Thursday, December 24, 2015

Merry Christmas from around the Pacific!

Merry Christmas from around the Pacific!

~Felis Pasgua (Chamorro)
~Maligayan Pasko (Tagalog)
~Peren en Krismas (Pohnpeian)
~Monono ilo raaneoan Nejin (Marshallese)
~Falang e Baynag (Yapese)
~Tok Tapeng (Kosraean)
~Ungil Kurismas (Palauan)
~Pwapwan Kirisimas (Chuukese)
~Mele Kalikimaka (Hawaiian)
~Ameseighil ubwutiiwel Layi Luugh me raagh fee (Carolinian)

Sunday, December 20, 2015

Congratulations Fall 2015 Graduates!

The University of Guam celebrated the graduation of its 262 students on December 20, 2015 at the UOG Calvo Field House. The Commencement Ceremonies featured keynote speaker MSNBC and NBC News Anchor Richard Lui. Lui impressed upon the need for the graduates to tell their own stories and look for unique angles, as they write the chapter of their lives. Congratulations Fall 2015 graduates! God Bless, and we wish you the best in your future endeavors!


Lorenzo Naputi Reyes proudly holds his diploma


UOG's Dr. Rivera's 


Pictured L-R:  Jacqueline Naputi Reyes, Lorenzo Naputi Reyes, and Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera.


Lorenzo Naputi Reyes (center) is surrounded by family members 

Saturday, November 28, 2015

Issei Memorial Snapshots at South Pacific Memorial Park - November 28, 2015

The Guam Nikkei Association (GNA) held an Unveiling Ceremony for the Issei Monument erected to pay tribute to the men who started Guam’s first community of Japanese-Chamorro families in the early 1900’s. Many came as copra plantation workers, merchants, farmers, fishermen, and laborers. They came from various prefectures near Tokyo in such areas as Kanagawa, Ibaraki, Tochigi, and Gunma. They married Chamorro women, learned the Chamorro language and adopted the Catholic religion as required in order to fully establish domicile. While some returned to Japan, the ones listed on the monument stayed and their legacy continues with generations of families today. All of them have died and the GNA cherishes their contributions to Guam’s rich history that we know today. The Unveiling Ceremony, which brought together many of the Guam Issei descendants, was held on Saturday, November 28, 2015 at 10:00 a.m., South Pacific Memorial Peace Park, Yigo, Guam. Through fundraising efforts and with support from the Consul General of Japan, Sumitomo Construction, Landscape Management Service (LMS), Architects Laguaña and the South Pacific Memorial Peace Park, the 5’ granite monument stands on a concrete base and lists the 53 names that the GNA believes are Guam’s Issei. Issei is the Japanese language term used in America to to specify the Japanese people who were first to immigrate.

#####



The Guam Nikkei Association was chartered in 2012 with the primary purpose of perpetuating the history and lineages of those born from Japanese ancestry who are presently bona fide residents of Guam, educating the community about the impact and contribution of first generation Japanese and their descendants on the social economic fabric of Guam and to inculcating Japanese culture, art, traditions and history to succeeding generations of Japanese-Chamorro-Guamanians.












Wednesday, November 25, 2015

Happy Thanksgiving!


Source:  www.happythanksgivingdaypictures.com

Saturday, November 21, 2015

Guam Nikkei Association to Unveil Memorial In Tribute to Guam’s 1900 Issei Patriarchs

HAGÅTÑA, GUAM (November 22, 2015) – The Guam Nikkei Association (GNA) is proud to announce the Unveiling Ceremony for the Issei Monument erected to pay tribute to the men who started Guam’s first community of Japanese-Chamorro families in the early 1900’s. Many came as copra plantation workers, merchants, farmers, fishermen, and laborers.  They came from various prefectures near Tokyo in such areas as Kanagawa, Ibaraki, Tochigi, and Gunma.  They married Chamorro women, learned the Chamorro language and adopted the Catholic religion as required in order to fully establish domicile.  While some returned to Japan, the ones listed on the monument stayed and their legacy continues with generations of families today.  All of them have died and the GNA cherish their contributions to Guam’s rich history that we know today. 
The Unveiling Ceremony will be held on Saturday, November 28, 2015 at 10:00 a.m., South Pacific Memorial Peace Park, Yigo, Guam

