I was checking my email the other day when I came across this
TIKK,Your blog ISLAND IN BLUE caught our attention. I'm the CEO of a recently launched startup for bloggers. We are searching the internet for the world's best blogs by geography, and we found yours for the Northern Mariana Islands. I would like to invite you to our site which plots the content of the internet on an interactive map of the world. VerveEarth is an entirely new way to surf the net. It shows spatial and geographic connections that a blog search engine could never reveal. The site is http://www.verveearth.com/. Once on board, you can easily claim your blog a place in the VerveEarth world. The site is free to use and a way to drive new traffic to your blog. If our vision resonates with you, please give us a mention or add our widget to your blog. Please see our FAQ for any questions, and I welcome your feedback. http://www.verveearth.com/ Kind Regards,ClaytonCEO VerveEarth.comEmail clayton@verveearth.com,
I just said "what the heck", give it a try so I registered and out came what appeared to be a world map (somewhat like "Google Earth") that enables one to browse around to every location in the world. It seems though that this site is a bid slow in terms of who has registered as indicated by the few registered sites showing but that I think will change in a few once more people registers and gives it a try.
Well Mr. CEO of verveearth, I may have not written to you about the site but thanks for reading.
Other than that, I'm bored and Devin is not around to give me a headache. I have no beer and I'm tired from whacking the darn grass that had grown around the house. Just had to do it or else my little Devin will be using it as a hiding place from me. Did I say "I have no beer". Where's the rubbing alcohol?
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Da Pagan@venture
First leg
The trip north last week was as calm as can be. The water was great as our path north was smooth as we took our travel time at 9 knots. We had arranged our "watch" hours from the start of our leg north until our destination-Pagan, but we had cargo too-to off load in Alamagan.
It was midnight into our trip when I was awaken for my watch which ended within sight of Guguan around 4:00 a.m. I woke up the next watch, when to sleep for a few and before I knew it, we were fast approaching Alamagan. There were cargo to off load there but the task was much easier when Ben Santos came out with one of his brothers on a motor boat to meet up with our ship. A couple of cargo were off loaded into their boat and in less than an hour, we were off on our way to Pagan which was about 3 hours away.
Pagan-finally
Upon arriving Pagan, Sid and his young brother Sandy also came out on their motor boat where we also off loaded some supplies. Sid decided to tag along on the ship as we were to do some trolling around the island. Some won't believe it but the trolling catch there are monstrous in size. Talk about yellow fin/ white tuna and wahoo which were the most catch. Deep bottom launched us Onaga, yellow and black Pakapaka, Gindai and some Karikari. These were all pretty good fish (especially in the pots and pans).
Night dive
I became the boatman for the divers that night. The moon was a bit high for night diving so we had to wait it out until it sets around 7:30. With the tide just beginning to rise as I dropped off the divers, the swells were also getting bigger but I had to stay the whole time with them as I wait for them to land their catches in the boat.
D @venture
I went inland the next morning as Sid Pagan had requested that I assist his brother Sandy slaughter some cows to take back to Saipan. Sandy and I wasted no time in executing this task. We hopped onto his old but operable A.T.V. and off we went to the foot of the volcano where about 50-60 cattle were spotted but once they took scent of our presence, off they go stampeding on a southerly direction. We took off after them (on foot) but they had a better start than we did.
Da calf trail
Sandy and I took a small trail when we spotted one of Sandy's dogs running about behind us. With no hesitation, Sandy just grabbed the dog behind its neck and started slapping it like silly but I guess that's how he trains them to behave better as they all do-except for this naughty one. We continued on the small trail as Sandy leads the way when something white came pass me from the right that I thought the dog came back but hell no. It was a calf that kept trotting in front of me towards Sandy's direction so I gave Sandy a light whistle. He turned, grabbed the calf and up onto his shoulders as he continues. Sandy had to tie the poor animal to a small branch as we came to a ravine. We continued searching for the herd but couldn't locate them as Sandy told me they had probably gotten down to "the lake".
We decided to go further south but first, we must advice the others who were still waiting down at the village of our intention. We did just that but Sid Castro decided that Sandy hang back and prepare whatever cargo that was going out to the ship as he will lead the trail with me. Francis (one of our shipmates) decided to tag along so off we went. Up and down the hill we went. This is not to say I had a "flashback" but this trail somewhat reminded me of the jungles of Panama except with the absence of rain.
Da flat
We took a few wild game trails up the hill and upon coming up the flat were both east and west coasts reviewed a spectacular view-and a more promising view to the south flat with numerous spectacles of cattle, Sid only informs me "shoot first, ask questions later" I jokingly asked "who will I ask questions if I should you first" only to come back with "la'nao Frang". I pointed into the direction of a hill on the south-east and informed Sid "that's our fire direction" as he acknowledged.
We slowly made our way closer toward the cattle. Two loners to our left while the rest of the herd grazed on the right, still about a couple of meters but I wanted a sure shot so I moved closer not knowing my two companions had stop several few meters behind me. I guess the two loners to my right picked up my presence as they first took off running followed by the rest. I jumped to my feet, aimed but had their behinds towards me as they trotted away from me. Kept my aim on no particular head but as they all had no other way to run but back towards my direction, I just fired into the group as I wasn't about to become a victim of a stampeding herd. Fired three shots as they started running off down hill to my right.
O2 needed
I had not seen Sid and Francis behind me or anywhere in the direction where the herd was now headed so I ceased firing-fearing I might hit them. Just then I started hearing shots fired as the herd came pass them both. I aimed again (at no particular target) but into the running herd, fired several shots and started running downhill after them. I stopped a few meters from where I had started running, took aim at a bull behind the herd, fired a few more shots as I saw it started coming to a walk. Gave aim at another, fired and on the ground it went crashing. All the while Sid was also shooting into the same direction. I just didn't know which target he was aiming at but into the herd.
