Discover the Sporting LifeSports RoundupHappy Anniversary Laolao Bay

McDonald’s Saipan Special Feature:

Two Decades of Feeding Saipan

Sports on SaipanMARCH 2013

PUBLISHER: Maureen N. Maratita

CREATIVE/PRODUCTION MANAGER: Taliea Strohmeyer

PRODUCTION: Rosanna Dacanay

SENIOR DESIGNER: Vikki Fong

DESIGN & PRODUCTION: Tamerlane Urao

SALES MANAGER: Annie San Nicolas

ACCOUNT MANAGER: Minda Castro

MANAGING DIRECTOR: Marcos W. Fong

Beach Road Magazine, Vol. XI, No. 4 March 2013. Entire contents 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 material may be printed in part or in whole without written permission from the publisher.

Glimpses Publications includeGuam Business Magazine, Marianas Business Journal,

Beach Road Magazine and R&R Paci� c

About the Cover:Minellia Castro, Merle Hudkins, Daniel Agulto, John Joyner and Ray Babauta Jr. represent their various sports for BRM on Feb. 16 at the Ada Gym sports � eld.

Photos by Kayla Wood

March 2013

4 Sports on SaipanA long list of ways to get � t and involved

7 Sports Roundup

9 On The Road

11 Discover a tempting menu of sports at PIC Saipan

15 Happy Anniversary Laolao

SPECIAL FEATURES

17 Two decades of feeding Saipan21-23 McDonald’s Moments

25 My McDonald’s

Correction from last issue:The owners of Flowers Galore are as above, and not as printed in the February issue of BRM.

LILLIAN D. CAMACHOJULIE C. CASTRO

We’re Online!www.brmsaipan.com

beachroadmagazine beachroadmagazine

MARCH 20132

And what better place to get in shape than the great outdoors of our beautiful island? With its consistent weather, challenging slopes, beautiful landscape, and ever growing number of competitive athletic events, Saipan is something like a utopia when

it comes to athletic training, enjoying the great outdoors, and getting fi t. From football to track and fi eld to cycling to golf, there are so many ways to stay active on our island. This month especially, outdoor racing, marathons and triathlons in particular, are kicking into full swing, giving us the perfect focus as we take a closer look at how to get things moving on Saipan.

First up is the Saipan Marathon organized by Marianas Visitors Authority. Going strong in its 8th year, this March 2 marathon will be held at the American Memorial Park and consists of four diff erent events; The Ultra-50K, a full marathon of 26.2 miles, the half marathon (13.1 miles) , and fi nally the 10K run. People will be up bright and early for this already daunting event. The 50K and full marathon both kick off while the sun is still snoozing away at 4:30 a.m. Just an hour later, the half marathon starts at 5:45a.m, with the 10k starting minutes afterward at 6 a.m. The routes vary for each of the races. This time last year, 840 people were in full training mode preparing to compete in this event. This year the numbers are a bit lower but still signifi cant with at least 680 expected to compete. Many people make quite the trek to compete in this event; organizers look forward to visitors from the U.S. mainland,

A long list of ways to get fi t and involvedby Kayla Wood

Cruise down Beach Road on any given early morning or late afternoon and you will fi nd an impressive number of athletic, toned bodies trotting, cycling, or downright sprinting about.

China, Japan, and Korea.Only a few days later, another athletic

bunch will be lining up to compete in the Xterra. Organized by Taga Inc. this triathlon is slated to begin at 6:30 a.m. on March 9 and fi nish sometime before 10 a.m. Sanctioned by the USA Triathlon, this event pulls in approximately 100 competitors, a few of which will be professional triathletes. The triathlon begins with the Xterra Saipan Championship consisting of a 1.5K swim, followed by the 20k Mountain Bike leg and the last part of the competition...the 12K run. The Xterra Sport kicks off at the same 6:30 a.m. start time but is considerably shorter with a 750m swim, 20K Mountain Bike, and 5K run. And not to leave the kids hanging, there is an Xterra Kids Bike Race at 7:30 a.m. designed especially with children in mind. Defi nitely the less intense of the Xterra events, Xterra Kids is considerably less competitive than the

former two events and all participants receive an award.

