Living Along the Fenceline in Jeju

October 6, 2011 by kyle from DMZhawaii.org

The Stars and Stripes reports that “Naval base puts S. Korea’s ‘island of world peace’ in hot spot”:

JEJU ISLAND, South Korea — This country’s southernmost major island is a study in contrasts.

A popular tourist destination, Jeju boasts some of the world’s most beautiful scenery and is one of 28 finalists in an international competition for selection as one of the “New 7 Wonders of Nature.” Yet it’s also home to a number of cheesy tourist stops, including Jeju Love Land, a sexual theme park.

In 2005, the South Korean government officially recognized Jeju as the “island of world peace,” and then-President Roh Moo-hyun said he would do his best to make it a “center of peace in Northeast Asia.” But South Korea is now building a naval base on the island for the expressed purpose of enhancing its ability to police its vital shipping lanes and respond faster to any North Korean threats.

Critics suggest that once the base opens in 2014, the U.S. will use it extensively, with the goal of keeping an eye on China. That, they say, could make the “island of world peace” a target the next time hostilities erupt in the region.

[...]

The base could also prompt China to hasten the buildup of its naval firepower, further heightening tensions on the Korean peninsula, [Yang Mu-jin, a professor of politics and unification studies at the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul] said.

The South Korean government has tried to downplay the social and political implications of the base and have even drawn comparisons to the U.S. military in Hawai’i as an example of good military-civilian relations:

“The project is not aimed at building a military-only base for war,” the ministry’s August report said. “It is targeted at preventing war by strengthening maritime sovereignty, realizing peace and supporting other naval warships of South Korea.”

Pointing to other “successful civilian-military harbor complexes” like those in San Diego and Hawaii, the defense ministry said the naval base and the island of world peace “both can coexist in (a) mutually complimentary manner.”

But in Hawaiʻi, we know that this is rubbish. The military has taken a terrible toll on local communities and the environment. It was the force that drove the regime change and occupation of the sovereign and independent Kingdom of Hawaiʻi. The South Korean Defense Ministry erroneously referred to “successful civilian-military harbor complexes” in Hawaiʻi. Pearl Harbor is not accessible for civilian use. Warning signs along the shoreline of Ke Awalau o Pu’uloa make it clear that despite Hawai’i's otherwise strong shoreline public access laws, the water is off limits.

Meanwhile, the documentary film “Living Along the Fenceline”, which was screened at the 12th annual Women’s Film Festival in Jeju, exposes the social and environmental costs of military bases around the world, including Hawaiʻi. Director Lina Hoshino and Co-producers Gwyn Kirk and Deborah Lee attended the film festival. The Jeju Weekly reports:

One expat asked the most provocative question of the evening. He asked Ms. Kirk if she thought Jeju Island and its forthcoming naval base represented an inevitable pattern around the world for the creation of more military bases. Ms. Kirk answered she believed the US will inevitably want to build more bases if US imperialism continues to grow. She conveyed that if we can imagine a different kind of future that actively addresses climate change, use of resources, etc… then it is not inevitable. We need a change in leadership and attitude in the US and US allies, including South Korea, who should refuse to have a US military base in the country.

Answering another question, Ms. Kirk said today the United States government spends half of its tax dollars on the world military system, not including the cost of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. A grassroots campaign advocates spreading the money from the defense budget to other social programs including education, health care, care for children, the elderly, and people with disabilities, and domestic violence shelters. Unfortunately, these programs are being cut because of the economic crisis. But, the military budget remains intact.

Secondly, Ms. Kirk said there is another campaign to educate people about the military worldwide. People are unaware about the US’s worldwide military presence and are often shocked by the actual number of bases. This film is part of this education campaign.

Ms. Kirk hopes the film inspires people to think about what a military base means in their communities. She said it is important for people to be clear what happens when a military base is installed in a new location. She said, “It is tempting to think military bases will bring jobs. The reality is military spending generates the fewest amount of jobs of any government spending.” The military is a capital intensive industry, not a human capital intensive industry. The same amount of money spent on a military base spent on education or health care would generate far more jobs.

Bordallo meets with President Obama, discusses Guam issues

MONDAY, 26 SEPTEMBER 2011 01:03 BY THERESE HART | VARIETY NEWS STAFF

GUAM Delegate Madeleine Z. Bordallo, vice chair of the Congressional Asian-Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), met with President

President Barack Obama meets with members of the Congressional Asian-Pacific American Caucus in the Cabinet Room of the White House. Contributed photo

Barack Obama at the White House last week to discuss issues important to the Asian American and Pacific Islander community.

Federal-territorial issues were discussed with the President. Bordallo thanked Obama for his past support of Guam war claims and asked for his continued help to help pass the bill in Congress. The Obama administration continues to support Bordallo’s efforts to resolve Guam war claims. The Departments of Defense and the Interior have testified before Congress about their continued support.

However, the climate in Washington to grapple with a record high deficit and the recent talks to cut more than what is being proposed has Guam leaders questioning whether Bordallo can push forward with war reparations at this time.

“Let’s be realistic. It’s rather difficult to even try to bring it up in Congress, given what’s being discussed with regards to cuts. I haven’t given up hope, but at this point, I believe it’s something that Congress isn’t ready to deal with yet,” said Speaker Judi Won Pat.

Won Pat said she and her colleagues are certain of federal cuts which will affect Guam; cuts which Guam must be ready to handle.

“We are literally waiting to see what decisions are made in Washington regarding Guam, because whatever those decisions may be, we have to plan appropriately,” said Won Pat.

