Journal 1/4/1983
P1 Nitijela opens 4th constitutional meet
The Marshall Islands High School Glee Club sang at Nitijela’s official opening of the 1983 session with such compositions as “Give me oil in my lamp, I pray.” President Amata Kabua and other Nitijela members reaffirmed the Republic’s commitment to the Almighty ever since the missionaries arrived in the Marshalls over 100 years ago. Minister Charles Domnick, Maloelap, complained about the Christmas on Maloelap not being celebrated or being postponed because no ships brought the people their needs. Minister of T&C Atjang Paul explained why no ships have taken Maloelap’s route in recent months — funeral, typhoon and engine problems — and promised an immediate trip “within a day or two.” There were refreshments and more Christmas related songs from the MIHS Glee Club. It was still like Christmas as government dignitaries came to witness the opening.
P2 Government takeover
Some of the youth who took over government positions this week included Molly Helkena (Finance Secretary), Elizabeth Jack (Nitijela Clerk), Ronna Helkena (Health Secretary), Brenda Alik (T&C Secretary), Della Wase (Internal Affairs Secretary), Alex Maine (MTU leader), Yoshi Kaneko (R&D Minister), Dwight Heine (T&C Minister), Percy Benjamin (Finance Minister), Lyndon Kadu (Health Minister), Wilbur Anni (Internal Security Minister), Steve Kattil (Health Minister), Todd Arelong (Internal Security Minister), Anderson Kattil (Education Minister), Loretta Joseph (R&D Secretary), Winako Allen (Education Secretary), and Brenda Mellan (Social Services Secretary).
Journal 1/3/1992
P1 Rongelap N-study a first
When you’ve been the subject of nearly 40 years of studies it may seem odd that the prospect of another study is bringing joy to the Rongelap community. But Rongelap Senator Jeton Anjain said the US Congress’ funding for the so-called “phase two” studies of Rongelap is the best Christmas gift the US could have given the community. “I feel different about this study because nothing can be done without Rongelap,” he said.
P2 M-Polen tape a hit in Majuro
The first professionally produced recording of Marshallese music since the mid-1980s hit the stores in Majuro last week. The first day, DAR sold 200 of the cassette tapes by M-Polen, said Betwel Lekka who engineered the recording at his home studio in Long Island.
P9 Mejit fishermen lost, then found
A 14-foot outboard engine boat with three fishermen was lost off Mejit Island Thursday but was found Saturday on Ailuk Atoll. Alden Lakjon, Remon Hanchor and Renton Hamilton went out fishing Thursday afternoon, the day after Christmas but did not return by nightfall. Upon arrival at Ailuk 48 hours later, they were said to be in good condition.
Journal 1/6/2012
P10 Andrew’s back
Are you ready for a sampling of theatrical delight served up just “As You Like It?” If so, you can start salivating for Andrew Garrod is back in town. Andrew’s expertise both in director plays and in coaxing dormant talent from an abundance of local actors has proven to be a significant annual event over the past several years.