JGPO Address Public Safety Issue for Guam
Labels: JGPO, Public Meetings, Public Safety
posted by Michael Lujan Bevacqua at
2:29 AM
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1 comments
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Underwood Stresses Importance of UOG
Underwood stresses importance of UOG
by Clynt Ridgell, KUAM News
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
The Guam Chamber of Commerce heard from University of Guam President Dr. Robert A. Underwood on how UOG is the best investment for Guam's future. Underwood stressed that the university generates graduates who have helped to strengthen the economy and the island by filling the professional ranks of places like both the hospital and island schools.
The UOG President told chamber members, " When the island ignored the University and failed to fund it adequately, we all paid a price. We failed to cultivate our people's talents and some of the best minds of our island left the island. We didn't squander our money. We wasted our human resources."
The new president's mission is to make the University of Guam the natural choice for higher education in Guam and the region.
by Clynt Ridgell, KUAM News
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
The Guam Chamber of Commerce heard from University of Guam President Dr. Robert A. Underwood on how UOG is the best investment for Guam's future. Underwood stressed that the university generates graduates who have helped to strengthen the economy and the island by filling the professional ranks of places like both the hospital and island schools.
The UOG President told chamber members, " When the island ignored the University and failed to fund it adequately, we all paid a price. We failed to cultivate our people's talents and some of the best minds of our island left the island. We didn't squander our money. We wasted our human resources."
The new president's mission is to make the University of Guam the natural choice for higher education in Guam and the region.
Labels: Higher Education, Underwood, UOG
posted by Michael Lujan Bevacqua at
2:24 AM
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Monday, June 23, 2008
Local Products Launch Business
Local products launch business: Store features ifit, other Guam-specific items
By Stephanie Godlewski
Pacific Daily News
June 23, 2008
Tourists are almost always looking for locally made products, said John Castro.
He is the owner of Island Cutie Gift Shop, which specializes in local crafts.
"I worked in the tourism industry for 12 years, so I learned what they were looking for," he said.
However, Castro said tourists aren't the only ones looking for authenticity.
"Even people who live or used to live on Guam look for those special items made on Guam."
A year and a half ago, Castro decided to bring people what they're looking for and opened Island Cutie to showcase all the things Guam has to offer.
"I wanted to open up because I wanted to promote local items, like local carvings," he said. "I wanted to display local crafts, like those made from clam shells."
Uncle's carvings
Castro is no stranger to crafts, having seen his uncle, Robert Taitano, create intricate wood carvings from the ifit tree. Castro said he spoke to his uncle about being the exclusive distributor of Robert Taitano creations.
Taitano is well-known locally for his carvings -- ranging from tables to storyboards -- with government officials among his clientele. Today, Island Cutie is the only retail store that sells the master carver's products.
"When people come in, I like to tell them about the wood and the work that goes into the products," Castro said. "When people know its history, the merchandise has more value for them."
Carvings and crafts aren't the only things Island Cutie has to offer, however.
"We have a lot of stuff," Castro said. "We have stickers, T-shirts, coconut graters and handmade soaps.
"I have some really (affordable) items," he said. These range from small toys to souvenirs from $1.99 and up. Wooden tables cost around $2,000.
Local focus
He added that many of the products are made locally, with some produced by the company.
"The stickers, we make here. We hand-braid the shirts. The candles, we make ourselves. The soap, our mother-in-law makes," Castro said.
His girlfriend, and co-owner of Island Cutie, Jayna Park, also carves soaps.
"We even buy our coconut oil from the Adas in Inarajan," he added.
Castro said running a small business is no easy feat, as he encountered difficulty with merchandising and management when starting up.
A huge part of staying successful is the way the customer is treated, he said.
"You have to do customer service and the customer is always No. 1. They're the one giving you the revenue."
Castro said he treats the customers like family and shares stories of Guam's culture and heritage with them.
Something new
Even with the economic problems Guam is facing, Castro's business is doing well. The secret? Always looking for something new.
"I try not to concentrate on one item. I try and concentrate on a lot of items," Castro said. "I try to make it and bring it in. I try to visualize what people want. I see what customers want and try to get their opinion."
The variety of items brings in both locals and tourists, just as Castro planned.
Expansion plans
Recently, Castro started negotiations to open two shops at Andersen Air Force Base. He said a number of his customers are military personnel or visitors from the mainland. Because he already sells a good amount to the military base, he looks forward to what this opportunity could bring.
"It will be two stores -- one for candles and one for local carvings," Castro said.
He said the mall store won't suffer from the expansion, because he will continue to bring new items in.
"I'm expanding with carvings from Indonesia, carved glass tables," Castro said. "I've got a lot of unique stuff coming in."
By Stephanie Godlewski
Pacific Daily News
June 23, 2008
Tourists are almost always looking for locally made products, said John Castro.
He is the owner of Island Cutie Gift Shop, which specializes in local crafts.
"I worked in the tourism industry for 12 years, so I learned what they were looking for," he said.
However, Castro said tourists aren't the only ones looking for authenticity.
"Even people who live or used to live on Guam look for those special items made on Guam."
A year and a half ago, Castro decided to bring people what they're looking for and opened Island Cutie to showcase all the things Guam has to offer.
"I wanted to open up because I wanted to promote local items, like local carvings," he said. "I wanted to display local crafts, like those made from clam shells."
Uncle's carvings
Castro is no stranger to crafts, having seen his uncle, Robert Taitano, create intricate wood carvings from the ifit tree. Castro said he spoke to his uncle about being the exclusive distributor of Robert Taitano creations.
Taitano is well-known locally for his carvings -- ranging from tables to storyboards -- with government officials among his clientele. Today, Island Cutie is the only retail store that sells the master carver's products.