First up is the Saipan Marathon organized by Marianas Visitors organized by Marianas Visitors

year, year, this March 2 marathon will be held at the American Memorial Park and consists of four diff erent events; The consists of four diff erent events; The Ultra-50K, a full marathon of 26.2 miles, the half marathon (13.1 miles) , and the half marathon (13.1 miles) , and fi nally the 10K run. People will be up fi nally the 10K run. People will be up bright and early for this already daunting bright and early for this already daunting event. The 50K and full marathon both kick off while the sun is still snoozing away at 4:30 a.m. Just an hour later, the half marathon starts at 5:45a.m, with the 10k starting minutes afterward at 6 a.m. The routes vary for each of the races. This time last year, 840 people were in full training mode preparing to compete in this event. mode preparing to compete in this event. This year the numbers are a bit lower but This year the numbers are a bit lower but still signifi cant with at least 680 expected to compete. Many people make quite the trek to compete in this event; organizers look forward to visitors from the U.S. mainland,

China, Japan, and Korea.Only a few days later, another athletic

bunch will be lining up to compete in the Xterra. Organized by Taga Inc. this triathlon is Xterra. Organized by Taga Inc. this triathlon is slated to begin at 6:30 a.m. on March 9 and slated to begin at 6:30 a.m. on March 9 and fi nish sometime before 10 a.m. Sanctioned by the USA Triathlon, this event pulls in approximately 100 competitors, a few of which will be professional triathletes. The triathlon begins with the Xterra Saipan Championship consisting of a 1.5K swim, followed by the 20k Mountain Bike leg and the last part of the competition...the 12K run. The Xterra Sport kicks off at the same 6:30 a.m. start time but is considerably shorter with a 750m swim, 20K Mountain Bike, and 5K run. And not to leave the kids hanging, there is an Xterra Kids Bike

former two events and all participants receive an award.former two events and all participants receive an award.

on Saipan

MARCH 20134

ON THE ROAD

Then there is the Tagaman. Proudly in its 24th year, this triathlon will take place March 16 at 6 a.m. Similar to the Xterra, this competition is also sanctioned by the USA Triathlon, thus there will be quite a few familiar faces from the previous event as competitors from off-island extend their stay to compete in both events. This event will begin at PIC and wrap up hours later at Micro Beach. The main triathlon consists of a 2km swim, 60km bike, and 15k run. The Tagaman can be done individually or teams can divvy up the load and compete against one another. Similar to the Xterra, there is also a kid’s event, appropriately named Tagakids Triathlon.

The Marianas March Against Cancer is a different type of event. Certainly the more philanthropic of the before mentioned events, this walkathon and fundraiser has little to do with

competition and more to do with supporting and promoting health and wellness. With that being said, there is still quite a bit of stamina needed to complete the longest walk. The most challenging event is a 10K walk followed by a 5K walk and the Headstart 2K walk for children. This year’s April 13 event will mark the 27th year, making it the oldest of these four events and with 2,500 plus participants, it also has the most significant turnout. A major contributor to these great numbers is the fact that the event will take place on three islands: Saipan, Tinian, and Rota.

So without a doubt, Saipan is making a name for itself when it comes to competitive sports, particularly with outdoor

running events. Whether you are a true beginner or a seasoned veteran, Saipan is a great place to get outdoors and get active. Quite possibly one of the more encouraging, supportive communities of athletes, this island is jammed packed with ways to get involved athletically and people anxiously awaiting to show you how. This island is in no way limited to intense competitions of marathons and triathlons; there is so much more to offer. Whether you’re game for an early morning paddle, a fun matchup between soccer teams, or the crashing of helmets on the football field, you truly can find your place here on Saipan...if you just get out and get moving!

