Condolences


Vera Flores Dela Cruz

The PIBBA family extends its deepest condolences and sympathies to the family of PIBBA member Vera Flores Dela Cruz.  May Vera's family members be comforted with loving memories.  She will always be remembered. God Bless her and her family.  May she rest in peace. 🙏

PIBBA CONFERENCE TO BE HOSTED FSM


The PIBBA Conference has been POSTPONED.

FSM will host the PIBBA Conference - TBA.



39th Annual International PIBBA Conference


POSTPONED until June 2023

FSM


Sponsored by: Pacific Islands Bilingual Bicultural Association (PIBBA) International and Pohnpei Chapter

The PIBBA Conference is an annual event in which Western Pacific educators are provided with opportunities for professional growth and cultural enrichment. This year's conference offers a wonderful selection of traditional, innovative, and practical workshops, presented by creative and imaginative educators and cultural leaders from the Pacific islands.

Mark your calendar for the 39th Annual International PIBBA Conference in Pohnpei! Stay tuned for more details!


PIBBA Monthly Meeting

 FEBRUARY 2022 MEETING SNAPSHOT





Snapshots of the 38th Annual International PIBBA Conference in Koror, Palau!


Snapshots of the 38th Annual International PIBBA Conference in Palau!














PIBBA 2017 Conference

PIBBA 2017 Conference Video

Click on the video below to view the 36th Annual International PIBBA Conference hosted in Pohnpei

Click on the video to hear the PIBBA Song!

Click on the video to hear the PIBBA Song!

Sunday 29 December 2013

Condolences for the family of Liz Langas


The PIBBA family extends its deepest condolences and sympathies to the family of Liz Langas. Liz, an active PIBBA Member, lost her beloved sister, Rosalind Unpingco, Christmas morning. Rosalind was a librarian at Untalan before retiring this year. Her funeral is this Friday, January 3, 2014 at San Vicente-San Roke Church form 9 a.m. - 12 noon. Her mass is at noon. She will be interned at Pigo Cemetery. Viewing for Rosalind will be Ada's Funeral Home on Thursday, January 2, 2014 from 10 - 12 noon. Mass and rosary is being said at San Vicente-San Roke Church as follows: MTFS, 6 p.m. and Wednesday, 8 a.m. Rosary is after the masses. On behalf of PIBBA, a Serafic Mass will be given from immediate past PIBBA President, Rosa Salas Palomo. Please remember Liz and her deceased sister, Rosalind in your prayers. God Bless the family. May the dearly departed rest in peace.

Friday 27 December 2013

FELIS ANU NUEBU!



Felis Anu Nuebu (Chamorro)

Feliz Ano Nuevo (Spanish)

Parakapw Mwahu (Pohnpei)

Ungil Becheserrak (Palau)

Akemashite Omedeto Gozaimasu (Japanese)

Hau'oli Makahiki Hou (Hawaiian)

Sut dal kum mum (Korean)

Gung Hay Fat Choy (Chinese)

Chúc Mung Nam Moi (Vietnamese)

May the year 2014 bring you abundant blessings filled with much love, joy, peace, and happiness!

Tuesday 24 December 2013

Felis Pasgua!

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)

Friday 13 December 2013

PIBBA Guam Chapter Holds Election

The PIBBA Guam Chapter held its election on December 14, 2013 during its general membership meeting at Lemai Cafe.  Congratulations to the following officers who were elected:

President-Elect:  Antonia "Toni" Salas
Secretary:  Lois Taitano Gumataotao
Treasurer:  Barbara Benavente
Historian:  Dr. Jose Q. Cruz
PIO:   Elizabeth "Liz" Reyes
Webmaster:  Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera

Dr. Arlene Salas Camacho Diaz is the incoming President, as she has most recently completed her President-Elect term.

Thank you Past President Rosa Salas Palomo for your service to the PIBBA Guam Chapter!  We are excited about the new year and cultural events that are forthcoming! BIBA PIBBA!

Enjoy the following snapshots taking during this special election meeting!






Saturday 7 December 2013

Guam Council IRA December 2013 Newsletter


Click on the newsletter above to view this month's issue.