Through fundraising efforts and with support from the Consul General of Japan, Sumitomo Construction, Landscape Management Service (LMS), Architects Laguaña and the South Pacific Memorial Peace Park, the 5’ granite monument stands on a concrete base and lists the 51 names that the GNA believes are Guam’s Issei. Issei is the Japanese language term used in America to specify the Japanese people who were first to immigrate.
The GNA would like to invite descendants of these Guam Issei to the unveiling.
For more information please contact Monica Okada Guzman at 727-1879.
#####
The Guam Nikkei Association was chartered in 2012 with the primary purpose of perpetuating the history and lineages of those born from Japanese ancestry who are presently bona fide residents of Guam, educating the community about the impact and contribution of first generation Japanese and their descendants on the social economic fabric of Guam and to inculcating Japanese culture, art, traditions and history to succeeding generations of Japanese-Chamorro-Guamanians.   

Issei Memorial Ceremony - Nov. 28


Sunday, July 26, 2015

GPLS Summer Reading Program a Success!

GPLS Summer Reading Program participants wrap up with a celebration on July 25, 2015 at the Hagatna Public Library.


Kudos to the organizers of this year's GPLS Summer Reading Program!  It was a huge success!  Congratulations to all!

Sunday, July 19, 2015

Happy 71st Liberation Day, Guam!


Tomorrow marks Guam's 71st Liberation Day! The island's annual liberation parade on July 21 is traditionally packed with crowds to celebrate Guam's freedom from Japan's cruel occupation. As part of our patriotism, we continue to celebrate and thank our Dear Uncle Sam - the United States and to those who serve in the Armed Forces who continue to fight for our freedom!

Happy 71st Liberation Day, Guahan! Biba Guahan!

Friday, July 17, 2015

IGP Presents Pulani Performance - July 16, 17, 18

Please join Island Girl Power for the Pulani performance at the Kurason Ysengsong Complex, Dededo on July 16 - 18, 2015. Saina Ma'ase'!



I Can Too! Summer Camp - July 27-31

Saturday, July 4, 2015

ADA Anniversary Celebration


Schedule of activities in honor of the
25th AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA)
Anniversary Celebration

1)   Proclamation Signing with Governor of Guam: “In celebration of the 25th ADA Anniversary”
Coordinator: Ben Servino, Department of Integrated Services for Individuals with Disabilities (DISID)

June 29, 2015 (Mon) at 10 am at Governor’s Cabinet Conference Room, Adelup

2)   Pledging on to the ADA: “Promoting and becoming a part of the nationwide celebration and recommitment of the implementation of the ADA – with a goal of getting 2500 signatures for the 25th ADA Anniversary by logging onto: http://adaanniversary.org/ 

July 1 – 31, 2015

3)   Workshop: “Technical Requirements of providing Accessible Parking for People with Disabilities in your facility”
Presenter: Ben Servino, Department of Integrated Services for Individuals with Disabilities (DISID)

July 6th, 2015 (Mon.) from 8:30am-12pm at DISID/DVR Conf. Rm., 6th floor, DNA Bldg

4)   Workshop: “The Rights of Individuals with Disabilities under the ADA” Presenter: Harold Parker, Guam Legal Services Corporation (GLSC)

July 9th, 2015 (Thurs.) from 2:30-5pm at DISID/DVR Conf. Rm., 6th floor, DNA Bldg

5)   Accessibility Site Assessments and Technical Assistance: “Local Businesses/Hotels/Restaurants”
Facilitated by Ben Servino and Individuals with Disabilities in the Community

July 10th, 17th, 24th2015 (Frid.) from 9am-12pm

6)   Workshop: “Effective Communication & Interaction Strategies for People with Disabilities”
Presented bySiNA Organization

July 14th, 2015 (Thurs.) from 8:30am-12pm at DISID/DVR Conf. Rm., 6th floor, DNA Bldg