I started running down the hill again after the trotting bull which had now stopped under some trees obviously injured but still standing. I had ran out of ammo (you stupid *uck) and called up towards Sid who was still in his previous choice of firing position. He and Francis came down running to where I had chose to catch my breath-flat on my ass.
"Da thing"
"Hafa" Sid asked as I was still sitting breathless pointing into the helpless bulls direction. Sid attempted to get closer but the bull started walking off away from sight. I just watched as Francis and Sid proceeded towards the direction of the cow, Sid taking aim, gave it a single shot and I asked Francis, "is it dead" and only replied "no". Sid took another aimed, shot again and came the same question from me "is it dead" with the same reply from Francis "no". I only looked at Sid who was taking another aim "lania Sid ti Waake enow" as he took another shot and turned "yeah, ti waake nay na gaaga".
Sid headed back to the village to get the rest of the party and after 30 minutes was back to our location with the slaughtering cavalry who had also managed to bring along with them a wild boar which had been attacked by the accompanying dogs. Cutting up the 3 cows was easy but the travel back with the meat to the village was something else we had to decide how to best handle without killing ourselves.
Change of Plan
Sid decided the fastest way to get the meat on the boat was take it down towards a place they called "the Chapel" which was nothing but a formation of rocks on the east coast. It was all down hill and less distance than back tracking it back to the village. Besides, it was getting dark that even the silhouettes of the fruit bats were out flying above us.
Plan "B"
Sandy was to go back with K.C. to the village, take all the cargo out to the ship and have the ship brought to the back side of Pagan. With little time to work with, plan "B" was activated. All the meat was brought down to the beach on the east coast of Pagan. The problem we now faced as we arrived on the beach was something else to take into consideration. The tide had just started rising and the waves bigger than expected. The small channel we had planned on bringing in the small boat was almost impossible to use.
We collected the plentiful coconut husks on the beach, built ourselves two fires and sat beside them as we considered other options. Julius informed us it was a bit risky to use the small channel we had thought off using to transport our cargo of raw meat. Got our heads together as we observed the ship slowly approaching our way and decided against "Plan B". Besides, the small boat operator was turned back to the mother ship as we didn't want to risk bringing it in with the current condition-dark and pounding waves.
Plan "C"
There's was no Plan "C" until now. We're all speaking vernacular and felt sorry for our other hunting buddy who did not understand shit of what we spoke off so we had to make him understand that we were to stay on the beach and make a break for the channel come first light. We're hungry and John jokingly suggested we roast one of the hind legs for dinner. Arlin had separated some soft part of the meat in a separate plastic bag of which he brought out. "Sirloin" he said and out came some of Sandy's "escape supplies" stashed right there on the beach. Vinegar, Soy Sauce, Black Pepper and believe me not, aluminum foil and tomato ketchup that was among a few from his supply. This really wasn't survival style but rather a sumptuous dinner for us on the beach.
Bunked up
Everyone started getting comfy on their own piece of huge lava rock-make shift bed. Julius gathered dried coconut fronds which he lay on. I did the same except, the spot I had chose later became infested with ants. It's around 3:30 a.m. and couldn't hack the ants anymore so I collected more coconut husk, built two more fires (only these were much bigger) and lit up the entire camp. Everyone else started getting up and either chew or light up a smoke complaining why I had to built those brightly large bodies of fire.
Just as we could now clearly see the channel at first light, K.C. comes speeding into the channel with the small motor boat. We loaded the meat and our equipment and off we went to the mother ship only to explain to the Captain of how we came about with "Plan C". The rest from there on was back to catching more fish. Anyhow, I was surprised to see the stray calf on the ship.
The trip north last week was as calm as can be. The water was great as our path north was smooth as we took our travel time at 9 knots. We had arranged our "watch" hours from the start of our leg north until our destination-Pagan, but we had cargo too-to off load in Alamagan.
It was midnight into our trip when I was awaken for my watch which ended within sight of Guguan around 4:00 a.m. I woke up the next watch, when to sleep for a few and before I knew it, we were fast approaching Alamagan. There were cargo to off load there but the task was much easier when Ben Santos came out with one of his brothers on a motor boat to meet up with our ship. A couple of cargo were off loaded into their boat and in less than an hour, we were off on our way to Pagan which was about 3 hours away.
Pagan-finally
Upon arriving Pagan, Sid and his young brother Sandy also came out on their motor boat where we also off loaded some supplies. Sid decided to tag along on the ship as we were to do some trolling around the island. Some won't believe it but the trolling catch there are monstrous in size. Talk about yellow fin/ white tuna and wahoo which were the most catch. Deep bottom launched us Onaga, yellow and black Pakapaka, Gindai and some Karikari. These were all pretty good fish (especially in the pots and pans).
Night dive
I became the boatman for the divers that night. The moon was a bit high for night diving so we had to wait it out until it sets around 7:30. With the tide just beginning to rise as I dropped off the divers, the swells were also getting bigger but I had to stay the whole time with them as I wait for them to land their catches in the boat.
D @venture
I went inland the next morning as Sid Pagan had requested that I assist his brother Sandy slaughter some cows to take back to Saipan. Sandy and I wasted no time in executing this task. We hopped onto his old but operable A.T.V. and off we went to the foot of the volcano where about 50-60 cattle were spotted but once they took scent of our presence, off they go stampeding on a southerly direction. We took off after them (on foot) but they had a better start than we did.
