Touring Tinian
A photographer's perspective
Salute to our vets
Liberation Day and every day
Shooting hoops with Coach Joe Diaz
JULY 2017
Taga Beach, Tinian | Photo by Corwin Shadow
ABOUT THE COVER Children jump from the rocks of Taga Beach in Tinian
4-6 Cover
Photo by Corwin Shadow
A stroll through Tinian
8 Calendar July events
9 Community Event highlights women's health
10 Sports Coach Joseph R. Diaz of NMI Rollers Basketball Association
11 Summer Feature Academic Camp at Green Meadow School
14 Health Maintaining digestive health
16-17 Liberation Day Honoring veterans and servicemen and women
18-21 On the Road Event photos and special messages
22 Recipes Mango madness
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beachroadmagazine
Glimpses Publications include Guam Business Magazine, Marianas Business Journal, MBJ Life, Beach Road Magazine and R&R Pacific
PUBLISHER Maureen N. Maratita MANAGING EDITOR Jackie Hanson ASSISTANT EDITOR Joy White REPORTER Lara Ozaki CREATIVE DEPARTMENT SUPERVISOR Vikki Fong DESIGN & PRODUCTION Conrad Calma Jr. Keisha Marie Gozum Marcus Villaverde GENERAL SALES MANAGER Ken Duenas PRODUCT REPRESENTATIVES Minda Castro Norlyn Cabrera MANAGING DIRECTOR Marcos W. Fong Beach Road Magazine, July 2017. Entire contents copyrighted 2017 by Glimpses of Saipan, Inc. Beach Road Magazine is published monthly by Glimpses of Saipan, Inc. P.O. Box 502080, Saipan, MP 96950 • 2/F Transpac Business Center Gualo Rai, Saipan • Tel: (670) 235-7645 • Fax: (670) 234-1801 • E-mail: saipan@ glimpsesofguam.com. All rights reserved. No material may be printed in part or in whole without written permission from the publisher.
Glimpses of Guam Inc. Mission Statement: To connect people with information.
COVER
A STROLL THROUGH
Tinian
After more than 70 years, remnants of war linger in the tranquil landscape of the Northern Mariana Islands. Photographer Corey Shadow captures this juxtaposition during a June visit to Tinian.
Photos by Corwin Shadow 4
JULY 2017
Taga Beach, San Jose
COVER
Taga Beach, San Jose
Taga Beach, San Jose
Japanese air raid shelters from World War II
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COVER FEATURE
Memorial to the 107th U.S. Naval Construction Battalion (Seabees)
Hinode Shrine American Memorial
Atomic bomb loading pit for the U.S. aircraft Enola Gay
Memorial at Suicide Cliff 6
JULY 2017
EVENTS June 24 - July 4 Liberation Day festivities Celebrating Culture, Community, and Service
Activities include cultural events, booths showcasing culture, music, art and traditional cuisines and the July 4 parade. Location: Garapan Fishing Base
Throughout July Dolphin Swim Club
Adult swimming lessons Admission is free. Email dolphinsclubsaipan@500sails.org for more information or visit the 500sails.org for full schedule.
approved kayaker as a safety escort. For more information, email dolphinclubsaipan@500sails.org.
July 15 to 16 33rd Saipan International Fishing Tournament
Location: Smiling Cove Marina For more information, visit the Saipan Fishermen’s Association Facebook page.
July 30 Saipan Unity Lions Club 2nd Annual Mountain and Road Bike Race Route: Banzai Cliff to Mobil Tanapag and back Price: $1 Tickets available at Graphics Inc.
July 8 Summer Fun Open Water Series: Eagle Ray/Pau Pau to Managaha (7.25-kilometer swim)
Time: Registration — 6 a.m.; Start — 7 a.m. Price: $5 for Dolphin Swim Club members; $20 for non-members; free to lifeguards with proof of certifications or approval prior to registration. Requirements: Participants must have a qualifying swim of 3.5 kilometers and an
To be included in our calendar of events, submit details to assist_editor@glimpsesofguam.com.
COMMUNITY
BALLOON FUN RUN WALK AND ROLL EVENT PROMOTES WOMEN'S HEALTH Contributed by the Maternal & Child Health Bureau
For more photos, see On The Road on page 21.
