Beach Road Magazine Oct. 2010 issue

2010 OCTOBER

halloween FEATURE

Guam Army National Guard soldiers return from trainings

TALK OF THE TOWN GAMECON 2010 makes a roaring comeback

SPORTS PAGE 5TH POWERADE速 Banzai Memorial Half Marathon and Fun Run

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contents

October 2010 4

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ABOUT THE COVER

Beach Road Magazine Halloween Issue features children in their fancy costumes preparing for Trick or Treat.

Shot on location at the Cepeda residence in Gualo Rai. Photography by Hideo Honda

Serenity Salon & Spa

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SPECIAL FEATURE Council on Developmental Disabilities’ Trankilu Program WAY OFF BROADWAY The United States Coral Reef Task Force talk about the challenges and ways to do conservation.

SPECIAL FEATURE Life-changing experiences of the Guam Army National Guard soldiers

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CRUSIN’ ON BEACH ROAD

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TALK OF THE TOWN GAMECON 2010 comes back with a bang

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OUR ENVIRONMENT

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HEALTH WATCH

www.marianas-way.com

Hair and makeup by Venus

ON THE COVER Joon Lee and Lamee Lam, Andrei, Kate and Uriel Woodruff, Miles Gregory and Chealzka Navarro, Ermest Joachim and Eizen Americus Domingo and Nouen Aaron Alfonso

SPORTS PAGE POWERade marks fifth year of Banzai Memorial Half Marathon and Fun Run

CALENDAR OF EVENTS HOROSCOPE/TIDE CHART

Vol. IX No. 11 Publisher

Maureen N. Maratita

BRM Manager

Alexie Villegas Zotomayor

Contributing Writer Carmen Rojas

Graphic Artists

Rudy L. Armenta • Monie B. Erasga

Sales Manager Annie San Nicolas

Account Manager Susan Marchitti

Managing Director Marcos Fong

Beach Road Magazine, Vol. IX, No. 11 October 2010.

Entire contents copyrighted 2010 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.

Printed by: Win Guide Color Printing Co., Ltd.

Raffle, Silent auction, time capsule/treasure chest give-a-way, dance contest, many many other groovy prizes

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trick ‘LET’S DO IT.’ During Halloween, children in their fantasy costumes go together and visit houses in different villages for their trick or treat.

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or treat ¢ O n the cover ¢

by Alexie Villegas Zotomayor

It’s a harbinger of good things ahead. Despite its scary front, the Halloween kicks off a series of festivities culminating in the holiday season.

Although frightening for some children, Halloween remains one of the more colorful occasions of the year where throngs of kids dressed in their fancy costumes troop to the villages as they seek treats.

Despite the tradition of giving out candies to kids, some households now begin to see the importance of promoting a healthy lifestyle; instead of handing over sweets, they prepare more healthy items for the young like granola bars.

As American as the tradition is, there are more people from other cultures drawn to participating in the Trick or Treat events of the community. In a diverse community such as

Saipan, it is interesting to see how people from various cultural backgrounds come together for a colorful and entertaining event as Halloween.

Siblings Andrei, Kate and Uriel Woodruff all started trick or treating at the age of one. For the three, Halloween affords them an opportunity to play out their fantasies while wearing the costumes of their favored comic or fairy tale characters. Eleven-year-old Andrei had to go trick or treating alone for five years until Kate, now seven years old and Uriel, five years old, came along. They would go to the park, restaurants, and other places that hosted Halloween events.

According to the three kids, whenever they would get candies, it was natural for them to share it with family and friends. Andrei says, “I know that it would be morally proper to say that I like giving

treats, but I sort of like getting them more. I still like giving them out, though.”

For Kate, she admits she likes receiving treats but she also likes giving them out.

Uriel, on the other hand, agrees with his siblings. “I like both receiving and giving treats. I like what Andrei and Kate like.”

Every year, they would carve a pumpkin with their dad and decide how the Jack-o-Lantern would be carved including how they would shape the eyes, nose, and mouth and even how many teeth the pumpkin would have. Once done with carving their pumpkin, the children would illuminate it with candle and place it on their front yard or in the corner shelf. Their eyes would light up, thrilled at the sight of a fully lit pumpkin at night.

This year, they say it wouldn’t be any

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different. Andrei looks forward to Halloween and doing role-play duels; Kate’s excited to carve another pumpkin again while Uriel wants to play with other kids when they’re all in their costumes.

Ernest Joachim and Eizen Americus Domingo, who grew up in the Dandan Village, are also looking forward to having fun on Halloween. As scary is the event for some, Eizen or Ecus would

rather use superhero costumes. “I don’t like scary costumes.”

