Humanities Featured News
2025 CNMI Humanities Month: Shared Stories, One Future
October 10, 2025
Watch the CNMI Humanities Month proclamation signing for 2025, themed: “Shared Stories, One Future.” Click here to watch.
Community Members Visit Ancient Burial Sites in Saipan
September 15, 2025
30 community members participated in “I Man Mabisita I Mañainai-ta Siha” organized by the Indigenous Affairs Office as part of Cultural Heritage Month in the Northern Mariana Islands over the weekend…Read More
‘Islands After the War’ highlights history and memory of Pacific Islands
August 25, 2025
DOZENS of island residents attended the book launch of “Islands After the War” at Joeten-Kiyu Public Library on Aug. 16…Read More
Some funds restored for Northern Marianas Humanities Council
August 19, 2025
Some federal funds have been restored for the Northern Marianas Humanities Council. Marianas Press sits down with its Executive Director Leo Pangelinan to discuss what the road ahead looks like for the future of the humanities…Read More
Harvard team explores postwar landscapes, including Saipan
August 6, 2025
ON Saturday, Aug. 16, at 10:30 a.m., Joeten-Kiyu Public Library will serve as the book launch venue for “Islands After the War,” written by a team of Harvard students — one of whom, Gio Hur, is a 2018 graduate of Saipan International School.
The book presents a comparative study of wartime sites in Okinawa, Iejima, Saipan, and Tinian…Read More
Stateside CNMI community celebrates Liberation Day in Texas
July 30, 2025
STATESIDE Chamorros, Carolinians, and others connected to the Marianas gathered in Copperas Cove, Texas, on July 5 for the 2025 CNMI Liberation Celebration organized by Islan Marianas Inc., a nonprofit organization.
The organization’s vision is to promote the arts, culture, and languages of the Marianas and surrounding Pacific islands; to expand educational opportunities; and to conduct community outreach to further the common good and general welfare of the community.”…..Read More
In Memoriam: Governor Arnold Indalecio Palacios
July 27, 2025
‘An enthusiastic champion of the humanities’
THE Northern Marianas Humanities Council Board of Directors issued the following statement on Thursday:
“We are saddened by the sudden passing of Governor Arnold Palacios and join our Commonwealth community in mourning and reflection. He leaves us with many wonderful examples from his public life of the values and leadership that define who we are as a community. We are grateful for his unyielding commitment to protecting our fragile democracy and seeking ways to improve the functions of our government. Governor Palacios was an enthusiastic champion of the humanities, particularly as it relates to civic discourse, storytelling, and the preservation of our history and cultural heritage. We will miss our partnership and extend our heartfelt thoughts and prayers to First Lady Wella Palacios and his family.”…..Read More
Da’ok Academy graduates 24 students.
June 12, 2025
(PSS) — Da’ok Academy celebrated the graduation of its 24 high school seniors with a community ceremony that highlighted their growth and accomplishments.
The Class of 2025 graduation ceremony was held on Thursday, May 29 in the Koblerville cafeteria……Read More
Peace Corps volunteers make monetary donations to NMASA and Humanities Council
June 9, 2025
THE Northern Marianas Sports Association and the Northern Marianas Humanities Council each received over $1,500 from former Peace Corps volunteers who attended a reunion on Saipan in April.
Jean Olopai, a local resident and former Peace Corps volunteer who organized activities for the reunion, was present at the Surf Rider Hotel on Friday, June 6 to deliver the checks to NMSA and the Humanities Council…..Read More
NEH rescinds decision to terminate grants to NMI
June 9, 2025
THE National Endowment for Humanities last week rescinded its letter that terminated three grants for the CNMI.
On April 2, 2025, the Northern Marianas Humanities Council received a notice from the NEH terminating three critical grants….Read More
May 7, 2025
The following is the text of the essay that won third prize in this year’s My Marianas Writing Contest, sponsored by the Northern Marianas Humanities Council. The contest’s theme was “Threads of Tradition.”
“I’M sorry, I love you.”
