Response to Camacho

This letter is in response to Mr. Jesus Camacho in Delano, California. It is about time someone like Mr. Howard Cole took a stand and voiced his opinion of Mr. Camacho’s ridiculous responses. Mr. Jesus Camacho wrote about how Mr. Cole “will never own public land on the islands.” This has nothing to do with the mining issue on Pagan. I think it is ridiculous how all this bickering came about. And the worst part of it all is how Mr. Camacho uses his ethnic race—“descendant of Chamorro that was brought up with heritage and culture”—as a strength and advantage to Mr. Cole’s responses and opinion.

Mr. Cole’s service to the CNMI, especially on Tinian, is something the community appreciates and respects, in contrast to a so-called Chamorro who is providing service to the community of California. When it comes to the Chamorro culture, one thing is for sure, “you will never forget where you came from.” Most Chamorros come back to the CNMI, bringing his/her expertise to the islands, for the betterment of our islands. I believe Mr. Cole has done a lot for the Tinian community, especially the students. Mr. Camacho, maybe you should think about yourself and what you have done for the community of our islands, besides writing letters to the editor. Why don’t you share what you have learned from obtaining a doctorate degree, and share your expertise and knowledge with the community here?

Mr. Cole may not have Chamorro blood in him, but I believe and many others believe that he genuinely loves the islands. That is why he has been here for so many years.

As far as using “Dr.” on your name, a real doctor would not be offended by the use or non-use of an educational title. It should be more than just a name. A real doctor earns that degree because he/she is genuinely passionate and worthy of learning. He/she is also willing to use that learning and expertise for the advantage of others.

Doctor or no doctor, I guess a real doctor should realize that not everyone from here has reached a doctorate level of education and should consider we are only human beings. We do not care how fancy your writing is,because it is usually “vague” to begin with. So why don’t you do everyone a favor, and look at who your audience is, before you write. Just one more thing, don’t forget to take a good look at who is sharing their expertise and providing service to the “indigenous” people of the Marianas. It certainly isn’t you!

Joan Muna Flores
Marpo Heights, Tinian
Northern Marianas