But for the Domingo brothers, it’s the anticipation leading to Halloween that they look forward to. Trying out new costumes or thinking of which places to visit for trick or treat, EJ and Ecus have their minds set on merrymaking.

For the diminutive two-year-old Nouen Aaron

Alfonso, his first trick or treat was unforgettable.

At the age of one, Aaron, clad in Superman costume, visited shops in Duty Free Galleria with his brother Aldrin, mother Emy and dad Nelson.

Being short, Aaron charmed his way through shops and attracted tourists. According to his mom, this year, Aaron’s trick or treating will be no different except for his costume.

Although they tend to be shy, three-year-old Chealzka and her older brother Miles Gregory Navarro set aside their shyness when doing trick or treat. For them, it’s an opportunity to mingle with other children and gain new friends. More than just gathering sweets, the Navarro siblings also find it in their heart to share whatever treats they have with friends and family. They sometimes exchange items or share each other’s bags of goodies.

Chealzka, however, openly shows her fear of the masks that other kids wear for Halloween. She particularly remembers her trick or treat at Fiesta Resort & Spa Saipan where she was frightened by the sight of macabre costumes and masks.

Meanwhile, for multilingual JooLee and her daughter Lamee, they do not normally do trick or treat. Conversant in English, Japanese, Cantonese and Korean, JooLee has not had the opportunity to celebrate Halloween. Having traveled extensively

Newborn Hearing Screening Program

BAIT BALLS. Another exciting find underwater is a serendipitous encounter with bait balls.

Photo by Mark James

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in Asian countries for modeling stints, JooLee is an ideal campaign person to promote a healthy lifestyle. She regularly eats organic food and lightly consumes salty or oily food.

A former Beach Road Magazine cover model as well, JooLee returns to Beach Road Magazine as cover model for the month of October along with her three-year-old daughter Lamee.

As healthy lifestyle is a passion of JooLee, Beach Road Magazine takes pride in having her represent a new way to trick or treat. Coming from a culture where Halloween celebration is non existent, JooLee still welcomes an opportunity to share her passion for healthy living with kids this Halloween.

If they get the chance too to visit their neighbors or hotels, Lamee will be looking forward to donning her angel costume; however, her father Billy says Lamee would rather not see bizarre masks as these scare her.

It’s interesting to watch the young children walk in single file as they head from door to door knocking for a share of treats.

Halloween is just around the corner. Time to practice saying, “Trick or treat?” BRM

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f eature

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A new hope for PWD’s There’s light at the end of the tunnel for persons with disabilities. A new program that allows PWD to secure a loan at below market rate with higher percentage of approval is available.

The Trankilu Alternative Financing Program was created to provide alternative funding sources for persons with disabilities in the NMI using federal funds.

The Council on Developmental Disabilities has a memorandum of understanding with the Coalition of Anti-Stigma of Mental Illness in the NMI to administer the program. It’s one of the requirements of the grant that it must be administered by a community-based organization with majority of the board of directors being consumers – either persons with disabilities or someone who’s family member is one.

The Trankilu financing program allows PWD’s to apply for a loan in their attempt to secure assistive technology, get home modifications or services.

The new financing program opens up more opportunities for PWD’s to be more mobile and independent giving them access to better quality of life.

Kaye Christian, marketing coordinator, Coalition of Anti-Stigma of Mental Illness in the CNMI, says offering the program in the CNMi will provide hope for the PWD’s.

She says, “I am happy to be part of the Trankilu Alternative Financing Program and the opportunities it brings to residents of the NMI. Funding has been identified as a major barrier for individuals with disabilities in acquiring needed assistive technology devices and services to improve their quality of life and productivity.”

She also says that the flexibility of this program creates opportunities for individuals with disabilities to obtain loans for assistive technology devices and services they may not have otherwise qualified for.

With the Trankilu Alternative Financing Program, PWD’s can now acquire a broad range of adaptive equipment and services through loans made available to them with no down payment and longer terms with reduced monthly payments.

Through the program, PWD’s can now avail themselves of wheelchairs or motorized scooters, assistive technology training and repair of devices, hearing and vision aids, augmentative communication device, modified vehicles and vehicle modifications, home modifications and ramps, prosthetics and orthotics, among other equipment and services that would otherwise be difficult to acquire for some PWD’s with limited

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BETTER QUALITY OF LIFE. Persons with disabilities through the Trankilu program will get better access to assistive technology that will make them more independent.

means.

The program is available to all CNMI residents with disability or caregiver of a PWD and subject to loan review criteria. Those with no credit or poor credit history will be considered.

PWD’s can borrow up to $3,000 except for some circumstances where a higher loan is needed.

Special consideration will be given to disability and medically related credit issues.

Application forms can be obtained online at www.cnmicdd.org or visit 1310 Anatahan Drive, Capitol Hill, Saipan or any Bank of Saipan branch.