Five words my parents never told me, yet I knew that their love knew no bounds…Read More
May 6, 2025
The following is the text of the essay that won second prize in this year’s My Marianas Writing Contest, sponsored by the Northern Marianas Humanities Council. The contest’s theme was “Threads of Tradition.”
THE smell of freshly made adobo fills the whole house, my Tata grilling meat on the barbeque in our yard, my Nanay setting out the steaming hot rice, blending with the laughter of my family gathered around the house….Read More
FEATURE ǀ The hands of heritage
May 5, 2025
The following is the text of the essay that won first prize in this year’s My Marianas Writing Contest, sponsored by the Northern Marianas Humanities Council. The contest’s theme was “Threads of Tradition.”
WHEN people talk about tradition, they usually think about holidays, food, or ceremonies. But for me, tradition looks like a bottle of coconut oil…Read More
Mellon Foundation announces $15M emergency funding for humanities councils, including up to $250,000 for NMI
May 1, 2025
ON April 29, 2025, the Mellon Foundation announced a $15 million emergency funding commitment to the Federation of State Humanities Councils in response to federal funding cuts that have devastated state humanities councils. This emergency funding will help provide support to all 56 state and jurisdictional humanities councils across the United States, including up to $250,000 for the Northern Marianas Humanities Council…Read More
King-Hinds calls for reversal of humanities funding cut
April 9, 2025
U.S. Congresswoman Kimberlyn King-Hinds urged National Endowment for the Humanities Acting Chairman Michael McDonald to reconsider the decision to end funding for the CNMI. In her letter on Monday, King-Hinds expressed deep concern over the April 2, 2025 notice received by the Northern Marianas Humanities Council, which terminated three critical grants and jeopardized the continuation of programs and services that have long supported the CNMI. She asked… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/local/king-hinds-calls-for-reversal-of-humanities-funding-cut/article_84aee929-af1b-41cd-ab74-e878f0c0e269.html
My Marianas Writing Contest still ongoing
April 9, 2025
The My Marianas Writing Contest will continue as scheduled, according to a news release from the Northern Marianas Humanities Council. On Monday, Variety reported that the council had to terminate some programs because its funding from the National Endowment for the Humanities was abruptly cut by the Trump administration last week. The My Marianas Writing Contest was “paused,” but… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/local/my-marianas-writing-contest-still-ongoing/article_a712f1e5-7176-40a9-846a-076176ec9c66.html
Humanities Council pauses, cancels projects
April 7, 2025
Leo Pangelinan, executive director of the Northern Marianas Humanities Council, said they have to cancel the community grants program, pause the My Marianas Writing Contest, and are searching for alternative revenue streams after funding from the National Endowment of the Humanities was cut on Thursday. The funds included $520,000 in General Operating Support grant from… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/local/humanities-council-pauses-cancels-projects/article_d9e74b5a-6ccb-41f3-a1af-e70ed18b3a0e.html
Guam, CNMI humanities councils could close after federal funding cuts
April 6, 2025
Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands’ humanities councils have lost their grant funding as part of ongoing federal cuts and both could close as a result. Humanities Guåhan and the Northern Marianas Humanities Council have lost all their active grants from the National Endowment for the Humanities. Both councils are now asking for residents to show their support by reaching out to federal and local leaders to help get the funding reinstated. Read More
Source: https://www.guampdn.com/news/guam-cnmi-humanities-councils-could-close-after-federal-funding-cuts/article_b1edfe34-0249-4cd8-b6f6-dec6e845cb19.html
Acclaimed play about Micronesia to premiere on Saipan
March 19, 2025
