June 1, 2008

News from Majuro
We’ve had a busy couple of weeks. More friends have sailed away and “our girls” have flown home. But we had an exciting visit from the trimaran “EarthRace”. This is a New Zealand power boat that is racing around the world using bio-diesel fuel, and hoping to set a new world record. They came into Majuro for 4 hours, to re-fuel and repair some broken parts. They requested help from the yachties in helping them into the dock, as they were running on just one engine. We all got into our dinghies and enjoyed getting them into position. We got a chance to chat with the crew and tour the boat. The visit was highly organized, with bio-fuel at the dock in containers, ready to go aboard, and the shore crew had fresh food to go aboard. One of the crew had a large cut on his foot which needed medical attention, and a doctor was standing by. Ted helped them get fresh water aboard, and Angela from Holokai cooked them up a nice stir-fry for their dinner. They left in good time and are on track for their world record.
Last Friday night we had the First Annual Mooring Ball Art Show Exhibit. We’ve told you how the yacht club is trying to protect the reef by installing moorings in the popular anchorages. Many of us have painted the balls, which have been named after prominent Marshallese people. We had 15 balls on display, with all the artists and the Marshallese who were named, as well as many VIPs. We wanted the community to see the balls before they are installed this week. Turnout was good and we had a judging by all the participants for the favorite balls. I’m delighted to tell you that the one painted by myself, Courtney and Katie came in third! I have a nice picture of me with the ball and it’s namesake Naia, an adorable 2-year old.
The next day we moved the show to the area between the post office and bank to catch the attention of those passing by. Karen (from the yacht Seal) had put together a brilliant power point presentation and had the computer running to show everyone what the project was about. We had hand-outs in English and Marshallese, so hopefully more people will be aware of the benefits of keeping the reef healthy. Ted was chosen to be one of the teachers to teach the outer island teachers English. (I also applied but was not chosen – guess I wasn’t meant to work here!) This program runs every summer to help the Marshallese teachers improve their English skills. Some of them only have 4th grade level English, and this is their one exposure to English during the year. The outer island teachers come to Majuro for the program and stay here for a month. Ted, as well as 4 other cruisers, and some shore people, started their orientation yesterday. In true Marshallese fashion, there is no plan or any materials. The group is running around trying to find books for resources. You’d think the program had never run before. Apparently the director is very defensive and set in her ways. Ted came home shaking his head and said I should feel very lucky I wasn’t chosen. And so it goes. Karen