For assistance in filling out the forms, contact 664-7005, 287-7021 or 287-7013.

The Trankilu Alternative Financing Program truly offers a ray of hope to the many others who have been forced by the circumstances to deal with disability the hard way. Through the program, new opportunities open up to PWD’s that will make them active members again of the community. BRM

octoBER 2010

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way off broadway

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Carbon footprints

going, going, gone?

by Alexie Villegas Zotomayor Reducing the carbon footprint is no easy task and members of the United States Coral Reef Task Force are taking this challenge seriously.

A myriad of challenges confront members of the USCRTF and the ways by which these challenges could be handled were discussed during a meeting held at the Saipan World Resort on Sept.

15-16.

Among the obstacles to the Micronesian Challenge and conservation, the military buildup on Guam was singled out as the biggest threat.

In his talk before members of the United States Coral Reef Task Force, environmentalist, members of the scientific community, and other guests during the US Coral Reef Task Force meeting on Saipan, Guam Gov. Felix P. Camacho identified the ongoing buildup on Guam as a major stumbling block.

The outgoing Guam governor said, “The military build-up is the largest threat to coral reefs on island.”

He acknowledged that when he signed up for the Micronesian Challenge in 2006, discussions on the military buildup were at an incipient stage and the magnitude of the development had yet to be realized.

He said it has become even more critical for Guam to protect resources and culture as the island endeavors to reach the goals of effectively conserving 30% of near shore waters and 30% of terrestrial areas. For Camacho, these goals have somehow been compromised given the limited space on an island that is becoming more crowded.

“The opportunities and benefits that may come with the build-up are not cost-free — we will see the impacts in traffic, in the loss of some forest areas and in our reefs. Our great challenge then is to make sure we minimize these impacts as much as possible and that we take even greater care to conserve what resources we do have,” said Camacho pointing out the importance of the foundation work of the Micronesian Challenge in this endeavor.

He asked the US Coral Reef Task Force to assist Guam in this endeavor as he highlighted the need for additional funding and competent individuals to implement management measures and enforce existing environmental regulations and monitor changes.

The governor also expressed his disappointment with the Department of Defense’s responses to comments relating to the draft Environmental Impact Statement which he said the natural resource agencies spent time and effort 10

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reading and providing inputs. He said he asked the DOD “to seriously consider the comments to the final EIS” and stressed the request to adjust the plans to preserve Guam for posterity.

He also asked the task force to help Guam come up with the best possible mitigation strategies for coral reefs during what Camacho called “time of immense change and growth of our island.”

“I look up to the federal agencies represented at this USCRTF to help Guahan with our capacity issues, assisting us with developing mitigation strategies and monitoring actions related to the build-up so that they are in the best interest of the natural resources of Guahan,” said Camacho.

With regard to the Micronesian Challenge, Camacho said he would like to see the task force become more engaged in their regional work that supports several projects in Micronesia.

Meanwhile Capt. Peter S. Lynch, commanding officer, Naval Facilities Engineering Command, discussed how the military is handling the buildup while taking into consideration the impacts of the buildup on the natural resources.

For Captain Lynch, as the Draft Environmental Impact Statement acknowledged that the 2014 completion for construction projects causes unacceptable impacts, the Final EIS resolves to commit to reducing the construction pace and defer arrival of military population as necessary to avoid overstressing the infrastructure.

He also said the Navy and the resource agencies have reached an agreement “in principle” regarding carrier and turning basin location; site selection and coral analysis had yet to be completed for the Sept. 2010 Record of Decision.

According to Lynch, FEIS includes two alternatives with Polaris Point as preferred choice.

He also said that the ROD would detail implementation plans for the proposed action. He also pointed out that the ROD would include the Department of Defense’s commitment to mitigation measures and that the signing of the ROD does not mean the end to the planning efforts—the military will continue to work toward One Guam solution by coordinating with federal agencies, GovGuam and the people of Guam.

Moreover, the members of the task force acknowledged that the many island states are already experiencing the impacts of climate change.

The members saw the need for coordination, long term plans, and sustainably funded projects using local experts to build local capacity. They also identified the potential for the islands of renewable energy and infrastructure including seawater air conditioning. They also acknowledged that the task force must encourage climate policies at all levels.

The members also identified implementation needs including support for Micronesian Challenge Measures Working Group for the development of regional terrestrial and socioeconomic monitoring frameworks; assistance to carry out large-scale monitoring and regional research for design of protected areas networks among others.

The individual jurisdictional needs were also discussed.