After TeAda Productions’ successful performances on the Hawaiian Islands of Oʻahu, Maui, Moku o Keawe (Big Island of Hawaiʻi), “Nothing Micro About Micronesia” will travel to Saipan, and Guam from April through May of 2025 for the Micronesia Tour. This highly anticipated premiere on Saipan takes place on Thursday, April 24, 2025 at the 44th Annual Flame Tree Festival. The full production of the play will be performed on April 24, while the first half-only will be performed on… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/lifestyle/acclaimed-play-about-micronesia-to-premiere-on-saipan/article_04f4ed04-03fc-11f0-9cd5-0f395a10e8da.html
Community Talks: A training program that aims to build trust instead of polarization
February 25, 2025
The Northern Marianas Humanities Council began a three-day Community Talks training program on Monday, Feb. 24, at the Guma’ Hustisia assembly hall. According to a media release, participants will “gain skills to lead structured, open-ended conversations about ideas and big picture questions.” Participants will also learn how to “explore different beliefs and… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/local/community-talks-a-training-program-that-aims-to-build-trust-instead-of-polarization/article_5a828f46-f2a5-11ef-9db8-a74e9114d997.html
Northern Marianas Humanities Council awards 10 grants for community projects
February 21, 2025
The Northern Marianas Humanities Council has awarded 10 grants totaling $95,807 in 2024 under its Community Grant Program to financially support community-centered humanities projects that advance the Council’s strategic goals. The Council offers up to $15,000 in grant funds bi-annually to eligible nonprofit groups and individuals through a competitive application process. Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/lifestyle/northern-marianas-humanities-council-awards-10-grants-for-community-projects/article_d0ac2ae8-ef8e-11ef-ae04-67b911441a1e.html
My Marianas Writing Contest workshop set for Feb. 22; high school students encouraged to participate
February 20, 2025
Northern Marianas Humanities Council program coordinator Leeani Saralu invites interested high school students to register for the My Marianas Writing Contest writers’ workshop this Saturday, Feb. 22, from 9 a.m. to 12 noon at the council’s office at Springs Plaza in Gualo Rai. To participate in the workshop, RSVP by visiting… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/local/my-marianas-writing-contest-workshop-set-for-feb-22-high-school-students-encouraged-to-participate/article_8d82d878-eec3-11ef-8b4b-7f5b8c7920ed.html
Nihi Indigenous Media highlights regional leaders and trailblazers with film series
February 19, 2025
The late former Rep. Cinta M. Kaipat is among 12 leaders from Micronesia who are featured in an upcoming animated series titled “Heroes of Micronesia,” produced by Guam-based Nihi Indigenous Media. The series premiere at the Guam Museum on Feb. 21 will be followed by screenings at Rota’s Sinapalo Elementary School at 5:30 p.m. on Feb. 27; at the Tinian Youth Center… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/local/nihi-indigenous-media-highlights-regional-leaders-and-trailblazers-with-film-series/article_e93d7222-edb0-11ef-be13-0f19d2e996b2.html
Humanities Council to host Community Talks Program; registration deadline Feb. 14
February 6, 2025
The application deadline to take part in the Northern Marianas Humanities Council’s Community Talks Program is Feb. 14. The program is a three-day training opportunity that will be held on Feb. 24-26 at the Guma’ Hustisia. There is no cost to participate. The facilitators are Jennifer Alkezweeny, a program director from Oregon Humanities, and Adam Davis, the executive director of Oregon Humanities. According to… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/local/humanities-council-to-host-community-talks-program-registration-deadline-feb-14/article_d9fd35e4-e370-11ef-ad95-efa7fa0abc4e.html
Staffler to host free screenings of ‘Exploring Latte in the Marianas’
January 28, 2025
Beginning on Feb. 7, Leila Staffler will host free screenings on all three main islands for her film “Exploring Latte in the Marianas: Aguiguan, Cave Art, and the Last Chamorro Stand.” “Come on a journey to the fortress of Aguiguan island where the Chamorros from Tinian and Aguiguan stood up to the Spanish during the ‘Reduccion’ in 1698,” according to the film… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/local/staffler-to-host-free-screenings-of-exploring-latte-in-the-marianas/article_9b0bcbe8-dca4-11ef-854c-17ddc5861c88.html
Humanities Council invites community to help influence its strategic master plan
January 16, 2025
