It was good while it lasted, it truly was!

Late night atrophies caused sleepless nights. addressing issues that were far beyond what we were tasked to do, but humbly we respected the need to accommodate. Built up on relations that make one stronger-powerful, yet to succumb to years of hardship.

On better days, we endured laughter and companionship but maintained professionalism at best. Our efforts remained visible with endearing qualities and we respected that for what it is.

Over the years it has been turbulent. The good and bad weighed itself out. Yes I recall my late nights, my stress level, my blood pressure rise to abnormalities, but I had to do what had to be done.  It was not easy, but I felt we had that connection indicating the value we both made to ensure growth and prosper. Let it be known I hold no heavy heart, but wished that the courtesy would have been acknowledged and not ignored by the deafening ears to do what is just.

Commendation goes out to the new cat that skinned my cat out to dry. The best of luck to keeping positive results for an animal that may have been overlooked as to satisfy its hunger. May you (cat) find strength to endure what is upon you and when you find this, it will be a roller-coaster ride of many twist and turns, but hang on and in the end it is rewarding, but remember we all are dispensable.

It was truly good while it lasted!

CNMI has many things to be thankful for. The people that make a difference, the season of giving is upon us and all the while, we are in spirit of good.

Tops + More brings you our 6th issue making yet another seasonal publication hit the CNMI. from foods to stories that make our CNMI whole, we at Bison Relations express our heartfelt appreciation to our clientele as well to our advertisers who keep this publication moving forward.

We bid you all good reading!

follow the link below to see Tops + More 6th issue online!
Tops + More 6th Issue

Tops + More Savory Goodness!

One year past since we launched Tops + More Magazine and our readers eagerly wait for what’s next, what will be featured, what foods will engross my palate?

We have been fortunate to have worked with numerous individuals to build on Tops + More. Our efforts to step up, create and develop true stories that make our island a beautiful place, a haven for visitors, and an informative resource to the islands best of the best bringing forward what we may have missed along the road.

Our issues have continuously been at the forefront to providing the fine dining and resto-bar 411 on where to go on Saipan. Our approach to the islands where to go and what to eat has given Tops + More readers an impression of what’s out and about on island. While selective eateries are mentioned in our magazine, we also capitalize on the positive attributes of our island, people and businesses.

This issue brings a story on volunteerism and how it affects our community. While everyone needs to applaud the unselfish acts of people volunteering for causes beyond themselves, these efforts do not go unrecognized. Our people stand in unity when it comes to supporting greater causes.  We bid you good reading!

For online viewing, click on link: http://issuu.com/topsmagazine/docs/tops5

People Power!

And when the Mid-Term election results were released. clearly the CNMI who clamored for change got it!

The people who were elected are the ones the community feel would make the needed change. The people who had stood up and made clear that nobody, no one is above the law will face hurdles to steer the economy back into prosper and maintain a safe and orderly lifestyle hat we, the Commonwealth expect.

As this would be a part of the CNMI history, VOICE CNMI was glad to be a part of the ever-changing political environment for a better Commonwealth!

Congratulations to all who have won and to those who did not make it, god speed with you new endeavors.

Click below for online viewing:
http://issuu.com/waynepangelinan/docs/voice_cnmi_november_2012

SAVING CNMI!

It was a nice project to get done, although this is the 2nd issue we did what we needed to do to get people informed.

 Speaking with a variety of people and sharing views of the political climate the CNMI endured prior to the 2012 mid-term elections. 

Forces indicated that groups who wanted change and others who saw things as good as they are remained vigilant to keep things as is. What the outcome may be is divided amongst people who want a government to be responsible for its people or remain at status quo. 

The challenges faced economically has not only made living difficult, but has shown true colors of each and everyone persons motif. You cast your vote and placed people in and we shared our views as well others who voiced their opinions in the matter.