Da calf trail
Sandy and I took a small trail when we spotted one of Sandy's dogs running about behind us. With no hesitation, Sandy just grabbed the dog behind its neck and started slapping it like silly but I guess that's how he trains them to behave better as they all do-except for this naughty one. We continued on the small trail as Sandy leads the way when something white came pass me from the right that I thought the dog came back but hell no. It was a calf that kept trotting in front of me towards Sandy's direction so I gave Sandy a light whistle. He turned, grabbed the calf and up onto his shoulders as he continues. Sandy had to tie the poor animal to a small branch as we came to a ravine. We continued searching for the herd but couldn't locate them as Sandy told me they had probably gotten down to "the lake".
We decided to go further south but first, we must advice the others who were still waiting down at the village of our intention. We did just that but Sid Castro decided that Sandy hang back and prepare whatever cargo that was going out to the ship as he will lead the trail with me. Francis (one of our shipmates) decided to tag along so off we went. Up and down the hill we went. This is not to say I had a "flashback" but this trail somewhat reminded me of the jungles of Panama except with the absence of rain.
Da flat
We took a few wild game trails up the hill and upon coming up the flat were both east and west coasts reviewed a spectacular view-and a more promising view to the south flat with numerous spectacles of cattle, Sid only informs me "shoot first, ask questions later" I jokingly asked "who will I ask questions if I should you first" only to come back with "la'nao Frang". I pointed into the direction of a hill on the south-east and informed Sid "that's our fire direction" as he acknowledged.
We slowly made our way closer toward the cattle. Two loners to our left while the rest of the herd grazed on the right, still about a couple of meters but I wanted a sure shot so I moved closer not knowing my two companions had stop several few meters behind me. I guess the two loners to my right picked up my presence as they first took off running followed by the rest. I jumped to my feet, aimed but had their behinds towards me as they trotted away from me. Kept my aim on no particular head but as they all had no other way to run but back towards my direction, I just fired into the group as I wasn't about to become a victim of a stampeding herd. Fired three shots as they started running off down hill to my right.
O2 needed
I had not seen Sid and Francis behind me or anywhere in the direction where the herd was now headed so I ceased firing-fearing I might hit them. Just then I started hearing shots fired as the herd came pass them both. I aimed again (at no particular target) but into the running herd, fired several shots and started running downhill after them. I stopped a few meters from where I had started running, took aim at a bull behind the herd, fired a few more shots as I saw it started coming to a walk. Gave aim at another, fired and on the ground it went crashing. All the while Sid was also shooting into the same direction. I just didn't know which target he was aiming at but into the herd.
I started running down the hill again after the trotting bull which had now stopped under some trees obviously injured but still standing. I had ran out of ammo (you stupid *uck) and called up towards Sid who was still in his previous choice of firing position. He and Francis came down running to where I had chose to catch my breath-flat on my ass.
"Da thing"
"Hafa" Sid asked as I was still sitting breathless pointing into the helpless bulls direction. Sid attempted to get closer but the bull started walking off away from sight. I just watched as Francis and Sid proceeded towards the direction of the cow, Sid taking aim, gave it a single shot and I asked Francis, "is it dead" and only replied "no". Sid took another aimed, shot again and came the same question from me "is it dead" with the same reply from Francis "no". I only looked at Sid who was taking another aim "lania Sid ti Waake enow" as he took another shot and turned "yeah, ti waake nay na gaaga".
Sid headed back to the village to get the rest of the party and after 30 minutes was back to our location with the slaughtering cavalry who had also managed to bring along with them a wild boar which had been attacked by the accompanying dogs. Cutting up the 3 cows was easy but the travel back with the meat to the village was something else we had to decide how to best handle without killing ourselves.
Change of Plan
Sid decided the fastest way to get the meat on the boat was take it down towards a place they called "the Chapel" which was nothing but a formation of rocks on the east coast. It was all down hill and less distance than back tracking it back to the village. Besides, it was getting dark that even the silhouettes of the fruit bats were out flying above us.
Plan "B"
Sandy was to go back with K.C. to the village, take all the cargo out to the ship and have the ship brought to the back side of Pagan. With little time to work with, plan "B" was activated. All the meat was brought down to the beach on the east coast of Pagan. The problem we now faced as we arrived on the beach was something else to take into consideration. The tide had just started rising and the waves bigger than expected. The small channel we had planned on bringing in the small boat was almost impossible to use.
We collected the plentiful coconut husks on the beach, built ourselves two fires and sat beside them as we considered other options. Julius informed us it was a bit risky to use the small channel we had thought off using to transport our cargo of raw meat. Got our heads together as we observed the ship slowly approaching our way and decided against "Plan B". Besides, the small boat operator was turned back to the mother ship as we didn't want to risk bringing it in with the current condition-dark and pounding waves.
Plan "C"
There's was no Plan "C" until now. We're all speaking vernacular and felt sorry for our other hunting buddy who did not understand shit of what we spoke off so we had to make him understand that we were to stay on the beach and make a break for the channel come first light. We're hungry and John jokingly suggested we roast one of the hind legs for dinner. Arlin had separated some soft part of the meat in a separate plastic bag of which he brought out. "Sirloin" he said and out came some of Sandy's "escape supplies" stashed right there on the beach. Vinegar, Soy Sauce, Black Pepper and believe me not, aluminum foil and tomato ketchup that was among a few from his supply. This really wasn't survival style but rather a sumptuous dinner for us on the beach.
Bunked up
Everyone started getting comfy on their own piece of huge lava rock-make shift bed. Julius gathered dried coconut fronds which he lay on. I did the same except, the spot I had chose later became infested with ants. It's around 3:30 a.m. and couldn't hack the ants anymore so I collected more coconut husk, built two more fires (only these were much bigger) and lit up the entire camp. Everyone else started getting up and either chew or light up a smoke complaining why I had to built those brightly large bodies of fire.
