Take stock of events, please?

While the local economy slides even further to rock bottom this year, it is very troubling what could happen to the future of tourism here as our country slips into a recession.

Perhaps there’s a greater reason for my obvious redundancy: No one seems to have a full grasp of the devastating effects of the US slipping into an economic recession.

Just as good tidings descend about guarded economic recovery in the Land of the Rising Sun, another one pops up across the Pacific that could easily derail Japan’s real recovery.

If anything, at least we now have a very proactive president of the Saipan Chamber of Commerce. Tony Pellegrino may not be the nicest person who sails the calm seas of paradise. But then, didn’t someone say “Nice guys finish last?”

Tony wants to make a difference in terms of the economic future and freedom of paradise so founded on our rights to self-government. He also wants to make a difference. In this case, he wants to see that we make things happen for ourselves or that positive changes come from within. It’s spelled: L E A D E R S H I P!!

The NMI is gasping for oxygen in the ICU of revenue generation losses. It makes Tony’s job even harder, sifting through the maze to figure out solutions to issues long neglected by leadership. If anything, I can take comfort in he fact that Tony is one hardworking businessman. He’s what he is today and has earned his success the old fashion way: WORK, WORK and more WORK!

Senator Cing the DOER!

While most alleged public servants are dazed, trying to figure out apples from oranges, Senator David Cing of Tinian works on projects using local resources.

How gratifying it must be providing locally smoked ham and bacon for the family all throughout the holiday season.

Senator Cing raises his own hogs, butchers and processes them for subsequent consumption. He isn’t ready to procrastinate like most dreamers do. He rolls up his sleeves and goes through his projects, one plan at a time.

I also admire the no frills attitude that he’s known for. He speaks his mind: He says what means and means what he says! However the tough guy attitude that can instantly be seen in his demeanor, he actually has a soft spot in his heart when meeting his people.

Most importantly, he listens and listens well. How many of our illustrious lawmakers can be given such accolade? Only a few and he’s one of them who’s made it to the chapter in my book dubbed: Pleasant Surprises!

When a practical lawmaker settles down to experimenting with import substitution such as smoked ham and bacon, his success in these projects could trigger the eventual commercialization and diversification of Tinian’s economy.

I relish talking to “no frills” policymakers who have their acts together. Senator Cing’s act is a tough one to tread. But then, if he’s out to conquer what has always been under our noses day in and out, it goes to show the grand mañana that has inundated a once proactive and productive indigenous people.

Move on Senator Cing. You’re the perfect person that fits the bill of “Leadership By Example!” Oh, before I forget, I also want to run your smoked ham and bacon through my palate. And knowing your “no frills” attitude, I look forward to receiving some next week perhaps? Thanks.

Strictly a personal view. John S. DelRosario Jr. is publisher of Saipan Tribune.