To view this online publication, click on the link below:

http://issuu.com/waynepangelinan/docs/voice_cnmi_2nd_issue_october_2012?fb_action_ids=4218571875316&fb_action_types=og.likes&fb_source=aggregation&fb_aggregation_id=246965925417366

VOICE CNMI

This may not be the best piece written, but we assure you the opinions stated are those not of one voice, but of a variety who wish to only comment on issues and preferred to be have their names kept out of publication. However, we do have a few who were willing to state their comments and expectation on the upcoming mid-term elections this November 6, 2012.

Each story had received comments that are true to its nature. facts and opinions correlated to speak of the community's view of the living standards in the Commonwealth today. Mainly the task of the Legislators to assure the people of a decent livelihood we can rely on, and for that they are placed in office to assure the people of what we desire for the islands to progress forward and not remain status quo.

Sending this publication out via the net, we hope it reaches as many readers as possible, we hope that our incumbents vying for another term as well the hopefuls seeking a seat will take the time to read and respond based on their views and comments. Although we have seen a few platforms that stand ready to be disseminated to the general public, this is nothing new!

A platform with action makes more sense, but a platform with words of comfort has always been the case with many of our elected and hopefuls. We need champions, we need stern action on the hill, we need elected officials to hear the cries of our people and move steadily towards ensuring the Commonwealth is back on track.

Pass this along and share ideas and comments and let our elected officials and those who are running hear our VOICE CNMI!

Send in your comments or expectations on the mid-term election candidates and we will be happy to put it in our next issue come October 2012.  You may send in your comments via email at bisonrelations@gmail.com.

Dr. Rita A. Sablan Gets 4 More Years!

It was not that she is only highly educated, but her wisdom, her character and her determination to insuring the CNMI children get more out of what education is/and provided in the islands gave her another 4 years as the Commissioner of Education.  Her tenure as the Commissioner of Education has brought opportunities to each child in schools on Saipan, Tinian and Rota. She gets another 4 years because she is doing an excellent job!



Dr. Sablan and the Board of Education are now doing what is necessary to secure the CNMI PSS with the needed funds to carry out another year for our children. Over 10K students rely on what the CNMI PSS provides to securing their future. From K5-12th grade, our system  requires an amount to stay afloat without hindrance from economical forces plaguing the CNMI.  Fight the greatest fight COE and BOE. Students First!




Students First as released earlier capitalizes on the graduates of 2012. With a variety of educational features, this issue marks yet another great accomplishment the COE and BOE push out each month during the school year. Informative and educational as well, Students First has become the household name for education in the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands!

Tops + More Celebrates on its next issue - 1st Anniversary!

Whew! What a productive year for the Bison Relations staff. We are now working to launch our anniversary issue this coming July 2012. Its been a great year for the publication as we have tremendous support from the businesses and community as a whole.

Several topics come to mind and I think It will be our kept secret until it is released, nevertheless, it will be another classy-upbeat local publication for the CNMI.

Going local is our way to ensuring our Commonwealth remains strong. Take that leap and trust in Tops + More for your advertising needs. It definitley worked for our advertisers in each of our publications.

Tops + More 1st Issue. made an incredible impact, at one point thought of being the Hyatt Regency Saipan magazine.

Its coverage stems positive on island foods and articles written by individuals who served in capacity of the Tops + More focus group. Their statements are their voice of how each individual has seen, tasted and acknowledged the spectacle before them.

http://issuu.com/topsmagazine/docs/tops_plus_more

 

http://issuu.com/topsmagazine/docs/tops_more_2nd_issue

 

Tops + More 2nd issue took another angle. Still complementing the CNMI's best in fine dining, this issue captilaized on island features of tourism, our youth, with a strong emphasis on education both public and the lone Northern Mariana College.

We spoke of education and technology and how the world simply became a much smaller place as well the issues of underage drinking in the Commonwealth.

 

http://issuu.com/topsmagazine/docs/tops_3rd_issue

 

Tops + More's 3rd issue was the festive publication. Twas the seasons for giving, this holiday publication made headway to seeing the island during its festive seasons. The delectables of fine dining and hospitality from Pacific Islands Club. Each business offers just more than the average - up another knotch - portraying the holiday spirit. 