Guam Festival of the Pacific Arts Programming Committee Hard at Work!

Members of the Guam Festival of the Pacific Arts 2016 Programming Committee met December 7, 2013 at the Guam Community College multi-purpose room to further plan and discuss logistics of visual arts, literary arts, performing arts, forums, and seminars. The FestPac theme is Hafa Iyo-ta, Hafa Guinahata, Hafa ta Patte, Dinanna' Sunidu Siha Giya Pasifiku ~ What We Own, What We Have, What We Share, United Voices of the Pacific.

The festival dates are Sunday, May 22, 2016 through Saturday, June 4, 2016.  We are counting down now!  We have 897 days or 127 weeks to go!

2014 CAHA workshops are being planned with the theme Connect Me, Create Me, Promote Me.  This will include a FestPac overview, visual arts, traditional arts, literary arts, and performing arts.  The workshops will be conducted in partnership with Guampedia and Guam Preservation Trust.  It is also sponsored in part by the Guam Visitors Bureau.  In addition, a special fundraising event will take place March 14-15, 2014 at the Sheraton Laguna Resort.  We hope to see you there!

Si Yu'os Ma'ase', Team, for all your hard work! Enjoy the following snapshots!









Saturday 30 November 2013

PIBBA Guam Officers Nominations Update #4 - Final List

Dear PIBBA Family: Please find final list of Nominees (only those who've accepted) for Offices.

FINAL
LIST - Nominees for PIBBA Guam Chapter Jan 2014-Jan 2016:

Vice-President
Dawn Maka (Accepted)
Antonia "Toni" Salas (Accepted)



Secretary
Vera Dela Cruz (new/Accepted)

Treasurer
Julie Villagomez (Accepted)


Historian 
Dr. Marilyn "Mern" Salas (Accepted)
Dr. Jose "Joe" Cruz (Accepted-per Rosa)


Public Information Officer(PRO)
Liz Reyes (Accepted)
Maria Agulto (Accepted)
Note: Accepted to assist this team.

Webmaster
Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera (Accepted)



PIBBA Guam Elections Committee (pending confirmation by all):  A. Diaz, B.Manibusan, T.Salas (Committee is still open to interested parties, as well.)
Voting Options:   Email acsdiaz@yahoo.com (preferable)
Call 483-6426 (Arn's cell)
Leave message 653-6427 (Arn's home).  Committee will verify all results
Email/ Drop Your VOTE off this week at DLPES, School Guidance Counselor (ADiaz), MUlloa (BManibusan), DLPES, Chamorro Teacher (TSalas).  LAST DAY to VOTE is Dec. 7, 12 midnight.  Please write me if you have any questions or concerns.  Thank you.

Dr. Arn Diaz
Incoming PIBBA Guam Chapter President

Friday 29 November 2013

PIBBA Guam Officers Nominations Update #3

Dear PIBBA Members & Interested Parties:    
 

REMINDER:  Closing day for ALL nominations/ acceptance is Nov. 30, 12 midnight.  Please send out to all parties missed.

Current nominees for PIBBA Guam Chapter offices include:
Vice-President
Dawn Maka (Accepted)
Toni Salas (Accepted)
Teresita Flores (Declined)
Dr. Marilyn "Mern" Salas
Lois Taitano Gumataotao
Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera

Secretary
Vera Dela Cruz (new/Accepted)
Lois Gumataotao (Declined)

Treasurer
Julie Villagomez (Accepted)
Toni Salas(Declined)
Bobbie Benavente

Historian 
Mern Salas (Accepted)
Dr. Jose "Joe" Cruz (Accepted)
Dr. Gregorio "Greg" Tainatongo
Public Information Officer(PRO)
Severina Atalig
Malia Ramirez
Liz Reyes (Accepted)
Jimmy Teria
Rosa Salas Palomo (Declined)
Maria Agulto (Accepted)

Webmaster
Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera (Accepted)
Barbara Manibusan
Dr. Ye-Kyoung Kim Palomo