7)   Workshop: “How to make your PDF Documents Accessible for People with Disabilities”
Presenter: Carla Torres, Guam System for Assistive Technology (GSAT)

July 16th, 2015 (Thurs.) from 10am-12pm at DISID/DVR Conf. Rm., 6th floor, DNA Bldg

8)      Workshop: “Developing ADA Self Evaluation Plans & Transition Plans” 
Presenter: Ben Servino, Department of Integrated Services for Individuals with Disabilities (DISID)

July 20th, 2015 (Mon.) from 8:30am-12pm at DISID/DVR Conf. Rm., 6th floor, DNA Bldg

9)   Workshop: “How To Make Your Websites Accessible For People With Disabilities”
Presenter: Carla Torres, Guam System for Assistive Technology (GSAT)

July 23rd, 2015 (Thurs.) from 10am-12pm at DISID/DVR Conf. Rm., 6th floor, DNA Bldg

10)         Disability Simulation Event: "A Day in a Life" Participation of Government and Private Sector Leaders shadowed by an Individual with the same Disability
Coordinated by Ben Servino and Carla Torres

July 24th, 2015 (Frid.) from 8:30am-12pm at Participant’s worksite and experiences will be shared during a Luncheon hosted by the Nikko Hotel

11)  Inclusive Recreational Activity: “Integrated Bowling Tournament with Special Olympics Athletes and GovGuam/Military/Private/NPO Sector Entities”
Coordinator: Marlon Molinos and Ben Servino

July 25th, 2015 (Sat.) from 8:30am-12pm at Central lanes Bowling Center, Tamuning

12)  Workshop for Employers: “Providing Reasonable Accommodations for Applicants and Employees with Disabilities”
Presented by Ben Servino, Dept. of Integrated Services for Individuals with Disabilities (DISID)

July 28th, 2015 (Tues.) from 8:30am-12pm at DISID/DVR Conf. Rm., 6th floor, DNA Bldg

13)  Acknowledgements and Certificates of Appreciation: “CAPE Volunteers and Hotels, Restaurants, and Businesses that have increased access to their goods and services”
Coordinated by Ben Servino, Dept. of Integrated Services for Individuals with Disabilities (DISID)

July 31st, 2015 (Frid.) from 10am-12pm at DISID/DVR Conf. Rm., 6th floor, DNA Bldg


Monday, June 29, 2015

Guam Council IRA Donates Books to GMH Volunteers Association Program

The Guam Council International Reading Association continues to support service projects, such as the Guam Memorial Hospital Volunteers Association Reading Program.  Reading resources were provided which encourages and inspires literacy in the children and adults at Guam Memorial Hospital.  Pictured L-R: GMH Gordon Mizusawa; GMHAVA President Jenny Cruz; IRA 2015-2016 President Evangeline Chaco; Catriona Melyan, GMH Volunteer; Anna Pangelinan, GMH Volunteer; and IRA 2015-2016 President-Elect Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera.

Friday, June 12, 2015

Philippine Independence Ball - June 13


Guam Micronesia Island Fair - June 12, 13, 14

The Guam Micronesia Island Fair starts today.  In its 28th year, the annual festival will bring our neighboring islands together for a weekend of cultural sharing and preparation for the "Olympics of Pacific Arts."
"Bridging past, present and future — The Journey to FestPac" is this year's theme.
"The Guam Visitors Bureau and our Guam Micronesia Island Fair partners are looking forward to this weekend's celebration of culture, alongside our brothers and sisters from Micronesia," GVB General Manager Nathan Denight says.
"This GVB signature cultural event will also serve as a preview to the Festival of Pacific Arts, which Guam is hosting in 2016. We invite everyone to come to Gov. Joseph Flores (Beach) Park on June 12 to 14 to check out all the different vendors, cultural exhibitors, live art demonstrations and entertainment that are part of GMIF, " Denight says.
This weekend, expect delegations from Rota, Tinian, Saipan, The Federated States of Micronesia, and the republics of Kiribati, Nauru, Palau and the Marshall Islands represented at the fair, as well as a Guam delegation.
The island delegations will share their culture through dance, singing and chant performances, as well as through food, arts and crafts and other goods available at the fair.
There's plenty to do at the fair with different kinds of vendors, artisans, even live-art demonstrations scheduled for the three-day celebration.
This weekend's fair also has a strong musical entertainment line-up with award-winning island reggae group The Mana'o Company, known for the hit "Drop Baby Drop," ready to perform.
Also on tap to perform are local groups, including Marianas Homegrown, Love & Håfa Adai, Stay Tuned, R&R, The Mount Carmel Phoenix Stage Band and Rising Tides.
IF YOU GO
• What: 28th annual Guam Micronesia Island Fair
• Where: Gov. Joseph Flores Memorial Park at Ypao Beach, Tumon
• When: Noon to 9 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday
Schedule of events


