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About the Cover:About the Cover: The February Beach Road Magazine features Lareina C. Camacho and Jerome T. Aldan in the gardens of the Kanoa Resort on Jan. 24. The bouquet is courtesy of Flowers Galore, and make up courtesy of Nila’s Salon

PUBLISHER: Maureen N. Maratita

CREATIVE/PRODUCTION MANAGER: Taliea Strohmeyer

PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR: Nerita F. Enderes

SALES MANAGER: Annie San Nicolas

ACCOUNT MANAGER: Minda Castro

MANAGING DIRECTOR: Marcos W. Fong

Beach Road Magazine, Vol. XI, No. 3 February 2013. Entire con-tents copyrighted 2013 by Glimpses of Saipan, Inc. Beach Road Magazine is published monthly by Glimpses of Saipan, Inc. P.O. Box 502080, Saipan, MP 96950 • 2/F Transpac Business Center Gualo Rai, Saipan Tel: (670) 235-7645 • Fax: (670) 234-1801 • E-mail: saipan@glimpsesofguam.com. All rights reserved. No ma-terial may be printed in part or in whole without written permission from the publisher.

Photos by Kayla Wood

February 2013Love and marriage

PIC Special Feature

Say it with flowers

Songgay’s House of Beauty and Infinity 8 Salon & Spa

Our Valentines

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Calendar

On the Road18, 22, 23, 24

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Glimpses Publications includeGuam Business Magazine, Marianas Business Journal,

Beach Road Magazine and R&R Pacific

Love. It’s amazing how this one-syllable, four-letter word can be so complicated. Ask 100 different people what their definition of love is and you’re likely to get at least that many answers. It’s one of those things that don’t necessarily get easier or less complicated with time,something that people can spend their entire lives trying to capture. For people who have the privilege of experiencing this divine gift, it is common for them to occasionally sit back and relive the days and years — even those seemingly insignificant moments that brought them to this point, this place of loving someone else so deeply. For most, at least in our society, love starts with something like a little glance — acknowledgement of interest in the other party. Then it may escalate to exchanging of phone numbers, and then finally a date. But with six inhabitable continents and almost 200 independent countries, courtship and dating traditions are just about as vast as the waters that divide us. The more obvious things that seem to complicate love and the courtship process are cultural, geographical and religious influences. Within these, parental controls, physical beauty, appropriate ages for courtship/dating, the ever debatable gender roles — and the list goes on — make for

Different customs on the road to love and marriage

interesting perceptions of what love and dating should be like. In several parts of the world — Europe, Australia and Central and South America, dating is often in large groups like movie nights, restaurant outings, or common- interest clubs. Many would say that this is due to the fact that they place such a great value on meaningful friendships and getting their friends’ opinions. In places like Finland, co-ed slumber parties for teens (with the supervision of parents) are an acceptable way of meeting the opposite sex. In Central and South America, these group dates are often centered round

dance parties (also popular in Russia). In Spain, the dating scene often

revolves around similar interests. Known as a pandilla, this may

look like a large group getting together for

exercise, art, or any of a number of similar

activities. For all of these groups, dating one on one doesn’t tend to happen in the late teens. For many of

these cultures, especially Australia, this style of dating

in groups is more of a lifestyle choice rather than an age-

appropriate one. Even after one on one dating and then marriage, many

prefer group dating. It is also worth noting that in Australia it is rather common for women to initiate a date. And forget theidea that the man should cover the tab. It isnot unusual to see the women opening uptheir wallets to foot the bill. Certainly singlemen everywhere are booking their flights over to experience this “phenomenon” firsthand. With that being said, it’s unlikely that many are darting over to the Middle East for their chance at love. Here, saying that dating is strict would be quite the understatement. In Afghanistan, there are few to no opportunities for young people of the opposite sex to even meet and socialize much less date. And typically, boys and girls are only allowed to meet once their arranged marriage has already been decided between the families. To drive home the uniqueness of this country’s courtship and marriage customs, it’s