Parole

During her meetings, Bordallo also spoke about the need to extend parole authority to Guam for Chinese and Russian visitors. The White House committed to ensuring a continued dialogue with the Department of Homeland Security on the status of extending parole authority to Guam.

The delegate expressed her appreciation for these efforts and conveyed her hope that the White House will continue to provide policy direction on the importance of this initiative to DHS.

The meeting also focused on the need for tax considerations for the territories when the Obama administration is developing national economic policy.

Bordallo and the delegates recently sent a letter to Obama, requesting that he include cover over provisions for the territories in his American Jobs Act. Bordallo thanked the President for listening to the delegates’ concerns and for including cover over provisions in his bill.

“President Obama showed that he is sensitive to the needs of Guam and all Pacific Islanders,” said Bordallo.

“I made the point that our visitor industry will grow with the inclusion of Chinese and Russian visitors. I also told him that Guam’s goals are similar to those expressed by Vice President (Joe) Biden last month in China to make it easier for Chinese tourists to visit the United States. I thanked the President for including cover over provisions in the American Jobs Act and for his concern for the economies of the territories.”

Bordallo also shared with Obama: “We were disappointed that he had to cancel his scheduled visits to Guam last year and that our invitation still stands and our welcome mat is always out.”

PNC :: Cruz and Perez Debate Viability of Road To Finegayan

PNC :: Cruz and Perez Debate Viability of Road To Finegayan

Friday, 5 February 2010

Guam - Vice-Speaker Senator BJ Cruz is still concerned about a proposed road that will run from Marine Drive to South Finegayan.

The senator has been critical of the plan to build this road that is shown on some maps as a miltary only road. While Cruz initially thought that the road was not present in the military's Draft EIS he has found that it is. What is of more concern to him however is that the road will run directly through prime real estate that local landowners have been trying to develop for tourism. The senator says that as the chairman of tourism he is trying to protect some expensive land in the Dos Amantes or Two Lover's point area that is ideal for developing resorts.

Cruz is concerned that the road will cut right through the most desireable part of the land. Department of Public Works Director Larry Perez however says that the road will work within the land use plan of the Dos Amantes or two lovers point area. He says that the road they will build will actually help landwoners by providing access to their properties.

Perez also stresses that this is still just a proposed option of DOD and many changes can happen to it between now and it's actual construction. In addition to this Perez says that because it will be paid for by federal dollars it must be accessible to the local community as per federal guidelines. As for the map that lists it as a military road, Perez says the map is only reffering to a part of the road that runs through military property.

Written by : Clynt Ridgell

Vice Speaker Cruz Pushes for Easing of Visa Restrictions On Chinese and Russian Tourists

Vice Speaker Cruz Pushes for Easing of Visa Restrictions On Chinese and Russian Tourists

Guam - In a move to secure a diversified economy for Guam after the military buildup, Vice Speaker Benjamin Cruz

has sent a letter to Congresswoman Madeleine Z. Bordallo, requesting that she urge the Department of Defense to support a favorable ruling by the Department of Homeland Security that would ease restrictions on visas for visitors from China and Russia.

According to Vice Speaker Cruz, "The 'steady state' of Guam's economy from 2017 on, as stated in the DEIS, will be a period of increased inflation, higher wage rates, and visitor industry market loss due to buildup activities. This impact must be adequately addressed and mitigated. This can be accomplished, in part, through the diversification of our visitor industry source markets."

After the military buildup peaks in 2014, Guam will experience marked instability from having built itself up to accommodate only a temporary upsurge. Once the construction projects are complete and the transient workforce moves on, Guam will be left to contend with the fallout of a bubble burst. Securing a diverse visitor profile could yield a projected $132.3 million for the local economy from China alone just when it is most needed.

Written by :
News Release

Chamber's support for buildup meets criticism

Chamber's support for buildup meets criticism

Posted: Feb 01, 2010 2:42 PM
Updated: Feb 01, 2010 7:32 PM

by Heather Hauswirth

Guam - The back-and-forth between the Guam Chamber of Commerce and the We Are Guahan Coalition over fourteen points in support of the military buildup has created a bit of friction between members of the island's business community and coalition members who feel that the buildup will marginalize the people of Guam. With time ticking for comments to be submitted on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement and buildup plans underway, we delve into the two-step the Chamber has to dance with all the special interests.

For president of the Guam Chamber of Commerce David Leddy, the Chamber's list of fourteen reasons why Guam needs the military build up is entrepreneurial in spirit. "As with any island-based economy with very limited natural resources, our options are limited, and the military economy has always co-existed with the tourism economy so we presented the fourteen reasons simply to demonstrate the positive attributes that could be derived from its growth," he said.

However, We Are Guahan members don't see eye to eye with the Chamber. They fired back with a fourteen-point rebuttal of reasons we do not need the military buildup. The Coalition boasts some 3,000 members, including Facebook fans. Cara Flores Mays is a core member who works as a self-employed web developer.

"As a businessowner, I do stand to benefit from the buildup, however I don't think it is good for our island. There is the idea that there will be more tax revenue coming in, and of course there will be more tax revenue, but there will also be a huge increase in service demand," said Mays.

Mays says the Coalition's concerns are many, but from an economic standpoint they fear the very heart of the island's economy would be in jeopardy. "I would say there needs to be a balance between what is best for the community. I don't know how the tourists will feel about it, but we will no longer be able to promote ourselves as a family friendly destination if our red light district grows," she said.

The Chamber president meanwhile welcomes differing opinions but wants it clear that the organization is against land condemnation. "Our Chamber members are people who live and work here in Guam and make their living in Guam. The Chamber though it's the voice of the business community, the local business community- first and foremost we are an advocate for our community and we do not want the people of Guam marginalized in this buildup process," said Leddy.

