Gov’t agencies gather for Labor Day festivities By Marian A. Maraya

The Commonwealth paid tribute yesterday to hardworking members of its local workforce as the whole community joined the Labor Day 2000 festivities at the American Memorial Park.

The event drew close to 1,500 government employees with their families for a lineup of fun-filled activities held throughout the day.

“Labor day has been reserved to celebrate employees who have worked hard all year. . . so we can all have fun, boogie down with our families, and have a safe and merry gathering.
With the beautiful weather, beautiful people . . . it is a beautiful day to celebrate,” said 2000 Labor Day Committee Chair John Oliver Gonzales.

The whole-day event was loaded with live entertainment featuring local performers such as the Tropicset (new generation) band, Tiare dancers, Rhythm and Blues band, Takahaunui dancers, and other surprise numbers.

The celebration also highlighted fun-filled games participated in by teams from different government agencies.

Aside from the traditional obstacle course, tug-of-war, pie eating contest, balloon toss, and dance contest, this year’s Labor Day festivities also added a recycling contest among agencies.

“We want to promote cleanliness and preserve a greener earth so we included this competition in our line up of activities,” said Mr. Gonzales.

Winners of the department Employees of the Year were also recognized for their exemplary performances throughout the year.

Saipan’s 1998-1999 Overall Department Employee of the Year award went to Dewayne Duenas of the Department of Lands and Natural Resources.

Mariano Iglesias of the Commonwealth Utilities Corporation was also hailed as the 1999-2000O overall Department Employee of the Year, besting 20 other department candidates for the award.

The outstanding employees received plaques and a $500 cash bonus.

The theme for this year’s celebration is “Strength through diversity and unity.”
Governor Pedro P. Tenorio, during yesterday’s ceremony, said there is much to gain in accepting CNMI’s diversity.

“Rather than distancing ourselves from those who are different, let us consider our differences as alternatives for problem-solving and greater productivity,” he said.

The governor also extended appreciation to CNMI employees, as well as the private sector for its role in recognizing hardworking employees whose contributions to the CNMI are invaluable.