Friday, December 27, 2013

HAPPY NEW YEAR!



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!


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, December 24, 2013

Merry Christmas!

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)

Saturday, December 14, 2013

PIBBA Guam Chapter Holds Election

The Pacific Islands Bilingual Bicultural Association (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.

Past President Rosa Salas Palomo was thanked for her service to the PIBBA Guam Chapter.  The organization is excited about the new year and cultural events that are forthcoming.  For more information, visit http://pibbaguam.blogspot.com.

Enjoy the following snapshots taking during this special election meeting!






Saturday, December 7, 2013

Wednesday, November 27, 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, November 12, 2013

Saturday, October 26, 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, October 5, 2013

Second Language Acquisition Sites

Check out the following websites for information on SLA,ESL, assessment, language diversity, bilingual education, technology and language learning, two-way immersion, and more. Enjoy!

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/vivian.c/SLA/

http://www.cal.org/siteMap.html

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

SOE Alumni Association to sponsor special author’s visit with Filipina Author Dr. Gilles


The SOE Alumni Association will sponsor a special author’s visit with Dr. Almira Astudillo-Gilles on October 26, 2013 during the Saturday Story Hour, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.  at the Hagatna Public Library.  Dr. Gilles’ will conduct a Read Aloud with activities.  She is based in Chicago and is one of the Pamana Awardees for 2012 (Literature) - awards for overseas Pinoys in different categories.  See link below.
Her children's book, Willie Wins, has won several awards, and has been one of the most popular books for Filipino-American kids in recent years.

She is also scheduled to deliver a lecture on October 25, Friday, 2:00 p.m. at the IT&E Lecture Hall in the University of Guam’s SBPA building.   Copies of her novel will be available for sale. 

Saturday, July 27, 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, June 7, 2013

TESOL Teacher of the Year

TESOL recognizes the unique challenges faced by English language teachers and the hard work and dedication it takes to overcome those challenges. The TESOL Teacher of the Year Award, presented by National Geographic Learning, was created by TESOL and National Geographic Learning to recognize and honor exceptional English language teachers at the elementary/secondary and postsecondary/adult education levels.
Is there an outstanding teacher in your life?
TESOL is now accepting nominations and applications for the Teacher of the Year Award.
15 June: Nomination Deadline
30 June: Application Deadline
 
 
Source:  TESOL.org

Tuesday, June 4, 2013

NEWS RELEASE: 32nd Annual International Pacific Islands Bilingual Bicultural Association (PIBBA) Conference

 

The 32nd Annual International Pacific Islands Bilingual Bicultural Association (PIBBA) Conference will be held Sunday-Wednesday, July 21-24, 2013 at John F. Kennedy High School. The theme is "Indigenous Rights: Sacred and Secret – Direchon i Taotao Siha: Sagråda yan Sikretu.” The Call for Presentations is due on May 31, 2013. and Early Bird Registration ends on June 28, 2013. Individuals and/or organizations are invited to exhibit their wares for a nominal fee or donation to the Silent Auction. You can also earn three (3) ED894 graduate credits or CEUs. You must register for the conference before you register for the graduate credits at the Professional International Programs Office, 2nd floor, MARC/Computer Center/PIP Building, Room #217, phone # 735-2601. A Photo Art Contest from May 22-June 8, 2013 is on-going to produce a 2-year calendar promiting pride in cultures and languages of the Pacific region. Interested contestants may submit up to 3 photos. All PIBBA Conference information and forms are available online at http://pibbainternational.blogspot.com. If you have any questions, email or call Peter R. Onedera at 477-4234, peteronedera@gmail.com, PIBBA International President or Rosa Salas Palomo at 735-2193/1, kailee.rosapalomo@hotmail.com or pibba.international@gmail.com, PIBBA, Guam Chapter President and Conference Chair.

Saturday, February 16, 2013

42nd Annual NABE Conference a Success!

Pictured L-R:  Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera, Presenter; Rosa Salas Palomo, API-SIG Chair; Nilda Aguirre, Conference Chair; and Dr. Lunda Ventrigulia, Presenter.


The 42nd Annual National Association for Bilingual Education (NABE) Conference held in Orlando, Florida was meaningful! Dr. Jose Cruz, Ron Laguana, Jimmy Teria, and I had the honor of presenting our culturally-relevant papers at the conference hosted February 7-9, 2013 at the Coronado Springs Resort at Walt Disney World. Professor Rosa Salas Palomo served as the Chair during our Asian Pacific Islanders Special Interest Group session with the help of Co-Chair Dr. Shu-yuan Lin. Although the Guam Delegation was a small group, they proudly represented the island amongst the others who presented.  Their presentations focused on Using Differentiated Instruction to Build Schema of ELLs in Guam, The Magic of Sustained Micronesian Regional Cooperation and Collaboration on Languages and Cultures, and The Legacy of the Navajo Code Talkers in the War in the Pacific (1942-1945).  Other highlights of the conference included the following: Global Perspectives on Bilingual Education: Implications for the U.S., Achieving Academic Control of Two Languages: Insights from the Past and Present in Looking Forward, Puente de Hozho Bilingual School: A Bridge to Beauty, Intergenerational Trauma, Language Revitalization and Indigenous Knowledge: How Are All Of These Related?, Bridging Indigenous "Ways of Knowing" into Classroom Science: The Loloma Project, and Best Practices Interdisciplinary Vocabulary Development Using the Rule of 3.

I received a NABE lifetime pin for my lifetime membership.  I also received a NABE 2011 New Orleans pin for my presentation in the 40th Annual NABE Conference held in Louisiana.

Guam Council IRA February 2013 Newsletter