5MARCH 2013

ON THE ROAD

SPOR

TS

The WENO Under 18 Track and Field Team practice at the Ada Gym track on Feb. 25. (From left) Corina Suda, Traina Suda, Rose Robert, Derek Suda, Fremy Peter, Kayleen Saay, Thea Olopai, Modlyn Assito and Noel Simina.

The MISO (Marianas Interscholastic Sports Organization) Girls Indoor Volleyball End of Season Tournament on Feb. 23 at Marianas High School Gym features the game between Saipan International School and Mount Carmel School. (Contributed photo)Saipan bowlers practicing on Jan. 21 at J’s

Restaurant 1 & Bowling Lanes are (from left) Ruselle Zapanta, Simon Manacop and Raymond Zapanta. (Photo courtesy of PBA Saipan)

The San Roque D’9ers took time out to pose for BRM in their dugout at the Ada Gym Baseball

Field Feb. 25. Composed of 17 squad members aged 17 to 30, the team is managed by Roman

Reyes and its coach is Robert Lizama.

The CNMI Sharks Men’s Football Team practices daily from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Saipan Airport field.

Roundup

7MARCH 2013

ON THE ROAD

MARCH 20138

Members of the Beach Road Magazine team met McDonald’s executives on Jan. 25 at the Chalan Laulau Restaurant. Shown (from left) are Ana Olaes, marketing manager at McDonald’s; Maureen N. Maratita, publisher of Glimpses Publications; Minda Castro, account manager for BRM; and Marcia Ayuyu, co-franchisee of McDonald’s.

Winchell’s Susupe staff posed for BRM at the Susupe store on Feb. 1. (From left) Rodney Sacramento, Lorena Adriano, Marlon Sison, Saipan operations manager, and Cris Pizuelo.

The Diocese of Chalan Kanoa held an anniversary fundraiser at Pacific Islands Club Saipan on Jan. 25. (From left) Lt. Governor Eloy Inos, Fr. Rey Rosal, Fr. Celso Magbanua , Noemi Gorospe, Susan de Veyra, Olive Yana and other supporters.

Rick Brien with wife, Crisanta, and children Lian (front) and Xavier in Susupe Park Beach on Feb. 2.

Farmer Gary Tudela with staff member Adeline at the Sabalu Market on Feb 16.

Partners In Print facilitators from William S. Reyes Elementary School held a PIP session on Feb. 7 at the school. (From left) Erna Kapileo, Vice Principal Marjie Pangelinan, Monica Pangelinan and Julie Kapileo.

Karcy, wearing a beautiful Chuukese necklace, was an excited spectator.

The members, participants and delegation during the opening ceremony of the competition.

9MARCH 2013

ON THE ROAD

Officers Nick Leon Guerrero and Rudolfo Hermosilla of the Department of Public Safety patrol the school vicinity to make sure the children and participants are safe.

The graceful Alana’Ia dancers provided entertainment during the event.

William S. Reyes Elementary School hosted a Family Fun Night at the school on Feb. 15. Here are some photos taken during the event:Some members of the MHS Chamorro Club Dancers (below left) and L J Castro (below right) kept the program rolling as emcee of the Family Fun Night.

Winners of Miss Pusong Pinoy 2013 held at Garapan Fishing Base on Feb. 17.

Happy 8th birthday, Samantha Victoria.

Cecilia Pagapular and Sr. Stella Mangona.

MARCH 201310

ON THE ROAD

Each “season” brings different opportunities. Enthusiasts of all levels can test their skills under the sun.

Pacific Islands Club Saipan offers a wide variety of exciting and unique sports for all ages. The resorts signature attraction is the Point Break Wave Machine. The ride houses four high pressure pumps which shoot 50,000 gallons of water over a sloped, cushioned surface. The thin sheet of water creates a standing wave which can be ridden for minutes at a time as opposed to just a few seconds in the ocean. First time riders receive simple instructions from our trained staff. Coached into the

Discover a tempting menu of sports at PIC Saipan

wave, proper riding technique is key in order to maintain your position. After just a few practice runs, guests find themselves quickly advancing though the laundry list of tricks and maneuvers. PIC Saipan offers bodyboarding and stand up flowboarding daily. In September of each year, PIC Saipan hosts the islands Point Break Open. Competitors from Japan, Korea and Guam battle with Saipan’s finest.

