LibFest on hold but coronation still a go

The 2004 Liberation Festival was hit with a huge blow, courtesy of Typhoon Tingting, and will not resume until further notice by the event’s executive committee.

Committee chair Vic Cepeda said yesterday over 12 booths were destroyed or are in need of repair.

“I can’t really give a specific number, but three units holding 12 booths were severely damaged,” he said. “The number is probably more, and I am urging all booth owners and vendors, if they can help repair and fix the booths, that will be a big help. There are people that have been designated to begin repair of the booths and other damages; however, assistance by the vendors will make things go faster.”

The site’s command post also collapsed, and the stage area was damaged.

Cepeda said much has to be done before giving the green light to festival activities.

“It’s not just repairing the booths,” he said. “We have electrical issues that we must tend to before opening up again,” he said.

Further, Cepeda said all rides will have to be inspected. “Like the electrical wiring, all the rides have to be inspected. This is just for safety. We don’t want to take any chances, so until those are okay, we will not resume with the carnival,” he said.

Cepeda said the carnival might resume this evening—but that is a big might. “It’s possible to resume [today], but again, that depends whether everything is fixed and ready. If not, then hopefully by [tomorrow].”

The chairman added that the coronation for the 2004 Liberation Royal Court set for Friday, July 2, will go on as scheduled, as well as the Liberation parade on Sunday, July 4.

He said results from the counting of tickets are ready, but as reported earlier, will not be revealed until coronation night.

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

Whoever is crowned queen receives a $1,000 scholarship, while the first and second runners-up receive $700 and $500 scholarships. Each candidate will also receive a crown, a scepter, a royal robe, a necklace or bracelet, and two gowns.

Immediately following the coronation will be the Queen’s Ball, which Cepeda said will take place at the Hafa Adai Beach Hotel.

Also, Cepeda would like to remind the public that this year’s Liberation parade will take a different course, beginning at the National Office Supply and concluding at the Kristo Rai Church. The parade is scheduled to begin at 9am.

So far, a confirmed number of 30 marchers and floats will be featured during the parade.

Cepeda said a meeting about the parade would be held today at 6pm at the Office of the Saipan Mayor. Yesterday’s meeting was postponed as officials were at the carnival site for inspections and repair.