By Kayla Wood

VALENTINE’S DAY

february 20134

VALENTINE’S DAY

important to mention that the marriage ceremony takes place with the bride and groom in two different rooms. In Iran, the strict-ness is taken to an even higher level. Dating is illegal! People of the opposite sex do not interact with one another until they are of the determined marrying age and even then, marriages are pre-arranged which only in the most liberal situations includes a courting period when the couple gets to know one another beforehand. These are not the only two Middle Eastern countries with the custom of pre-arranged marriage. It is pretty standard throughout the Middle East for dating to be strongly frowned upon and even for male/female friendships to exist. In recent years, Middle Eastern courtship and marriage traditions have been questioned in the West, due to the often incredibly young age of the brides, the oppression of females, lack of women’s rights and other cultural norms. In Asian countries, what Americans have come to consider dating doesn’t typically start until around college age. Japanese and Koreans tend to like to reach a point where the young men can handle the financial responsibility of dating before taking it on. For the Chinese, dating is typically short lived with the couple either parting ways after a couple of dates or moving towardmarriage. In Asian countries as a whole, dating and even marriage is considered something like a family affair. In addition to meeting the boyfriend or girlfriend’s approval, it is not unusual to need to win over the family. In some cases, it is important to

establish a significant relationship with the family before a serious courtship can even begin. Overall, Asians tend to have a more traditional view of relationships — typically ditching what is known as casual dating and opting for dating with the sole intent of seeing if this person is “spouse material.” Love truly is what makes the world go ‘round. In the blink of an eye, or in some cases, the wink of an eye, our lives can completely change. Regardless of culture, religion or geography, when we connect with that special person ... nothing seems the same. In retrospect, something that holds so much power tends to happen so fast. So as this Valentine’s Day comes strolling by, may we fully embrace [like never before] the love we have been given with that one we hold so dear ... or the fact that love could truly be a day or date away.

Flowers Galore offers a wide selection of bouquets for Valentine’s Day.

5february 2013

At Pacific Islands Club Saipan, we offer you dinner options to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your special someone. At Seaside Grill, a sumptuous five-course meal awaits! Our Chef recommends for starters, a canapé plate consisting of smoked salmon, goat cheese, and cabernet braised smoked duck breast on toast, served with a salad of apple and heart of palm. Warm roasted red beets and sweet potato with coconut cream soup, and a refreshing Rainbow Sorbet splashed with vodka are next on the menu, settling beautifully yet lightly, leaving room for more. As for the main course, Chef’s Saint Valentine’s Gourmet Steak and Lobster, a center cut herbed Certified Angus Beef crusted with aged Black River blue cheese is served with a lobster tail thermidor, seasonal greens, and roasted mushroom shape red potatoes. Freshly baked Strawberry Cheesecake is the main dessert and is followed by some sweet Valentine cookies, and chocolate dipped strawberry. The meal comes with a complimentary bottle of wine for every couple. Priced at $60 per person, dinner is served from 6 to 9:30 p.m. In The Magellan, the Chef features a wide array of delicacies, from salads all the way to desserts. The choices are absolutely extensive. Highlights of the menu include a cold selection of seafood on ice, hand rolled sushi, Herb Roasted Rib Eye, Peppered and Roasted Ham Leg, a Mexican Station, an Indian Station, Baked Onaga Fish, and Grilled Lamb Chops. There are also an impressive number of sweets namely, Dates Pie, Baklava, Macaroon Cake, homemade cookies, fresh sliced fruits, and more. Dinner is $34 per adult and $17 per child and served from 6 to 9 p.m. We also have special room packages available for CNMI and Guam residents. • Ocean Front Spa Room for $239 per night • Ocean Front Room for $199 per night (Ocean Front Room packages include a bottle of champagne, brownies and breakfast for two.) • Deluxe Room for $119 per night • Superior Room for $99 per night (Deluxe and Superior Room packages include a bottle of champagne, and brownies.) These prices are tax inclusive and are for single and double occupancy. The promo runs from Feb. 1 to 6, and Feb. 12 to March 31, 2013.

For restaurant reservations, call 237-5126 and for room reservations, call 234-2042. At PIC Saipan, there is always more of everything.