Yet Mays maintains that the Chamber's math overall just doesn't add up, saying, "If you balance the increased revenue with the increased demand and that's just a small portion of it, I'm just wondering how the Chamber manages that equation and how we end up benefiting from the increased tax revenue. I'd like to see that done; I'd like to see the math done on that."

Economist: Buildup, tourism can coexist

Economist: Buildup, tourism can coexist

By Laura Matthews • Pacific Daily News • January 29, 2010

Guam's biggest export is its sunshine, and more than a million visitors travel here every year to enjoy what they lack in their cold climate -- beautiful beaches and tropical weather.

However, with the military buildup less than five years away, some are wondering if it will connect with a tourism industry that has been providing for the island for more than 40 years.

Claret Ruane, resident economist for the University of Guam's Pacific Center for Economic Initiatives, believes the two giants can live together.

"When you have more military here, their friends and families will be visiting from the mainland and that will be a resource for tourism," Ruane said. "And I am thinking not only can they coexist, but you can push forward for sustainable tourism -- ecotourism."

Speaking at the Fourth Annual Youth Summit at the Harvest Life Center in Barrigada yesterday, Ruane said because the purchasing power of people from the mainland is high, they will tend to splurge on the "expensive tourism product."

Ruane said her only problem is she wished the island had more tourism products to offer. She said everyone will need to take on a new outlook as the buildup approaches.

"Military buildup or not, we need to move the island forward," Ruane said. "We should have been a stronger economy to begin with and we have to start today to think about what it is we need to do. ... We can't turn everybody into the construction business and work the jobs ourselves. We should start thinking of new industries."

But there are some who feel the $15 billion buildup could be a pyrrhic victory.

"The bottom line is that it appears that economic impacts exceed economic benefits," said Anthony C, Blaz, administrator for the Guam Economic Development Authority.

The draft Environmental Impact Statement states that while the hotels will benefit "considerably" from the buildup, the general service sector could experience a period of hardship from losing labor to higher-paying jobs. It also says the pressure for increased wages could impair competition with inexpensive Asian destinations.

Furthermore, even though the government could get about $423 million more in tax revenue at the peak of the buildup in 2014 than it currently does, that would trickle to about $104 million more in 2017 than current government revenues. After 2014, the island could experience a recession-like period that could send some businesses packing or experience cutbacks and workers migrating because of job losses.

Cara Flores-Mays, a small business owner and a member of We Are Guahan, believes that the military buildup and tourism are incompatible. We Are Guahan is a group of concerned citizens who are reading the draft EIS and trying to simplify it for residents.

She said the dredging of the ocean and excess noise from the additional aircraft visits could have a negative impact.

The Department of Defense plans to widen an existing shipping channel to fit a carrier. Additionally, to create a turning basin near the wharf, about 2.3 million square feet of sea floor will be dredged.

About 35 percent of that area is covered in coral reef that will be permanently destroyed, the draft EIS states.

"We could basically lose markets to buildup construction that will cause chaos," Flores-Mays said. "We cannot rely on the military to be our savior. Prosperity for a few is greed if it's not prosperity for all."

Vice Speaker Benjamin Cruz, the chairman for the Committee on Tourism, said the only way the two opportunities can work for Guam is if the military doesn't insist that it has to destroy the reef, and build on other properties it has in the north.

"I'm almost ready to suggest to them to keep yourselves within your reservations," he said. "Don't destroy the island."

‘Military buildup to hurt Guam’s cultural resources’

‘Military buildup to hurt Guam’s cultural resources’

Friday, 29 January 2010 00:32
by Tiffany Sukola | Variety News Staff

GOVERNMENT officials say the push from tourism experts to change the way Guam sells itself to visitors is easier said than done, especially as military plans outlined in the draft environmental impact statement could compromise some if the island’s historical landmarks.

Earlier this week, tourism industry expert Jim Beighley, of the DFS group, urged the island to branch out and consider creating a more cultural experience for visitors.
He said tourists traveling to Guam now want to immerse themselves in the island’s culture rather than stay in Tumon and shop.

Beighley said it would be challenging however because currently, Guam is putting all of its resources into the Pleasure Island district in Tumon.

However, during yesterday’s Tourism Educational Council youth summit, vice speaker BJ Cruz pointed out that creating a more cultural experience for Guam visitors may not be possible with some of the plans laid out by the military in the DEIS.

Cruz read from a list of concerns published by the Governor’s office, and encouraged the students gathered to start thinking about the effect of an increased military presence on Guam’s cultural landmarks.

“We’re not here to debate whether or not the buildup should happen,” said Cruz. “I just want people to start thinking about where tourism is headed.”

Shut off

Cruz pointed out that the draft study will limit public access to certain cultural landmarks such as Mount Lam Lam. He added that the military also plans on restricting civilian access to land in Pagat, Mangilao to 104 days a year.

The senator also noted that the handling of cultural artifacts during the construction period was not addressed in the draft report.

In addition, the impact study says that nearly 40 acres of coral reef will be cleared and destroyed as part of the dredging project in Apra Harbor. Cruz said that the department of defense’s solution is to build an artificial reef however, that option is not supported by local law.

Cruz said that Guam’s visitors, who come from densely populated areas like Japan, China and Korea, are looking at Guam as an escape from city life.

Just a matter of time

But with Guam needing to build more roads, housing developments and commercial buildings, it won’t be long before the island loses its abundance of green space, Cruz said.