PIBBA Guam Elections Committee (pending confirmation by all):  A. Diaz, B.Manibusan, T.Salas
Voting Options:   Email acsdiaz@gdoe.net or acsdiaz@yahoo.com (preferable)
Call 483-6426 (Arn's cell)
Leave message 653-6427 (Arn's home).  Committee will verify all results
.
Drop Your Choice off this week at DLPES, School Guidance Counselor (ADiaz), MUlloa (BManibusan), DLPES, Chamorro Teacher (TSalas)

Thank You,
Dr. Arn Diaz
Incoming PIBBA Guam Chapter President

Thursday 28 November 2013

PIBBA Guam Chapter Nominees Update

Current nominees for PIBBA Guam Chapter offices include:

Vice-President- Dawn Maka (Accepted), Toni Salas, Teresita Flores

Secretary -  Vera Dela Cruz (new/Accepted), Lois Gumataotao (Declined)

Treasurer - Julie Villagomez (Accepted), Toni Salas (Declined), Bobbie Benavente

Historian -  Dr. Marilyn "Mern" Salas (Accepted), Dr. Joe Cruz, Dr. Greg Tainatongo

Public Information Officer(PRO)- Severina Atalig, Malia Ramirez, Liz Reyes, Jimmy Teria, Rosa Salas Palomo

Webmaster- Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera, Barbara Manibusan, Dr. Ye-Kyoung Kim Palomo

REMINDER:  Closing day for nominations/ acceptance is Nov. 30, 12 midnight.  We will then have one week to consider building directions over the next two years of PIBBA Guam Chapter under these officers. It will be an exciting two years... Palau, Kosrae... Tinian?...
BIBA PIBBA!

Wednesday 27 November 2013

Happy Thanksgiving!


Happy Thanksgiving to one and all! Enjoy this special holiday with your loved ones, and be sure to thank those who have touched your life and made a difference. Si Yu'os Ma'ase'!

Tuesday 26 November 2013

PIBBA Guam Call for Nominations


DEAR ALL PIBBA Guam Chapter Members & Interested and New Members: 

Current nominees for PIBBA Guam Chapter offices include:


Vice-President- Dawn Maka

Secretary -  Vera Dela Cruz (new)
Treasurer - Antonia "Toni" Salas
Historian -  Dr. Marilyn "Mern" Salas
Public Information Officer (PRO)-
Webmaster- Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera

If you nominate someone, verification of the nominee's acceptance must be completed.  The final nominee list will be available on November 30, 2013, 12 midnight.  To send in your nomination, e-mail PIBBA Guam President-Elect, Dr. Arlene Salas Diaz, at acsdiaz@gdoe.net.


Saturday 16 November 2013

PIBBA Webmaster Receives UOG Distinguished Alumni Award

Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera
PIBBA Webmaster and UOG Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient (SOE)

PIBBA's very own webmaster, Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera, was awarded with the UOG Distinguished Alumni Award for the School of Education on November 14, 2013 at the Guam Hilton Resort and Spa.  Congratulations, Dr. Rivera, on your achievement!

A total of five awards were given to individuals deserving of the distinction.  The winners are listed below along with their thoughts on how their education at UOG shaped them into who they are today.

Awardees:

Annparo Rios
Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner,
Guam Behavioral Health & Wellness Center
B.S, Nursing, 2003
School of Nursing and Health Sciences

“My education from the University of Guam has helped to shape me into the person I am today by allowing me to reconnect with my island home after spending my childhood and early adult life away from Guam. I didn’t have a sense of where “home” was. My goal was to pursue a nursing degree and have a career as a nurse. It wasn’t an easy one and would not have been possible without the support of my loved ones and instructors who knew and understood my history and experiences and encouraged me every step of the way to achieve my goal. My experience at UOG allowed me to accomplish my goals, forge friendships with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds, and be comfortable calling Guam “home” once again.”