"When people come in, I like to tell them about the wood and the work that goes into the products," Castro said. "When people know its history, the merchandise has more value for them."
Carvings and crafts aren't the only things Island Cutie has to offer, however.
"We have a lot of stuff," Castro said. "We have stickers, T-shirts, coconut graters and handmade soaps.
"I have some really (affordable) items," he said. These range from small toys to souvenirs from $1.99 and up. Wooden tables cost around $2,000.
Local focus
He added that many of the products are made locally, with some produced by the company.
"The stickers, we make here. We hand-braid the shirts. The candles, we make ourselves. The soap, our mother-in-law makes," Castro said.
His girlfriend, and co-owner of Island Cutie, Jayna Park, also carves soaps.
"We even buy our coconut oil from the Adas in Inarajan," he added.
Castro said running a small business is no easy feat, as he encountered difficulty with merchandising and management when starting up.
A huge part of staying successful is the way the customer is treated, he said.
"You have to do customer service and the customer is always No. 1. They're the one giving you the revenue."
Castro said he treats the customers like family and shares stories of Guam's culture and heritage with them.
Something new
Even with the economic problems Guam is facing, Castro's business is doing well. The secret? Always looking for something new.
"I try not to concentrate on one item. I try and concentrate on a lot of items," Castro said. "I try to make it and bring it in. I try to visualize what people want. I see what customers want and try to get their opinion."
The variety of items brings in both locals and tourists, just as Castro planned.
Expansion plans
Recently, Castro started negotiations to open two shops at Andersen Air Force Base. He said a number of his customers are military personnel or visitors from the mainland. Because he already sells a good amount to the military base, he looks forward to what this opportunity could bring.
"It will be two stores -- one for candles and one for local carvings," Castro said.
He said the mall store won't suffer from the expansion, because he will continue to bring new items in.
"I'm expanding with carvings from Indonesia, carved glass tables," Castro said. "I've got a lot of unique stuff coming in."
Labels: Chamorro Culture, Chamorros, Guam Economy, Guam Products, Local Business
posted by Michael Lujan Bevacqua at
11:03 AM
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0 comments
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Quitugua Remembered
Quitugua remembered: Family, friends mourn son of Guam killed in Iraq
By Bryan C. Sualog
Pacific Daily News
June 23, 2008
Christopher Albert Quitugua was set to start a new stage in his life when his life ended in Iraq, said his father, Victor Quitugua.
The former Mangilao resident, who was working for a civilian security company, was killed in Iraq during a non-combat accident June 19, according to his family.
He was 28.
According to Christopher Quitugua's grandparents, Albert A. Quitugua and Maria C. Quitugua, their grandson and three others were in a vehicle in a convoy when a tire blowout caused the vehicle to flip.
He was working for a civilian company that protected military VIPs in Iraq.
"He is a very dedicated boy who had a lot of energy and was starting another phase of his life with his wife."
Christopher Quitugua was married in March.
He's the 26th son of Micronesia to be killed since the War on Terror began in 2001. More than 4,100 American service members have died in Iraq and Afghanistan in the war.
His grandparents said Quitugua grew up on Guam and attended George Washington High School, but moved to the U.S. mainland to join his father in Los Angeles to finish out his senior year.
Maria Quitugua said her grandson loved to cook and attended culinary school for two years.
"When he got tired of that, he told his dad he was going to join the Army," she said.
4 years in the Army
Quitugua served four years in the Army. During his tour of duty, he went to both Iraq and Afghanistan.
Before leaving for Iraq, he was living in Miami with his father.
Maria Quitugua said she raised her grandson, so his death is especially difficult for her.
She said when her grandson was in middle school, he went to live with his parents in Arizona, but would call and ask to come back to Guam because he missed his grandmother and grandfather. She said he would call her and say, "Grandma, send me a ticket. I want to go to Guam. I don't like it here."
Maria Quitugua said it had been almost two years since she had seen her grandson. She spoke to him on Father's Day.
Christopher Quitugua was due to visit Guam this week.
Victor Quitugua said funeral arrangements for his son were still being made.
Gov. Felix Camacho expressed his condolences to the Quitugua family on Saturday. Delegate Madeleine Bordallo issued a statement yesterday.
"My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of the late Christopher Quitugua, most especially to his wife, Cari, during this very difficult time," Bordallo said. "Christopher's service to our nation and our island will be honored and remembered always."
By Bryan C. Sualog
Pacific Daily News
June 23, 2008
Christopher Albert Quitugua was set to start a new stage in his life when his life ended in Iraq, said his father, Victor Quitugua.
The former Mangilao resident, who was working for a civilian security company, was killed in Iraq during a non-combat accident June 19, according to his family.
He was 28.
According to Christopher Quitugua's grandparents, Albert A. Quitugua and Maria C. Quitugua, their grandson and three others were in a vehicle in a convoy when a tire blowout caused the vehicle to flip.
He was working for a civilian company that protected military VIPs in Iraq.
"He is a very dedicated boy who had a lot of energy and was starting another phase of his life with his wife."
Christopher Quitugua was married in March.
He's the 26th son of Micronesia to be killed since the War on Terror began in 2001. More than 4,100 American service members have died in Iraq and Afghanistan in the war.
His grandparents said Quitugua grew up on Guam and attended George Washington High School, but moved to the U.S. mainland to join his father in Los Angeles to finish out his senior year.
Maria Quitugua said her grandson loved to cook and attended culinary school for two years.
"When he got tired of that, he told his dad he was going to join the Army," she said.
4 years in the Army
Quitugua served four years in the Army. During his tour of duty, he went to both Iraq and Afghanistan.
Before leaving for Iraq, he was living in Miami with his father.