A special Valentine’s Day awaits at

Pacific Islands Club

february 20136

SPECIAL FEATURE

As Valentine’s Day approaches, FlowersGalore knows that there is one special flower many clients will think about. “Of course roses,” says Lillian Camacho, who with her sister, Julie C. Castro owns FlowersGalore. However, Lillian Camacho says a variety of flowers are also woven into beautiful gifts. “Sometimes we would have a specially made arrangement for office décor going to an aunt or special assistant.”Blooms at Flowers Galore are also treated with love. “Nutrients are added to the water before we put them in the vase — like a preservative,” she says. “Normally the roses will last for a week.” The flowers you will see in a Flowers Galore arrangement come from around the world to Saipan. “We import from the states, Holland, Ecuador — all places,” says

Japanese wedding service that keeps it busy, Flowers Galore expects to have a hectic month in February. “Valentine’s Day will be the day that everybody goes crazy,” Camacho says. Flowers Galore has been open since 1994 and is located in the Bencam Building in Garapan. It is part of Bencam Enterprises, which has a number of popular business units that complement each other. For festive and special occasions Bencam offers a variety of products through Party Galore and can also offerwedding dresses and tux rentals and special event services. And for other life milestones, Bencam offers a funeral service. The group was founded by family patriarch Vicente Camacho, known as Ben, and his wife, Rita Camacho, parents ofLillian and Julie. “He was the one who really helped us,” says Lillian Camacho. With tough times in Saipan in the past few years, Camacho says she sees the economy is picking up a little now. FlowersGalore understands that clients may have a budget in mind. “We are within their means,” she says. “We tend to work with the customers.” But there’s no doubt that flowers are a favorite gift idea and perfect to express your thoughts whether the message is “Get well,” “We are thinking of you,” “Thank you,” or — especially at this time of year, “I love you.”

Say it with flowers — a message of love and thanks at a special time of year

Camacho, who is also able to source flowersfrom a wholesaler in Guam if the need arises. With a loyal client base that includes private citizens, churches, hotels and a

By Maureen N. Maratita

Lilian Camacho Julie C. Castro

VALENTINE’S DAY

7february 2013

february 20138

February is a special month when love is in the air. It’s also the perfect time to think about pampering yourself with some special treatments and beauty items. Open since April 2010, Songgay’s House of Beauty offers diverse products from the most popular skin care and fragrance experts. Elvie Pineda’s skin care products feature a variety of luxury soaps designed to brighten and whiten, and top hair and body es-sentials. The exclusive Aficionado Germany Perfume line available at Songgay’s House of Beauty has almost 70 fragrances to choose from to express your moods and feelings through its scented messages. Infinity 8 Salon & Spa has become the perfect Saipan address for clients to maintain wellness and essential relaxation, to feel reju-venated and revitalized, or simply to enjoy a wide array of spa and beauty services. Operations Manager Michelle Villaraza and the expert team offer a unique menu to allow customers to mix and match to meet their hair design and color needs, and enjoy luxurious but affordable spa packages. Salon services include styling, rebonding, coloring, perming, highlighting, manicure and pedicure, makeup and waxing. The spa offers a variety of massage services, body scrub, foot spa, facials, Ventuza massage and saunas to relax and revive you. During February, Michelle says, “We actually have specials for couples” — a body scrub, body massage, deep cleansing facial and hair spa for only $50. Also available is a variety of spa packages for $30 each offering massage, cleansing and spa. “Right now we have a promo,” she says. “With a $30 package they can get a raffle coupon.” Prizes include gift certificates and products. Located on Beach Road near the Horriguchi Building across Ga-rapan Fishing Basin, Songgay’s House of Beauty and Infinity 8 Salon & Spa is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. Michelle suggests clientsmake an appointment. “That way we can assist them right away and prepare all the things they need for their services.” Michelle looks forward to welcoming you. “Try us; it’s a one-stop shop,” she says.

