Community Briefs – January 28, 2020

Public warned of rip currents

The public is being warned of a high risk of rip currents through Wednesday along east facing reefs. Surf as high as 11 feet will result in a high risk of rip currents through Wednesday.
Based on information received from the National Weather Service in Tiyan, Guam, and compiled at the CNMI Emergency Operations Center State Warning Point, an east swell will maintain dangerous rip currents on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota.
If caught in a rip current, remain calm. Stay afloat while waiting for help. To swim out of a rip current, swim parallel to shore and back toward the beach when possible. Do not attempt to swim directly against a rip current as you will tire quickly. The public is advised to avoid venturing near the reef line, especially along east facing reefs. Large waves may knock you down and injure you. Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water. Stay out of the water. (PR)

DMS sets PTSA meeting

The Dandan Middle School will have a Parents Teachers Students Association meeting today, Jan. 28, starting at 6pm in the school’s cafeteria. The PTSA is hosting the Totot Bash on Friday, Jan. 31, 2020, from 5pm to 9pm. Currently, students, teachers, and parents are selling raffle tickets for the annual bash. The community is invited to a family fun night on Friday and enjoy the entertainment, games and food! (PR)

Bermudes and Matanane back on board

Chief band master Jessica Pangelinan and The Guam Territorial Band board of trustees announced yesterday the return of its creative director, John Bermudes, and the promotion of Joanne Matanane to artistic director of the Tumon Bay Music Festival. 
Both Bermudes and Matanane bring years of management and design to TBMF, which is in its 16th year of operation. Founded by former GTB chief band master Max Ronquillo Jr., the festival continues to serve as an avenue for musicians to collaborate with others via the platform of music education. (PR)

Veterans Affairs Resource Fair set

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is having a Veterans Resource Fair hosted by VA Pacific Islands Health Care System acting director Kevin Amick and Honolulu Veterans Benefits Regional Office director Sergio S. Chao.
This is to share information and resources, hear feedback from veterans and to answer questions on VA health care and benefits.
The Veterans Resource Fair on Saipan will take place on Feb. 4, 2020, from 5pm to 6:30pm at the Pedro P. Tenorio Multi-Purpose Center in Susupe near the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library.
The Listening Sessions on Tinian and Rota will be held on the following dates and time:
Tinian: Feb. 5, 2020, from 10am to 12:30 pm at the Tinian Library.
Rota: Feb. 6, 2020, from 10am to 12:30pm at the Mayor of Rota’s conference hall.
All veterans, their families, survivors and any organization(s) or individual(s) who works with or on behalf of veterans are encouraged to attend.
For more information, contact Ruth Coleman at 322-0035. (PR)