For a happy time in the ocean, the Philippine Sea is just a few meters away. PIC Saipan offers daily windsurfing lessons for kids and adults. If Mother Nature is taking a break and the wind just isn’t blowing, guests can tour the lagoon on a stand up

paddle board. Recently made popular, this version of the “Sport of Kings” is an easy and fun way for kids and adults to get a work out in while taking in the sites of the crystal clear waters. The board is 11’ in length, at least 30” wide and between four to five inches thick. The boards are very stable and offer a unique view of the ocean bottom.

As well as water sports, PIC Saipan offers daily tennis lessons. Kids or beginners can receive an hour long lesson at either 3 p.m. or 4 p.m. For the more versed player, PIC offers a unique “Hitting Partner” program. The guest will be paired up with one of the friendly Clubmates or partnered up with another guest of a similar skill level. This year, PIC will be hosting the ITF JR Qualifier Tournament this coming May 20 to 26. The region’s top Juniors will be playing for valuable ranking points.

Saipan offers so many different venues for so many different sports; it is truly a playground in paradise. PIC offers a number of exciting sports throughout its property with staff who are more than happy to ensure guests get the play time and guidance they need.

Aside from the beautiful beaches and tranquil waters, tourists and residents alike can enjoy a wide variety of sports here in Saipan.

11MARCH 2013

SPECIAL FEATURE

MARCH 201312

MarchBRM GUIDE TO

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

www.facebook.com/beachroadmagazine

Proudly serves refreshing beverages.

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

12th Annual XTERRA Saipan Championships

21 And OverJack The Giant Slayer

The Last Exorcism Part IIPremier at the

Hollywood ThetherPhantom

Stoker8th Annual Festival of Runs

Oz: The Great and Powerful

Dead Man DownEmperor

Premier at the Hollywood Thether

The CallThe Incredible Burt

WonderstoneGinger and Rosa

Premier at the Hollywood Thether

The CroodsAdmission

Olympus Has FallenInAPPropriate Comedy

Spring BreakersThe SapphiresPremier at the

Hollywood Thether

GI Joe: RetaliationThe Host

Tyler Perry’s Temptation: Confessions of a Marriage

CounselorThe Place Beyond the Pines

Spring Breakers

2013 Taga Kid’s Triathlon9th Annual Mahi Fishing Derby

5th Marianas Winds Kit Festival & Cultural Food FairSt. Patrick’s Day

Saipan Swim Club Annual Ocean Swim Around the TanksCommonwealth Covenant DayEaster Sunday

31st Annual Micronesian Open Windsurfing Championships

12th Annual XTERRA Saipan Championships

1 2

3 4 5 6 7 8 9

10 11 12 13 14 15 16

17 18 19 20 21 22 23

24/31 25 26 27 28 29 30

So the campaign team cap-tured the Laolao stories of lo-cal fi sherman, hikers, cultural practitioners and families

and shared them on the campaign Web site, OurLaolao.com, and on Facebook. The campaign team also promoted their stories on local radio shows, with newspaper ads, radio public service announcements and televisions commercials.

Behind the scenes, the campaign is a unique collaborative eff ort between government agencies and nonprofi t or-ganizations in Saipan, including the Di-vision of Environmental Quality, Coastal Resources Management, the Division of Fish and Wildlife, the Mariana Islands Na-ture Alliance, Sea Web and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra-tion Coral Reef Conservation Program.

These partners also worked to reach out to people face-to-face, with booths at local events and other activi-ties, such as story contests for local stu-dents and fl ash mobs. The campaign also had a presence in the bay. The Mariana Islands Nature Alliance runs a program called Tasi Watch, which trains volunteers to patrol Laolao Bay and monitor behav-ior. The Tasi Watch rangers have become increasingly passionate about the cam-

Happy Anniversary Laolao

paign, conducting outreach and model-ing good behaviors in Laolao, such as picking up trash.