Darlene Moore
Founder & President,
Micronesian Archaeological Research Services
B.A. Anthropology, 1979, MA Behavioral Science, 1984
College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences

“The education I received at the University of Guam during the years from 1976 to 1983 in pursuit of BA and MA degrees in Anthropology and Behavioral Science with a focus on Archaeology provided the background, training, and experience that were required in order for me to meet the federal qualification standards for directing and participating in Historic Preservation projects. After graduation, I worked on several UOG archaeological research projects which provided additional training opportunities. Then I formed a sole proprietorship and hired other qualified people as needed to complete Cultural Resource Management projects in the Mariana Islands. As the number and size of our projects grew, we (two other women with BA degrees and one with a PhD degree in Anthropology) formed Micronesian Archaeological Research Services (MARS), Inc. Incorporated in 1992, we are still operating, although two of our four original people have since retired. The past 25 years would not have been possible if UOG had not been there to offer the classes and guidance needed to qualify me for work in this fascinating field.”

George Chiu
Executive Vice President,
Tan Holdings Corporation
B.A. Accounting, 1987
School of Business and Public Administration

“I’d experienced stateside campus life, but it was at the University of Guam that my commitment to education was fortified. Professors and facilitators opened opportunities through learning not in just my primary fields of study – but other supportive and relevant areas that provided well-rounded and thoughtful opportunities that contributed to my success. Attending classes with students from the islands who also became leaders and professionals has developed a collegiate fraternity. I often meet individuals who also attended UOG; we share experiences, college courses, personalities and knowledge that contributes to a valuable basis of friendship and spirit of cooperation in mutually rewarding and beneficial collaborations and endeavors.”

Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera
Assistant Professor, University of Guam
B.A. Early Childhood Elementary, 1997, M.ED. Language and Literacy 2000
School of Education

“I am proud to be an alumna of the University of Guam. Without the guidance and inspiration of my brilliant professors at UOG’s School of Education, I would not have made it this far in my career. Thank you UOG for helping me to grow and gain the wisdom to excel in all that I do. Like my father always says, “Winning starts in the mind. Whatever the mind can conceive, it will achieve.“ Let us all think like winners! BIBA UOG!”

Shiela Concepcion
Quality Manager, DZSP 21 LLC
B.A. Computer Science, 2002.
College of Natural and Applied Sciences

“My education at the University of Guam has been instrumental in shaping both my professional and personal life. It helped expand my creativity, enhance my project management skills, build my self-confidence and foster my passion for technology – all of which has transformed my life and propelled my career from being the lead Computer Programmer to the Manager of Quality on the largest Base Operations Support Services Contract in the Department of Defense. The experiences I gained from the University served as the ultimate foundation for my dreams coming true, but this is only the beginning….”

Nominees were judged by a committee composed of the Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs, the respective dean or director of the school or college, a faculty member from the respective school or college, a representative of the UOG Alumni Association and an at-large judge from the community based on the following criteria:

• Professional accomplishment in the field: has the nominee attained a high level of distinction and achievement through scholarship, research, teaching, creative contributions to the arts (comprising Humanities, Performing and Fine Arts, Social Sciences and Business) or sciences (comprising Science, Engineering and Health Sciences) and/or service to society?
• Candidate exhibits a high degree of character and integrity.
• Civic and University involvement, awareness and concern.
• Do the nominee's achievements have local, national and/or international significance?

For more information, please contact Norman Analista, Director, Development and Alumni Affairs, University of Guam at 735-2586 or 797-3333.
--------------------------------------------------
Additional Thoughts:

"I am deeply grateful for the honor, love, and support shared during this special event. Thank you for this award and all you do for UOG - the Natural Choice. I can only hope that the instrumental examples set by this year's award recipients inspire other alumni to do what they can for this great institution and the rest of the community."
-Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera, PIBBA/SOE Alumni Association Webmaster

Si Yu'os Ma'ase'! Salamat! Kalangan! Kommool tata! Mesulang! Kammagar! Xie Xie! Domo Arigato! Thank you once again! BIBA UOG!


UOG Distinguished Alumni Awards:  Pictured L-R:  Norman Analista, Director for Development & Alumni Affairs; Eileen Agahan, UOG Alumni Association President; Dr. Robert Underwood, UOG President; Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera, UOG Distinguished Alumni award recipient for School of Education; Dr. John Sanchez, Interim SOE Dean; Dr. Anita Enriquez, Interim SVP; and Grace Griffin, SOE Alumni Association President.