So he asked the students to imagine themselves in these areas, trying to promote Guam.

“How would you like to describe Guam,” he asked. “Do you want to describe it as like being just like another city in Japan or China, or do you want to describe it as an escape with lots of green space.”

Cruz added that the focus shouldn’t be on whether or not the military should continue with plans to move thousands of Marines and their families to Guam. Island residents instead should be looking at protecting Guam’s cultural landmarks and green spaces.

“If these tourists find somewhere else to go, they aren’t coming back,” said Cruz.

Beighley: Invest in tourism, buildup

Beighley: Invest in tourism, buildup

By Dionesis Tamondong • Pacific Daily News • January 28, 2010

When it comes to investing in the military buildup and expanding the island's tourism industry, Guam shouldn't have to choose one or the other.

Guam has the tools to balance and grow both industries, Jim Beighley, DFS Group senior vice president for Global Marketing and Market Development, told members of the Guam Chamber of Commerce.

Beighley was the keynote speaker at the Chamber's meeting at the Hyatt Regency Guam yesterday.

To revive the island's stagnant industry, the island's government and business leaders have been pursuing new tourism markets in China.

As well, the Guam Visitors Bureau is working with village mayors and other community leaders on the "We are Guam" campaign as part of its efforts to rebrand the island through authentic cultural experiences for tourists.

At the same time, the massive investments in the military buildup will inject funds into Guam's economy.

But Beighley pointed out that some elements of the buildup may conflict with tourism objectives, such as the military's proposal to limit access to some recreational and historic sites.

He said such conflicts were expected, but Guam must find a way to resolve those conflicts.

"This should not be an 'either or' discussion," he said. "Real solutions is where both sides find a way to win."

Whether it's working toward greater access to new tourism markets like China or fighting to protect Guam's culture, historic sites and natural resources in the midst of the buildup, Beighley said Guam needs to have a greater voice in Washington, D.C.

"Now more than ever, we need boots on the ground in Washington. ... It is irresponsible to think that our elected congressional official or our governor can accomplish everything on their own," he said.

He said other U.S. territories like Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands do more to lobby in the federal government.

"We are fighting for billions of dollars of investment from other states and territories who have high unemployment and massive economic problems," he said. "We are outnumbered."

Beighley made it clear that he supported the buildup, and he understood why many people have been passionate against it.

"But as we are passionately engaged in this conversation and dialogue, we must be responsible enough to come to the table with solutions," he said. "Pointing out problems is only half the discussion and we have no time right now for that."

Future of tourism on Guam clouded

Future of tourism on Guam clouded

Thursday, 28 January 2010 04:47
by Tiffany Sukola | Variety News Staff

ALTHOUGH the outlook is sunny for the tourism industry this year, tourism experts say the good news won’t last long.

“The industry is stagnant,” said senior vice president of global marketing and market development for the DFS Group, Jim Beighley yesterday during a Guam Chamber of Commerce meeting. “Guam is at a crossroads.”

The tourism industry has moved on, he said. According to Beighley, the future of tourism is in giving visitors an authentic cultural experience.

Beighley, who has helped jumpstart the tourism industries in Okinawa and Hong Kong, said Guam needs to consider changing its image.

In Okinawa he said, the Japanese island focused only on catering to its military visitors. However, once tourism officials started to change its approach to visitors, the industry picked up.

The first tourism boom happened in Tumon, Beighley said, during a time tourists were primarily interested in shopping and dining.

However, today’s visitors to Guam want to immerse themselves in the rest of the island’s natural beauty and traditions.

“All of Guam should get engaged in tourism,” said Beighley, noting that the island’s most valuable resources are its people and culture.

Although Guam’s cultural assets are its most valuable, Beighley said that unfortunately they are also the most underfunded.

Although some island residents are opposed to the upcoming military buildup, Beighley said that the buildup can be used to jumpstart the island’s ailing industry.

“On an island with limited resources, we should take every opportunity to diversify the economy,” said Beighley.

Beighley added that concentrating entirely on tourism as the island’s main source of income could be detrimental in the long run.

“It’s kind of like putting all your eggs in one basket,” he said, explaining that Guam should take advantage of the opportunities that come with the military buildup rather than object to the plans.

“I’m in favor of the military buildup,” said Beighley. “I’m in favor of the chance to promote and expand the tourism industry.”

Beighley added that the military buildup and efforts to revive the island’s main industry should go hand in hand.

He also explained that there may be conflicts as buildup plans for both sectors are occurring simultaneously.

However, Beighley said that as long as island residents pay close attention to what the military does with some pieces of land, then buildup efforts can continue without much opposition.

Beighley said that residents should be critical of the military’s plans to limit public access to land that has cultural value as well as land that already has local businesses operating on it.

“It’s not about focusing on one or the other,” he said. “It’s about finding real solutions so that both parties win.”

DEIS Perspective : What lies ahead are D.C.’s ‘pompous’ lies

DEIS Perspective : What lies ahead are D.C.’s ‘pompous’ lies

Monday, 25 January 2010 01:04
DEIS Perspective : by Tony Artero

(This is in response to Derick Hills,’ “DEIS Perspective: What lies ahead,” published in this section on Jan. 21.)

THIS draft environmental impact statement for the military buildup is with major misgivings. It is following the historic wrong “politically correct” practices and, like the mafia, it must be stop. Without changing our direction, fixing the problems, and doing everything right here on out will not be any different from the first buildup in the 1940s after World War II that left us in this dire state.

The people could not return to their once productive livelihood. The excessive land taking extinguished their chance to recover from the War.