The Northern Marianas Humanities Council invites the public to help shape its 2026-2030 strategic master plan by submitting input to its 2025 Community Needs and Interests Survey. The survey is available at nmhcouncil.org/communitysurvey It will take around five minutes to complete and… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/local/humanities-council-invites-community-to-help-influence-its-strategic-master-plan/article_388f6a76-d2fc-11ef-ada3-f7498ef48d6f.html
BOG donates $20K to four non-profits
December 30, 2024
HAGÅTÑA, Guam—In the true spirit of the season, Bank of Guam is proud to announce a $20,000 donation to four nonprofit organizations through its annual Employee Give Initiative. Each year, employees at Bank of Guam champion the causes closest to their hearts by nominating and voting for organizations across the region. The top four nonprofits are awarded grants… Read More
Source: https://www.saipantribune.com/business/bog-donates-20k-to-four-non-profits/article_5f48dffa-c56c-11ef-86ce-5789b6c75e0a.html
Bank of Guam donates $20K to 4 nonprofits as part of Employee Give Initiative
December 27, 2024
Bank of Guam announced a $20,000 donation to four nonprofit organizations through its annual Employee Give Initiative. Each year, employees at Bank of Guam champion the causes closest to their hearts by nominating and voting for organizations across the region, a release from the bank states.The top four nonprofits are awarded grants to support… Read More
Source: https://www.guampdn.com/lifestyle/bank-of-guam-donates-20k-to-4-nonprofits-as-part-of-employee-give-initiative/article_8759be40-c339-11ef-9600-dbe2fb6f102d.html
Bank of Guam donates $20,000 to four non-profit organizations as part of Employee Give Initiative
December 27, 2024
HAGÅTÑA, Guam (BoG) — In the true spirit of the season, Bank of Guam is proud to announce a $20,000 donation to four nonprofit organizations through its annual Employee Give Initiative. Each year, employees at Bank of Guam champion the causes closest to their hearts by nominating and voting for organizations across the region. The top four nonprofits are awarded… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/community_bulletins/bank-of-guam-donates-20-000-to-four-non-profit-organizations-as-part-of-employee/article_f4c8e536-c399-11ef-bb25-ff385f8fad0a.html
Humanities Council hosts digital preservation lab on Rota
December 13, 2024
Northern Marianas Humanities Council staff will be on Rota on Saturday, Dec. 14 at the Antonio C. Atalig Memorial Library from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. as part of a Digital Preservation Lab. Members of the public are invited to bring their documents, photos, negatives, or other artifacts that the council can record… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/local/humanities-council-hosts-digital-preservation-lab-on-rota/article_dde29d20-b855-11ef-ac99-b3bbfb3c2cd6.html
Researchers seek to reclaim missing place names of Northern Islands
December 12, 2024
At the Northern Marianas Humanities Council’s community lecture series, Dr. Thomas Stolz said community input could lead to the rediscovery of place names missing from the maps of the Northern Islands. Stolz was the guest speaker of the council’s latest iteration of the lecture series on Tuesday, Dec. 10 at the American Memorial Park theater… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/local/researchers-seek-to-reclaim-missing-place-names-of-northern-islands/article_8eceeb3a-b79c-11ef-8aae-27510e0c8c4f.html
Lecture emphasizes importance of places’ names in understanding heritage
December 12, 2024
Research on names of places in the Marianas is ongoing, with efforts to identify missing names of places in Gani Islands (Northern Islands) through collaboration and repeated island visits by University of Breman linguistics professor Dr. Thomas Stolz. Stolz made a presentation during a Northern Marianas Humanities Council lecture series last Tuesday… Read More
Source: https://www.saipantribune.com/news/local/lecture-emphasizes-importance-of-places-names-in-understanding-heritage/article_6e482e16-b79d-11ef-92f3-b37c41b1c4e2.html
NMI contributes to historic 2026 art exhibit
December 10, 2024
The Northern Marianas Humanities Council, in partnership with the Commonwealth Council for Arts and Culture, hosted the National Scrollathon at Northern Marianas College’s Center for Aquaculture Development office on Friday, Dec. 6. The National Scrollathon brings together the creative expressions of… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/local/nmi-contributes-to-historic-2026-art-exhibit/article_2a7bb852-b620-11ef-92aa-3f6f2a7af9a7.html
