Counting of Liberation Royal Court tickets today

A new Liberation Queen will emerge from the 2004 Liberation Royal Court as officials tally the number of tickets sold by each candidate today at the Office of the Saipan Mayor.

Although the results of the counting is expected to be completed tonight, the announcement of the final rankings of each of the eight candidates will not be revealed until the Liberation Royal Court Coronation on July 2.

According to Queen’s Committee chair Rose Ada-Hocog, tickets can still be purchased; however, all must be submitted no later than 4pm.

“The doors will be locked at 4:30pm, and no tickets will be allowed after,” she said. “There will be security at the area.”

The final ranking of candidates will be based on the amount of tickets sold. Ten percent of the money will remain with the candidate and her parents, another 10 percent will be used to pay for expenses for an upcoming trip to Nagoya, Japan, while the rest will remain with the Liberation Fest committee for other expenses.

“They all win,” said Hocog said in an earlier interview. “It’s just that it will be in ranking file, but just taking part in this and going through everything makes them all winners.”

Vying for the coveted crown are Lady Heather O. Woodruff, who represents the Palauan community; Lady Sweeda N. Glad, who represents the Indian community; Lady Leiana K. Ogumoro, who represents the Refaluwasch Foundation and community; Lady Sarah T. Igisaiar, who represents the Chuukese community; Lady Myla Capilitan, who represents the Filipino community; Lady Sheyvonne Aldan, who represents the Chamorro community; Lady Monarie R. Cabrera, who represents Kagman High School JROTC; and Lady Nadia B. Manglona, who represents Rota and the Rota High School JROTC.

Whoever is crowned queen will receive $1,000 in scholarship, while the first and second runners-up receive $700 and $500 in scholarships.

Hocog disclosed that the coronation, which will held at the Liberation Fest carnival grounds at the Garapan Fishing Base and unfolds at 7pm, would feature a serenade by local artist Walter Manglona.

Each candidate would receive a crown, a scepter, a royal robe, and a necklace or bracelet, and two gowns. Each candidate would also receive gifts courtesy of Duty Free Shoppers Galleria and flowers courtesy of various floral shops.

Immediately following the coronation is the Liberation Royal Ball, which will feature entertainment by a Japanese drum group as well as the Royal Court and the Tipiyeew Dancers. Hocog said the candidates have been taking dance lessons from local dance instructor Frances C. Keremius and the Tipiyeew Dancers.