So after a year of Our Laolao, did the strategy work? Preliminary data suggest that littering decreased over the fi rst 8 months of the campaign. In January 2012, prior to the launch, litter totals for a cleanup were as high as 360 pounds

of trash dragged out of the bay on one cleanup, dropping to 97 pounds in Octo-ber.

The preliminary data is consistent with observations of the Tasi Watch rang-ers. “Since the launch of the campaign… the amount of litter in Laolao has less-ened over time,” says Tasi watch ranger Petrus Nicky. In fact, the Tasi Watch is re-porting in recent months that volunteer beach cleanups are no longer necessary as the rangers can keep litter under con-trol on their regular rounds.

As the campaign enters its second year, the hopes are high that Our Laolao and its partners can continue to reduce littering in Laolao by elevating commu-nity voices. Always ambitious, the cam-paign team also hopes the community movement started in Laolao will spill over into other areas of Saipan, and to Tinian and Rota. To learn more, visit OurLaolao.com.

When it launched a year ago, the Our Laolao Litter-Free, On Land and Sea campaign’s strategy was simple: If you gave community members a chance to share why they believe Laolao Bay is special, it would be hard for visitors to throw trash on their memories.

Winners of the 2nd Our Laolao Story Contest.

Northern Marianas Academy students hosting the Our Laolao radio show.

Our Laolao ribbon cutting.

15MARCH 2013

ENVIRONMENT

The McDonald’s brand has truly made a name for itself. Restaurant locations around the world fortunate enough to bear the McDonald’s name are known for their longevity, aff ordability, family friendly menus, and countless other things that would make any brand blush.

Two decades of feeding Saipan

make any brand blush.

McDonald’s Saipan

17MARCH 2013

SPECIAL FEATURE

business, Ana Olaes (15 years) and Em-manuel Vital (20 years) to name a few.

With Olaes and Obtinalla sitting across the table, Marcia Ayuyu is quick to share how much she cares for and ad-mires these women. “They are so hard-working and dedicated to their jobs.” Obviously very close, the three women jokingly say that they don’t need to work out because they spend so much time running up and down the McDonald’s business offi ce stairs to each others’ of-fi ces. The close knit working relationship and friendship echoes throughout the McDonald’s offi ce and store locations. Staff members genuinely enjoy their jobs and are quick to give credit to a great work environment, co-workers that have become like family, and incredibly authentic and loving management.

It’s hard to believe that all of this started with a simple dream.

Jose “Joe” Ayuyu heard that McDon-ald’s was looking at placing a location on Saipan. He submitted an application, along with several interested candidates, not knowing what would come out of it. And as the saying goes, the rest is history.

Flash forward two decades to an anniversary creating island-wide excite-

n Saipan, our two McDonald’s locations have come to be known for the above ac-colades and so much more. This month, 20 years ago, the 62,384 square foot McDonalds on Middle Road opened its doors to 3,000 customers, just a small taste of the successes to come. The gold-en arches radiate just a bit brighter this month and smiles are a dime a dozen for this “family” of close to 70 staff mem-bers that keep this business at its best. Obviously there is a great sense of pride amongst all involved, which can largely be attributed to franchise owners, Jose and Marcia Ayuyu, who have a true gift for making each employee feel like a val-ued, extended part of their family. There really is something “golden” about Mc-Donalds Saipan Ask just about anyone on island and they will tell you that this celebratory occasion couldn’t be tied to a more deserving franchise, family, or staff .

The Middle Road location opened March 18, 1993. Close to four years later, in December of 1996, the second location opened in Garapan. From the very begin-ning, the Ayuyus have credited much of their franchise success to the dedication of their staff , particularly those who have been around since very early on in the

oThrough 20 years,

McDonald’s Saipan has shared

its success by giving back to the community in so

many ways.