The challenges are out there but the task force is committed to working closely with the various agencies to advance the goals of Micronesian Challenge. BRM

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feature

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Life-changing

by Alexie Villegas Zotomayor

Most of them were plucked from Saipan as boys and girls when the Guam Army National Guard recruited new soldiers in the Northern Mariana Islands a few months ago. Now, coming back from their trainings in the mainland United States, the new recruits are showing maturity and a better perspective of life.

Eighteen-year-old Josh Mark Ejercito was a crybaby before he joined the Guard. Some poked fun at him and thought of him as a weakling. Now, fresh from his training in Fort Benning in Georgia, Ejercito exudes a certain degree of confidence.

Ejercito, whose MOS (military occupation specialties) is 11 Bravo Infrantry, tells Beach Road Magazine the National Guard did change his life.

He says, “The Guard did change my maturity and the way I feel about the Army. When my friends look at me now, they see me as empowered, better person than I used to be.”

For Ejercito, joining the Guard was a conscious decision. He says the Guard offered him

better educational opportunities; he sees the Guard as a catalyst in making him a better member of the community.

Pvt. Daniel R. Quitugua, 38, went to Fort Benning in Georgia for his training. He tells Beach Road Magazine that joining the military is nothing new to him. Working as a police officer for 17 years, Quitugua found the move to the Guard as a smooth transition.

He was, however, inspired by the thought that he now belongs to an elite breed of first batch of newly recruited soldiers of the Guam Army National Guard in the Northern Mariana Islands and he was the first one to come back from the training.

Quitugua now joins his unit 294th Alpha Company as he awaits for further instructions.

Dabbling in basketball and other sports activities, SPC Krystian G. Villanueva, 18, says the training offered by the National Guard is a lot different compared to the trainings he had as a member of a basketball squad on Saipan. The

Saipan Southern High School senior says joining the Guard made him realize the myriad of options available to him. “It changed my life and the way I look at things. It’s different now.”

Having recently returned from his basic training, Villanueva is happy that he now plans for his future. He looks forward to doing his advanced individual training and possible deployment overseas.

Julius Ray Barro confesses that the Guard changed his life in so many ways. He thought less of the Guard’s impact to him prior to joining; however, coming back from his training, he sincerely believes the Guard provided him with a sense of fulfillment and changed his outlook.

“It changed my life a lot. Joining the Guard is one of the best choices I could have ever,” says Barro.

The only difficult part for his training, he says, was the intense heat in Fort Sill in Oklahoma where “you could feel like you were inside a

HOMECOMING. Newly recruited soldiers of the Guam Army National Guard pose for a group photo at the Saipan Southern High School grounds. These soldiers recently arrived from their basic trainings in Fort Sill, Oklahoma and Fort Benning, Georgia.

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Julius Ray Barro

Dan Angelo A. Bicera

microwave.”

Despite the heat, he pulled through and he now joins the other men and women with the same MOS: 25 Bravo (Communications).

“The Guard changed my life in so many ways,” says 17-year-old Ken Harris Mojica (MOS 11 Bravo). He says when he came back from his basic training, he became a more responsible person, brimming with self confidence. He believes he has also become a better citizen and he says he owes it to the Guard.

Returning from his training in Fort Benning recently, Mojica says what kept him motivated to finish it was knowing he represented the islands, his family and everyone in his unit. He says that kept him going.

He also says, “The Guard offered me so many

opportunities for my education. There’s so much support. It’s really great to join.”

Dan Angelo A. Bicera, 17 years old, is proud to say that the National Guard provided him with a sense of direction.

“Basic training for me was life changing. I came from a broken family. The Guard made me emotionally fit, mentally stronger and physically better now,” Bicera says.

For him, it wasn’t easy the first time he joined. It was hard to be away from loved ones, from “your comfort zones.”

Bicera, who trained in Fort Sill in Oklahoma, downplayed the stories about the difficult trainings.

He says, “Perhaps they were exaggerating.”

He tells Beach Road Magazine that when he enlisted, he wasn’t sure what was coming.

Now a changed person with a better disposition, Bicera encourages the others to join.

He advises the others that when they join, they should it not for the manifold of opportunities alone; they should do it for the country.

From the way they walked, talked, and behaved, these young men have truly become better members of the community and they all admit they owe it to the Guard for its life-changing training.

They are no longer the boys that cower in fear. They are no longer afraid to deal with any challenge. They are ready to go out in the world, ready to touch someone’s life, ready to become the change that the community needs.

Ken Harris Mojica

Daniel Quitugua

Krystian Villanueva

BRM

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cruisin ’on beach road

INKED. Members of the Tao Tao Tatu, Tattoo Club of Saipan, pose for a group photo. From left to right, Phil Eusebio, Ben Aguon, Joe Pangelinan and Marcus Taisacan.

TOYS FOR THE BIG BOYS. Three men show off their toys they play with in big races. Winning a recent race were Rodney Catalla , Paul Salalila, and Leo Gatus.