Maria Quitugua said she raised her grandson, so his death is especially difficult for her.
She said when her grandson was in middle school, he went to live with his parents in Arizona, but would call and ask to come back to Guam because he missed his grandmother and grandfather. She said he would call her and say, "Grandma, send me a ticket. I want to go to Guam. I don't like it here."
Maria Quitugua said it had been almost two years since she had seen her grandson. She spoke to him on Father's Day.
Christopher Quitugua was due to visit Guam this week.
Victor Quitugua said funeral arrangements for his son were still being made.
Gov. Felix Camacho expressed his condolences to the Quitugua family on Saturday. Delegate Madeleine Bordallo issued a statement yesterday.
"My thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of the late Christopher Quitugua, most especially to his wife, Cari, during this very difficult time," Bordallo said. "Christopher's service to our nation and our island will be honored and remembered always."
Labels: Chamorros Killed in War, Contractors
posted by Michael Lujan Bevacqua at
9:23 PM
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0 comments
Monday, June 09, 2008
US Accused of Human Rights Violations by Chamorro Activists
Press Release
Monday, 9
June 2008
US accused of human rights violations
Two Chamoru representatives from Guam visiting Australia for a month-long international awareness campaign today accused the United States of glaring human rights violations of the indigenous Chamoru people.
"The new wave of U.S. militarization of Guam means to be decisive," said Chamoru writer Julian Aguon in Sydney today. "It is not simply more of the same. Part of the U.S. military realignment in the Asia-Pacific region includes the controversial relocation of 8,000 U.S. Marines from Okinawa, Japan to Guam. The move will have devastating consequences for the indigenous Chamoru people, who have been struggling for decolonization of their island home.
"The situation of Guam serves as one of the greatest indictments of U.S. democratic legitimacy, as Guam remains one of only 16 non-self-governing territories in the modern world. The military build-up now underway in Guam, which will include an influx of a military personnel population comparable in size to the entire indigenous population (55,000), is being done entirely without the input or consultation of the indigenous people and over their deepening dissent."
Dr. Lisa Natividad, a professor at the University of Guam, stated that the new wave of military buildup will only worsen the well being of the Chamoru people, who already suffer from the classic symptoms of a colonial condition such as dramatic health disparities. "For example, rates of nasopharyngeal cancer among my people are 2,000% higher than in the United States, and the rate of diabetes is five times the national U.S. average," Dr Natividad said.
"Although Guam is only 30 miles long, it contains 19 sites designated by the US Environmental Protection Agency as the most highly contaminated and toxic sites in the entire United States." Dr. Natividad said. These toxins include radioactive and carcinogenic materials, dioxins, etc.
"We come to Australia in the hope of raising awareness about the human rights deprivations of the Chamoru people by the U.S, to build solidarity among the peace and justice groups here and throughout the Asia-Pacific region, who are all endangered by current U.S. militarization of the region," she said.
For more information and interviews with Lisa Natividad and Julian Aguon.
please contact Dr Hannah Middleton on 0418 668 098
Monday, 9
June 2008
US accused of human rights violations
Two Chamoru representatives from Guam visiting Australia for a month-long international awareness campaign today accused the United States of glaring human rights violations of the indigenous Chamoru people.
"The new wave of U.S. militarization of Guam means to be decisive," said Chamoru writer Julian Aguon in Sydney today. "It is not simply more of the same. Part of the U.S. military realignment in the Asia-Pacific region includes the controversial relocation of 8,000 U.S. Marines from Okinawa, Japan to Guam. The move will have devastating consequences for the indigenous Chamoru people, who have been struggling for decolonization of their island home.
"The situation of Guam serves as one of the greatest indictments of U.S. democratic legitimacy, as Guam remains one of only 16 non-self-governing territories in the modern world. The military build-up now underway in Guam, which will include an influx of a military personnel population comparable in size to the entire indigenous population (55,000), is being done entirely without the input or consultation of the indigenous people and over their deepening dissent."
Dr. Lisa Natividad, a professor at the University of Guam, stated that the new wave of military buildup will only worsen the well being of the Chamoru people, who already suffer from the classic symptoms of a colonial condition such as dramatic health disparities. "For example, rates of nasopharyngeal cancer among my people are 2,000% higher than in the United States, and the rate of diabetes is five times the national U.S. average," Dr Natividad said.
"Although Guam is only 30 miles long, it contains 19 sites designated by the US Environmental Protection Agency as the most highly contaminated and toxic sites in the entire United States." Dr. Natividad said. These toxins include radioactive and carcinogenic materials, dioxins, etc.
"We come to Australia in the hope of raising awareness about the human rights deprivations of the Chamoru people by the U.S, to build solidarity among the peace and justice groups here and throughout the Asia-Pacific region, who are all endangered by current U.S. militarization of the region," she said.
For more information and interviews with Lisa Natividad and Julian Aguon.
please contact Dr Hannah Middleton on 0418 668 098
Labels: Australia, Guam Activists, Military Poisons, Population Shifts, Press Release
posted by Michael Lujan Bevacqua at
10:33 AM
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0 comments
Sunday, June 08, 2008
Friday, June 06, 2008
Unclear How Guam Will Be Impacted by Continental's Cuts
Impact of airline's cuts on Guam still unclear
By Gaynor Dumat-ol Daleno
Pacific Daily News
June 7, 2008
The parent company of Guam-based Continental Micronesia announced it will reduce flights and lay off about 3,000 managers and employees worldwide because of jet fuel prices.
"Our fuel expense this year would be $2.3 billion more than it was last year. That increase alone amounts to about $50,000 per employee," Houston-based Continental Airlines stated in a bulletin to employees.