Just as we could now clearly see the channel at first light, K.C. comes speeding into the channel with the small motor boat. We loaded the meat and our equipment and off we went to the mother ship only to explain to the Captain of how we came about with "Plan C". The rest from there on was back to catching more fish. Anyhow, I was surprised to see the stray calf on the ship.
Friday, February 22, 2008
Going, going, gone North
Dawn on Pagan's east coast where the boys call it "JURASSIC PARK" for its ghostly rock formation.
The village of Pagan in the foreground right above the water level. Note the rising smoke from the top of the "Buutkaan".
Sid & Sandy "Paganese" Castro-out to meet the boys on the ship. Sandy is the real McCoy with four consecutive years residency under his belt. He speaks so many dialects that he can communicate with the silos, the sibwa, waake and many other creatures including his best dog buddies on Pagan whom I can only name a few such as Buutkaan, Boboy, Na-ture and Soba. He can also speak to the abundant fishes and other sea living creatures too.
The Santos Boys of Alamagan loading Saipan bound cargo "da NAVY SEALS style". Surfs' a bid rough that loading was impossible from the regular loading/off loading landing beach.
All attempts taken...to keep goods dry-but how with the every rising surf? No problemo!!! ALAMAGAN SEALS at work.
Flores na Gindai on da lines off the south-east coast of Alamagan.
Be it Onaga or White Tuna. Francis and Ton can catch them free-diving with a pair of goggles using a single empty bottle of Soju full of air down to a mare 200 meters deep of water. The thing about it though is, they have to dive bare butt naked or the fish don't come to them.
Just one of the many gigantic Wahoos that just come flying onto the ship without using a single line or hook. They just come landing on the deck for no apparent reason but probably thinking "please take me home and fry me".
Francis with one of the PRIZE CATCHES.
Joe "Ay Baybay" Manalo just wants to jump ship and swim ashore onto Alamagan already.If the pictures aren't so interesting for some, then maybe the following anecdote will be...
Joe "Ay Baybay" and Ton "Suicidal"-each have a farm worker. One day they decided to get together and have a bar-b-q when Joe Ay Baybay said "you know what par? I think my farmer is a bid slow with communication" Ton Suicidal goes "why do you say that par" and Joe Ay Baybay replies "wait" and calls on his worker "Peppito", Peppito (his worker) comes running "yes boss". Joe Ay Baybay took out a dollar bill and says "take this dollar bill, run to the store and get us ten cases of beer, "yes boss" replies Peppito as he runs off to the store.
Ton Suicidal turns to Joe Ay Baybay and says "you think your worker is slow, wait and see what my worker can do". He calls on his worker "Carlito" and Carlito comes running, "yes boss". Ton Suicidal tells him "run to my house, see if I'm there. If I'm not there, call me on my cell phone". "Yes boss" replies Carlito as he also runs off on this errand given by boss Ton.
Along the way, Peppito and Carlito met when Carlito asked "ay parre, wherr yu go'n". Peppito replied "parre, I tink my boss is crazy. He tell me to go to da store to buy ten case of beer with dis wan dolla, but how am gone to carry ten case of beer"
"Ai parre" goes Carlito "you think yo boss is crazy. My boss is plenty more crazy" "Why parre" asked Peppito. Carlito continued "he tell me to run to his house, check if he's der and if he's not der, I call him on his cell phone-but I don know his cell phone number".
Friday, January 25, 2008
COURT DEMEANORS
The defendant was called up to the podium by the Honorable Judge to answer to his case.
Judge:
Mr. Castro. There appears to be a major problem here. Although the court has ordered you to pay $200. alimony, there is no record indicating you had lived up to this order. Can you explain yourself?
Mr. Castro:
"My honor" (giggle from audience) I have been searching for a job since my last appearance here in court but I still haven't found one.
Judge:
Then can you see if family members can spare you this amount to pay?
Mr. Castro:
"My honor" I come from a poor family and none of my family members or relatives are able to spare me that much.
Judge:
Then Mr. Castro, I will give you up to two weeks to find some money and pay this obligation. Do you understand?
Mr. Castro:
Yes "my honor" (more giggle)
Judge:
Okay, next case on the calender...
Mr. Castro:
"My honor"
Judge:
Yes Mr. Castro. You have a question?
Mr. Castro:
Can I borrow two hundred dollars? (laughter breaks out in court)
NEW-B SHERIFF
As the world becomes more modernized, people are more curious than "George". There's this newly hired Deputy Marshall for the court. He is issued everything including an electronic access card of which he decided to give it a test as to which doors it will open and which it would not. Almost all doors opened except for one! The handheld radio came in handie later.
NEW-B
Control, Delta 5.
CONTROL
Go ahead Delta 5.
NEW-B
Can we meet?
CONTROL
What's your location?
NEW-B
(silence)
CONTROL
What's your location Delta 5?
NEW-B
(still no response)
CONTROL
(panning the surveillance camera but could not locate Delta 5 and after awhile called Delta 5)
Delta 5, what is your location?
(just then, CONTROL detected movement on the surveillance camera. Control zoomed in on the movement and observed Delta 5 with his cheek pressed on the glass of the locked holding cell)
Delta 5 Control...
NEW-B
Relay
CONTROL
Smile for the camera
The moral of this incident. "Don't be too curious"
Judge:
Mr. Castro. There appears to be a major problem here. Although the court has ordered you to pay $200. alimony, there is no record indicating you had lived up to this order. Can you explain yourself?
Mr. Castro:
"My honor" (giggle from audience) I have been searching for a job since my last appearance here in court but I still haven't found one.