MARCH 201318

SPECIAL FEATURE

ment. Though there are employees that witnessed several anniversaries, this 20th year is hugely memorable and rightfully so. The Ayuyu’s are pulling out all the stops to celebrate this momentous occa-sion and they are inviting the McDonalds staff, their vendors, and the entire Saipan community to join in the fun. Saipan will fill the Middle Road location on March 16 as everyone stop by to celebrate with McDonalds. There will be family friendly games, a dance crew competition, raf-fles, and of course food, all in honor of a dream fulfilled.

Through 20 years, McDonald’s Saipan has shared its success by giving back to the community in so many ways.

McDonald’s supports the McTeach-er’s Night Program where teachers assist McDonald’s stores in efforts to fundraise for the public school they represent. The Ayuyu’s and the McDonald’s team have proven themselves dedicated to making

sure that McDonald’s is a major financial contributor to educational institutions on Saipan.

In addition, McDonald’s helps or-ganizations such as the American Red Cross, the Saipan Little League Organiza-tion, Karidat Social Services, and many others.

Another notable way it gives back to the community is one that is incred-ibly relevant in the midst of challenging economical times. McDonald’s is always a stable and reliable source of employ-ment for residents of Saipan. Staff credit McDonald’s for successfully providing better living situations and education for their families. Obviously, the Ayuyu’s are well aware of the importance of support-ing the community that sustains your business.

What keeps McDonald’s Saipan flourishing is its ability to adapt and keep things fresh. And with 20 years under its

“And then there will be a celebration for customers; this is an exciting time for the

community.” – Jose “Joe” Ayuyu,

president of McDonald’s Saipan

L-R (Standing) Ana S. Olaes, Gisel Dela Rosa, Crisanta Daliva, Narme Mendoza, Marissa Obtinalla, Ruthzel Perez, Joyce Asistores, Kisina Hossain and Store General Manager, Marcia E. Ayuyu. L-R (Sitting) Joseph Achas, Manolito Corpuz, Charlie Achas, Sergio Achas, Emmanuel James Bautista and Narlou Achas

19MARCH 2013

SPECIAL FEATURE

belt comes great confidence and fresh motivation to move into overdrive. Last year alone, changes were made for the better. A new POS system was put into place, as well as the Arch card- McDonald’s version of gift cards.

Also, menus now include calorie intake for those closely monitoring their diets. So 2013 is sure to be even more grand, especially with new delicious options being added to the menu. Strategically rolled out on Ash Wednesday and just time for Lent are the Fish McBites. With March comes the Shamrock Shake, a limited time offer that had great success last year. April brings about the limited time Steak Burrito as well as two per-manent fixtures; the McWrap and egg whites, a healthier break-fast choice that can be ordered in place of standard scrambled eggs.

In addition to the menu additions and changes, a facility-facelift is in the works. The plans are still in the works and exact details have yet to be disclosed but there is excitement about the possibilities. “It’s been 20 years and we have been looking to add a new look.” Mrs. Ayuyu says.

The first McDonald’s was opened in

1955 by founder Ray Kroc.

The Ayuyu’s are grateful for the present and looking to the future.

Marcia Ayuyu never stops looking ahead. “I’m looking for-ward to another 20 years or more,” she says. Despite their great success as a family, the franchise owners are quick to attribute McDonald’s success to the customers; whether patrons stop by daily, weekly, or just once in a while. “Being here 20 years is amazing. On behalf of me and my family, we want to thank our customers for their patronage. All these years; we wouldn’t be here without you. We look forward to serving you for years to come.” Undoubtedly, McDonald’s has had an impressive 20 years and we can only imagine an even more glorious 20 more to come for Saipan’s favorite fast food restaurant.

