The next meeting was when he visited our office to introduce Beautify CNMI! My employer then, Bridge Capital LLC, was looking for a community project. Angelo was a good salesman. He knew what he was selling. His eyes showed his passion for what he was doing.
Few years later, I met Angelo in Rotary Club of Saipan. I didn’t know what happened between the time I met him in our office and the day I saw him again. All I knew was I wasn’t comfortable with him. I would always try to avoid him if I could. Looking back, I think that the reason was his close association with Cinta Kaipat and being so, to me he was guilty by association.
One day, I was having a lunch with my friend and fellow advocate Thess Samson in Bobby’s Cadillac. Lo and behold! Angelo was there. He was smiling as he approached our table. I started to talk about my favorite subject which was the plight of the CNMI guest workers to sort of draw a line. It was a line that I was hoping he wouldn’t cross or else. On the contrary, Angelo surprised me with his views and opinions. I found him to be reasonable, idealistic, articulate and positive. He changed my opinion about him. I immediately became a great fan. I was so awed that I told him I didn’t mind having him as my son-in-law! Angelo and I laughed about it. Of course, my daughter was way too young for him. I started to call him “my son-in-law.”
Angelo, it was an honor to have served in the same Rotary Club with you. In some ways, you inspired me because you showed me that nothing is really impossible. All it takes is an unwavering commitment. You inspired me not to be afraid. For you, nothing is too big or too small. I was not surprised to know that you’re running for a public office. I know it came from your sincere desire to serve the people. I know you can do it.
I wish that I was there to help in your campaign. You know that I would if I was there.
I pray that Saipan will give you a chance. They need someone who could offer a change. And change is you, my son-in-law, Angelo!
IRENE N. TANTIADO
Savannakhet, Laos
