Saipan Tribune

Saturday, May 25, 2013

Friday, February 01, 2013

Neighborhood Watch lauds two businesses for their aid

Saipan Neighborhood Watch recognized yesterday two companies that have supported the group's crime prevention and island beautification efforts through generous donations.

Saipan & Northern Islands Municipal Council chair Ramon B. Camacho, along with District 4 community leaders William Lely and Edwin Kaipat, presented certificates of appreciation to owner Ting Jian Tang of Kevin's Mart and president and general manager James Ripple of All Parts, Inc., the parent company of Car Quest, during a brief ceremony at the Saipan & Northern Islands Leadership Memorial Kiosku in Chalan Kanoa.

Tang, whose commercial interests on island also include contractor concession and house rentals, said his company donated trash cans and a security camera system to prevent any illegal activities in the kiosku area.

“We're part of the community and we want to make it more beautiful and safe. I love this island, this community,” Tang said in an interview.

Ripple's company yesterday donated a brand new brushcutter that will be used by volunteers to clear and maintain Chalan Kanoa and other villages on island, removing likely hideouts of thieves and other criminals.

Ripple recounted that Chalan Kanoa used to be branded a “village of smells” because of the various odors that are given off when residents would burn all kinds of trash. With the council's revitalization initiative, Ripple noted that the stigma has been gradually removed.

“I support everything RB and the municipal council is doing. We're fully behind them. It's a good program, something that's long overdue. Hopefully, there would be more businesses that would get involved. If they really care for the island, they will get involved. It's really all about caring,” Ripple told Saipan Tribune.

Council chair Camacho, one of the pioneers of the Saipan Neighborhood Watch, acknowledged both companies for seeing the importance of the program, which would not have succeeded without the support of the business community.

“The public and the business community must come together to promote a safe and healthy living environment for everyone,” he said, urging other businesses to support the initiative.

Camacho also expressed his appreciation to the team leaders and other volunteers of the Saipan Neighborhood Watch, who are instrumental in revitalizing their respective villages.

Team leader Kaipat said the program has opened doors for the community to work together. He added that the program's exposure also helps attract more volunteers and sponsors, including the island's visitors.

“We've managed to get together for the benefit of the entire community,” said Kaipat.