Other articles compunded the look and feel of Tops with local artisans and craftmakers. Healthy foods by Mariana Resort & Spa, Staycation with Hyatt, and Golf to name a few.

http://issuu.com/topsmagazine/docs/topsissue4

Our lates issue of Tops + More, features a variety of businesses in the CNMI. New and thriving while others in decades of existence. our culinary section features Aqua Resort as the fine dining experience while Judy's cafe brings the affordable cusine to our everyday lifestyle.

At Tops + More, we will bring a great serving of positive stories and while at it, we expect to tickle your pallet with excuisite foods found here in our home, Saipan.

BISON Relations, publishing company for Tops + More strives to bring more features on the CNMI with positive features indicating that we as an island nation can overcome the morass we are facing in todays economic conditions. Keeping a positive outlook for ourselves will only make our home a better place to live in. Do your part, and keep smiling CNMI!

Going Local is the way to go!

Numerous times we hear, "oh another business closed down", sad to see the CNMI lose its footing on investors confidence. Recently, a group of investors I belive were hosted by the Saipan Chamber of Commerce was here on island to see what investment opportunities lie ahead in the Commonwealth. Now for all that is good, we need more investments for the CNMI, but lest forget the ones who are still in business and have continuosly strive to make ends meet in this ailing economy. Support them too!

The love for the islands, its people and to offer what you can do to make a difference is where we need to look at immediatley. Government calls for more budget, yet they tax the businesses more to gain that extra dollar. Where does the business get that extra dollar, from its consumers and where does the consumer get there dollar, from their employers, the cycle does not stop. when taxes are raised , businesses raise their cost for commodoties and others making this cycle a living breathing nightmare for the people, the businesses, the very livelihood the government is tasked to protect.

Going local - supporting your local entreprenuers may sound difficult as most of our local products are considered expensive, but think about it, at least the funds stay with us. Recyled, re-used and replenished each time. I say go local to make "US" work as an island nation. Become self-sustainable in hopefully just a few years from now, am I wishful thinking?

Our 4th issue of Tops + More is out and about the community, in circulation since Friday last week. I am proud of this issue. We focused on our local businesses, new and in existence for sometime now, but they all had to start somewhere - a sacrfice that thay have endured. Call it inspiration, call it determination, but its there, they did it and they continue to do it! Lets not forget that we also have the features on our fine dining experiences. Hey, we go out, we enjoy, and yet we know that we also must be frugal when it comes to our expenses, but where do you draw the line for self gratification, we all need that to stay sane.

On behalf of BISON Relations, publishing company for Tops + More, we bid you good reading!

Charcoal Makes Big Successes!

December 2011 Charcoal was established. Taking into account the need for local flavored BBQ using local products to enhance its taste that appeal to the local clientele - rich in flavor, homemade marinade.

Dubbed with comments from customers "Wow, now this is some tasty BBQ", I could not have asked for more on support on local business and the product we dish out.

Since December we continue to build our reputation, working with non-profits organizations to using what we can offer to fund raise and support their causes as well. It only makes sense to make the best of what we have on island and while doing so, give back where we can.

Of course, the economy creates a difficult business ambiance, but supporting each other and going local with purchasing power that we may have to indulge in, I say why not? I do it too only to ensure that our local businesses gain and in return our CNMI gains from it.

Thank you all for your continued patronage to Charcoal BBQ. We will continue to build upon ourselves ensuring you, our clients are satisfied.

Challenges for Educators in the CNMI

Educators face challenges this fiscal year with budget shortfalls. BOE, COE, Administrators and teachers are all doing their part to ensure classroom learning is not disrupted due to their shortfall in funds.

Honoring Principals month while continuing the training keeping the CNMI Public School System on top of their game maintain goals to meet student learning - Standards & Benchmarks, Core Content learning build knowledge and skills for the youth today in our schools.