The people were forced to start over, but under dependency upon the government for economic sustenance. The government officials’ struggle had always been in trying to create something from nothing.

Aside from the issues of war reparation and equal treatment, the economy had always been the top priority. Tourism was finally allowed after the lifting of the federal “security” restriction. The economy flourishes, but only for a few years.

I do not have any misunderstanding. No one can create something from nothing. The military economy, like tourism, come and goes without our say. Guam is now like a junky car along Marine Corps Drive. When the 80,000 people with the Marines arrive, Guam will be a bombed-out junk car with us in it.

The thinking of Guam’s strategic location is now obsolete with the militaristic technologies we have today, but Guam's "strategic location" theory is still the perfect, yet lame, excuse to continue the discrimination against Guam's indigenous people. This excuse will never put America back to work. If Guam is truly strategically located real estate for America’s defense, why abandon the Declaration of Independence? America is shooting itself in the heart.

This military buildup is the U.S. government pushing its agenda, which will not even be a window-dressing to Guam's World War II battle wounds. Guam will be overrun again.

Washington D.C. is still full of pompous lies. Okinawa is closer to the “hot spot” than Guam will ever be. Besides, Guam’s strategic location is not defending America. Just the opposite, attacks by terrorists started with the bombing in Oklahoma City on 4-19-1995, which signals the dawning of America’s downfall, but the beat goes on. The attacks on 9-11 show that America’s sword diplomacy is a failure, but the beat still goes on.

The conditions on Guam have been spiraling downward since WWII and will spin even faster with the dramatic changes this military buildup will bring to us. The United States of course thinks mainly of its own benefit. The consequences on us are of minimal concern. However, the federal deficit is sky rocketing with “security” that is more questionable and the global economy in chaos.

If there ever was a time when enlightenment was needed, it is now.

(Tony Artero, a retired submariner with the U.S. Navy, is a resident of Agana Heights.)

Both sides of buildup debate release lists: Chamber, Coalition post 14 separate reasons on their Web sites

Both sides of buildup debate release lists: Chamber, Coalition post 14 separate reasons on their Web sites

By Amritha Alladi • Pacific Daily News • January 19, 2010

Increased crime rates, stresses on the public school system, and more sex and drug trafficking are reasons the Guåhan Coalition for Peace and Justice says the military buildup's economic opportunities will be overshadowed by its negative impacts.

Responding to the Chamber of Commerce's "14 Reasons Why We Need the Military Buildup," the Guåhan Coalition of Peace and Justice released "14 reasons Why We Don't Need the Military Buildup."

According to the list posted on the Chamber's Web site, the relocation of 8,000 Marines and their 9,000 dependents to Guam will provide revenues "our government desperately needs ... in order to provide services our people depend on." The list includes a revenue surge, infrastructural improvements and investments in health-care facilities and equipment as benefits resulting from the buildup.

Yet the coalition argues there is no mention of the 26,000 jobs that will no longer be needed by 2017, according to Audrey Ward, a member of the coalition.

Among the things listed by the coalition of what the draft EIS doesn't provide are solutions for job competition between Guam residents and 9,000 military dependents scheduled to arrive.

"There are no training options outlined in the EIS to help unemployed Guamanians better qualify for buildup jobs," the coalition list states. "The military will not be helping locals get any of the positions they are offering."

Neither has the local government, for the most part. The bulk of job training being offered in connection with the military buildup has been provided by the Guam Contractors Association's Trades Academy, with some construction-related programs at Guam Community College.

The coalition also says tourism will be hindered by an increase in crime.

Plus, some tourism expansion opportunities also may curbed, too, according to Gary Hiles, chief economist with the Guam Department of Labor.

"Increased military activities will open up new economic opportunities, but at the same time, will limit or preclude operation or expansion of other productive economic activities which could employ a large number of people in more labor intensive activities, such as tourism, due to increased land use and access restrictions and create costs of opportunities lost for other activities," Hiles said.

However, Gerry Perez, the general manager of the Guam Visitors Bureau, has said that the island has been starved for cash in recent years to make necessary upgrades to the island's infrastructure and tourism attractions; the buildup would not only widen Guam's tourism market, but help fund some of those improvements, he said.

"The military buildup will stimulate new markets, attract higher-spending business travelers and generate more income to pay for improvements in public service," Perez said.

Hiles also said while the buildup will bring more jobs to the island and more revenue to the government of Guam, it will also create substantial additional capital investment for infrastructure and increased operating costs in public safety, health care and education.

But if some residents have been strongly opposed to the buildup's negative effects on the local culture and environment, local businessman James Adkins said they haven't suggested any other viable alternatives that will solve Guam's economic problems.

"We have to have something to bring cash money back onto the island," Adkins said in late December. "We are spending more money than we are bringing in."

According to Ernie Galito, deputy general manager at the Guam Visitors Bureau, Guam's proximity to Asia and its status as an American territory opens up possibilities to develop other industries.

"Guam could develop finance, insurance, arbitration or ship registry industries," Galito said. "Of course, much of the market study work has yet to be done, but these examples would seem to be the most viable opportunities outside of tourism."

Navy divers remove 15 tons of rocks from Saipan channel

Navy divers remove 15 tons of rocks from Saipan channel

Tuesday, December 22, 2009
By Haidee V. Eugenio

The U.S. Navy has so far removed some 15 tons of “dangers to navigation” like corals and rock formations from the Saipan channel, a project which the Saipan Chamber of Commerce says will allow more and bigger military ships to make port visits to the island and therefore boost local tourism.

At least 10 more tons of these underwater obstructions are expected to be removed in the next few weeks.