Balloon Fun Run Walk and Roll winners 1st place Jonathan Wilherscheid Ellena Sutton Hans Yarobwemal Nicole Preder
3rd place Marjorie Daria Maria Hy Nathanette Blas
Some 103 residents participated in the Balloon Fun Run Walk and Roll, held on May 27. The event was hosted by the Division of Public Health's Maternal & Child Health Bureau and its partners to empower women to make their health a priority. Event-goers did Zumba; played basketball, tee-ball, volleyball and soccer; and browsed exhibits and booths, which offered health screenings, education on car seat safety, and activities for families with children with disabilities. The Balloon Fun Run Walk and Roll was brought to a close with a roadside wave to celebrate women’s health month. The event was spear-headed by Leiana Ogumoro Saures and Tony Yarobwemal of the Maternal Child Health Bureau Home Visiting Program. Community partners of the event are Commonwealth Healthcare Corp. Division of Public Health and its various departments, including the Community Guidance Center, Women, Infants and Children program and the Non-Communicable Diseases Bureau; the Best Sunshine Corporate Social Responsibility team, Ayuda Network Inc., the Commonwealth Cancer Association, CNMI Drug Court, Marianas Health Services, the Department of Public Safety and its Car Seat Program and the Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services.
2nd place Hallie Locher Chrislaine Pangelinan Sue Ann Huevos JULY 2017
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SPORTS
Positive Play By Joy White | Photo by BRM For Joseph R. Diaz, overseeing five teams as the head coach of the NMI Rollers Basketball Association is an opportunity to keep the youth of Saipan away from negative influences. The NMI Rollers Basketball Association has been in operation for 18 years. The organization is made up of five teams and has about 74 athletes, ages 10 to 18. The association’s board members are Juan Delacruz, president; Norris Kwon, vice president; Verna Babauta, secretary; Fausia Delacruz, treasurer; and Robert Torres, active parent and legal adviser. Diaz’s credo is to develop and train young athletes in basketball to produce a strong sense of sportsmanship and to promote self-confidence and harmonious camaraderie among the youth of Saipan. He teaches the athletes life skills and that school comes first. The teams compete in the 2017 Francisco M. Diaz Memorial Youth Basketball League, the Tan Siu Lin Gualo Rai Christmas Basketball Tournament and Guam’s March Madness Men’s Basketball Tournament held at Andersen Air Force Base. Four of the teams will participate in the 2017 Thanksgiving Hoop Fest Tournament on Guam. “Teaching youth players and new players is a stress reliever for me; it’s interesting to see players that really want to learn and understand basketball. It feels amazing because it makes me feel like I am both a teacher and a parent,” he says. In addition to being a stress reliever, basketball is a positive outlet. “I don’t have any bad habits, like drinking 10 JULY 2017
(From left) Coach Joseph Diaz, TJ Factor, Roger Valencia, Ervin Villarin, Assistant Coach John Babauta, Richard Baleares, Diego Cabrera, JP Cruz, FJ Garon and Nyrel Eugenio. (Members of the team not shown are Davean Gonzales, AJ Hudkins, Sun Joon Tenorio, Chioni Dela Cruz, Brian Kim and Mathew Ong.)
alcohol, chewing betel nut or smoking,” Diaz says. He is inspired to continue to coach to also help the youth stay away from these influences and other negative choices. The teams volunteer with the Marianas Visitors Authority twice a month for beach cleanups and with the Department of Youth Services for other activities. The teams also clean up the island’s basketball courts. When it comes to securing a win on the court, Diaz keeps it simple. “Work hard and work as a team. It pays off in the end,” he says. “What makes an athlete become better is communication, commitment, dedication, hard work, chemistry, belief and most importantly respect for oneself, parents, coaches, teammates and faith in God,” Diaz says. Interested athletes can pick up an application form during the NMI Rollers Association’s practices at the Garapan basketball court every Tuesday and Thursday from 5:15 p.m. to 6:45 p.m.
Coach Diaz’s words of wisdom for the athletes of the NMI Rollers Basketball Association: • Building a team is a process just like building a house: You must first build a strong foundation before putting up the walls and roof. • It’s not about perfection, it’s about effort. When you bring that effort every single day, that’s when transformation happens. • School is the most important tool in moving forward.