Friday• Noon: Fairgrounds open
• 12:30 p.m.: Vicente S.A. Benavente Middle School
• 1 p.m.: Kulu Natibu Dance Squad (AIJMS)
• 1:30 p.m.: Inetnon Southern High Chapter
• 2 p.m.: Guma' Kinalamten I Tatao Tano
• 6 p.m.: Opening ceremony
• 7 p.m.: Marianas Homegrown
• 8 p.m.: Love and Håfa Adai
• 9 p.m:. Fairgrounds close


Saturday• Noon: Fairgrounds open
• 12:30 p.m.: Pa'a Taotao Tano'
• 1 p.m.: Pohnpei
• 1:30 p.m.: Kosrae
• 2 p.m.: Natibu Dance Academy
• 2:30 p.m.: Palau
• 3 p.m.: Yap
• 3:30 p.m.: Konfrence
• 4:30 p.m.: Toni Quitugua
• 5 p.m.: Phoenix Stage Band
• 6 p.m.: Stay Tuned
• 7:30 p.m.: The Mana'o Company
• 9 p.m.: Fairgrounds close


Sunday• Noon: Fairgrounds open
• 12:30 p.m.: Pa'a Taotao Tano'
• 1 p.m.: Yap
• 1:30 p.m.: Guma Irensian Taotao Tano
• 2 p.m.: Guma Anitin I Taotao Tano
• 2:30 p.m.: Pohnpei
• 3 p.m.: Palau
• 3:30 p.m.: DanzJazz Entertainment Company + SSHS Dance Team
• 4 p.m.: Guma Ininan I Saina-ta
• 4:30 p.m.: Rose Martinez
• 5 p.m.: Southern High School's Vocational Band "Rising Tide"
• 6 p.m.: R&R
• 7:30 p.m.: The Mana'o Company
• 9 p.m.: Fairgrounds close


Source:  PDN

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

GINEN I TANO' Sunday Street Fair - May 24

Our monthly GINEN I TANO' Sunday Street Fair will be on MAY 24, 2015, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in front of the G.Flores History Center (Old Store) on San Jose Ave. in Inalahan.  Vendors of all local products are invited to bring their table and set up for free under the canopy.  The Inalahan Mayor provides the canopies and GVB encourages group tours to visit.  LET'S PROMOTE OUR LOCAL PRODUCTS AND BUSINESSES!  Please register so your space can be saved and your participation will be promoted in advance!
To register, contact Judy Flores at judyflores@guam.net  or Tonymdaddy@yahoo.com.  
Leave phone message at Hotnu Bakery at 989-5340.

Saturday, May 2, 2015

Addressing Concerns of Parents of Young Children with Autism Workshop - May 6 & 7


Identifying Children with Autism Workshop - May 5

28th Annual Guam Micronesia Island Fair

May 15, 2015 - May 17, 2015 

Location: Governor Joseph Flores Memorial Park (Ypao)
Address: 401 Pale San Vitores Road, Tumon, Guam 96913
Times: From: 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Admission: Free
Phone: 671-646-5278
Email:info@visitguam.org



The Guam Micronesia Island Fair is the annual signature cultural event of the Guam Visitors Bureau, showcasing the vibrant cultures of Micronesia. 
Experience the culture and arts of Micronesia in one exciting weekend on May 15,16 & 17. Known for the best diving in the world and just a few short hours from Asia are thousands of islands that span the west Pacific, known as Micronesia.