11 SUMMERS. Jiana Isa Dela Rosa turns 11 years old on Sept. 22. Greetings from her loving dad and mom.

MAKE A WISH. Lance Dela Torre silently makes a wish prior to blowing his birthday cake candles.

THRICE THE FUN. From left, Celebrating their birthdays together are Ley Mendiola (Sept. 18), Vivica Kapileo (Sept. 17), Albert M. Duenas (Sept. 19), Frankie Tagabuel (Sept. 18), Rosalia Duenas (Sept. 18). Duenas, right, celebrates her birthday with her mom.

‘WE GOT IT COVERED!’. Erwin Suguitan and Edwin Sta. Theresa and Roselyn Monroyo join the organizers for a group photo during the 5th Annual Powerade Banzai Memorial Half Marathon and Fun Run.

NIGHTOUT. Janice Tenorio and Jeff Schorr at the reception for officers and crew of USS Tucson at Revolving Restaurant 360.

BIRTHDAY BLOWOUT. Lilia, first from right, celebrates her birthday with friends at her Gualo Rai residence.

BIG SURPRISE. Foremost Back To School Promo winner Patricia Cabrera receives the $3,000 in gift certificates she won in the milk promo raffle from Rusty Loyola, Gerry Hemley and Glen Hunter.

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FRIENDS OF THE MONUMENT. Officers of Friends of the Monument pose with American Samoa Gov. Togiola Tulafono and National Marine Monument manager Tom Allen.

NI HAO! Chinese students welcome their visitors from Los Angeles.

GOOD BOYS. Teresa and Perry Tenorio’s sons enjoy a good meal one Saturday morning.

A YEAR SHY OF EIGHT. Kate celebrates her seventh birthday with her mom and dad, Kuya Andrei and Uriel at their Navy Hill residence.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY. Rotary Club of Saipan celebrates the birthday of past president Ben Babauta and sergeant at arms Richard Cody at the Giovanni’s Restaurant in Hyatt Regency Saipan.

WELCOME TO 360. Eden and Jen welcome the officers and crew of USS Tucson at Revolving Restaurant 360.

FIRST RESPONSE. American Red Cross entertains visitors to their booth during the Back To School Expo on Sept. 4

GREAT SUPPORT. Sponsors to GAMECON 2010 and Back To School Expo gather for a photo opportunity.

BIRTHDAY BOY. Nouen Aaron Z. Alfonso celebrate his 2nd birthday with older brother Aldrin and friends Rejoice and Shelly Ann.

MEN AT WORK. Noel Jimenez and Sammy Santos enjoy a brief break to smile for the camera at the Giovanni’s Restaurant of Hyatt Regency Saipan.

LADIES DAY’S OUT. Myla Santos and Grace Flores are seen during the celebration of Evelyn Santos birthday last September 26 at Pacific Island’s Club.

Beach Road Magazine is accepting photo contributions from the community for FREE. Kindly e-mail the photos with captions identifying the people in the photo from left to right position, to reporter2@glimpsesofguam.com. For photos to appear in the coming issue, due to limited slots, we encourage submissions on or before the 15th of every month.

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talk of the town

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GAMECON’s roaring comeback

BY ALEXIE VILLEGAS ZOTOMAYOR The long queue to the door at Club V of Saipan Grand Hotel on Sept. 4 says it all. The young generation hungered for a competition that not only challenged their wits but one that also whets their appetite for games that raise their adrenaline level.

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Despite their unbridled enthusiasm to compete in either group or individual category of Halo 3, Heroes of Newerth or Call of Duty of Glimpses’ GAMECON 2010, the contestants as well as members of the audience managed to make two orderly lines to the

door where surprise gifts welcomed them.

With their families and friends in tow, the gamers also checked out the Back To School Expo booths where they learned exciting programs about health and wellness. The American Red Cross, Comprehensive Cancer Control Program, Commonwealth Cancer Association, Shell, and Council for Developmental Disabilities prepared informative and interesting activities that kept the participants preoccupied, informed and entertained.

As gamers streamed back to Club V where all the action was taking place, passion for the game went a notch higher as they rooted for their favorite teams or they exhorted their team members to keep going.

There were exchangeS of friendly banters too that made the competition as colorful as expected.

Club V morphed into a crucible where the contestants battled with each other to emerge victorious in the ensuing struggle.

Eleven-year-old Steven Rasa Fojas led the surge of the young players in the competition as he emerged champion in the Halo 3 individual category where he beat second placer Patrick Reyes and third placer Alvin Jack Manglona for the crown.