The ongoing project is done by 17 divers from the U.S. Navy's Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit 1 Company 1-7 out of San Diego, California, along with personnel from the USNS Safeguard.

This is the third time this year that the U.S. Navy has undertaken this kind of project in the CNMI.

Leading the team are officer-in-charge Lt. Michael Simmons, and CO 1-7 master diver Randy Saunders.

“Divers are working hard to clear the dangers to navigation in the Tanapag harbor entrance. Our end goal is to provide safe access to more classes of Navy ships. As a result, more sailors will be able to enjoy the beautiful island of Saipan,” Simmons said.

The team arrived here on Nov. 23, and the project is expected to be completed by the end of January 2010.

Saunders, in an interview aboard the docked USNS Safeguard yesterday afternoon, said the main priority of this mission is the removal of five “dangers to navigation” in the main Saipan channel.

“They're much larger than the ones in the past. We have to deal with them a little different from what the groups in the past were doing,” Saunders said.

Saunders, who used to be stationed in Guam, said the goal is to have a depth of at least 36 feet, “which will then allow larger vessels to enter the port,” including destroyers and guided missile cruisers.

He said the biggest they have removed so far weighs some 10 tons or some 20,000 lbs.

“On some of these dangers to navigation, we only needed to take off 4 to 18 inches off of it, instead of bringing out the whole thing because they're so massive. They cover such a large area that some of the techniques that we are using were never tried in the past,” he added.

Douglas Brennan, a member of the Saipan Chamber of Commerce's Armed Forces Committee, said clearing the Saipan channel up to 36 feet would mean bigger ships with a deep draft would be able to safely navigate the Saipan channel or the Tanapag harbor, and therefore boost the island's tourism.

“It opens up the ports to more diversified commerce,” Brennan said in a phone interview.

He said since the Saipan Chamber of Commerce started tracking U.S. military ships' arrival in 1997, the island has so far received some 51,000 military visitors.

While the CNMI's main tourism markets are Japan and Korea, along with China and Russia, the islands also cater to U.S. military personnel who are here for rest and recreation. The choice of Saipan is mostly because of its status as a U.S. territory, safe location, and natural beauty.

Most of the U.S. Navy divers involved in the ongoing removal of dangers to navigation are on Saipan for the first time.

One of them, Ben Gyger, from San Diego, California, described the place as a “beautiful island.”

“The local people are very kind to us,” said Gyger, who has been with the U.S. Navy for nine years. He said the team “has put in a lot of hours at sea” as part of the mission, but has also made time to enjoy what Saipan has to offer visitors.

In January this year, 15 U.S. Navy divers also aboard the USNS Safeguard removed over 40 tons or 80,000 lbs of corals and rock formations-the biggest U.S. Navy project of its kind so far on Saipan.

US to slash aid payments to Palau

US to slash aid payments to Palau

The Pacific island nation of Palau is the largest recipient of aid per capita from the United States.

It has received more than $852m dollars in US financial assistance over the last 15 years.

But Washington is planning to cut back direct assistance by $5m a year and residents fear the impact of any reduction.

As Al Jazeera's Divya Gopalan reports, the cutback threatens to lower per capita income on the island by nearly one-quarter, and leave Palau's government struggling to build a viable economy

McCain calls Garapan market project 'awful'

McCain calls Garapan market project 'awful'

7 CNMI projects worth $1.35M in US House appropriation

By Haidee V. Eugenio
Reporter

Delegate Gregorio Kilili C. Sablan (D-MP) expressed disappointment that former Republican presidential candidate Sen. John McCain described as “awful” his proposed $200,000 earmark for the design and construction of the Garapan public market project.

“I worked hard to get $200,000 in seed money for Garapan Public Market into this year's appropriations and I will keep working to make sure Republicans in Washington don't kill the project,” said Sablan in his latest weekly e-newsletter.

McCain took to the U.S. Senate floor on Dec. 10 and attacked Sablan's $200,000 earmark for the Garapan public market project on Saipan.

Sablan said McCain promised that “we will be hearing a lot more about it [the project].”

“I hope not. The Garapan Public Market is a project that will give our farmers and fishermen and craftspeople a place to sell their goods. And it will give tourists to the Marianas a new attraction where they can enjoy themselves and find gifts to bring home,” Sablan said.

Sablan, at the same time, announced seven CNMI projects totaling $1.35 million that he was able to include in a Conference Report on Fiscal Year 2010 Consolidated Appropriations Act on Dec. 11.

By a vote of 221-202, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the conference report on Thursday.

“Since there has never been a congressman representing our islands, this is the first time we have ever been able to get this kind of targeted funding,” Sablan said.

These projects and the funding approved include the $200,000 for the design and construction of the Garapan public market.

Also on the list are $250,000 for the Public School System's Refaluwasch and Chamorro language programs; $200,000 for the Northern Marianas Trade Institute for vocational and technical training; and $180,000 for the Micronesian Legal Services' Rota and Tinian outreach programs.

Completing the list are $200,000 for the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library's roof repairs; $220,000 for the Division of Fish and Wildlife's educational programs on marine sanctuaries; and $100,000 for the PSS purchase of library books and educational materials.

The U.S. Senate is expected to approve the conference report in the next few days and send it to President Obama for his signature.

Bice insists buildup good for Guam

Bice insists buildup good for Guam

Monday, 07 December 2009 04:00
by Jude Lizama | Variety News Staff

GUAM and the CNMI will experience economic growth and opportunity as a result of the massive military buildup on Guam, according to Joint Guam Program Office executive director David Bice.