What Continental Airlines' cutbacks mean to its employees on Guam and the rest of Micronesia is unclear at this time. Continental Micronesia's Guam office isn't commenting on the flight cuts and layoffs announced by its parent company's corporate office.
Grace Garces, with Continental Micronesia's marketing office, said there's nothing to add to what corporate has announced.
On Guam, Continental Micronesia employs about 1,500 people and its $90 million annual payroll has been an asset to the local economy.
When Continental Airlines trimmed as many as 12,000 of its 56,000 global workforce weeks after 9/11, about 250 Continental Micronesia employees were furloughed, according to Pacific Daily News files.
"Continental doesn't anticipate any further comment until after it has had the opportunity to meet with employees during the next week," the airline's Houston corporate office stated.
The airline stated fare increases haven't been enough to cover its soaring jet fuel costs.
They acknowledged, with higher fares, fewer people will fly.
"As fewer customers fly, we will need to reduce our capacity. ... As we reduce our capacity, we will need fewer employees to operate the airline," according to the company statement to its employees.
Continental's 3,000 global job cuts translate to almost a 7 percent reduction in its 45,000 global workforce. The job reductions will take effect after the peak summer season, except for management and clerical reductions, which will begin sooner, the airline states.
"The company will offer voluntary programs in an effort to reduce the number of co-workers who will be furloughed or involuntarily terminated due to the capacity cuts. Details of these programs will be available next week," the airline states.
The airline industry is facing its worst crisis since the terror attacks in 2001, Continental states.
Guam tourism
There's concern globally in the tourism and travel industry about soaring fuel prices, said Gerry Perez, Guam Visitors Bureau general manager.
He said airlines in general are trying to cope by reducing flights and maximizing capacity. The best way to insulate Guam from the impact of any reduction in flights is to aggressively promote the island, he said.
But the visitors bureau's marketing cash has been dwindling, from as much as $18 million for Japan marketing alone in the late 1990s to less than $6 million for Japan marketing last year.
When fuel prices make travel to longer-haul destinations more expensive, Perez said there's a possible "a silver lining" for Guam in the race for tourists from Japan.
But Perez said that silver lining is "a maybe."
Overall, fuel-related economic jitters and the global credit crunch have dampened enthusiasm for travel worldwide, he said.
Still, Guam's visitor arrivals in May showed a rebound from April. Preliminary arrival numbers show Japanese arrivals went up 5 percent and South Korean arrivals increased 15 percent last month compared to May last year, Perez said.
Houston cuts
Continental Chairman and Chief Executive Lawrence Kellner, and President Jeff Smisek, will forgo pay for the rest of the year, the airline stated.
Last year, Kellner's salary was $712,500 and total compensation was valued at nearly $6 million by the company, down 9.3 percent from the year before, according to an analysis by The Associated Press of a company filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
However, about one-third of Kellner's compensation was in stock and option grants that are now worth far less than they were when granted in February 2007, because of the slump in the company's stock, the AP reported.
Fewer flights
The airline states it will implement flight reductions in September, at the end of the summer season. Available seats for domestic flights will drop by about 11 percent in the fourth quarter, compared to the same period last year.
Continental will retire 67 Boeing 737-300 and 737-500 aircraft between now and next year and replace them with fuel-efficient aircraft, the airline states.
In the second half of this year, Continental will receive its order for 16 new, next-generation Boeing 737-800s and 737-900ERs. It will receive 18 more of the fuel-efficient aircraft next year. Continental's fleet will shrink from 375 this year to 344 aircraft next year.
Jet fuel is at $151 a barrel now, a 75 percent increase from a year ago, according to Continental.
By Gaynor Dumat-ol Daleno
Pacific Daily News
June 7, 2008
The parent company of Guam-based Continental Micronesia announced it will reduce flights and lay off about 3,000 managers and employees worldwide because of jet fuel prices.
"Our fuel expense this year would be $2.3 billion more than it was last year. That increase alone amounts to about $50,000 per employee," Houston-based Continental Airlines stated in a bulletin to employees.
What Continental Airlines' cutbacks mean to its employees on Guam and the rest of Micronesia is unclear at this time. Continental Micronesia's Guam office isn't commenting on the flight cuts and layoffs announced by its parent company's corporate office.
Grace Garces, with Continental Micronesia's marketing office, said there's nothing to add to what corporate has announced.
On Guam, Continental Micronesia employs about 1,500 people and its $90 million annual payroll has been an asset to the local economy.
When Continental Airlines trimmed as many as 12,000 of its 56,000 global workforce weeks after 9/11, about 250 Continental Micronesia employees were furloughed, according to Pacific Daily News files.
"Continental doesn't anticipate any further comment until after it has had the opportunity to meet with employees during the next week," the airline's Houston corporate office stated.
The airline stated fare increases haven't been enough to cover its soaring jet fuel costs.
They acknowledged, with higher fares, fewer people will fly.
"As fewer customers fly, we will need to reduce our capacity. ... As we reduce our capacity, we will need fewer employees to operate the airline," according to the company statement to its employees.
Continental's 3,000 global job cuts translate to almost a 7 percent reduction in its 45,000 global workforce. The job reductions will take effect after the peak summer season, except for management and clerical reductions, which will begin sooner, the airline states.
"The company will offer voluntary programs in an effort to reduce the number of co-workers who will be furloughed or involuntarily terminated due to the capacity cuts. Details of these programs will be available next week," the airline states.
The airline industry is facing its worst crisis since the terror attacks in 2001, Continental states.
Guam tourism
There's concern globally in the tourism and travel industry about soaring fuel prices, said Gerry Perez, Guam Visitors Bureau general manager.