Tuesday 12 November 2013

Saturday 26 October 2013

PIBBA Guam members meet Oct. 26 to discuss activities

PIBBA Guam meeting 1.  Pictured L-R:  Dr. Jose Q. Cruz; Toni Salas; Lois Taitano Gumataotao; Dawn Maka, PIBBA Guam Treasurer; and Rosa Salas Palomo, PIBBA Guam President.

PIBBA Guam meeting 2.  Pictured L-R:  Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera, PIBBA Webmaster; and Dr. Jose Q. Cruz.

PIBBA Guam meeting 3.  Pictured L-R:  Dawn Maka, PIBBA Guam Treasurer; Rosa Salas Palomo, PIBBA Guam President; Bobbie Benavente; Carmen Weaver; Dr. Arn Diaz, PIBBA Guam President-Elect; and Liz Langas.

Friday 25 October 2013

UOG Launches Chamorro Studies Program - Oct. 24

The University of Guam launched its Chamorro Studies program I Tinituhun: Inestudian Chamorro gi UOG on October 24, 2013. Previously, Governor Eddie Calvo signed a proclamation commemorating the creation of the Chamorro Studies program on October 14, 2013.

The Chamorro Studies major is a track within the Pacific-Asia Studies in the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences (CLASS). The Pacific-Asia Studies Program also includes majors in Japanese Studies and East-Asia Studies. Students that major in Chamorro Studies will become fluent in both reading and writing the Chamorro language. They will also become well-versed in the Chamorro history and culture.

The Chamorro Studies program will make an impact in the preservation, perpetuation and promotion of Chamorro language and culture. Enjoy the following pictures taken during the Chamorro Studies launch! BIBA CHAMORU!







Saturday 5 October 2013

Sherry Dixon‘s Natural Destiny on Guam

      Sherry Dixon started keeping a diary when she was in the fourth grade.  She wrote in a journal in high school.  Now Sherry writes a blog and participates in at least two writing groups.  She advises, “If you are a writer and you are not a part of a writing group, I strongly recommend you find one.”   
            Natural Destiny is Ms. Dixon’s first book.  It is the story of a young girl caught in the traumatic events of WWII on Guam as the Japanese invaded the island.  The story is narrated by an older woman thinking back on her youth and the events that shaped her.  The culture of Guam is seen through the eyes of an eight year old girl who keeps a positive outlook on life, despite the loss of her parents at an early age and also the extended family who cared for her. 
            Ms. Dixon’s education prepared her for her “day job” as an Environment, Safety, and Health Professional.  She graduated from Southern Illinois University with a BS in Occupational Education and earned an MA in Human Resources Development from Webster University in St. Louis, Missouri. She is now a Certified Safety Professional with the Board of Certified Safety Professionals.  She also belongs to several professional organizations including Toastmasters International where she has earned the title, “Distinguished Toastmaster”. 
            She is the featured Speaker at the General Membership Meeting of the GIRA this Saturday, October 12, 2013 at the OUTRIGGER RESORT GUAM from 8:00 to 11:00 am.
She will also visit middle and high schools during the week of October 14-18.
            Other events are:
·         Teacher Writing Workshop at Agueda Johnston Middle School Library, Tuesday, October 15, 4:15-5:15pm
·         Story Hour at the Hagatna Branch of the Guam Public Library, Saturday, October 19, 10:00-11:00 am
·         Teen Writing Workshop at Ordot Chalan Pago Elementary Cafeteria on Saturday, October 19, 2:00-4:00 pm
                       
To read her blog and find out more about Sherry Dixon, visit her website at www.sherrydixon.com.