“They will come here from far and wide and see the jewel that you have here,” Bice told island leaders during the 12th Micronesian Chief Executives’ Summit which concluded at Sheraton Laguna Guam Resort Friday.

Despite hints in the draft environmental impact statement that Guam does not have much to expect from the military buildup, Bice maintained the future will be “very bright” for small business as a result of the Marine relocation and buildup.

According to the JGPO director, Marines will take advantage of the regional tourism industry and regional tourism will benefit from allied forces that will frequently come to Guam and the CNMI for training.

Because of a number of factors, the draft impact study indicates the island will not be able to “capture” any significant pools of the billions of dollars that are expected to flow into numerous military projects.

With a plan to use upwards of 30,000 foreign workers who will send most earnings off-island and no recirculation in the local economy and other factors, the low capture rate will mean Guam government coffers, employment and small businesses will be shorted the lion’s share of the billions targeted for preparing for the military’s increasing footprint.

Local turmoil

“Our program is going to maximize the use of workers from Guam and neighboring islands before we seek other labor sources,” Bice said.

The program director, however, weighed that assessment by saying the local labor market will “probably remain in turmoil for the next 10 years or so, if not longer.

He said there will be only 1,700 civilian workers supporting the Marine relocation.

Bice recounted his dialogue with Guam labor director Maria Connelly, and hopes for a collaborative effort to host a symposium geared toward ensuring “NAVFAC, the Guam Department of Labor, and the U.S. Department of Labor are all speaking as one voice.”

Water too

In addition to the economics of the military realignment, Bice sought to assuage concerns over natural resources and utilities.

The retired major general spoke about Guam Waterworks Authority’s lack of capacity to provide sufficiently for the requirements of the projected buildup construction workforce.

“They are operating at near capacity in terms of water production, at this point,” Bice explained on the military’s plan to bring online 22 additional wells to support their needs.

Moreover, Bice believes an interim solution could be achieved to assist in improving the island’s water and wastewater systems. “There is a lot of unaccounted for water loss,” he said.

In the end

Curiously, Bice addressed upgrades at the Port Authority of Guam which he claimed will “not only help the needs of our construction effort,” but will also help to transform the port into a “viable, integral conduit for goods and services.”

The military impact study leaves open the possibility that the Navy may actually repossess the Guam Shipyard facilities and loading equipment Sen. Ben Pangelinan claims to have observed at Navy docks suggest the military will handle off-loading and cargo movement from their own ports.

Micronesian leaders talk collaboration

Micronesian leaders talk collaboration

By Amritha Alladi • Pacific Daily News • December 4, 2009

Micronesia's leaders discussed ways to streamline federal resources to help boost the region's sustainability, tourism, energy efficiency and work-force development on the first day of the 12th Micronesian Chief Executives' Summit yesterday.

"The initiatives that come out of this are ones that we can implement within our own respective communities, and then also collectively at the region," said Gov. Felix Camacho. "So the key is -- as Micronesian leaders -- how can we come together to collaborate and do things on a regional basis that would benefit all of our people?"

He said one initiative that already has proven successful is the biosecurity plan, through which the local governments, along with the U.S. Department of Defense, work together to protect each of the islands' environments from invasive species or any other hazards that may pose a threat as a result of transporting cargo between the islands.

Additionally, the "Micronesian Challenge" initiative has designated 20 to 30 percent of each jurisdiction's land and ocean resources to be preserved through 2020, he said. The joint plan will present almost $27 million more in funding opportunities for the region.

To promote the region's tourism, Camacho said, the leaders are considering how to bring in other airlines and get more seat capacity. There's also a plan to start cruise lines in Micronesia as an alternative to those in the Caribbean or in Europe.

Ideally, the leaders want to create a tour of Micronesia for tourists from Asia to visit each of the islands, Camacho said. The military buildup will also present more opportunities for growth, he said.

"With more military personnel here they can do R&R and visit throughout Micronesia as they have breaks," Camacho said.

On energy, Camacho said it makes sense for the other islands to join the energy initiatives to pool resources, either in the form of federal funding or in the form of bringing trainers to Micronesia or attracting investors.

Lorilee Crisostomo, administrator of the Guam Environmental Protection Agency, highlighted the steps that have been taken by the islands to establish energy efficiency.

For example, Guam received more than $29 million through federal stimulus funding to retrofit low-income housing, public buildings, parks and highways, as well as install LED lights on highway and provide scholarships for engineers, she said.

About $166,000 in cash was given back to consumers who turned in their old appliances to be properly disposed, she said.

In the Federated States of Micronesia, officials enacted a plan in which they have connected photovoltaic grid systems in Kosrae, the outer islands of Chuuk and Yap, "making these islands the first 100 percent renewable islands in the Pacific," she said.

Work-force development

Recommendations for work-force development were presented to the chief executives by Guam Department of Labor Director Maria Connelley.

Connelley said the two initiatives that have continued to attract interest are:

# An initiative to implement more programs for veterans and people with disabilities, and

# Another initiative to start master-apprenticeship programs in the local arts, such as training young people to become master weavers, carvers and artisans, she said.

There is no challenge in acquiring federal funds for work-force development because Guam has been responsive, transparent and accountable in the way the funds are used, Connelley said.

"Even if we have to go to the national level or even if we have to change the law or create the law, that's not difficult," Connelley said. "You just have to get with the right people to do it."

Palau’s Toribiong vetoes casino bill

Palau’s Toribiong vetoes casino bill

Thursday, 03 December 2009 00:00 By Bernadette H. Carreon - Palau Reporter

KOROR (Palau Horizon) — President Johnson Toribiong has vetoed the casino bill, describing it as a get-rich-quick scheme that will not benefit Palau.

