Community Briefs – February 12, 2019

Notice to all weightlifting athletes

To all persons interested in competing in international weightlifting competitions, CNMI Weightlifting has recently become a member of the International Weightlifting Federation. A meeting to discuss the benefits and requirements of IWF will be held tomorrow, Feb. 13, 2019, starting at 6:30pm at the NMPASI conference room.

In order to meet certain deadlines set by IWF, current and prospective weightlifters should attend this meeting and bring with them a copy of their passport and a photo (face of athlete only). Registration forms can be obtained in advance from Jeanne Rayphand at jeanneesq@yahoo.com. Registration forms will also be available for completion at the meeting.

For more information, contact John Davis by email at johnhdavisjr@gmail.com. (PR)

SSHS returns to full-day schedule

This is to inform all parents and legal guardians that Saipan Southern High School returned to full-day schedule starting yesterday, Feb. 11, 2019. Should there be any questions, call the school at 664-4000 or 783-8988. (PR)

FOA membership meeting

To all members and friends of Friends of the Arts, come and join us for a special Valentine’s Day occasion this Thursday, Feb. 14, at the Everest Kitchen Restaurant. Come and enjoy a delicious Nepalese dinner and musical entertainment by the Marianas High School Glee Club and the Community Choir, plus a special magic show by Neil Fama.

Meet the FOA board and members. The dinner cost is $15 for adults and $10 for children under 11. The Everest Kitchen is located on Micro Beach Road between the hospital corner light and the Beach Road fire station corner, next to the Bridge Capital office. Please join us at 6:30pm.

You do not have to be a member of Friends of the Arts to join us for this special evening. Please make a reservation by contacting Frank Gibson by e-mail at flgibson@yahoo.com or by phone or text at 287-7476. (PR)

High risk of rip currents until Wednesday

Based on the information received from the National Weather Service in Tiyan, Guam, and compiled at the CNMI Emergency Operations Center State Warning Point, a large trade-wind swell will continue to produce a high risk of rip currents along east facing reefs through the middle of next week. That means a high risk of rip currents on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota through Wednesday night. Along east facing reefs, breaking surf of 7 to 9 feet will maintain a high risk of rip currents through at least Wednesday night.

The public is being advised to avoid venturing near reefs and beaches, especially those facing east. Strong rip currents will be life threatening. If you become caught in a rip current. remain calm. swim parallel to shore, then back toward the beach when possible. heed the advice of lifeguards, beach patrol flags, and signs. (PR)

State Warning Point at 237-8000. (PR)

Military to conduct trainings

ASAN, Guam—The U.S. Marine Corps and Air Force will conduct training at Farallon de Medinilla during the following dates and times:

-7am to 9:30pm, Feb. 12-14
-11:30am to 6:45pm, Feb. 15

Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25 will conduct training from 6-11:45pm Feb. 12 at the former Adm. Nimitz Golf Course in Barrigada.

The Air Force will also conduct training from 8am to 8pm on Feb. 13 at Warning Area 12 and Warning Area 517.

The open-ocean exercise will take place within a 10-nautical mile radius of the following coordinates: 13° 26″N/145° 08″E, 13° 42″N/144° 36″E.

It is recommended the public, commercial pilots, fishermen and marine tour operators stay clear from this area during the date and time indicated.

The general location of the training on the island of Farallon de Medinilla will be in a 12-nautical mile radius of the island. F

The public should be advised that routine helicopter training often accompanied with the use of blanks can occur during training at the former Adm. Nimitz Golf Course.

W-12 begins south of Guam and extends south-southwest in international waters. W-12 supports surface and aerial gunnery, missiles and laser exercises.

W-517 is activated south of latitude 12° 40’ 00″N. Santa Rosa Reef and Galvez Banks will be open for public use. W-517 begins south of Guam and extends south-southwest in international waters.

These types of trainings are designed to enhance the readiness of military personnel. Residents in surrounding areas should not be alarmed if they see or hear increased activity associated with the training. (PR)