He said airlines in general are trying to cope by reducing flights and maximizing capacity. The best way to insulate Guam from the impact of any reduction in flights is to aggressively promote the island, he said.
But the visitors bureau's marketing cash has been dwindling, from as much as $18 million for Japan marketing alone in the late 1990s to less than $6 million for Japan marketing last year.
When fuel prices make travel to longer-haul destinations more expensive, Perez said there's a possible "a silver lining" for Guam in the race for tourists from Japan.
But Perez said that silver lining is "a maybe."
Overall, fuel-related economic jitters and the global credit crunch have dampened enthusiasm for travel worldwide, he said.
Still, Guam's visitor arrivals in May showed a rebound from April. Preliminary arrival numbers show Japanese arrivals went up 5 percent and South Korean arrivals increased 15 percent last month compared to May last year, Perez said.
Houston cuts
Continental Chairman and Chief Executive Lawrence Kellner, and President Jeff Smisek, will forgo pay for the rest of the year, the airline stated.
Last year, Kellner's salary was $712,500 and total compensation was valued at nearly $6 million by the company, down 9.3 percent from the year before, according to an analysis by The Associated Press of a company filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
However, about one-third of Kellner's compensation was in stock and option grants that are now worth far less than they were when granted in February 2007, because of the slump in the company's stock, the AP reported.
Fewer flights
The airline states it will implement flight reductions in September, at the end of the summer season. Available seats for domestic flights will drop by about 11 percent in the fourth quarter, compared to the same period last year.
Continental will retire 67 Boeing 737-300 and 737-500 aircraft between now and next year and replace them with fuel-efficient aircraft, the airline states.
In the second half of this year, Continental will receive its order for 16 new, next-generation Boeing 737-800s and 737-900ERs. It will receive 18 more of the fuel-efficient aircraft next year. Continental's fleet will shrink from 375 this year to 344 aircraft next year.
Jet fuel is at $151 a barrel now, a 75 percent increase from a year ago, according to Continental.
Labels: Airport, Continental, Cost of Living, Rising Costs, Tourism
posted by Michael Lujan Bevacqua at
10:11 AM
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0 comments
Sunday, June 01, 2008
F-22s on their way to Guam
F-22s on their way to AAFB
by Ronna Sweeney, KUAM News
Sunday, June 01, 2008
While no specific date of arrival has been made available just yet, KUAM News has been able to confirm that U.S. Air Force fighter aircraft will be making their way to Guam. 36th Wing Commander General Doug Owens says that F-22s are headed to Andersen Air Force Base.The F-22 Raptor is the USAF's newest fighter aircraft, performing both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions.
by Ronna Sweeney, KUAM News
Sunday, June 01, 2008
While no specific date of arrival has been made available just yet, KUAM News has been able to confirm that U.S. Air Force fighter aircraft will be making their way to Guam. 36th Wing Commander General Doug Owens says that F-22s are headed to Andersen Air Force Base.The F-22 Raptor is the USAF's newest fighter aircraft, performing both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions.
Labels: Air Force, New Arrivals
posted by Michael Lujan Bevacqua at
12:00 PM
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0 comments
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Guam Honors War Dead
Guam honors war dead
By Brett Kelman
Pacific Daily News
May 27, 2008
Guam Remembers.
Yesterday, several hundred people gathered at the Piti Veterans Cemetery for a Memorial Day ceremony held to honor American servicemen who have fallen in the many military conflicts since World War I.
Military personnel, veterans and community leaders laid wreaths on bone-white graves to mourn the men and women who have died for their country. Tears, song and prayers marked the occasion.
"We acknowledge today the debt and incredible sacrifices made by many who have served throughout our nation's history," said Maj. Gen. Donald Goldhorn, Guam National Guard adjutant general. "Throughout America and in many parts of the world, the debt of our wars will be honored with recollections of heroes' valor and sacrifices. ... Many that we honor here today rest their souls on Guam."
Twenty-five sons of Micronesia have been killed in Afghanistan, Iraq and the Horn of Africa since the War on Terror began in 2001. Many more were killed in World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam and the first Persian Gulf War.
A large factor is the high level of patriotism in Guam and the region, which is reflected in high enlistment rates, which in turn have led to a high per-capita rate of combat deaths in every U.S. conflict. In the War on Terror, the death toll per capita for Guam and Micronesia is among the highest in the United States, according to the Washington Post.
Goldhorn said none of those killed were lost in vain.
"They believed that what we have, the freedoms that we enjoy, are worth fighting for -- and yes -- they believed the freedoms that we have were worth dying for," he said.
According to Pacific Daily News files, 13 servicemen from Guam were killed in Korea, 70 were killed in Vietnam and two were killed in the first Persian Gulf War.
Families remember
At yesterday's ceremony, Agnes San Nicolas Rillera, mother of Army Maj. Henry Ofeciar, said she found solace in the knowledge that her family didn't mourn alone. Ofeciar was killed in Afghanistan on Aug. 27, 2007, by enemy fire.
"It is not only comforting, but it is a remembrance and it is a very nice turnout," she said. Rillera thanked those who came to the ceremony and those who kept soldiers in their thoughts and prayers.
Ofeciar's sister, Orlene Ofeciar Arriola, said yesterday's ceremony would have pleased her brother.
"He really took these kind of things seriously," she said. "He would have been here. And I think he would have liked it."
Veterans remember
Joe Moore, president of the Guam Veterans Motorcycle Group, said he found himself surrounded by his fellow soldiers -- both the living and the dead. The cemetery was filled with mourning servicemen and civilians, who withstood a daunting rain to honor those who had died.
"This rain doesn't compare to what these guys gave," he said, pointing to the surrounding graves. "I know a lot of these people that are in here. Over there sits all the Vietnam guys. Some of my friends are down there. Up there sits my son-in-law. Over here sits my pari's son."
