Charlie Lee, holding a certificate, spearheaded a collaboration that brought together Han Nam Supermarket and the Mayor’s Office of Saipan. Also in photo are Mayor RB Camacho, center, Rep. Diego Camacho, 4th right, and House Floor Leader Ed Propst, 3rd right.
ON Friday, Oct. 4, Mayor RB Camacho organized a small recognition ceremony to announce that Han Nam Supermarket had officially become the latest participant in the municipal Adopt-a-Place program.
Camacho said Charlie Lee, a senior at Saipan International School, spearheaded the effort to link Han Nam Supermarket, where his mother is a manager, and the Mayor’s Office of Saipan.
Lee said he will be in charge of ensuring that the Koblerville basketball court and the attached palapala are inspected so that needed repairs can be scheduled.
Han Nam Supermarket will fund the repairs. In addition, Lee said the court will be re-painted and signs will be installed.
The inspection can begin as soon as weather permits this week, Lee said.
Mayor Camacho credited Lee with initiating the project.
“Charlie has shown interest in bringing the youth together in this community,” Camacho said.
“Han Nam is not [here] just to gain profit, but they also want to contribute back to the community,” the mayor added. “Their customers are from the Koblerville area. They also have the heart of care to the people of the community here.”
Lee said he wanted to partner with the Mayor’s Office of Saipan because he wants to help the village youth.
“This project is not just about fixing this basketball court, it’s about supporting our community especially the younger generation,” Lee said. “We want to encourage kids to get outside, stay active and enjoy sports.”
Camacho said the Adopt-a-Place program is part of his platform for a “safe community, safe village, and clean island.”
He encouraged non-profits, cultural organizations, and private businesses to partner with him for additional Adopt-a-Place sponsorships. He said island roadways and sites other than recreational areas are available for adoption.
House Floor Leader Ed Propst and Rep. Diego Camacho were present at the ceremony. Both promised that the mayor’s office will receive financial support from the Legislature.
“We need to give you more financial support so you can continue to do all the wonderful things you do,” Propst told the mayor.
For his part, Rep. Camacho said: “Our financial situation is really unpredictable right now and the only way to get these things done is partnership with the private sector. Mayor, we got your back — we will give you the funding.”
