But within the rush of comments that followed, all unanimous in their condemnation by the way, was at least a little bit of incorrect information, a lot of truth and no little heaping of blame. This letter is not intended to offer any self-justification, to avert the fingers of blame or to offer excuses. Obviously, I touched a nerve, something not hard to do on Tinian where it has always been, and forever will be, a highly polarized community between whatever group is “in” at the moment and whatever group is “out.”
I would, however, like to assure one and all, no matter what “group” you belong to, that my heart has always been with whatever would hopefully make Tinian a better place for everyone. Since my first footstep there in 1975, until my last and forevermore, I will always hold Tinian and ALL its people in special reverence. To anyone my comment offended, I apologize.
I would also like to set the record straight on a couple of things stated in a few comments. It should be noted here that many of the comments were correct in their current assessment of the conditions of many of the early projects and the general state of affairs. It is with great sadness that I, too, have observed the general decline of the quality of life for many on Tinian and I will make no excuses for where much of the fault lies, as many of you pointed out.
One commenter in particular asked if I were “the mastermind behind most of these defunked (sic) projects?” The answer is no. My primary job with the administration was research in support of the development of a better economy. When the mayor approached me (before the election) and asked if I could help develop Tinian, I saw it as my opportunity to try and help improve our little corner of the world. When finally hired, I had a job to do, and just like anyone else who worked for a boss, I was obliged to carry out my instructions, and I tried the best I could for as long as I could in spite of the fact that many of my ideas were rejected — sometimes in favor of political expediency over the public good.
Only five, out of 26, projects were initiated directly by myself: The ILS project, The Street Naming project, The ID Card program, The dog Control program and an attempt to secure a new technology and completely replace the one basic element that controlled the entire destiny of Tinian: power production. Three of them were completed, two of them implemented (Street Naming was completed, but has yet to be implemented). We all know what happened to the other two. Did I support the Kastiyu, as well as other projects? Of course, that was my job — and it has saddened me greatly to see that most of these projects have been allowed to deteriorate.
A couple of you asked why I left. While at first I saw what I thought to be a brighter future for Tinian, it later became clear that the priorities of the administration seemed to be diverging further and further from what I believed in. Too many “ideas” fomented without supporting bases; too many resources apparently squandered OUTSIDE of Tinian, leaving little or nothing to support what I believed were more important LOCAL programs; too little attention to details, and we all know the devil is usually in the details; too many times being asked to “justify” a rash decision after the fact. I am a scientist, and the ultimate control demanded of “politics” was contrary not only to my own demeanor, but to the progress I had so hopefully tried to make. The job was no longer tenable — or worth it. To further compromise myself in both my public and private life was to deny truth.
Out of respect for my many friends, I simply “faded away” and kept quiet regarding that period. It was the best thing to do. But I cannot remain silent regarding the things that mean so much to so many people. My criticism of CUC and other things that affect our daily lives and my support for the youth of the NMI and progressive legislators, among other things will remain — as long as accepted by the people.
I sincerely hope that some of the regulatory foundations I helped lay will continue to benefit the people of Tinian for many years to come. I sincerely hope that some of the projects “masterminded” by me, such as ID cards, Street Naming and Addressing and the Dog Control Program will also continue to benefit the people of Tinian for many more years. And in spite of all, I can use my real name in letters and comments and will make no attempt to hide my identity behind ubiquitous nom-de-plumes. I accept your criticisms with humility and your approval with pride.
A special note to “United People of Tinian”: I would hope that it is not too late to incorporate your ideas regarding the demise of Kastiyu. You are correct; the wildlife there did not choose their lot in life — and deserve better as suggested by the youth — AGAIN; and to “TiNianA”: It sounds as if you have been severely wronged — I hope not by me, but if so, I am sorry and I hope at least some of what I left in Tinian was slightly better than a “mess.”
In closing, please remember that I believe there are STILL a lot of good, honest, hard-working people on Tinian — both in and out of government. And there are a some notable projects more current that are and will serve Tinian well. Not every person will succeed, but their effort deserves credit just as the failures deserve condemnation — and no-one can claim righteousness at the toss of the first stone.
DR. THOMAS D. ARKLE JR.
San Jose, Tinian
