by Sabrina Salas Matanane

Guam - For two hours discussion on compact impact reimbursements filled the conference room at Adelup over the weekend. It's part of Governor Eddie Calvo's series of community forums on unresolved federal issues. The forum on Compact impact was delayed so that Senator Frank Blas, Jr. could attend, the republican lawmaker has been pushing for Guam to get its fair share for several years

"The GovGuam has been providing these reports since 2003 and never once has the federal government ever said that they objected or contended any of the numbers so therefore they've accepted they owe us $501 million," Blas said.

Meanwhile Senator Judi Guthertz provided four initiatives that advocate for a "Guam First" approach she says constructively deals with compact impact matters. Guthertz says her proposals are offered with the idea that they will be woven into policy or developed as programs that enhance opportunities for FAS citizens to further contribute to the well being of the island community and that assist all members of our island community to realize their hopes and aspirations for a better life In Guam.

Her four recommendations are: (1) a philosophical approach to integrating FAS citizens into the Guam community, (2) organize a conference themed: "the island way: challenges and opportunities," (3) organize a federal- Guam summit themed "The Compact Impact Agreement: Successes, Deficiencies, Changes," and finally (4) develop a Chamorro Micronesian cultural center.