Sherry Dixon’s School Visits
October 14-18, 2013
Agueda Johnston Middle                  
VSA Benavente Middle
FB Leon Guerrero Middle
Oceanview Middle
George Washington High
John F Kennedy High
Okkodo High
Simon Sanchez High
Southern High
Notre Dame High
St. Francis Catholic
San Vicente Catholic
St. Paul Christian

Tuesday 24 September 2013

Condolences for Mendiola Familia


The PIBBA family extends its deepest condolences and sympathies to the Mendiola family, as Ruth "Rufina" Mendiola, longtime PIBBA Member and PIBBA Teacher of the Year, lost her beloved sister and brother-in-law in Saipan.  God Bless the family. May the dearly departed rest in peace.


Saturday 31 August 2013

Marianas Conference a Success!


The University of Guam hosted a memorable historical conference on August 30 & 31, 2013.  Presentations and gathering of the minds provided an atmosphere of a historical trail that can't be matched anywhere else in the Pacific.  Kudos to the organizers!

Saturday 27 July 2013

32nd Annual International PIBBA Conference a Success!

PIBBA Proclamation Signing
Coconut-weaving session:  Using the Indigenous Art of Coconut Weaving to Improve Language Arts and Mathematics Skills
 

PIBBA Exhibit Participants

PIBBA Fellowship in Action!

FSM Delegation during the Opening Ceremony

Calling of the Kulo during the Pa'ok Ceremony

Pa'ok Masters take a pose with PIBBA participants

 
The 32nd Annual International Pacific Islands Bilingual Bicultural Association (PIBBA) Conference held in the beautiful Pacific island of Guam was a success! The conference theme, “Indigenous Rights:  Sacred and Secret ~ Direchon I Taotao Siha: Sagråda Yan Sikretu” was highlighted in each of the conference days from July 21-24, 2013. Each day featured the gathering of everyone singing the PIBBA song, which includes all the languages of the region, such as the following chorus: “Iokwe, Raan Annim, Kaselehlia, Alii, Aloha, Olomwaay, Hafa Dei, Tuwoh, Mogethin, Talofa.”

Among the entities that attended the conference this year are Pohnpei, CNMI, Guam, Republic of the Marshall Islands, Kosrae, and Chuuk.  The mission of PIBBA is to bring these entities together to promote cultural and language activities by disseminating information, involving communities, and encouraging quality education programs through the western Pacific.

The first day of the PIBBA Conference began with a march in the 69th Liberation Day Parade on Marine Corps Drive.  Each entity wore their PIBBA shirts and waved their flags proudly.  They were later hosted with a welcome dinner hosted at Lemai Café by GDOE CHamoru Studies and Special Projects Division and CHamoru Language Teachers, and Former PIBBA, International President Linda T. Edward and Family and Friends.

The second day of the PIBBA Conference was held at the Latte of Freedom Multipurpose Cultural Center, Hall of Governors Museum, R. J. Bordallo Governors Complex, Adelup.  An opening ceremony included a Parade of PIBBA Family with State and PIBBA Flags, and Song, Opening Chant by Fanlalai’an, Fanohge CHamoru, and Inifresi.  Opening Remarks were made by Rosa Salas Palomo, PIBBA, Guam Chapter President and 2013 PIBBA Conference Co-Chair.  Official Welcoming Remarks were said by Palomo and PIBBA Guam President-Elect, Dr. Arlene Diaz, in behalf of Peter Robert Onedera, PIBBA, International President, 2012-2013 and 2013 PIBBA Conference Co-Chair.  There was also a presentation of the Legislative Resolution by Vice-Speaker Benjamin Joseph Franquez Cruz, Mina’ 32 na Leheslaturan Guam; Keynote Speech by Attorney Julian Aguon, International Human Rights Lawyer, with focus on A Canvas to Cover the Ocean; announcement in preparation of I Pa’ok by Mr. Glenn Manglona; and Plenary Speech by Ms. Theresa Cruz Arriola, FEST PAC 2016 Chairwoman, Guam Visitors Bureau Board Member with focus on Autronesian Languages.  In addition, a special lunch was hosted by the Department of Chamorro Affairs at I Sengsong Chamorro/Chamorro Village.  The day ended with the I Pa’ok, A CHamoru Cultural Experience at the Angel L.G. Santos Memorial (Latte) Park, Hagåtña conducted by Glenn Manglona, Thomas D.Mendiola, Daniel Barcinas with the assistance of Dr. Greg Tainatongo, and Toni ‘Malia’ Ramirez.                                                                  