Moore said the ceremony was overwhelming, but he expected nothing less from his fellow Chamorros.
"This is tremendous. I mean this hits the heart," he said. "Guam is very patriotic island. ... If you join the service, regardless of what service, and you tell these people you're from Guam and you're a Chamorro, they expect 110 percent more than what everyone else is giving. That's just the way it is."
Yesterday, local veteran Joe Taitano remembered a particular fallen soldier. Taitano and his friend spent a month on military leave on Guam before being deployed to Vietnam. Only Taitano came back.
In April, Taitano ventured all the way to England to visit the grave of his fallen comrade on the 40th anniversary of his death. He found the grave in a small haven outside of Liverpool.
Taitano said he mourns on Memorial Day and Veterans Day for every fallen friend. Yesterday was no exception.
"Every year I do this and it's just to remember. It's not much comfort because you always wonder why it wasn't you," he said. "Why did they make the ultimate sacrifice and why did I come back? ... As I grew older, I thought maybe this was my purpose -- to ensure that everyone remembers them."
By Brett Kelman
Pacific Daily News
May 27, 2008
Guam Remembers.
Yesterday, several hundred people gathered at the Piti Veterans Cemetery for a Memorial Day ceremony held to honor American servicemen who have fallen in the many military conflicts since World War I.
Military personnel, veterans and community leaders laid wreaths on bone-white graves to mourn the men and women who have died for their country. Tears, song and prayers marked the occasion.
"We acknowledge today the debt and incredible sacrifices made by many who have served throughout our nation's history," said Maj. Gen. Donald Goldhorn, Guam National Guard adjutant general. "Throughout America and in many parts of the world, the debt of our wars will be honored with recollections of heroes' valor and sacrifices. ... Many that we honor here today rest their souls on Guam."
Twenty-five sons of Micronesia have been killed in Afghanistan, Iraq and the Horn of Africa since the War on Terror began in 2001. Many more were killed in World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam and the first Persian Gulf War.
A large factor is the high level of patriotism in Guam and the region, which is reflected in high enlistment rates, which in turn have led to a high per-capita rate of combat deaths in every U.S. conflict. In the War on Terror, the death toll per capita for Guam and Micronesia is among the highest in the United States, according to the Washington Post.
Goldhorn said none of those killed were lost in vain.
"They believed that what we have, the freedoms that we enjoy, are worth fighting for -- and yes -- they believed the freedoms that we have were worth dying for," he said.
According to Pacific Daily News files, 13 servicemen from Guam were killed in Korea, 70 were killed in Vietnam and two were killed in the first Persian Gulf War.
Families remember
At yesterday's ceremony, Agnes San Nicolas Rillera, mother of Army Maj. Henry Ofeciar, said she found solace in the knowledge that her family didn't mourn alone. Ofeciar was killed in Afghanistan on Aug. 27, 2007, by enemy fire.
"It is not only comforting, but it is a remembrance and it is a very nice turnout," she said. Rillera thanked those who came to the ceremony and those who kept soldiers in their thoughts and prayers.
Ofeciar's sister, Orlene Ofeciar Arriola, said yesterday's ceremony would have pleased her brother.
"He really took these kind of things seriously," she said. "He would have been here. And I think he would have liked it."
Veterans remember
Joe Moore, president of the Guam Veterans Motorcycle Group, said he found himself surrounded by his fellow soldiers -- both the living and the dead. The cemetery was filled with mourning servicemen and civilians, who withstood a daunting rain to honor those who had died.
"This rain doesn't compare to what these guys gave," he said, pointing to the surrounding graves. "I know a lot of these people that are in here. Over there sits all the Vietnam guys. Some of my friends are down there. Up there sits my son-in-law. Over here sits my pari's son."
Moore said the ceremony was overwhelming, but he expected nothing less from his fellow Chamorros.
"This is tremendous. I mean this hits the heart," he said. "Guam is very patriotic island. ... If you join the service, regardless of what service, and you tell these people you're from Guam and you're a Chamorro, they expect 110 percent more than what everyone else is giving. That's just the way it is."
Yesterday, local veteran Joe Taitano remembered a particular fallen soldier. Taitano and his friend spent a month on military leave on Guam before being deployed to Vietnam. Only Taitano came back.
In April, Taitano ventured all the way to England to visit the grave of his fallen comrade on the 40th anniversary of his death. He found the grave in a small haven outside of Liverpool.
Taitano said he mourns on Memorial Day and Veterans Day for every fallen friend. Yesterday was no exception.
"Every year I do this and it's just to remember. It's not much comfort because you always wonder why it wasn't you," he said. "Why did they make the ultimate sacrifice and why did I come back? ... As I grew older, I thought maybe this was my purpose -- to ensure that everyone remembers them."
Labels: Chamorros Killed in War, Holiday
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Sewage Concerns Persist
Sewage concerns persist: Emerald development worries residents
By Gaynor Dumat-ol Daleno
Pacific Daily News
May 27, 2008
For more than a year now, Jonestown, Tamuning, residents have seen their neighborhood change.
New, single-family homes with price tags of $500,000 or higher have sprung up on once-empty pieces of land, adding value to the generally upper-middle-class neighborhood.
But while the new, standalone houses have been welcome additions, some Jonestown residents aren't too keen on two 15-story condominium buildings and two 18-story condo high-rises that are planned for the area.
The four high-rises are part of the proposed Emerald Ocean View Park, a $100-million project of Younex International.
Jonestown resident Nelda Flynn, through her son Michael Flynn Jr., has written to the Guam Land Use Commission that the project, "is too massive in scale."