With his family providing him moral support, Fojas –– as GAMECON 2010 Halo 3 individual champion –– won a trophy, $200, iPod Touch, iPod Shuffle, portable DVD player, and gift certificates courtesy of Fiesta Resort & Spa Saipan. Runners up received medals and gift certificates.

Matthew Igitol was crowned GAMECON 2010 Call of Duty Modern Warfare II Individual champion besting a strong field that included Jonathon Sanchez and Christian Tudela who settled for second and third place respectively. Igitol won a trophy, $200, Motorola Q9M phone courtesy of IT&E, iPod Shuffle, bag from The Athlete’s Foot/Boarderline and gift certificates from Fiesta Resort & Spa Saipan.

In the Halo 3 team category, Team Awesome earned the bragging rights and won interesting prizes aside from $400. Patrick Reyes, along with teammates John Faller, Brendon Larenz, Judah Basuldua, and Kelvin Magsiposi gave Team Keychee a good fight. Second place in the Modern Warfare II, Team Keychee also settled for second place in the Halo 3 team competition.

In the Call of Duty Modern Warfare II team category, the team of Justin Cabrera, Jose Pangelina, James Philips, Austin Roberto and Jude Sablan were declared champions. Team Keychee composed of Philip Eusebio, Burney Rios, Jose Dante, Sabado Santiago and Ruben Silvester was second while Team Tri-Defiance made up of Hitokmasu Kawahara, Manatsu Onori, Dylan

WINNERS CIRCLE. The winners in both individual and team competitions of GAMECON 2010 receive their prizes from the organizers.

Stewart and Randal Stewart finished in third spot.

For Heroes of Newerth, K-Team survived a strong competition from other teams to emerge as champions. The team was composed of Steve Ha, Sin Yeop Kang, Ji Hyun Kim, Ji Seung Lee, and Gee Hyun Lim. They won a trophy, $400, iPod shuffles and gift certificates from the Saipan Grand Hotel.

E.J. Bautista, Wilburn Cabrera, James Dela Cruz, Mark Dela Cruz, and V.J. San Pablo of Team Dota Crew were in second place while Team Style (Kenny An, Jin Chung, Fred Lee, and Gabe and

Mike Sheu) was third.

The second and third place winners won medals and gift certificates from Saipan Grand Hotel, Fiesta Resort & Spa, IT&E, D&Q, The Athlete’s Foot and Boarderline, Subway, and 670.

The success of GAMECON 2010 proved how the young clamored for an event like this and Glimpses of Saipan was thankful to all the supporters.

Glimpses would like to express its gratitude to its partners Megabyte, Tan Siu Lin Foundation, Saipan Grand Hotel, IT&E, Coastal Resources

Management, Guam Army National Guard, G4S, Axe, Coca-Cola, Powerade, Foremost, Scoops, Subway, Sorensen Media Group, and Modern Stationery.

Next year, Glimpses looks forward to doing an even bigger and better gaming competition where bigger prizes will be at stake.

GAMECON is back and it came back with a loud roar. BRM

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our environment

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Campers planting grass seedlings at Talakhaya revegetation site, Rota.

Saipan “Ridge to Reef” participants, volunteers, and coordinators at American Memorial Park.

Campers getting ready to explore the reefs at Tachonga, Tinian.

This summer, youth on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota participated in the Ridge to Reef Eco Camp. Ridge to Reef is an educational program which takes learners out into the field and encourages them to understand and make the connection between landbased sources of pollution and coral reef health. It is sponsored by the CNMI Coral Reef Initiative through funding from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Campers on the three islands hiked, planted trees, visited eco-friendly farms, snorkeled, visited Marine Protected Areas

and learned about how they can help to protect the CNMI’s precious natural resources. The Ridge to Reef Eco-Camps are an annual event. For more information about next summer’s activities, call Lisa Huynh Eller at the Division of Environmental Quality, 664-8500.

Coordinated by the Division of Environmental Quality and Coastal Resources Management Office, the camp was a success due to the help and participation of the following partners: USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, National Park Service - American

Memorial Park, Division of Fish and Wildlife, Department of Public Safety, Rota Mayor’s Office and the Rota offices of the Northern Marianas College, Department of Land and Natural Resources, Division of Forestry, Division of Fish and Wildlife, Department of Community and Cultural Affairs, Rota Health Center, Rubin Rota Scuba Center, the Rota Municipal Council, Tinian NMC CREES 4H Program, Tinian Elementary School, Tinian Ameri-Corps and the farms of Jesse Cruz and Sam Palacios. BRM

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sports page

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5th ANNUAL POWERADE BANZAI MEMORIAL HALF MARATHON AND FUN RUN

Kabiriel defends title

BY ALEXIE VILLEGAS ZOTOMAYOR

Time is inconsequential for Ketson Jack Kabiriel for all he ever wanted to achieve was defend his title.

