The prices of things just keep going up around here! I know fuel is high! I know that therefore the electric bill is high! But, If there is a dispute with CUC(Commonwealth Utilities Corporation) then why does a customer have to demand a dispute form or threaten to bring a lawyer to get a dispute form?

This happened to me this week! Because I was advised, I knew to demand a dispute form, because without one, several things happen:

1) They look better if audited by the mainland, because nothing is on file!
2) They do NOT take you seriously!

Well, they did take me seriously this week! I put into writing that they did not have a dispute form for me to fill out. I also asked for them to put into writing that they did not have a form. Several phone calls later, the Assistant Director showed up and 1/2 hour later a form appeared. Supposedly, the printer had just given them to CUC within the last couple of days. He stayed and worked on my case for an hour, because of the rules and law that I was able to quote.

What happens to those who do NOT have such good advice or do not know where to go. For these reasons and others which I will not elaborate on, I feel it would be a good thing if CUC were bought out by a private organization. Maybe some of the practices would be changed and they would then comply with federal and international law!

Again, Thanks for listening!
Angie

Banking in Saipan or US?

Have you ever tried to cash a check from the mainland on Saipan? I have, and it is the biggest hassel! My father passed away back in Febuary. But, in June a check came from the mainland. The bank thought they could hold the check for 16 days, but I had to remind them that the(not so new) federal law states that they can NO longer hold checks traveling within the mainland. This is a US bank, even though it is overseas!

My teller (whom shall remain nameless) did not know about the federal law. But, after going to the boss, this person found out about it, and through the boss they still put a hold on the check. I stated I could understand a few days because of the time difference, but I wanted my money very soon!!

I had to go back three times within two weeks. Finally, two weeks and on one day later, and with the threat of bringing back a lawyer, they finally released the funds. It seems discriminatory when locals can cash checks that aren't even their funds and something that is mine I cannot cash and use! I hope that the banks here will take a look at their policies and decide to come into the 21st century and abide by the law.

Thanks for listening!