In his transmittal letter to the Olbiil Era Kelulau, the national legislature, the president said the controversial bill was a rushed, confusing and not well-thought piece of legislation.

The measure stated that controlled gaming in Palau will diversify its tourism base and attract new investments.

Toribiong disagreed.

“It is my belief that gambling will not augment our tourist industry, but rather will detract from the very reason that people choose to vacation here,” he said.
Its proponents said the bill contains provisions to protect the people of Palau from the dangers of compulsive and addictive gambling, but Toribiong noted that it does not prohibit Palauans from gambling.

He said the bill does not even require a state to consult the people through a referendum if they are in favor of a casino.

“A state government could permit a casino to be located in its state simply by passing a law. In any event, given the size of our country, the negative effects of gambling in one state cannot be limited solely to the state,” Toribiong said.

The bill, he added, appears to favor casino operators rather than the people of Palau.

He said it does not permit sufficient time to do a background check on casino license applicants and will pay members of the gaming commission “exorbitant money.”
The president said Palau should look into the experiences of Tinian’s struggling casino which opened in 1998.

He said the casino proponents’ expectations are not realistic as Palau cannot compete with the established casino industries in Macau, Malaysia or the Philippines.
According to Toribiong, the people of Palau should decide whether they want to legalize casino gaming in their country.

Micronesia summit today

Micronesia summit today

Dionesis Tamondong • Pacific Daily News • December 3, 2009

Promoting regional tourism, conserving marine resources and discussing the impact of the upcoming military buildup to the entire Micronesia region are some of the topics on the agenda for 12th Micronesian Chief Executives' Summit.

The gathering of Micronesia's leaders takes place today and tomorrow at the Sheraton Laguna Guam Resort.

Since the Summit was established in 2004 by Guam Gov. Felix Camacho and Juan Babauta, who was governor of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands at the time, biannual meetings have been held to establish closer ties among the islands and promote initiatives beneficial to the entire western Micronesian region.

"As chief executives of the islands in our region, we recognize that maintenance of healthy ecosystems and sustainable resource management are critical to the livelihoods of Pacific people," Camacho said in a news release.

Renewable energy, invasive species and work-force development are among the topics on Summit's agenda today. Tomorrow, participants will get an update on the military buildup and its impact to the region from retired Marine Maj. Gen. David Bice, executive director of the Joint Guam Program Office, and Gary Kuwabara, Western Regional director for the Department of Defense Office of Economic Adjustment.

Camacho will be joined at the summit by:

# Kenneth Kedi, minister of Transportation and Communication for the Republic of the Marshall Islands, representing RMI President Jurelang Zedkaia;

# CNMI Gov. Benigno Fitial;

# Republic of Palau President Johnson Toribiong;

# Federated States of Micronesia President Emanuel Mori;

# Chuuk Gov. Wesley Simina;

# Yap Gov. Sebastian Anefal;

# Kosrae Gov. Robert Weilbacher; and

# Pohnpei Gov. John Ehsa.

CNMI anger over US immigration takeover

CNMI anger over US immigration takeover

Last Updated: Wed, 2 Dec 2009 15:16:00 +1100

Many businesses on the Northern Mariana Islands remain angry at the lack of consultation by Washington on the federalization of the Pacific territory's immigration system.

The federal government took over the CNMI's immigration system on Saturday.

The only real evidence of the takeover is at the airport, where state immigration agents have replaced locals.

However, the business community and Governor Benigno Fitial remain concerned about the impact on the employment of foreign workers, foreign investment and tourism.

And Jim Arenovski, the president of the Saipan Chamber of Commerce, says there should have been more consultation.

"Quite frankly we were given the final regulations for our foreign workers, which is probably the most sensitive topic that we chat about, 30 days before implementation," he said.

"And so the last day for comments was actually the 26th or the 27th of November, so how do you make comments on a set of regulations that were supposed to be implemented immediately?"

Lose some, win some

Lose some, win some

Friday, 27 November 2009 03:33 by Jennifer Naylor Gesick | Variety News Staff

Military activity affect water tourism

THE Navy expects some negative economic impacts on ocean-based tourism as a result of the construction and operation of a new port to berth an aircraft carrier at Polaris Point, according to the environmental impact statement for the military buildup.

“However, these economic impacts on tourism would be somewhat mitigated or compensated for by increased tourism from military personnel,” the study says.

Apra Harbor is the single most popular site for recreational divers and commercial diving operations.

Economic impacts on ocean-based tourism within Apra Harbor correlate to degradation of the environment, according to the impact study.

"Siltation from dredging already affects visibility and has diving business operators concerned about possible permanent coral loss,” the study states.

Even though 25 acres of coral is expected to be completely removed, the impact report states that disturbance from construction activities would be short-term and localized. Long-term operational effects on tourism would include force protection restrictions during carrier arrival and departure, hence restricting diving and tourist operations.

Despite the impact on water tourism, a survey of hoteliers concluded that they welcome the prospect of more carrier operations, because past carrier visits have always contributed positively to their occupancy levels. The study also states that historically there have been positive impacts on ocean based tourism because dive companies fly instructors out to carriers to initiate basic instruction for open-water certifications. Positive effects on ocean-based tourism volume would be countered by the prospect of increased congestion in the Apra Harbor area, the study says.

“Guam’s two major dive companies, as well as many of the smaller ones, launch their boats out of Apra Harbor and dock at Port Authority of Guam small boat basin. Military and tourist operations have conflicted in the past. Increases in military operations may increase this conflict,” states the impact report.