By Emmanuel T. Erediano
emmanuel@mvariety.com
Variety News Staff
GOVERNOR David M. Apatang thanked 500 Sails’ Pete and Emma Perez for their dedication, encouragement, vision, and care for the CNMI and its people.
Pete and Emma received a plaque of appreciation from the governor on Monday.
In his letter, the governor noted that Pete and Emma “have spent much of your lives in our beautiful Northern Mariana Islands, teaching and caring for the preservation of our ancient way of life as seafarers.
“Now, you are planning your voyage and will depart our beautiful islands on a journey that will take you far from the home we all shared together for many years,” he said. He thanked them for their commitment and hard work to show that “we are all brothers and sisters of this wonderful chain of fourteen peaceful islands in the Mariana Islands Archipelago.”
The governor said he will forever hold dear the generosity and honesty that Pete and Emma extended to him during his time as mayor of Saipan.
“I will forever remember your assistance in securing the financial support to build the concrete picnic tables along our western shores and Beach Road, which were severely damaged by Super Typhoon Soudelor in 2015. Again, Si Yu’us Ma’ase, Ghilisow, yan thank you for your kindness and help,” he said.
He added that 500 Sails will always be associated with its founders, Pete and Emma Perez. Their work under 500 Sails has benefited the CNMI in countless ways, from promoting the islands as a destination to engaging residents in hands-on canoe building and sailing.
“But you did more than that,” the governor said. “You taught young and old about our oceans, their vast and rich resources, and our responsibility to care for marine life. You showed that we must share the ocean with everything living in it. Thank you.”
He noted that the names of Pete and Emma Perez, their good nature, friendliness, and heartwarming smiles will remain in the memories of many, including his own.
“As we always do in the CNMI, we will keep a picnic table for you when you come back to join us for a fiesta,” he added.
Emmanuel “Arnold” Erediano has a bachelor of science degree in Journalism. He started his career as police beat reporter. Loves to cook. Eats death threats for breakfast.