Judge:
Then can you see if family members can spare you this amount to pay?
Mr. Castro:
"My honor" I come from a poor family and none of my family members or relatives are able to spare me that much.
Judge:
Then Mr. Castro, I will give you up to two weeks to find some money and pay this obligation. Do you understand?
Mr. Castro:
Yes "my honor" (more giggle)
Judge:
Okay, next case on the calender...
Mr. Castro:
"My honor"
Judge:
Yes Mr. Castro. You have a question?
Mr. Castro:
Can I borrow two hundred dollars? (laughter breaks out in court)
NEW-B SHERIFF
As the world becomes more modernized, people are more curious than "George". There's this newly hired Deputy Marshall for the court. He is issued everything including an electronic access card of which he decided to give it a test as to which doors it will open and which it would not. Almost all doors opened except for one! The handheld radio came in handie later.
NEW-B
Control, Delta 5.
CONTROL
Go ahead Delta 5.
NEW-B
Can we meet?
CONTROL
What's your location?
NEW-B
(silence)
CONTROL
What's your location Delta 5?
NEW-B
(still no response)
CONTROL
(panning the surveillance camera but could not locate Delta 5 and after awhile called Delta 5)
Delta 5, what is your location?
(just then, CONTROL detected movement on the surveillance camera. Control zoomed in on the movement and observed Delta 5 with his cheek pressed on the glass of the locked holding cell)
Delta 5 Control...
NEW-B
Relay
CONTROL
Smile for the camera
The moral of this incident. "Don't be too curious"
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Northern Islands
Before I proceed on, I would like to say HAPPY NEW YEAR and may 2008 lead us into a more suitable life-style.
It was on a Father's Day weekend (about 6 years ago) when I first went with my cousins Pete & Joe on board Pete's boat to Farallon De Medinilla. My youngest sister was running for the July 4th Queen and we had erected a fundraising booth near the Civic Center basket court. I was almost always present during its operation as I was counted on by family members to keep peace at the area. Come Friday before Father's Day weekend, my brothers and I were enjoying at the booth but come closing time, Joe came (basically) dragging me off our table-telling me we were to get ready for a fishing trip north with Pete.
With my head still pounding from our previous drinking session, I told my wife to drop me off at Pete's house where we were to meet prior to our departure. Upon arrival at around 2:00 a.m., I found Joe but Pete was nowhere around until I learned later that he was still keeping warm and cozy in the warmth of his bedroom. "It pays to be a Captain".
We finally lounged the boat around 4:30 a.m. out of the Marina but prior to that, Pete had managed to stop by Winchell's in Garapan where we bought a dozen donuts and each with a large cup of clam chowder soup-I had two.
The ride up north was smooth (the water was somewhat paved north by the good employees of the Department of Public Works) and I was already working on my second cup of clam chowder. Around 8:30 or 9:00 that morning, Pete brought the boat to a stop and informed us to prepare to "drop". I go "drop...you crazy...drop in this bottomless water" Pete chuckled, Joe started laughing "brod, get ready to drop our lines".
In the distance we can already see Farallon De Medinilla or Mendeniza as we all call it but still seems a speck over the horizon. I looked towards Pete's direction in the open cabin and saw him working the G.P.S. and depth finder. He's our Captain and so we obey what he tells us. "Drop" and so we did and as soon as the sinker hits home, our reels started vibrating that by the time we reeled them back up, "flores, flores" they were filled with bottom fish, Paka Paka, Gindai, Mafutti and other species that I've forgotten their names but they were still delicious fish to fry in the pan or "lechi'n niyok" (that's soup in coconut milk for the non-Carolingual).
While fishing this spot, we'd see a bunch of birds flying in groups (schools) in every direction. Joe goes "Pete, there's school everywhere. Aren't we going after them". Pete only responded "we didn't come for tuna, we came for the bottom fish" and so we continued until about 4:00 that afternoon when we started heading towards Mendeniza. On our way in Pete told us to let our trolling lines out to catch "2 pieces" tuna for dinner. We did and I got carried away because the school of tuna we were in had come up to the surface right next to the boat while it was still running. With Pete at the wheel, me on the line (on the fourth of fifth tuna), Joe was on the video camera taking a few short shots of what was occurring at the time. Just then the boat was on full throttle or so I thought. The lure at the end of my line was like someone skiing behind us when I shouted towards our Captain "SLOW DOWN" only to be shouted back at "I SAID ONLY 2"
We moored next to the island admiring what damage the military had done during their strafing exercises. They had what appeared to be 40 feet cargo containers on the rocks ridge and broken vehicles lining up towards these containers. These are what I think they use as their "fly by" targets. The native birds are still around-only their population has somewhat lessen by the numerous military activities scheduled now and then.
Anyhow, we anchored, fried some of our bottom catch, sashimi the tuna and out came the rice and beer. The rice was half touched as all our prepared fish for dinner was almost gone as chaser. From time to time, we'd hear something hit the side of our boat and were wondering what it could be. Pete came out with a spot light and as he shines it down the side of the boat, baby sharks were all around. They're either blind and dumb for hitting the side of the boat or they were mischievous ones trying to scare us.
Come first light in the morning, Joe and I were pulling up our anchor but it was wedged between an opening on the sea floor. It can be seen clearly from the boat but I was not about to volunteer a dive for it. "Can you open the back compartment and see if you can find the mask and fins in there" Joe looked, found them and was told by Pete "go and release the anchor", "failaar olomwoo, nge pael kewe". That just saved us from diving. Pete chuckled, got the mask and fins and off he goes freeing us from our situation.