"Water, sewer, roads and traffic would be substantially impacted by the proposed development," according to the Flynns, who submitted the letter days before the commission approved the project in November.
Nelda Flynn provided a copy of her letter to the Pacific Daily News recently in light of the growing debate about the numerous proposed high-rises on Guam amid the water, wastewater and infrastructure constraints the island faces.
Jonestown already goes through periods of low water pressure.
Court petition
Another Jonestown resident, Mary Ann C. Sablan, has taken her concerns to the Superior Court of Guam.
Sablan is petitioning the court to order the Guam Land Use Commission and the Department of Land Management to reverse approval of the Emerald Ocean View Project.
Part of Sablan's court petition states the Jonestown area is zoned "R-2" residential, which, according to Guam law, generally limits multi-family structures to 30 feet, or three stories.
Developers, however, can ask the Guam Land Use Commission for an exemption from limits on buildings, size, height, distance from lot boundaries or property use.
Several members of the public have expressed concerns about "the systemic problems Jonestown ... experiences, such as frequent periods of extreme low water pressure and traffic congestion, and that these problems would be increased," Sablan's petition states.
Jonestown currently has about 125 homes connected to the island's sewer system, and the Emerald project would add 280 condo and villa-style units, according to a study submitted to the Guam Land Use Commission as part of the developer's proposal.
An executive for Emerald Ocean View's developer, Younex International, was unavailable for comment by phone and e-mail as of press time yesterday.
But the developer is addressing some of the residents' concerns.
For example, the developer has submitted a plan to the Guam Land Use Commission to pay for $935,000 in upgrades to water and sewer lines in the area. The developer's upgrades include installing underground, 12-inch-diameter sewer pipes from Jonestown to the main sewer line on Gov. Carlos Camacho Road.
The Emerald Ocean View's additional housing units will result in more than 591,000 peak gallons per day of wastewater flow to the main sewer line in Tamuning, according to the study. That's an increase from Jonestown's current wastewater peak of 351,495 gallons per day, the study states.
Moratorium
But after the Emerald Ocean View received approval from the GLUC and Guam Waterworks Authority, things have changed at GWA.
The agency last week put in place a moratorium on water and wastewater hookups for new projects in Tamuning, parts of Tumon and parts of Hagåtña because the main water and sewer lines in those areas have reached maximum capacity.
The Emerald developer's sewer line upgrades from Jonestown to the main sewer line in Tamuning won't ease the capacity problem with Tamuning's main sewer line, which sometimes overflows with its current load.
But the Emerald Ocean View project received GWA approval before the agency knew that the main sewer line had reached its maximum capacity, said Simon Sanchez, chairman of the Consolidated Commission on Utilities. The CCU functions as GWA's board.
GWA needs about $30 million to install new main sewer lines from Tamuning to the Hagåtña wastewater treatment plant. The governor's office on Friday stated it's working with GWA and the CCU to identify funding to address the wastewater constraints, but it's unclear if GWA would be able to expand the Tamuning main sewer line before the Emerald Ocean View's 280 condo units and villas get built.
In December, the developer estimated the Emerald's units will be available starting around the second quarter of 2010, with a starting price tag of about $500,000 per condo unit.
If the developer's time frame holds, GWA has about two years to add capacity to the main sewer line from Tamuning to the Hagåtña sewer treatment plant.
By Gaynor Dumat-ol Daleno
Pacific Daily News
May 27, 2008
For more than a year now, Jonestown, Tamuning, residents have seen their neighborhood change.
New, single-family homes with price tags of $500,000 or higher have sprung up on once-empty pieces of land, adding value to the generally upper-middle-class neighborhood.
But while the new, standalone houses have been welcome additions, some Jonestown residents aren't too keen on two 15-story condominium buildings and two 18-story condo high-rises that are planned for the area.
The four high-rises are part of the proposed Emerald Ocean View Park, a $100-million project of Younex International.
Jonestown resident Nelda Flynn, through her son Michael Flynn Jr., has written to the Guam Land Use Commission that the project, "is too massive in scale."
"Water, sewer, roads and traffic would be substantially impacted by the proposed development," according to the Flynns, who submitted the letter days before the commission approved the project in November.
Nelda Flynn provided a copy of her letter to the Pacific Daily News recently in light of the growing debate about the numerous proposed high-rises on Guam amid the water, wastewater and infrastructure constraints the island faces.
Jonestown already goes through periods of low water pressure.
Court petition
Another Jonestown resident, Mary Ann C. Sablan, has taken her concerns to the Superior Court of Guam.
Sablan is petitioning the court to order the Guam Land Use Commission and the Department of Land Management to reverse approval of the Emerald Ocean View Project.
Part of Sablan's court petition states the Jonestown area is zoned "R-2" residential, which, according to Guam law, generally limits multi-family structures to 30 feet, or three stories.
Developers, however, can ask the Guam Land Use Commission for an exemption from limits on buildings, size, height, distance from lot boundaries or property use.
Several members of the public have expressed concerns about "the systemic problems Jonestown ... experiences, such as frequent periods of extreme low water pressure and traffic congestion, and that these problems would be increased," Sablan's petition states.
Jonestown currently has about 125 homes connected to the island's sewer system, and the Emerald project would add 280 condo and villa-style units, according to a study submitted to the Guam Land Use Commission as part of the developer's proposal.
An executive for Emerald Ocean View's developer, Younex International, was unavailable for comment by phone and e-mail as of press time yesterday.
But the developer is addressing some of the residents' concerns.
For example, the developer has submitted a plan to the Guam Land Use Commission to pay for $935,000 in upgrades to water and sewer lines in the area. The developer's upgrades include installing underground, 12-inch-diameter sewer pipes from Jonestown to the main sewer line on Gov. Carlos Camacho Road.