“We’re very thankful for our employees. Without them it would be hard for us to grow

our business.” – Jose “Joe” Ayuyu, president of McDonald’s Saipan

MARCH 201320

SPECIAL FEATURE

McDonald’sMcDonald’sMcDonald’sMcDonald’sMcDonald’s

(L-R) President and Owner Joe C. Ayuyu, Former CNMI Gov. Juan Babauta, Ronald McDonald and Marcia E. Ayuyu – During the McDonald ‘s 10th year anniversary celebration

McDonald’s Restaurant at Chalan Pale Arnold Road

(L-R) Mable E. Ayuyu, James Sablan, Dinda Marmar, Marcia E. Ayuyu and Joe C. Ayuyu – Saipan Chamber of Commerce awarded Marcia Ayuyu as Business Person of the Year 2012

McDonald’s Restaurant Management Team

McDonald’s Restaurant at Chalan Pale Arnold Road

McDonald’sMcDonald’sMcDonald’sMcDonald’sMcDonald’s

McDonald’s Annual CompanyChristmas Party

Ana Olaes received her 15 years Service Award

Angelica B. DarlucioEmployee of the Year 2012

Gil Gapor received his Perfect Attendance Award

Jennelyn Dick received her Perfect Attendance Award

MARCH 201324

Timothy Deleon GuerreroBack Production 7 months with McDonald’sStarting position: Back ProductionFavorite McDonald’s product: Big Mac and Angus Mushroom and Swiss BurgerAbout McDonald’s: “I like working at McDonalds because all the staff are nice. We get along with each other.”

My McDonald’s Some of the McDonald’s Saipan Team share thoughts about their work experience.

Emmanuel VitalMaintenance Years with McDonald’s: 20 yearsStarting position: MaintenanceFavorite McDonald’s product/s: Everything; especially French Fries.About McDonald’s: “The management and boss treat me like family. I am so happy I found this company. They are so nice to me.”

Charmaine Anjelyn Leavitt (Employee of the 1st Quarter (Middle Road) 2013)Cashier Crew Member1 year with McDonaldsStarting position: Back ProductionFavorite McDonald’s product: Nuggets with Sweet Chili SauceAbout McDonald’s: “I am grateful that McDonalds gave me the opportunity to work and go to school at the same time.”

Harelene EspeletaCashier Crew Member1 year with McDonaldsStarting position: Back ProductionFavorite McDonald’s product: Angus Mushroom Snack WrapAbout McDonald’s: “I like working at McDonalds because I like meeting new people and making new friends. We [the staff] cannot separate; even after work we hang out. We create “golden” moments.”

Reynaldo “Hapi” GabrielCashier Crew MemberYears with McDonald’s: 1 year 4 months (Cashier)/ 20 years (Clown)Starting position: Clown/Party Host Favorite McDonald’s product: Classic Grilled Chicken Sandwich, Southwest Salad, and Chicken WrapsAbout McDonald’s: “Good friends; good co-workers; awesome boss. My favorite memory is when everyone did something to help me out when my mother died. They did a hot lunch fundraiser for me and my family in the Philippines. I didn’t ask; they just did it.”

by Kayla Wood

25MARCH 2013

SPECIAL FEATURE

Gissel DelaRosa AchasGuest Services Department Manager Years with McDonald’s: 12 yearsStarting position: Cashier Crew MemberFavorite McDonald’s product/s: French FriesAbout McDonald’s: “I enjoy working with my co-workers. I love my environment. I still enjoy working here after 12 years.”

Marissa E. ObtinallaAccountingYears with McDonald’s: 14 yearsStarting position: AccountingFavorite McDonald’s product/s: French FriesAbout McDonald’s: “We treat each other like family. It’s a happy atmosphere.”

McDonald’s serves approximately

of fries a day.

9 million pounds

MARCH 201326

SPECIAL FEATURE

More McDonald’sMcDonald’s Saipan, like all other restaurants in the chain is constantly introducing new selections to its menu, while of course retaining the island’s favorites. So what’s ahead in McDonald’s of Saipan for its loyal customers? These new off erings will tempt your palate soon!

• Shamrock McCafe Shake• Steak Burrito• McWrap• Egg White Breakfast

27MARCH 2013

SPECIAL FEATURE