For over a quarter century, delegations from the Federated States of Micronesia, Rota, Saipan and Tinian and the republics of Kiribati, Nauru, the Marshall Islands and Palau, have gathered on Guam to commemorate the region's largest cultural event. Meet Micronesia's master carvers, blacksmiths, traditional fishing experts, jewelers, weavers, dancers, musicians and chefs and see first hand customs that have been in place and perpetuated for the millennia.

Source:  http://www.visitguam.com

Thursday, April 23, 2015

IMAGINE! Southern Class Shines


IMAGINE! Southern Class: The Math/Reading/Social Studies students of Geraldine Pablo, Connie Mallada, and Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera take a pose. Pictured front row L-R sitting:  Pablo, 5:30 Math Instructor; Dr. Rivera, 7:30 Reading/Social Studies instructor; and Mallada, 5:30 Math Co-instructor.  Second row L-R:  Adrian Manibusan, Pauline Santos, Ana Mesa, Katie Lujan, Catherine San Nicolas, Maria Emanuel, and Leo Llegado, IT.  Not pictured are Robert Quintanilla and Peter Taijeron.

Guam Literary Arts Announces Its Informational Website

More information on the Guam Literary Arts Committee for the 12th Festival of Pacific Arts can be found on its informational website at https://sites.google.com/site/guamliteraryarts.

Thursday, April 9, 2015

GNN Starts April 10

Guam News Network launches on GTA Channel 17

Posted: Apr 09, 2015 5:17 PMUpdated: Apr 10, 2015 6:06 AM
 Beginning, Friday, April 10 GTA cable subscribers will be able to watch the best in local news and entertainment 24 hours a day on Guam's News Network (GNN), Channel 17 on GTA cable.  This 24-hour channel will offer an around the clock array of local programs from the stations of KUAM including rebroadcasts of the award winning top rated KUAM News Primetime, KUAM News Extra, special musical performances, KUAM's In The Mix, News Specials, community organization forums, classic KUAM episodes including the Malafunkshun Show, Island Focus and much more.

GNN sign on is set for 6am on Friday, April 10.

Source:  KUAM

Wednesday, April 8, 2015

2015 UOGFF - April 18



The following is the schedule of events for the 2015 UOGFF, Saturday, April 18:


11:00am DOORS OPEN

11:15am "GUAM: THE OCEAN OASIS" (Opening Film - documentary)

12:00pm "NOT FAR AWAY", "STRAY" (drama), "CHRONICLES OF TRE" (action)

1:20pm WORKSHOP - ACTING FOR THE CAMERA (by Jefferson Cronin)

2:35pm "PAKTO: I HINEKKA", "A PROXIMITY" (comedy)

3:40pm "COSPLAY ON GUAM", "BEING A FILMMAKER", "HANDS OF STEEL", "BEAT THE BEETLE" (documentary)

5:25pm PANEL DISCUSSION - THE FUTURE OF INDEPENDENT FILM ON GUAM AND THE MARIANAS

6:40pm "INDIGO", "DAYS OF REVELATION", "UNVEIL" (music videos)

7:40pm "GRENDEL", "BITTERSWEET", "MOB", "LUTHER" (action/suspense)

9:20pm "MADAM" (Closing Film - drama)

Week of the Young Child - April 13 - 18

Sunday, April 5, 2015

G Factor IV - May 2

The G Factor IV, UOG Senior/Alumni Reception and Talent Showcase:
University seniors and successful alumni connect to engage in meaningful conversations about preparing for the workforce.
Saturday, 5/2, 6p.m. to 10p.m. Venue:  Tapanade in Hagatna
Review photos from previous events:

IMAGINE! Class Shines


IMAGINE! Class: The Reading/Social Studies students of Lois T. Gumataotao take a pose. Pictured front row L-R: Dawn Maka-7:30 Instructor, Brandon Ignacio, and Gumataotao-5:30 Instructor. Standing L-R: Shawn Lujan, Julie Arnaiz, Davante Perez, Melissa Pocaigue, Robin Pocaigue, Davina Jesus, and Dorothy Jesus. Not pictured is Regina Rapolla.