We did a little trolling from the west side of the island heading north, came around the back and moved further east-away from land. We downed our lines again, caught more bottom fish which was now filling up our fourth or fifth 100 or so pounds coolers. Around noon, Mr. Ben Sablan's boat "The Proa" passed by us with their loud local music playing on board. There were plenty passengers on board as we could clearly observe them having a hell of a time with their can of beers waving our direction. Their boat turned towards the direction of Anatahan and disappeared from sight.
Around 2:00 p.m. Pete directed Joe and I to secure our full coolers. We headed back home and upon arrival at Pete's house, vehicles were lined up along the road and parking area. Almost every fish caught on this trip was gone as customers bought by the bulk. Joe & I cleaned the boat, secured our equipment and end up with 10 pounds each of bottom fish plus $200 pocket money given to us by Pete.
All in all, our fishing trip was so much a success that I would trade a drinking session for another.
BLUE MARLIN I
I've recently gone on three different fishing trips on board the BLUE MARLIN I with 8 other crew members. The trip north is a bid slower than my first with Pete and Joe but still worth it. Several fishing spots have been marked on the G.P.S. equipped on the BLUE MARLIN I. The Fish Master ("Ay Baybay" Joe Manalo) decided on going to one marked "#4" which is further north and almost directly east of Sariguan. The catch there is good but not the big swells we get there.
We moved to #7 and caught big size Sass (don't ask me what its called in English). We moved to #10 and up comes Skip Jacks or "Skebbe Jacks" as we call them and large size mafutti (which are known as "Mafu-three" if you catch 3, Mafu-four if there's 4 and so on but when ones entire line is "flores", it is referred to as "Mafu-force 'that one I like".
I wouldn't say we are all experience deck hands but for the sake of it, the older or original members of this fishing boat are well assigned task. Felix is the boat's cook. He has a stash of can goods, a couple dozens fresh eggs (which are not layed on the ship but rather bought in stores) Ramen, "ingrediments" and vegetables. He cooks breakfast which will last until it's all gone. If he over estimates measurement for consumption, what you have for breakfast, you'll have it again for lunch and if he cooks lunch with plenty left-over, you have the same for dinner.
One evening he made a whole pot of fried rice (that can feed a dozen mouths) for dinner. The problem was, not everyone wanted fried rice for "dindin". Come the next morning, Felix went off with John (our Chief Engineer) on the smaller boat to try trolling before the sun comes up. I decided to cook breakfast and took initiative in doing so. Looked into his stash and found cans of spam, the eggs and other can goods. The pot of rice from dinner was still more than half full.
I first heated up water for coffee and invited everyone to a cup while I decided to scrounge for that particular mornings menu. I had my kompairi'n Ton crack the eggs while I started slicing up the spam for frying. First came the sauteing of the onions, poured the whole 2 dozen eggs into the pot and presto, instant scrambled eggs. Then came the thick slices of spam. Fried them too and was done. Someone ask for rice and I offered the pot more than half full from previous night. We ate, had coffee and told stories from previous day while we wait for Felix and John to return. They finally came, ate and had no time to tell stories but back to the days business but by the time they finished their breakfast, Felix complimented on whoever had cooked as all the prepared food that morning was good and gone with everyone on a full stomach.
By the 3rd day of this trip, all coolers on board were full and so the Fish Master rested while we (Henry, John, kompairi and I) celebrated in the back drinking Soju.
FOR LAUGHS
Felix's turn came to cook breakfast one morning. He cracks the eggs (scramble style), diced the spam and saute the onions prior to dropping in the dice spam. Everyone in the back of the ship (where Felix's kitchen is located) sipping coffee and waiting for breakfast. While waiting, we watch the diligent cook prepare his stuff. The spam had been sizzling with the onion in the pot for a few minutes but once Felix started pouring the egg in and like an innocent little boys voice came "I don't wanna eat egg with SPAM" from kompairi. "Why didn't you say that before I poured the egg in" and everyone breaks out laughing.
It was on a Father's Day weekend (about 6 years ago) when I first went with my cousins Pete & Joe on board Pete's boat to Farallon De Medinilla. My youngest sister was running for the July 4th Queen and we had erected a fundraising booth near the Civic Center basket court. I was almost always present during its operation as I was counted on by family members to keep peace at the area. Come Friday before Father's Day weekend, my brothers and I were enjoying at the booth but come closing time, Joe came (basically) dragging me off our table-telling me we were to get ready for a fishing trip north with Pete.
With my head still pounding from our previous drinking session, I told my wife to drop me off at Pete's house where we were to meet prior to our departure. Upon arrival at around 2:00 a.m., I found Joe but Pete was nowhere around until I learned later that he was still keeping warm and cozy in the warmth of his bedroom. "It pays to be a Captain".
We finally lounged the boat around 4:30 a.m. out of the Marina but prior to that, Pete had managed to stop by Winchell's in Garapan where we bought a dozen donuts and each with a large cup of clam chowder soup-I had two.
The ride up north was smooth (the water was somewhat paved north by the good employees of the Department of Public Works) and I was already working on my second cup of clam chowder. Around 8:30 or 9:00 that morning, Pete brought the boat to a stop and informed us to prepare to "drop". I go "drop...you crazy...drop in this bottomless water" Pete chuckled, Joe started laughing "brod, get ready to drop our lines".
In the distance we can already see Farallon De Medinilla or Mendeniza as we all call it but still seems a speck over the horizon. I looked towards Pete's direction in the open cabin and saw him working the G.P.S. and depth finder. He's our Captain and so we obey what he tells us. "Drop" and so we did and as soon as the sinker hits home, our reels started vibrating that by the time we reeled them back up, "flores, flores" they were filled with bottom fish, Paka Paka, Gindai, Mafutti and other species that I've forgotten their names but they were still delicious fish to fry in the pan or "lechi'n niyok" (that's soup in coconut milk for the non-Carolingual).