The third day of the conference was held at Okkodo High School in Dededo.  Continental breakfast was hosted by Senator Jovita M. Taimanao, CNMI.  Exhibits and a special PIBBA Silent Auction were held.  The FEST PAC 2016 Panel began its discussion with Monica Guzman, Chair, Guam Council on the Arts and Humanities; Frank Rabon, Master of Chamorro Dance; Colleen Weller, Visual Arts Subcommittee; Jaweena Sablan Mendiola, Performing Arts Delegate; American Samoa and Solomon Islands; and John Ibanez, Vice Chair, Guam Council on the Arts and Humanities, Co-Chair, Literacy Arts Subcommittee.

Sessions included I Fiñañagon I Fino’-ta Ta’lo, I Hinagong-ña Mo’na, The Conspiracy Behind the Fall of the Soudolours; Ma Adahen I Fino’ Chamorro- Preserving of the Chamorro Language at the Post Secondary Level; K5 – 3rd Grade Dual Language Arts (DLA) – A Promising Program in Chuuk; The CNMI Public School System Chamorro Heritage Studies Program at a Glance; The Sacred and Secret of Pohnpei Clan; 4-6 Dual Language Arts (DLA) – A Promising Program in Chuuk; Using the Indigenous Art of Coconut Weaving to Improve Language Arts and Mathematics Skills; The Indigenous Hierachy of Responsibility as Associate to Traditional Titles; Teaching Post-WWII Guam History with Chamorro Songs; Funds for the Improvement of Education (FIE) Report; 7-8 Dual Language Arts (DLA) – A Promising Program in Chuuk; Communicating Events, Telling Time by Animals and Plants; Art as Behavioral Intervention; Cultural Handicrafts and Recyclable Materials; Få’in Mariånas (Rice in the Marianas); Culturally Relevant Mathematics Activities; and more.  A special Fiesta Lunch Plate was hosted by Dr. John Ray and Mrs. Serafina C. Taitano and the Young Men’s League of Guam (YMLG) Ladies Auxiliary.

On the final day of the conference the exhibits and silent auction culminated.  The highlight was the 2012 and 2013 Indigenous Teacher of the Year and Pioneer of the Year Awards announced by Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera, PIBBA TOY and POY Co-Chair and Senator Shelten Neth, 2011-2012.  The memorable Proclamation Signing by Lt. Governor of Guam, Ray Tenorio, was also held.  In addition, the presentation of appreciation gifts to the delegations were held, as well as the annual PIBBA International Meeting.  The election of the 2013-2014 PIBBA International Officers included President Masa-Aki Emesiochl; Theresa “Ewy” Taitano, Secretary; Rosa Salas Palomo, Treasurer; Frances Sablan, Historian, and Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera, Webmaster.

A historic tour of Guam conducted by Anthony ‘Malia” Ramirez, Department of Parks and Historian, Department of Parks and Recreation, and Recreation Office bus transportation was provided by GPT, assisted by Dr. Greg Tainatongo.  The night ended with a closing ceremony at the Carnival Grounds, Tiyan, and dinner was sponsored by the Mayors Council of Guam.  Moreover, an In Memoriam Candlelight Ceremony was conducted by Teresita C. Flores and Lois Gumataotao, as well as the passing of the Key to Incoming PIBBA, International President by President Peter Robert Onedera.  The closing remarks were made by PIBBA, Guam Chapter President-Elect, Dr. Arlene C. S. Diaz; and the participants enjoyed the sights, sounds, and rides of the carnival grounds until midnight.

Deep gratitude goes out to all PIBBA Conference steering committee members, and all the entities that joined us to make the 32nd Annual PIBBA Conference a memorable event that will always be remembered! Un Dangkulo Na Si Yu’os Ma’ase’! Kalahngan! Kommol tata! Kinissow! Mesulang! Kammagar!