Thursday, April 2, 2015

Introducing the IMAGINE! Team


As part of a GED outreach project, a group of Guam educators teamed up to make a difference in what is known as the IMAGINE! Soaring Towards a Diploma.  Kudos for all that you do!

IMAGINE! Team:  Pictured L-R front row:  Jimmy Terria, Reading/Social Studies instructor-Central region; Shane, IT-All regions; Lois T. Gumataotao, Reading/Social Studies instructor-Central region; Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera, Reading/Social Studies Instructor-Southern region; Dawn Maka, Reading/Social Studies/Math instructor-Northern & Central regions; Bobbie Benavente, Reading/Social Studies instructor-Northern region; Marie DeLoach, Project Staff; Geri Pablo, Math instructor-Southern region; and Professor Rosa Salas Palomo, Project Director.  Second row L-R:  Leo Llegado, IT-All regions; Mye Ganan-Flores, MLI; John Castro, Math Instructor-Northern region; Liz Langas, Reading/Social Studies Instructor-Northern region; and Connie Mallada, Math Instructor-Central region.

FestPac Newsletter #2


Operation Maysak Relief

Our sister islands of Chuuk and Yap have experienced extensive damage due to Typhoon Maysak. UOG President Dr. Robert A. Underwood has initiated a University-wide campaign to assist our friends and neighbors who are in dire need of our help. Please be generous in your support.

Below are areas of support where you can make a difference:

*Food/Water and Clothing/Supply Drive.  Donations need to received by April 6 and April 10 in order to make it in time for the first two shipments going out to Chuuk and Yap.

*Fund Drive. The monetary goal is $3,000. If donating by check, make it payable to “University of Guam."

*Communications Services. TADEO is available for students and community members who need to make contact with family members in the impacted areas. Point of contact is Manny Hechanova at 735-2620/1 or mannyh@uguam.uog.edu.

All donations will be consolidated and provided to the Ayuda Foundation. For more information, contact David Okada at 735-2902 or email dsokada@triton.uog.edu

Sunday, March 29, 2015

UOG's 63rd Anniversary Founders Day Gala to feature Timmons

This year, Jeff Timmons of the Grammy-nominated & multi-platinum-selling group 98° will be performing at UOG's 63rd Anniversary Founders Day Gala on Saturday, June 27, 2015 at the Hyatt Regency Guam from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. For more information, email Norm Analista at nanalista@uguam.uog.edu or call 797-3333.

Luvin Guam - Have a Taste of Guam


Joaquin N. Naputi
Luvin Guam

Our Mango /Coconut/ Pineapple & Other Guam Fruits Story

Joaquin N. Naputi is a retired Deputy Director of the Guam Department of Agriculture and the Former Chairman of the GREEN Revolution on Guam.  He had a vision to take his local mangoes, coconuts, pineapples, and other fruits grown on his Dededo & Merizo farms and create an added value product so our visitors & local people alike could have a taste of Guam.  He aims to promote Guam through his agricultural products.

He has incorporated the Luvin Guam brand featuring his fruits grown on his Northern & Southern farms, thus creating Guams sought after fruit slushies.

You may find his now famous & highly recommended fresh fruit products at these fine locations, which can be identified by the Luvin Guam logo:

1)    Two Lovers Point, 7 days a week from 8am-6pm.
2)    Chamorro Village Wednesday Night Market, 3 locations from 4pm-9pm.
3)    Dededo Flea Market, Saturday & Sunday, 2 locations from 5am-10am.

Featuring these signature products:

1.    Coconut Manha milkshake Slush- A blend of fresh Manha (young coconut juice), Manha meat, & fresh coconut milk.
2.    Sweet Mango Slush- A blend of several different types of locally grown mangos made into juice with pieces of mango pulp.
3.    Pineapple Slush- A blend of local pineapple & locally grown Hawaiian pineapple blended into a sweet, mild tart slush with fresh pineapple pulp.
4.    Coconut Sashimi Fresh coconut meat with wasabi and soy sauce.



SO HAVE A TASTE OF GUAM

BUY LOCAL