup- plies you with gentle sustenance, and THAT in 1990 wife of ex-Beatle offers you food without killing or shed- Paul, Linda McCartney, published a ding blood”? vegetarian cookbook? THAT in 1847 the word vegetarian THAT in 2008 Majuro’s Wellness was coined at the inaugural meeting of Center vegetarian restaurant opened? what was to become the Vegetarian So- THAT in 2009 the US Academy of ciety of the United Kingdom? Nutrition and Dietetics revised its po- THAT in 1897 sition on the health soy-bean milk gets benefits of vegetari- its first mention in ARE YOU AWARE? anism, giving it the a USDA publica- thumbs up? tion? dairy allowed) society was the magazine Vegetarian THAT in 2009 the app THAT in 1918 President formed in England? Times? HappyCow was released, Woodrow Wilson called for THAT in 1972 Galaxy THAT in 1986 the non- allowing users to access its meatless Tuesdays and an Foods introduced the first profit organization Farm worldwide database of veg- overall reduction in meat low-fat, cholesterol-free, Sanctuary was founded in friendly restaurants? consumption to help con- and lactose-free cheese al- Watkins Glen, New York, THAT in 2013 New serve resources during World ternative? to rescue farm animals from York’s Elementary school PS War I? THAT in 1979 John Len- cruel conditions and raise 244 became the first public THAT in 1944 the first non and Yoko Ono sub- awareness of the ill effects school to create an exclusive- vegan (meaning no eggs or scribed for three years to of factory farming? ly vegetarian cafeteria menu?