Finishing the 13.1 mile race three seconds slower than his winning time last year, Kabiriel ruled the men’s division of the 5th Powerade Banzai Memorial Half Marathon and Fun Run on Sept. 11.

Still catching his breath, Kabiriel tells Beach Road Magazine that more than winning the race, he is happy that he can see possible successors. “I don’t care about the time; I care about (defending) the title.”

Having been running for so long, Kabiriel says he is now training possible successors and he found three runners who could follow in his footsteps.

Although he submitted a slower time this year, Kabiriel still led second and third place winners by a long stretch. Cesar Danao finished in second place with a 1:40:33 while Kim Keum Bae Ji came in third place with this time of 1:46:31.

In the women’s division, four-time champion Mamiko Oshima Berger could not defend her title as she was still on vacation. Filling her void was Rebecca Reed with a time of 2:03.41 followed by Natasha Kuckuck with 2:05:56.

Meanwhile, only two seconds separated Michael Mancao and Ronald Villafria in the 4.3mile fun run. Mancao submitted a winning time of 27:56 while Villafria clocked in at 27:58. Douglas Dillay of Kagman High School came in third with 28:28.

Mancao, a 10th grade student of Marianas High School, tells Beach Road Magazine that it was his first time to win the annual fun run. “It feels great,” he says.

According to Mancao, it has become his habit to run every day along the Beach Road pathway and he looks forward to joining other races.

For Ronald Villafria, it was his first race since coming back from a vacation. He said he didn’t have time to prepare for the race but he had to join to express his support. Normally, he says, he would have at least two weeks of preparation

WARMING UP Runners begin to take their respective places prior to the start of the fun run at Banzai Memorial.

before entering a race.

In the women’s fun run, Heather Kennedy, Rebecca Iseman, and Becca Shroeder finished as the top three women runners with 33:36, 38:35 and 38:36 respectively.

This year, a total of 44 runners supported the event with 27 runners joing the half marathon while 17 runners entered in the fun run.

The annual half marathon and fun run at the Banzai Cliff Memorial was made possible by Powerade, Coca-Cola, Subway, Foremost, Glimpses of Saipan, Scoops, IT&E, IP&E, Xterra Saipan, Taga Inc., Michelob UItra, Marianas Visitors Authority, Pacific Islands Club, Top Notch, The Athlete’s Foot, All Star Sports, Digital Motion, Brabu Pharmacy and Hyatt Regency Saipan.

Without these sponsors and support of local runners, the annual event would not reach the fiveyear mark. Cheers to five years! BRM

THREE PEAT. Ketson Kabiriel flashes the no. 1 as he cprsses the finish line.

SECOND PLACE. Cesar Danao finishes second behind title holder Kabiriel.

FUN RUN. The top three fishers in the fun run pose by the Powerade banner.

‘WE MADE IT’. Rebecca Iseman and Becca Shroeder complete the fun run almost at the same time.

Rebecca Reed FINISHED. lf marathon race finishes the ha ale runners. m r he ot ahead of

MORE POWER (ADE). Runners pose for a group photo at the conclusion of the fifth edition of Powerade Banzai Memorial Half Marathon and Fun Run.

The back side of life The back side of life æ

health watch

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BY CARMEN ROJAS

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think that the back is one of the most attractive parts of the human anatomy. Why? Because the right proportion of shoulder width to hip width combined with a smooth firmness is not only erotic but arouses a curiosity about the rest of the body. Sure the ratio can be seen somewhat from the front, but then you get distracted by facial features, and it’s hard to admire without being detected. So, what’s the 411 on the back? Read on, read on…

Basic anatomy –– The back largely comprises the trapezius muscles which originate along the upper back and neck, and attach on the back of the shoulders and the latissimus dorsi muscles, which are two big fan-like muscles that extend out from the spine and attach at the ribs. There are other muscles and the more obvious spinal bones that are involved, but the major players are our friends, the ‘traps and lats’.

Diet –– Again, there is not a really good diet for the “back muscles”. Because of their location and purpose, they respond well to…you guessed it, low fat, low carbohydrate and high protein diets. They are one of the multiple groups of muscles that respond well to a reduction of overall percent body fat. But one of the fun things about how diet affects this area is, that a reduction in weight, often improves a person’s posture either from a rise in self-esteem or in pulling the back into proper alignment, and often times both. So without doing much besides loosing weight, you can improve the appearance of your back!

For women, two of the common causes of back irregularities and discomfort are large breasts and poor abdominal strength. Not uncommon in women of child-bearing age. The large breasts issue is best addressed by a qualified physician who can diagnose a growth abnormality or just a simple weight issue or something else altogether. The abdominal strength is one of my specialties. We will get into specific exercises for the back in future articles, but many of my female clients have found that non-conventional exercises common in yoga, Pilates, and even belly dancing help build core strength and improve posture of the back by improving flexibility in the chest, shoulders and the abdominals.