Saipan to host creative workshops for National Scrollathon Project
December 4, 2024
The Northern Marianas Humanities Council is inviting the public to participate in a collaborative art session with the creators of the National Scrollathon Project, Humanities Council Program Coordinator Leeani Saralu said. According to the Scrollathon’s official website, the project is a… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/local/saipan-to-host-creative-workshops-for-national-scrollathon-project/article_48b86ba0-b150-11ef-9c30-d705e4c36fb9.html
New book celebrates Edward DLG Pangelinan’s contributions to NMI
October 25, 2024
The life and legacy of the late Edward DLG Pangelinan were celebrated with the launching of his book, “Legacy of a Political Union,” at Joeten-Kiyu Public Library on Thursday, his 83rd birthday. The event was coordinated by the Northern Marianas Humanities Council, the book’s publisher and Pangelinan’s collaborator for the project. Pangelinan, the first Chamorro… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/local/new-book-celebrates-edward-dlg-pangelinan-s-contributions-to-nmi/article_b4964750-91d6-11ef-b9fa-57052ea4f4ea.html
Arriola, Johnson, Barcinas, Castro, Kaliga take plums
October 25, 2024
This year’s 2024 Governor’s Humanities awardees were Dr. Theresa Arriola taking the award for Research and Publications, Elsie San Nicholas Johnson for Outstanding Humanities Teacher within the Classroom Environment, Jonas M. Barcinas taking Outstanding Humanities Teacher in a Non-Classroom Setting, John S. Castro took the award for… Read More
Source: https://www.saipantribune.com/news/local/arriola-johnson-barcinas-castro-kaliga-take-plums/article_fa66957a-91c5-11ef-b9fd-1f84b059cf6a.html
Humanities Council launches founding father’s memoir ‘Legacy of a Political Union’
October 24, 2024
Northern Marianas Humanities Council will distribute a new book, “Legacy of a Political Union, “authored by chief Covenant negotiator Edward DLG Pangelinan to the general public during a book launch event on Thursday, Oct. 24, 2024, at the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library. The event will feature remarks by Pangelinan’s family, friends, and colleagues and access to digital copies… Read More
Source: https://www.saipantribune.com/news/local/humanities-council-launches-founding-fathers-memoir-legacy-of-a-political-union/article_d0322aae-90fc-11ef-8b08-6bbfa6513c5d.html
Humanities Council to launch book written by CNMI founding father
October 23, 2024
The Northern Marianas Humanities Council continues to celebrate Humanities Month with the launching of “Legacy of a Political Union,” by the late Edward “Eddie” Deleon Guerrero Pangelinan, the islands’ chief Covenant negotiator, on Thursday, Oct. 24 at 10:30 a.m. at the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library. According to a media release, the book is a collection of publications and personal essays in which… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/local/humanities-council-to-launch-book-written-by-cnmi-founding-father/article_531a2686-9046-11ef-a49c-6bcc268f8d3a.html
Recognizing Pioneers in Humanities at the Governor’s Humanities Awards
October 21, 2024
In recognition of their exceptional impact on the humanities in the CNMI, six remarkable individuals were honored at the annual Governor’s Humanities Awards. The celebration, hosted by the Northern Marianas Humanities Council, brought together Governor Arnold I. Palacios, the Humanities Board of Directors, and Executive Director Leo Pangelinan to acknowledge these… Read More
Source: https://governor.gov.mp/news/recognizing-pioneers-in-humanities-at-the-governors-humanities-awards/
October 21, 2024
The Northern Marianas Humanities Council and Gov. Arnold I. Palacios honored this year’s recipients of the Governor’s Humanities Awards on Friday, Oct. 18 at the Kensington Hotel. The awards recognize outstanding contributions to the humanities by individuals and organizations in the community. The awardees this year are… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/lifestyle/6-receive-humanities-awards/article_623877d4-8ec6-11ef-8f17-5b8c41d8fd62.html
MCS’ Tenorio, RHI’s Feolino, Barcinas rule senior division
October 17, 2024