While fishing this spot, we'd see a bunch of birds flying in groups (schools) in every direction. Joe goes "Pete, there's school everywhere. Aren't we going after them". Pete only responded "we didn't come for tuna, we came for the bottom fish" and so we continued until about 4:00 that afternoon when we started heading towards Mendeniza. On our way in Pete told us to let our trolling lines out to catch "2 pieces" tuna for dinner. We did and I got carried away because the school of tuna we were in had come up to the surface right next to the boat while it was still running. With Pete at the wheel, me on the line (on the fourth of fifth tuna), Joe was on the video camera taking a few short shots of what was occurring at the time. Just then the boat was on full throttle or so I thought. The lure at the end of my line was like someone skiing behind us when I shouted towards our Captain "SLOW DOWN" only to be shouted back at "I SAID ONLY 2"
We moored next to the island admiring what damage the military had done during their strafing exercises. They had what appeared to be 40 feet cargo containers on the rocks ridge and broken vehicles lining up towards these containers. These are what I think they use as their "fly by" targets. The native birds are still around-only their population has somewhat lessen by the numerous military activities scheduled now and then.
Anyhow, we anchored, fried some of our bottom catch, sashimi the tuna and out came the rice and beer. The rice was half touched as all our prepared fish for dinner was almost gone as chaser. From time to time, we'd hear something hit the side of our boat and were wondering what it could be. Pete came out with a spot light and as he shines it down the side of the boat, baby sharks were all around. They're either blind and dumb for hitting the side of the boat or they were mischievous ones trying to scare us.
Come first light in the morning, Joe and I were pulling up our anchor but it was wedged between an opening on the sea floor. It can be seen clearly from the boat but I was not about to volunteer a dive for it. "Can you open the back compartment and see if you can find the mask and fins in there" Joe looked, found them and was told by Pete "go and release the anchor", "failaar olomwoo, nge pael kewe". That just saved us from diving. Pete chuckled, got the mask and fins and off he goes freeing us from our situation.
We did a little trolling from the west side of the island heading north, came around the back and moved further east-away from land. We downed our lines again, caught more bottom fish which was now filling up our fourth or fifth 100 or so pounds coolers. Around noon, Mr. Ben Sablan's boat "The Proa" passed by us with their loud local music playing on board. There were plenty passengers on board as we could clearly observe them having a hell of a time with their can of beers waving our direction. Their boat turned towards the direction of Anatahan and disappeared from sight.
Around 2:00 p.m. Pete directed Joe and I to secure our full coolers. We headed back home and upon arrival at Pete's house, vehicles were lined up along the road and parking area. Almost every fish caught on this trip was gone as customers bought by the bulk. Joe & I cleaned the boat, secured our equipment and end up with 10 pounds each of bottom fish plus $200 pocket money given to us by Pete.
All in all, our fishing trip was so much a success that I would trade a drinking session for another.
BLUE MARLIN I
I've recently gone on three different fishing trips on board the BLUE MARLIN I with 8 other crew members. The trip north is a bid slower than my first with Pete and Joe but still worth it. Several fishing spots have been marked on the G.P.S. equipped on the BLUE MARLIN I. The Fish Master ("Ay Baybay" Joe Manalo) decided on going to one marked "#4" which is further north and almost directly east of Sariguan. The catch there is good but not the big swells we get there.
We moved to #7 and caught big size Sass (don't ask me what its called in English). We moved to #10 and up comes Skip Jacks or "Skebbe Jacks" as we call them and large size mafutti (which are known as "Mafu-three" if you catch 3, Mafu-four if there's 4 and so on but when ones entire line is "flores", it is referred to as "Mafu-force 'that one I like".
I wouldn't say we are all experience deck hands but for the sake of it, the older or original members of this fishing boat are well assigned task. Felix is the boat's cook. He has a stash of can goods, a couple dozens fresh eggs (which are not layed on the ship but rather bought in stores) Ramen, "ingrediments" and vegetables. He cooks breakfast which will last until it's all gone. If he over estimates measurement for consumption, what you have for breakfast, you'll have it again for lunch and if he cooks lunch with plenty left-over, you have the same for dinner.
One evening he made a whole pot of fried rice (that can feed a dozen mouths) for dinner. The problem was, not everyone wanted fried rice for "dindin". Come the next morning, Felix went off with John (our Chief Engineer) on the smaller boat to try trolling before the sun comes up. I decided to cook breakfast and took initiative in doing so. Looked into his stash and found cans of spam, the eggs and other can goods. The pot of rice from dinner was still more than half full.
I first heated up water for coffee and invited everyone to a cup while I decided to scrounge for that particular mornings menu. I had my kompairi'n Ton crack the eggs while I started slicing up the spam for frying. First came the sauteing of the onions, poured the whole 2 dozen eggs into the pot and presto, instant scrambled eggs. Then came the thick slices of spam. Fried them too and was done. Someone ask for rice and I offered the pot more than half full from previous night. We ate, had coffee and told stories from previous day while we wait for Felix and John to return. They finally came, ate and had no time to tell stories but back to the days business but by the time they finished their breakfast, Felix complimented on whoever had cooked as all the prepared food that morning was good and gone with everyone on a full stomach.
By the 3rd day of this trip, all coolers on board were full and so the Fish Master rested while we (Henry, John, kompairi and I) celebrated in the back drinking Soju.
