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Rota holds inaugural 4th of July celebration
Rota held its first Independence Day celebration last week, after postponing the three-day event due to typhoons Chanhom and Nangka. Mayor Efraim M. Atalig, members of the 15th Rota Municipal Council, and the Rota Legislative Delegation hosted the 4th of July revelry, themed “Peace in Diversity.”
According to special assistant for programs and grants Aubry Hocog, the festivities kicked off last Tuesday with a karaoke contest, which garnered 20 participants. On Wednesday, residents took part in a tong-its (a type of card game) and Texas Hold’em tournament along with a family movie night.
Dr. Hu Bo, members of the Skywalker Communications Group, Saipan Liberation Royal Court, and Rota officials pose for a photo at the Joaquin M. Ogo Baseball Field in Sinapalo 1 during the island’s first Independence Day celebration. (Thomas A. Manglona II)
Rota’s Department of Lands and Natural Resources’ float. (Thomas A. Manglona II)
Rota police officers escort floats throughout Sinapalo village while residents and tourists look on. (Thomas A. Manglona II)
The event culminated with a mini-float parade at the Joaquin M. Ogo Baseball field in Sinapalo 1. Out of 10 participating agencies, the Commonwealth Utilities Corp. won first place for best float, the Department of Lands and Natural Resources came in second, and the Inetnon Man Amako’ Luta Association took third.
“This was the first time this event occurred and it turned out to be a success as majority of the members of our community came out to support, cheer, and participate in our events,” Hocog told Saipan Tribune in an email. “Local vendors were present to sell their food and other items.”
Dr. Hu Bo and members of the Skywalker Communications Group as well as the Saipan Liberation Royal Court were in attendance.
In his brief address, Atalig expressed his appreciation for the men and women serving in the armed forces so that citizens can pursue the American dream.
According to Hocog, “It has always been the mayor’s desire and intent to provide programs and events for the people of Rota.”
The mayor’s office plans to host monthly community events for residents and tourists to enjoy in the future.