Discover a better you at Songgay’s House of Beauty and

Infinity 8 Salon & Spa

Happy Valentine’s Day from the management and staff of Songay’s House of Beauty and Infinity 8 Salon & Spa

By Maureen N. Maratita

9february 2013

Alexis Faith Asuncion and Robert Brinker-hoff Faith works at Agape School, and Friend-ship Enterprises; Rob works at Star Marianas, where he is a pilot. Faith tells BRM, “We first met at my office, Robert was new to the island and he was look-ing for car insurance. “The first time we went out was with friends at the Thursday street market. We were friends and had been hanging out with friends and eventually it was [just] the two of us together for about six weeks. “As soon as Rob got off work he would come and see me; he’d pick me up from my work or he’d go to my house. Then we would always have dinner together. “Rob took me to his favorite Thai restau-rant in Garapan, and I took him to my favorite spot on the island which is at the end of a dock, and we talked about things and about each other. “We both want at least four kids in the future.”

In honor of Valentine’s Day, Beach Road Magazine shares something of the relationship history of some of Saipan’s couples.

We present Our Valentines!

Vera Jane Tudela and Frank Cabrera The two met on New Year’s Eve 2002Their courtship lasted for six months, and started when Vera Jane asked Frank when he was going to take her out.

Frank stayed with tradition, and asked permission from the parents of Vera Jane each time he wanted to take her on a date. During their courtship they loved drivingaround the island, and say until now they truly enjoy each other’s company. The couple has four children: Devon, Deko, Danica and Denzel.

Flor and John Jones The couple met in the Philippines and got married on Oct. 18, 2003. During their courtship period, John made numerous visits and phone calls and sent many letters to Flor in Manila. The couple has four children: Raffy, Michael, Angelo and Emily.

Joanne and Christopher Tomokane The two met on Nov. 3, 1998, married on Nov. 2, 2007 and have two children, Quintin and Chrionie. Their courtship period included time spent eating out and going to the movies a lot, shopping together and spending time with friends. During the engagement, Joanne and Chris broke up for two months but got back together, this time for good.

february 201310

OUR VALENTINES

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ARTS AND CULTURE

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Friends of the ArtsBY MAUREEN N. MARATITA

The musical vignette The Darker Side of Broadway, directed by Paul Dujua, musical direction by Paul Dujua, and produced by MariLou Conner. In the photo (left to right, top

to bottom) Aiza Mendoza, Ruth de Lemos-Loyola, Keneisha Parks, Dave Bucher, Anna Rose De Leon Guerrero, John Ronald Darag, Kimberly Parks and Paul Dujua.

ARTS AND CULTURE

13february 2013

The three-act play Plaza Suite by Neil Simon, directed by Harold Easton, produced by Susan Fishman-Tudor. In the photo Aiza Mendoza, Paul Dujua.

Those looking for some theatrical entertainment in Saipan are in for a treat.Friends of the Arts will be presenting William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream on Feb. 14, 15 and 17 at Charley’s at Pacific Islands Club Saipan. The 16th century play, a comedy, features multiple plots that intertwine, and tells the story of lovers, and a group of actors who are beset by fairies who inhabit the forest where much of the action takes place. It is set around the wedding of two members of the nobility, the Duke of Athens and the Queen of the Amazons. The play is one of the most popular for theater groups. It has also been interpreted for the movie screen, for television, as bal-lets and parodied. The cast of A Midsummer Night’s Dream is a relatively large one. Auditions have already been held. FOA director Leo Goode, tells BRM there are

february 201314

The play DeathTrap by Ira Levin, directed by Harold Easton, produced by Frank Gibson. In the photo Susan Fishman-Tudor, Leo Goode Jr., and Bernard Rivera.

about 25 parts. “The turnout went well. We ended up using some women to play men’s parts.” This was notable, he says, as in Shakespeare’s time all parts were played by men. The FOA cast, Goode says includes high school students and “some seasoned veterans” that will be familiar to audiences.FOA has had a varied slate of productions through the years. Other recent FOA offerings have included the mystery, Sleuth, by Anthony Shaffer and the opera Aida. Goode says FOA has been in existence for a number of years. “I got here in 2005 and it was already firmly entrenched.” Goode, who is the cargo manager for POI at the Saipan International Airport, says he has appeared on stage in a number of FOA productions including Deathtrap, Sleuth and The Mousetrap. A Midsummer Night’s Dream will mark a different debut for him. “It’s my first time directing,” he says. The production is aimed to beentertaining, Goode says. “It should be fun. We’re having fun in rehearsals.” On Feb. 14, the performance will have a something extra, Goode says.