SPECIAL FEATURE
GMS 7th Annual Academic Camp Contributed by Green Meadow School
Green Meadow School and Pure Love Daycare are offering an Academic Camp from July 5 to Aug. 5. GMS Academic Camp programs offer fun and unique experiences with an opportunity to explore the outdoors, meet new friends and discover new interests. The camp will help prepare students for the next school year through advanced tutoring opportunities in reading, writing, arithmetic, languate arts and social studies, and English as a Second Language, or ESL. The camp will also divert kids from a summer of technological distractions. With more free time during the summer, ensuring that kids practice healthy habits can be a greater challenge. GMS encourages parents and guardians to help their kids stay away from technology and explore all the GMS camp has to offer. “Attending Academic Camp is a wonderful opportunity for kids to keep their minds and bodies active,” says Mrs. Milagros Songcuan, GMS president and principal. She adds, “We really encourage parents to give their kids the gift of camp so that every child can benefit from the experience.” For inquiries, call 235-8125.
Reasons to attend GMS Academic Camp: • Camp offers stimulating activities that engage the body and mind and help children learn the importance of nutrition and improve their eating habits. • Campers will have a chance to learn new skills and develop confidence and independence by taking on new responsibilities and challenges. • Campers meet new friends and strengthen existing friendships. • Summer camp is an unforgettable experience that will give each camper memories for life. The children return to school with plenty of camp stories to share.
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HEALTH
TAKING CARE OF YOUR TUMMY By Joy White Maintaining a healthy digestive system is a key component in maintaining one’s health. The body relies on the digestive system to distribute nutrients and other important components from food and to dispose of waste and other things that shouldn’t be in the body. Plus, a healthy digestive system can improve one’s overall disposition. Making changes to one's daily habits can help improve digestive health. Eating meals and snacks around the same time every day promotes proper digestion. An inconsistent eating schedule can result in over eating and can cause the stomach to overwork, resulting in bloating and indigestion. Managing one’s stress can help improve digestive health. Stress can increase acid in the stomach, leading to indigestion. Also, stress eating can throw off one’s eating schedule. Exercise regularly. Physical activity can help strengthen the digestive tract and relieve some digestive issues, such as constipation. Eat foods that are good for the digestive systems and avoid fatty and fried foods. Ginger, when consumed in moderation, relieves nausea, vomiting, gas, colic and loss of appetite. Lean meats, such as fish or chicken, are easier to digest and contain less fat than red meat. Cabbage
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promotes the growth of healthy bacteria in the colon. Yogurt contains probiotics, which are healthy bacteria that help enhance nutrient absorption, breakdown lactose and strengthen the immune systems. Fiber is especially important to eat to maintain a healthy digestive system. There are two types of fiber: insoluble and soluble. Insoluble fiber, found in the seeds and skins of fruit, whole-wheat bread and brown rice, can improve bowelrelated issues, such as constipation, hemorrhoids and fecal incontinence. Cabbage is an insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber, found in bananas, oatmeal, nuts, beans, apples and blueberries, guards against constipation and diarrhea. In addition, soluble fiber rids the body of cholesterol particles, helping to reduce the risk of heart disease. While fiber is important, one must also remember to drink water, which will help dissolve soluble fiber, as well as fats. Understanding one’s reaction to foods is also important in maintaining a health digestive system. For some, it is best to avoid dairy or yogurt, as it wreaks havoc on the digestive system, while others enjoy varying amounts of dairy or yogurt without experiencing any negative effects. By knowing one’s reaction to foods, one can create the best diet to maintain a healthy digestive system.
ENVIRONMENT
JULY 2017 15
LIBERATION DAY
SALUTING VETERANS: Honoring those who fight for freedom By Joy White For many, Liberation Day is a time to commemorate the events of July 4, 1944 that brought the Northern Mariana Islands freedom from occupation and to honor and remember the many veterans who continue to protect the islands’ and the nation’s freedoms. Some Saipan residents shared with BRM what the holiday means to them personally.