In the October 2011 edition of Students First, readers will see an array of activities the CNMI PSS pushes forward. Remaining transparent with whats happening in our schools and in our children's learning, we should be proud of those who are a part of our children's lives.

Prepping for the 3rd!

Tops + More is on its way with its 3rd issue. Focused on bringing healthy foods to your table while its taste mesmerizes your buds, looking for the right holiday treats is not far off when viewing our third issue.

Our feature stories are captivating, our advertisers pushing the envelope to gain their products out to you in the most innovative and creative means addressing what "we", consumers desire. Don't take it from me, but our readers have expressed their view on the publication we at BISON Relations are proud off.

Come December, expect to see more on Tops + More.

Summer's gone and school begins...

Where did summer go? Children say it went too fast and now another turn of events come to reality...

School begins...

For over 11K students in the Public School System, excitement fills their spirits as they will once again walk the hallways of what is familiar, make new friends, or have an adventure of something new, scary, yet promising.

Promising in that the whole of PSS has been gearing up to preparing the school year; Its instructional material, benchmarks, curriculum and defining assessments to making each and every child under the system reach the educational goals set out for the islands.

In the special edition - back to school Students First - PSS provides necessary information for our children. This 14-page newsletter encompasses what you need to know about your child's school contacts, food menu, bus schedules and more.

Welcome back to school everyone!

Students First Captures Educators in Busy...Busy...Busy Mode.

The Public School System faces inclement weather in 2011/12 school year. Efforts to counteract the budget shortfall expected from the CNMI government is an impact that will be felt across the board.

Public Education will be hindered in its operations, but as our education leaders, the Board Of Education Members along with Commissioner, Dr. Rita A. Sablan, commented on the impact this will have in classroom learning.

The CNMI, second to the lowest in average spending per child for education significantly challenges the system to improve education for our children.  Read more on the issue out today, August 29, 2011.

Despite budgetary concerns and the impact it causes, PSS maintains its professionalism to ensuring its people remain top educators in the region. The summer did not go by without preparing educators for the changes in education and learning techniques to be applied in the school year. Students First captures these training applications for community stakeholders.

ARRA projects completed for this school year. The improvements made by these funds greatly improved the school systems needs to accommodate our growing number of children. From the same period last year, the number of enrolled public school students increased by 3-5%, thus, the needed renovations on each school will create a better learning ambiance for our children.

Kudos to PSS, BOE and COE for continuing to lead education as its first priority! Students First!

Launching of TOPS + More

Core group with BISON Relations

Tops + More magazine officially launched July 12, 2011 at the Giovani's fine dining restaurant, Hyatt Regency Saipan. Clamoring for the attention it needed to boost opportunities, awareness and solidifying its presence, the BISON Relations staff made an impact to ensuring TOPS + More is well received in the community.

Our advertisers - all pleased with the outcome and ecstatic to see their products capitalized the way we did is now ever-more impressed with the publication and have agreed to continue to supporting the publication while enhancing their sales opportunities.

Acting Governor, Mr. & Mrs. Pete P. Reyes, Boni with BISON Relations

Potential advertisers has seen the strength of TOPS + More and have expressed interest to being strategically placed in the publications next issue. Features continue to place island foods as its common thread while other topics such as technology and education become the centerpiece of attention as TOPS + More brings you in with the minds and decisions that build our economy through ensuring technology continues to be upgraded and education remains the best investment for our children.

Wayne & Boni

"Building a company that provides employment for talented individuals in journalism, creative writing and creative designing is a great accomplishment, but I could not have done this alone. There are people who have gone the extra mile with me, Ulysses and Donna thank you! Also to my most important supporter, my wife Boni, without you, I may have never accomplished this.  Thank you all for making this dream a reality"... Wayne

View Tops + More online!

Click TOPS + More below to view magazine. Happy Reading!

OBC Chicken Kelaguin: A true delight!

TOPS + More online magazine

TOPS + More Magazine takes flight!