FOR LAUGHS
Felix's turn came to cook breakfast one morning. He cracks the eggs (scramble style), diced the spam and saute the onions prior to dropping in the dice spam. Everyone in the back of the ship (where Felix's kitchen is located) sipping coffee and waiting for breakfast. While waiting, we watch the diligent cook prepare his stuff. The spam had been sizzling with the onion in the pot for a few minutes but once Felix started pouring the egg in and like an innocent little boys voice came "I don't wanna eat egg with SPAM" from kompairi. "Why didn't you say that before I poured the egg in" and everyone breaks out laughing.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
PATRIOTS' DAY
It's 7:30 on a Tuesday night and here we are again. Honey Bun's watching the tube with our niece Eva while Kyler is busy running in and out of the room. Today's rather an interesting day for me and my favorite team of 12 wins and still going.
Pat came home around 12:00 this afternoon and found me slautch on the sofa like nobody's business. It was the last five minutes of the 4th quarter and boy, the Ravens where leading by 9 points and in possession of the football but too bad, they lost their possession to the (still) undefeated New England Patriots who made a touch down with only a few seconds left, giving the Ravens a chance of another goal but-too bad, they lost. Go Pats.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
A FIRE CRACKER TALE
My grandson Devin was with us here at home last night. The power was off again in this area (earlier in the evening) around 7:30 but was illuminated by what was left from a full moon. Ai adai this Consumers Using Candles. What is next? Someone stole the generators? Anyway, my daughter and my youngest son were watching T.V. while Devin was going about doing his own business when a loud fire cracker popped somewhere around the neighborhood. He jumped from where he was, ran over to me (wide eyed) and asked "was dad" (what's that) and I said "fire cracker". He attempted to repeat back what I had said, only it came back to me with a little Ajinomoto "fire *ucker". I nearly collapse while my daughter and my son started giggling from where they sat but they seemed to enjoy what he had said as they kept repeating to him"fire cracker". Na kids hamyo!
I tried to erase that from his mind though (as if I could). The next time he heard another pop he asked again "was dad" only this time I told him "chew pow" but my son and daughter liked "fire cracker" better but I gave them both that shut up look.
I got a better idea so I went into our room (Devin following) where I still have a stash of fire crackers from last year, took out a bundle and he probably thinks it's some kind of candy. "Was dad" I told him "chew pow" as I walked him out into the backyard. Got myself an empty can, stuck in the fire cracker and lit it. He started burning-rubber into the house as the fuse started sparking and as it took into the air and popped I went inside and said "see-chew pow". He dare not go out anymore for his curiosity.
A Night Out Together
My wife and I went out one night-only this time, we didn't go far because Devin's home. Brought along our drinks from our refrigerator and we were on our merry way thinking we're going to drink away-only the two of us, in a not so well lit area where we can sit together and it's where I'll whisper sweet nothing into her ears. This is where we'll both dialogue with nothing to worry about because Devin is in good hands at home and then out of nowhere, this episode was going back to reality.
Devin wasn't even suppose to be in this picture but he was-physically! But this is suppose to be a night only for my wife and myself, all cuddly, romantic and whatever else there is that couples do together.
Wait a minute! My wife and I did go out. We didn't go far. We each had a drink from our refrigerator but hellerrr! We are sitting in our garage along with Devin who is eyeing mom's drink on the table. So much for a romantic night. REALITY CHECK!!!!
Devin-Devin drink?
Mom-No, dad get mad
Devin-No, no get mad!
Because I've been brought back to reality, I pretend not to hear what they're saying but he's there sitting next to grandma across from me-still eyeing her drink.
Devin-Devin drink?
Mom-Dad get mad
Devin-Devin hide?
Mom-Dad get mad
Devin-No, no get mad Beebin, K?
Grandma finished what remained of her drink and gave the empty can to his grandson who slowly slid down below the table out of grandpa's view. Do Your Stuff sonny.
I tried to erase that from his mind though (as if I could). The next time he heard another pop he asked again "was dad" only this time I told him "chew pow" but my son and daughter liked "fire cracker" better but I gave them both that shut up look.
I got a better idea so I went into our room (Devin following) where I still have a stash of fire crackers from last year, took out a bundle and he probably thinks it's some kind of candy. "Was dad" I told him "chew pow" as I walked him out into the backyard. Got myself an empty can, stuck in the fire cracker and lit it. He started burning-rubber into the house as the fuse started sparking and as it took into the air and popped I went inside and said "see-chew pow". He dare not go out anymore for his curiosity.
A Night Out Together
My wife and I went out one night-only this time, we didn't go far because Devin's home. Brought along our drinks from our refrigerator and we were on our merry way thinking we're going to drink away-only the two of us, in a not so well lit area where we can sit together and it's where I'll whisper sweet nothing into her ears. This is where we'll both dialogue with nothing to worry about because Devin is in good hands at home and then out of nowhere, this episode was going back to reality.
Devin wasn't even suppose to be in this picture but he was-physically! But this is suppose to be a night only for my wife and myself, all cuddly, romantic and whatever else there is that couples do together.
Wait a minute! My wife and I did go out. We didn't go far. We each had a drink from our refrigerator but hellerrr! We are sitting in our garage along with Devin who is eyeing mom's drink on the table. So much for a romantic night. REALITY CHECK!!!!
Devin-Devin drink?
Mom-No, dad get mad
Devin-No, no get mad!
Because I've been brought back to reality, I pretend not to hear what they're saying but he's there sitting next to grandma across from me-still eyeing her drink.
Devin-Devin drink?
Mom-Dad get mad
Devin-Devin hide?
Mom-Dad get mad
Devin-No, no get mad Beebin, K?
Grandma finished what remained of her drink and gave the empty can to his grandson who slowly slid down below the table out of grandpa's view. Do Your Stuff sonny.
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