Retired Marine Corps Master Sgt. Oscar C. Torres, executive officer of the Military and Veterans Affairs Office. Courtesy of Oscar Torres
Driven by discipline Oscar C. Torres served a total of 25 years in the military, first in the Army Reserves of Guam and California, then in the Marine Corps. He is the executive officer of the Military and Veterans Affairs Office and a retired master sergeant of the U.S. Marine Corps. As a veteran, Torres says that Liberation Day is a day to be mindful of the costs of freedom. “That’s one thing we should be mindful of — that having freedom in this world is not free. People sacrifice to secure our freedom. It’s priceless. We should remember those people who liberated us,” he says. “Here in Saipan, we were liberated by the U.S. Armed Forces back in July 4, 1944 from the Japanese occupation. A lot of U.S. Marines, Army, Navy and Air Force personnel sacrificed and lost their lives here in the CNMI to protect us from further harm from the Japanese occupation. It’s not just a Liberation Day to go out there and celebrate, barbecue, watch and enjoy the July 4 parade. We need to continue to remember and reflect on these sacrifices, to receive and accept their message and what they have done to secure our freedom.” 16 JULY 2017
Torres at the Veterans Affairs Office Photo by BRM
Torres was inspired to enlist by his uncle, Leonard Sablan, who served in the Army. He joined the Army Reserves in Guam in 1982 and in California in 1984 and the Marine Corps in 1984. He served for 25 years, with his last enlisted rank as a master sergeant. Torres was deployed in Iraq in 2005 and 2006. “Any type of service in the armed forces is a patriotic act, but what drove me to join the Marine Corps is because it’s a unit in the armed forces where discipline is a must. The driving factor is that the Marine Corps is the most disciplined unit in the U.S. armed forces. That really motivated me to join this unique outfit,” Torres says. While he was deployed he had little contact with his family. He would catch up with them on brief phone calls, but he fully felt their support. Torres and his wife, Mildred Sablan Torres, have four adult children, Jason, Jay Scott, Jan Chase and Chealsea. “Family support is very important because that’s what everyone serving in the U.S. military needs to stay focused in their mission. It’s your family that will drive you and motivate you to give it your all. I got 110% support from my family members,” he says.
LIBERATION DAY
Robert S. Deleon Guerrero while on duty in Afghanistan. Deleon Guerrero served as a helicopter mechanic in the United States Army with Charlie Troop 7th Squadron 17th Cavalry Regiment, 159th Combat Aviation Brigade in Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
Corporal Anthony C. Deleon Guerrero, son of the late Robert S. Deleon Guerrero, holds his promotion certificate. Anthony Deleon Guerrero strives to follow the example of his father.
The late Robert S. Deleon Guerrero, right, and Officer Jason Flores, while on duty in Afghanistan.
Carrying on the torch For Jennifer Deleon Guerrero, Liberation Day is a day to appreciate freedom and independence and be thankful for those in military service. “[Liberation Day] is a day to celebrate independence. But as we do, let us not forget and may we pray for continued guidance for our brothers and sisters all over the world in harm’s way who are not able to celebrate with us or their families,” Deleon Guerrero says. Her appreciation for those who serve includes several of her own loved ones who have served and sacrificed. Deleon Guerrero is the wife of the late Robert Santos Deleon Guerrero, who had served for six years and nine months of active duty in the U.S. Army. Her husband served overseas in Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom from 2008 to 2009 and was deployed a second time to Afghanistan from February 2011 to 2012. “I stand tall and I stand proud for all that he has done
not only for myself, our children and our family, but also for our country. Our children have always been and will always be proud for everything he has done. Not a day goes by that we don’t think of him and not a day will ever go by without us loving him,” she says. Their son, Anthony Cabrera Deleon Guerrero, is now a corporal in the Marine Corps stationed in Camp Pendleton, Cali. Deleon Guerrero is also the mother of Robert, Neil and Isabella. Even as Liberation Day brings to mind her own family’s sacrifice for freedom, she remains mindful and thankful of others’ suffering. “We all have different perspectives in life. The challenges we may face on a daily basis may not be the same, but that doesn’t mean that we should lose hope. No matter what your struggles, be mindful that there are others who may be struggling more than you are. May we always be thankful to the lord for every day that we are given to live,” she says. JULY 2017 17