The first issue of TOPS + More is out today! The impact we expect is great, nevertheless the hard work and dedication from the BISON Relations company staff and supporting individuals  that has made this a reality are all excited and eager to feel how this publication would impact the island consumers and readers.

As we focus on the next issue, it's topic for feature stories focus on Education and Technology. Feature stories on how education continues to shape our island nation and what our leaders feel about education in the Commonwealth.

We hope you enjoy this free publication and that you will also see our online version as we gear to launch real soon.

Read the features on island foods - decadent with flavors TOPS + More reaches out to give our readers a glimpse of what we have going - Hyatt and PIC as well other venues state their reasons why we should all go and visit and taste the excitement they put on the table. Tidbits on keeping cool with Gonz "Freon Man" and hear what immunization has to say about how we could all protect ourselves and our children.

Of course there are more reading with TOPS + More. The inspiring short story of the Slatick couple and how they found Saipan to be their tourism hot spot, our very own forbidden island trekking story, our core group with their inside experiences on food and drinks. We have it and it only gets better! Take note of the discounted coupons that can go a long way for you, us, we, me as the consumer...

TOPS + More is officially your locally published island magazine!

PSS Releases Students First April 2011

The April 2011 Students First highlights personnel behind the scenes in our educational environment. Service men, administrative professionals, trades workers, support staff and related service providers that make up the hundreds of individuals who assist to educate, care and tend to our children on a daily basis. This issue recognizes them for their continued dedication and commitment to ensuring public education through their efforts whether big or small, it is achieving the common goal of learning.

COE Dr. Rita A. Sablan with Congressman Kilili push for federal fundings that would continue to provide excellent services to our children in public schools of over 10K strong. They both strive to ensuring our resources for children are not depleting, but increasing attesting to the change in climate of educational global trends. Special visitors arrive and are shown the aspects of our education as the CNMI currently is recognized as the role model for educational institutions in the Pacific Rim. 

Pick up your copy on Friday, May  27, 2011 with the Marianas Variety. PSS keeps us informed and as part of its Strategic Priority Plus One, they are accomplishing what they set out to do. From the 20 schools and Head start facilities, we, the community have insights to where "OUR" PSS is heading.

Leaps and Bounds: Taking care of business for Education

4th Quarter Publication

The CNMI Public School System publishes its 4th quarter portfolio for 2010. This edition focuses on the leaps and bounds to managing the Public Schools System through innovative and integrated approaches.

Financial Consultant Mr. Ed Tenorio through the auspices of the PSS Commissioner of Edcuation (COE)and State Board of Education (SBOE) announces their five year financial master plan - incorporating PSS' efforts to continuing to providing quality education while keeping afloat its operations with budgetary restraints faced in the Commonwealth.

It is no doubt that the PSS through the leadership of COE Dr. Rita A. Sablan and the SBOE, the PSS purges obstacles to ensuring public education is provided to our children.

This publication features its leaders in Education and the efforts of individuals who are making a difference to over 10,000 young men and women.  The Reporter is an accurate and informative resource to public education's progress in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

Hail to Green Energy!

Students First March 2011 Edition is expected to hit the streets Monday, April 18, 2011. This copy features an array of interesting topics. Those such as educational leaders, administrators, faculty strive for accreditation in several schools this year. Highlighting students accomplishments - Comp TIA certifications, culinary experiences at Kagman High providing alternative educational resources in skill through the Career and Technical Education provisions - PSS is making headway to building professionals from our youth.

Students First also encompasses the movements of PSS being recognized as the Department of Defense's highest employer with the troop to teach program, stemming from the support for those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom. Last but not least, the impact on green energy as Saipan Southern High breaks ground to be the modeled school in the Pacific to alternative energy - clean, safe and reliable. Hail to Green Energy for the Marianas!

Pick up your copy on Monday as an insert to the Marianas Variety distribution. More stories, features and educational awareness for the community to embrace what the State Board of Education and the Commissioner of Education is doing to enhance, create and develop stronger programs and experiences for our children in the Commonwealth.