The Emerald Ocean View's additional housing units will result in more than 591,000 peak gallons per day of wastewater flow to the main sewer line in Tamuning, according to the study. That's an increase from Jonestown's current wastewater peak of 351,495 gallons per day, the study states.
Moratorium
But after the Emerald Ocean View received approval from the GLUC and Guam Waterworks Authority, things have changed at GWA.
The agency last week put in place a moratorium on water and wastewater hookups for new projects in Tamuning, parts of Tumon and parts of Hagåtña because the main water and sewer lines in those areas have reached maximum capacity.
The Emerald developer's sewer line upgrades from Jonestown to the main sewer line in Tamuning won't ease the capacity problem with Tamuning's main sewer line, which sometimes overflows with its current load.
But the Emerald Ocean View project received GWA approval before the agency knew that the main sewer line had reached its maximum capacity, said Simon Sanchez, chairman of the Consolidated Commission on Utilities. The CCU functions as GWA's board.
GWA needs about $30 million to install new main sewer lines from Tamuning to the Hagåtña wastewater treatment plant. The governor's office on Friday stated it's working with GWA and the CCU to identify funding to address the wastewater constraints, but it's unclear if GWA would be able to expand the Tamuning main sewer line before the Emerald Ocean View's 280 condo units and villas get built.
In December, the developer estimated the Emerald's units will be available starting around the second quarter of 2010, with a starting price tag of about $500,000 per condo unit.
If the developer's time frame holds, GWA has about two years to add capacity to the main sewer line from Tamuning to the Hagåtña sewer treatment plant.
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Felix Camacho asks for the Forgivness of the CNMI
Guam governor asks NMI people’s ‘forgiveness’
By Moneth G. Deposa Variety News Staff
May 27, 2008
GUAM Gov. Felix P. Camacho asked forgiveness from the CNMI for his island’s rejection of the proposed Marianas reunification in 1969.
Camacho was the keynote speaker during Friday’s Attorney General’s Cup speech competition whose theme this year was: “Should the Northern Marianas and Guam unite as One Marianas to form the 51st state of the union?”
Camacho said the issue was “very timely” and “very important.”
On Nov. 4, 1969, the people of Guam voted against reintegration.
Some believed that the rejection was “payback” to the Northern Marianas Chamorros for their assistance to the Japanese forces during the occupation of Guam.
During World War II, the NMI was a Japanese possession.
Others argued that the reunification issue lost its significance on Guam which was preparing to hold its first gubernatorial election in the following year.
Camacho’s father was the last appointed governor of Guam and became its first elected chief executive in 1970.
“He told me… ‘Son, this was what happened.’ ” Camacho said, adding that Guam and the NMI inherited what their former leaders have left behind.
Noting that the reunification issue continues to be discussed, Camacho said “it is time to focus on a vision and plan for unity —we cannot allow others to break that hope.”
He encouraged the CNMI people not to lose hope.
“Keep an open mind about the possibility of reunification,” he said. “I have faith in the Northern Marianas…and this is the right time to realize our expectations—expect the very best vision of reunification.”
Camacho believes that 40 long years “is enough to end all bitterness and isolation among” the Chamorros of Guam and the NMI.
“You must tear down the walls. Learn to forgive because it’s a choice, not an option,” he said.
According to Camacho, Guam will consider holding similar competitions to get their youth’s opinions on reunification.
From 1667 to 1898, Guam and the NMI were known as the Marianas and administered by Spain. In 1898, Guam was ceded to the U.S. In the following year, Spain sold the NMI to Germany. In 1914, the Japanese took over the Northern Marianas, which was invaded by the U.S. in 1944.
By Moneth G. Deposa Variety News Staff
May 27, 2008
GUAM Gov. Felix P. Camacho asked forgiveness from the CNMI for his island’s rejection of the proposed Marianas reunification in 1969.
Camacho was the keynote speaker during Friday’s Attorney General’s Cup speech competition whose theme this year was: “Should the Northern Marianas and Guam unite as One Marianas to form the 51st state of the union?”
Camacho said the issue was “very timely” and “very important.”
On Nov. 4, 1969, the people of Guam voted against reintegration.
Some believed that the rejection was “payback” to the Northern Marianas Chamorros for their assistance to the Japanese forces during the occupation of Guam.
During World War II, the NMI was a Japanese possession.
Others argued that the reunification issue lost its significance on Guam which was preparing to hold its first gubernatorial election in the following year.
Camacho’s father was the last appointed governor of Guam and became its first elected chief executive in 1970.
“He told me… ‘Son, this was what happened.’ ” Camacho said, adding that Guam and the NMI inherited what their former leaders have left behind.
Noting that the reunification issue continues to be discussed, Camacho said “it is time to focus on a vision and plan for unity —we cannot allow others to break that hope.”
He encouraged the CNMI people not to lose hope.
“Keep an open mind about the possibility of reunification,” he said. “I have faith in the Northern Marianas…and this is the right time to realize our expectations—expect the very best vision of reunification.”
Camacho believes that 40 long years “is enough to end all bitterness and isolation among” the Chamorros of Guam and the NMI.
“You must tear down the walls. Learn to forgive because it’s a choice, not an option,” he said.
According to Camacho, Guam will consider holding similar competitions to get their youth’s opinions on reunification.
From 1667 to 1898, Guam and the NMI were known as the Marianas and administered by Spain. In 1898, Guam was ceded to the U.S. In the following year, Spain sold the NMI to Germany. In 1914, the Japanese took over the Northern Marianas, which was invaded by the U.S. in 1944.
Labels: CNMI, Felix Camacho, Reunification
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