“We are going to have a buffet on the 14th for Valentine’s Day.” The intent he says, is for people to attend with their signifi-cant others. FOA has other community of-

ferings, too, and on Feb. 17 A Midsummer Night’s Dream will be offered as a matinee. Contact the Friends of the Arts for ticket availability and further details.

ARTS AND CULTURE

ON THE ROAD

february 201316

Mom Rhoda Mercene and son Jayrald posed for BRM inside Mount Carmel Cathedral on Jan. 6.

Friends Menellia, Flor, Merle, Rhea and Marian gathered at 360 Restaurant on Dec. 28.

Marianas Pacific Distributors Inc. employees participated Jan. 5 in the Adopt-A-Place Project, a community program of the Saipan and Northern Islands Municipal Council.

MarPac employees paint roadside guardrails.

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ON THE ROAD

Guy Pudney, Marianas Pacific Distributors Inc. resident manager; Ramon B. Camacho, chairman of the Saipan/Northern Islands Municipal Council, and Philip Mendiola, operations manager for MarPac.

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Valentine’sDayAsh

WednesdayChinese New Year

Octopus Bike Race and Walk, San Antonio School

PresidentsDay

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A Good Day to Die Hard, Beautiful Creatures and

Safe Haven also premiere at

Hollywood Theaters

Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance

comes out in XBox and PS3

Dead Space 3 comes out in XBox

and PS3

Identity Thief and Side Effects

premiere at Hollywood Theaters

Pacific Islands Club Duck Race

and Race Around the River

Warm Bodies and Stand Up

Guys premiere at Hollywood Theaters

Snitch and Dark Skies premiere at

Hollywood Theaters

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“Coca-Cola” is a registered trademark of The Coca-ColaCompany.

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Super Bowl XLVII

HAPPYVALENTINE’S

DAY

A Midsummer Night’s Dream performances

by Friends of the Arts

9th Annual Tinian Hot Pepper Festival

Marianas Beach Volleyball Festival Junior Cup, Fiesta

Resort & Spa, Saipan

HAPPYVALENTINE’S

DAY

The United Filipino Organization held its induction of the 2013-2014 executive officers and board of directors on Jan. 5 at the Fiesta Resort & Spa Saipan. At the event were (Standing from left) Len, Yolanda, Lyn, Ladyvir and Nelida; and (Seated from left) Evelyn, Anna and Olive.

Outgoing UFO President Romeo “Bong” Malasarte with his family after the installation of new officers and board of directors on Jan. 5.

WSRES 3rd grade teacher Tammy Cruz with some of her students on Jan. 4.

Bon Voyage to the family of Chris and Joanne Tomokane who are leaving Saipan on Feb. 21. The family is moving to Washington.

Happy Birthday to Ron Awit who turned 15 Jan. 21. He is shown in the photo with Mom Annamae and siblings, Rigz and Ramhae.

february 201322

ON THE ROAD

ON THE ROAD

23february 2013

Pearlie and her children Angel, Maria and the youngest child Angelo. Taken at Joeten Kiyu Public Library on Jan. 12.

At left is Jackielou Ontimara, Subway Guam & Saipan field consultant with Marcia Ogania, Subway Saipan operations manager.

From left are Minda Castro, Wendy Penaloza, Mom Gloria Balila and son Mathieau.

Chealzka Navarro celebrated her 6th birthday on Jan. 6. The birthday girl is shown in the picture with Kuya Miles, Mom Celan and Dad Leo.

Ann Jeline Manabat turned Sweet 16 Jan. 27. The birthday celebrant is front right with her sisters.

The Penaloza family, Walter, Elma and Wendy at Skyway Café on Jan. 1.

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ON THE ROAD