For men, a large gut with weak abs can also lead to the hunched appearance of the back. Again, corrections to the diet with an increase in exercise can often lead to improvements in the posture and appearance of the back.

To bring this all to a point, the back is beautiful because it is one of those indicators of overall strength, and health. A strong, symmetrical, toned back is virtually impossible without being of good overall health in general. And we can all agree that healthy is sexy!

Next month, we will look at some exercises for the back that will help bring out the beauty of the back! BRM

WINGUIDE ad 3.625 x 3.25

• Personal Trainer for 6 years • Bachelor of Arts degree in Exercise Science • Master of Science in Business Administration • Former member of U.S. Track and Field Team

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS Oct. 13 — Saipan Chamber of Commerce Washington Delegate Debate Hibiscus Hall, Fiesta Resort 6 p.m.

Tickets at $15 (for two), $10 (per person), and $5 (student)

For more information, call Janice Tenorio at the SCC Office at 233-7150 or email at executive@ saipanchamber.com Oct. 16 — 3 Annual Saipan Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament

For more information, call Janice Tenorio at the SCC Office at 233-7150 or email at executive@ saipanchamber.com

Oct. 23 — 22nd American Red Cross Club 200 Theme: Swinging 1960’s

Contact: John Hirsh at 234-3459 Oct. 30 — 3rd Annual Underwater Pumpkin Carving Contest Nov. 11 — Veteran’s Day Nov. 15 — 15th Annual Club at the Hyatt Golf Classic Tournament

rd

Oct. 22 — Trench Warz XIII – “Vengence”

For more information, contact Justis Cuki Alvarez at 483-4662 or email at trenchwarriorsaipan@yahoo.com

Nov. 13-14 —

9th Annual Marianas Windsurfing Cup

Nov. 13 — 17th Rota Blue Triathlon Nov. 20 — Glimpses’ Saipan Health & Wellness Fair

Civic Center Tennis Court, Susupe 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information and booth reservation, contact Susan Marchitti at 235-7645; 483-3145

or email at sales5@glimpsesofguam.com (BRM welcomes contributions from the community. If your organization or agency has an event that you wish to share with the public, send details to sales5@glimpsesofguam.com or saipan@glimpsesofguam.com)

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Aries (Mar. 21 - Apr. 19): You’re currently doing internal battle. While neither side has officially won, you know who to bet on — and it’s not the side of you that wants to be nice.

Taurus (Apr. 20 - May 20): You really need to talk about your hidden attraction for somebody and map out a battle plan for that somebody is going to make a move –– soon.

Gemini (May 21 - June 21 ): At this point, the thing you need to remember is that while you can love someone just as much as you want to, you can’t live their life for them.

Cancer (June 22 - July 22): You’ll feel warm,

got a solid 10 hours of snooze time under your belt. Enjoy it in the company of some equally energetic company while it lasts.

Virgo (Aug 23 - Sept 22): This month, passion for you can travel long-distance, and that’s where it’s going now. Basically, you are interested in someone wearing a far-off accent.

Libra (Sept 23 - Oct 23): Yay! You’re set to receive nothing but good news this month.

Not only is it finally, officially time to play, but you’re also going to be in a fine mood — romantic, passionate and just a tad eager to take a risk.

fuzzy and oh-so-happy to be with whomever you’re with, and the feelings will be mutual.

Get together with whomever you’ve made plans, and expect it all to go beautifully.

Scorpio (Oct 24 - Nov 21): It’s not surprising

Leo (July 23 - Aug 22): You’re having a fine old time,

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 - Dec 21): You’re not

and not even near ready to call it a day. You’re excited, enthusiastic and feeling as if you’ve

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to people who know you how focused you are in finishing a project; but it may seem weird to those who don’t know you full well. quite sure what’s gotten into you, but you think you like it. You’re still as fun-loving and fond

of risks but you’re also looking for a safety net — just in case.

Capricorn (Dec 22 - Jan 19): It’s not like you to talk a lot. So when your dear ones ask you what’s up, don’t be offended. They’re just wondering who you are and what you’ve done with their friend. Oh, enjoy it. It’s good to keep ’em guessing.

Aquarius (Jan 20 - Feb 18): Think first before you talk. The entire world will be quite chatty today, not just you. For once, in fact, you’ll blend right in. They may even think that you’re a bit quiet.

Pisces (Feb 19 - Mar 20): You’re a sensitive creature, you’ll be picking up all kinds of signals. Be ready. You’ll never know you might run into someone you’ll spend your life with.

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