Friday 28 June 2013

PIBBA Guam Members Continue Planning for 32nd Annual International PIBBA Conference


Pictured L-R (sitting):  Rosa Salas Palomo, PIBBA Guam Chapter President; Dr. Gregorio Tainatongo; and Carmen Weaver.  Back row L-R:  Dawn Maka, PIBBA Guam Treasurer; Rufina Mendiola; Mye Ganan-Flores; Bobbie Manibusan; Liz Langas; Lois Taitano Gumataotao; Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera, PIBBA Webmaster; and Dr. Ye-Kyoung Kim-Palomo.

YMLG Ladies Auxiliary Donates to PIBBA

The YMLG Ladies Auxiliary donated $500 on June 29, 2013 to support the 32nd Annual International Pacific Islands Bilingual Bicultural Association (PIBBA) Conference, which will be hosted in Guam on July 21-24, 2013.  Pictured L-R (seated): Dawn Maka, PIBBA Guam Chapter Treasurer; Rosa Salas Palomo, PIBBA Guam Chapter President; Sera Taitano, YMLG auxiliary President; and Lou Benavente, YMLG auxiliary member.  Back row (L-R):  Dr. Ye-Kyoung Kim-Palomo; Liz Langas; Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera, PIBBA Webmaster; Carmen Weaver; Rufina Mendiola; Lois Taitano Gumataotao; Margaret Palomo, YMLG auxiliary member; Bobbie Manibusan; Nori Flores, YMLG auxiliary member; Dr. Gregorio Tainatongo; Tina Pablo, YMLG auxiliary Treasurer; and Mye Ganan-Flores.

Wednesday 19 June 2013

PIBBA DRAG Fundraiser - June 22


The PIBBA, Guam Chapter is sponsoring a fundraiser at the Guam Raceway Park in Yigo on Saturday, June 22, 2013. The proceeds of the DRAG 4 Cultures and Languages fundraiser will go towards the expenses of the 32nd Annual Pacific Islands Bilingual Bicultural Association International Conference to be held on July 21-24, 2013 on Guam for educators, particularly indigenous and heritage language educators in the region. The entrance fee is $5 per car and $2 for each spectator. Walkers are $2. Racers pay $2 per race or $10 for unlimited number of races. Gates open 7 p.m., and racing starts at 8:30 p.m. Refreshments will also be sold. Please come and help us raise funds and have a lot of fun! Si Yu’os ma’åse’!

Friday 7 June 2013

PIBBA Guam Chairs Hard at Work!


Pictured front row L-R:   Bobbie Manibusan; Dawn Maka; Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera, PIBBA Webmaster; Severina Atalig; Ewy Taitano; and Rufina Mendiola.  Back row L-R:  Peter Onedera, PIBBA International President; Carmen Weaver; Liz Reyes, PIBBA Guam Historian; Dr. Ye-Kyoung Kim-Palomo; and Rosa Salas Palomo, PIBBA Guam Chapter President.

Monday 3 June 2013

DRAG Park Racing Fundraiser Snapshots


PIBBA Guam Chapter volunteers pose for the camera.  They are all set and ready to start collecting the gate fees.  Pictured L-R:  Bobbie Manibusan; Dr. Arlene C.S. Diaz, PIBBA Guam Chapter President-Elect; Mye Ganan-Flores; Rosa Salas Palomo, PIBBA Guam Chapter President; Dr. Greg Tainatongo; Dr. Jose Q. Cruz, PIBBA International Historian; and Severina Atalig.

Vendors at work!
The two Tonis enjoy a Saturday in the Park!
Rufina advertises hot dogs for sale!
Severina and Rufina end the night with an amazing drag race!


INTRODUCING THE PIBBA FASHION MODELS...

Creative use of fabric for PIBBA 2013 - Fashion  Pose #1
PIBBA 2013 Fashion Pose #2
 PIBBA 2013 Fashion Pose #3
 PIBBA 2013 Fashion Pose #4
 PIBBA 2013 Fashion Pose #5
 PIBBA 2013 Fashion Pose #6
 PIBBA 2013 Fashion Pose #7

 PIBBA 2013 Fashion Pose #8

 PIBBA 2013 Fashion Pose #9

The night is almost done

THE END!