Search for 2000 Lib-Day Queen commences

The search for the first Liberation Day Queen this century has begun, and all eligible ladies of the CNMI are encouraged to participate in this prestigious celebration.

“The Liberation Queen represents all the admirable qualities of the people of the Northern Marianas,” said Carmen Gaskins, who chairs the Queen’s Committee for the Liberation Day festivities. “We are calling on all eligible women of the Commonwealth to step forward and to embrace the challenge.”

The Liberation Day Royal Court activities have traditionally been a part of the annual Liberation Day celebration, in which the people of the Commonwealth commemorate the anniversary of the opening of Camp Susupe back in 1945.

Janice King of Tinian was crowned Liberation Day Queen in last year’s celebration and Carmen Demapan of Kagman, Saipan, was crowned royal princess.

This year, according to Ms. Gaskins, the committee charged with preparing for the celebration will be trying to link individual candidates to their respective villages, parishes, village elementary schools, and other nonprofit organizations as sponsors to assist the fundraising efforts.

Funds that are raised from the queen activities will be used to help pay for various community programs and scholarships. Twenty percent of the funds raised, mostly through raffle ticket selling, will be reimbursed to respective candidates.

“We are doing this so that we can promote and foster community involvement in one of the most important local celebrations,” Ms. Gaskins said. “We will ensure the community will be the ultimate beneficiary of all our efforts.”

This year’s royal court will participate in a multitude of activities like the Liberation parade and coronation ball, as well as a press conference, photo shoot and other related activities. The queen will also participate in a similar Liberation parade in Guam.

“We’ll also pursue more activities throughout the royal court’s reign,: Ms. Gaskins added. “We’d like for them to be more involved in civic events tied with the Office of the Mayor.”

Females who have never been married and who are between the ages of 17 and 20 are encouraged to become candidates. Those interested or who need more information are asked to call Ms. Gaskins at 236-7891, Regina Torres-Ramsey at 234-6925, Viola Sablan at 234-2468, or Agnes McPhetres at 234-3690. The committee will not accept applications after May 15, 2000.