ON THE ROAD
ON THE ROAD
“Happy birthday to Tommy Lee Martinez.” from Christine Agbanlog, a coworker at AA Enterprise, which does business Mobil Chalan Piao. Martinez celebrated his birthday on June 22. Photo by BRM
“I am so proud and blessed to be the father of Arthiana and Nicolas and can't imagine a life without them. I will do my best to support them and guide them as much as I can. To my loving wife and to my mother, thank you! I could not have done this without you. Happy Father's Day to all the dads out there.” from Arthur Ordonez Miron, father of Arthiana and Arthur Nicolas Miron. Contributed photo
To Sabino Cabrera Jr.: “Dad, happy Father’s Day! Thank you for everything. We love you forever, Daddy! We are also thankful that we have a dad like you.” From your children, Symon Josh, Sabino III, Sam and Sansone Contributed photo
“Congratulations to Eldrich Armia on your graduation,” from your mom, Jennifer; dad, Edward; and big sister, Erica. Contributed photo
A Vin d’Honneur was held on June 10 at the Fiesta Resort & Spa Saipan in recognition of the Philippine Independence Day. 18 JULY 2017
Photo by BRM
ON THE ROAD
“Happy Father’s Day to very loving and caring Dad,” with love and kisses from the family. Contributed photo
“I find great joy and fulfillment in being a father to my children. They are my responsibility, so it is my duty to protect and raise them the best I can. It's not always easy, but it is rewarding to watch them grow, better themselves and excel in all that they do. Happy Father's Day to all,” from Cuki Alvarez. Contributed photo
As part of its Philippine Independence Day celebrations on June 11, the United Filipino Organization hosted the Batang Pinoy, Anak ng Saipan, which recognizes the achievements made by Filipinos who were born and raised in the Northern Mariana Islands. Photos by BRM JULY 2017 19
ON THE ROAD
(Clockwise from top left) Philippine Honorary Consul Glicerio Arago; Members of the Filipino Community; Flag-bearer and Marcher-free Mason of Emon Lodge No. 179, all at the Pistang Pinoy flag-raising ceremony on June 11. Contributed photos
(Clockwise from top left) UFO and Akap Pinoy President Marlon Regaton with members; Saipan Mayor David Apatang was a special guest speaker during Pistang Pinoy; Nhemie Cayao with Bacolod's Maskara Festival dance; Green Meadow School students performing a traditional Filipino dance, all at the Pistang Pinoy on June 11. Contributed Photos 20 JULY 2017
ON THE ROAD
The Balloon Fun Run Walk and Roll was held on May 27 at the Filcom Pavilian at the Civic Center. For story, see Page 9.
Contributed photos
JULY 2017 21
RECIPE
MANGO MADNESS Do you have extra mangoes this season or do you simply enjoy their taste? BRM put together a collection of fast and easy mango recipes perfect for the summer.
Mango salsa Ingredients • 2 ripe mangoes, peeled, pitted and diced (about 3 cups) • 1 small red onion, peeled and diced • 1-2 jalapenos, seeded and diced • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro, loosely packed • Juice of one lime • Salt and pepper to taste • 1-2 diced tomatoes or cucumbers, optional Directions 1. Toss all ingredients together until combined. 2. Season with salt and pepper if needed. 3. Serve immediately, or refrigerate in a sealed container for up to three days.
Mango lassi Ingredients • 1 cup very ripe mango, chopped • 1 cup plain yogurt • 1/2 cup milk • 4 teaspoons honey or sugar, or to taste • Ice • Cardamom, optional Directions 1. Blend mango, yogurt, milk, sugar and ice for two minutes. Blend with cardamom to taste, if desired. 2. Garnish with cardamom, if desired. 3. Serve within 24 hours.
Mango popsicle Ingredients • 2-3 ripe mangoes, chopped • 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk • 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, grated • 1 teaspoon of cardamom • Grated zest and juice of one lime Other materials • Blender • Popsicle mold or small paper cups and popsicle sticks Directions 1. Blend mango, condensed milk, ginger, cardamom and lime zest and juice until smooth. 2. Divide into popsicle molds or paper cups. If using paper cups, add the popsicle sticks. 3. Freeze for about six hours or until firm.
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