Mount Carmel School’s Jessiana Tenorio and Dr. Rita Hocog Inos Junior-Senior High School’s Bernice A. Feolino and Rianna T. Barcinas won the senior division of the 2024 Valentine Sengebau Poetry Competition last Friday at the American Memorial Park. The senior division added a challenge to participants’ performance… Read More
Source: https://www.saipantribune.com/news/local/mcs-tenorio-rhi-s-feolino-barcinas-rule-senior-division/article_3920b382-8ba3-11ef-8ccc-eb90cb917326.html
SCS’ Jesus Villagomez tops junior division of 2024 Sengebau poetry tilt
October 16, 2024
Jesus Villagomez’s riveting rendition of Valentine Sengebau’s “Strategy” took first place in the junior division of the 2024 Valentine Sengebau Poetry Competition last Friday at the American Memorial Park. The Saipan Community School student chose the specific poem because… Read More
Source: https://www.saipantribune.com/news/local/scs-jesus-villagomez-tops-junior-division-of-2024-sengebau-poetry-tilt/article_4b9ed784-8ad4-11ef-9bb6-8fc6be758b6e.html
Villagomez, Feolino, Barcinas top Sengebau Poetry Contest
October 14, 2024
This year’s Valentine N. Sengebau Poetry Contest, hosted by the Northern Marianas Humanities Council, was held Friday, Oct. 11 at American Memorial Park’s indoor theater. Saipan Community School 7th grader Jesus Villagomez topped the junior division… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/lifestyle/villagomez-feolino-barcinas-top-sengebau-poetry-contest/article_a0a0dc5c-892e-11ef-bb95-238d6a47dd34.html
NMHC announces public access to historic records on Digital Archive
October 7, 2024
As part of executive director Leo Pangelinan’s legacy and vision, the Northern Marianas Humanities Council has officially announced its Digital Archive in celebration of Humanities Month in the CNMI. The website at archives.nmhcouncil.org allows access… Read More
Source: https://www.saipantribune.com/news/local/nmhc-announces-public-access-to-historic-records-on-digital-archive/article_3a6d5980-8369-11ef-89d0-ab2f9270bbe1.html
Humanities Council announces public access to historic records
October 4, 2024
Part of Executive Director Leo Pangelinan’s legacy and vision, the Northern Marianas Humanities Council has officially announced its Digital Archive in celebration of Humanities Month in the CNMI. The website at archives.nmhcouncil.org allows access to tens of thousands of various… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/lifestyle/humanities-council-announces-public-access-to-historic-records/article_910a8b1c-81a4-11ef-9cb3-2773556d865d.html
CNMI Humanities Month proclaimed
October 3, 2024
Recognizing the importance of the humanities, Gov. Arnold I. Palacios and Lt. Gov. David M. Apatang proclaimed October as CNMI Humanities Month yesterday morning at the San Vicente Roundhouse. Palacios said in his speech that the Commonwealth’s society is diverse, encompassing… Read More
Source: https://www.saipantribune.com/news/local/cnmi-humanities-month-proclaimed/article_3d482da0-8095-11ef-b307-ab2a8f270692.html
October 3, 2024
The Northern Marianas Humanities Council, Gov. Arnold I. Palacios and Lt. Gov. David M. Apatang proclaimed October as Humanities Month at the San Vicente roundhouse on Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2024. According to Humanities Council Board Chair Gin Smith, this year’s theme is “Weaving Cultural Narratives.” Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/lifestyle/october-is-humanities-month/article_d0af06f0-80d0-11ef-a078-9fc30d280c9e.html
Heritage workshops engage students in Chamorro and Carolinian traditions
September 10, 2024
On Friday, Sept. 6, the NMI Museum of History and Culture and the Carolinian Affairs Office hosted Public School System students for a day of experiential learning activities in Garapan as part of a Cultural Roadmap program. At the CAO, students participated in activities involving… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/lifestyle/heritage-workshops-engage-students-in-chamorro-and-carolinian-traditions/article_2d40d150-6e7f-11ef-a887-cfd5ce03f0fb.html
Japan professor broadens students’ cultural horizons on Saipan
August 7, 2024
Kyoko Nakayama, a Teikyo University professor and fa’fa’nague or Chamorro dance instructor, is visiting Saipan with her students to help broaden their perspective about Chamorro culture. Nakayama also heads Guma Famagu’on Tano’ Yan I Tasi in Tokyo, which teaches Chamorro dance as part of Pa’a Taotao Tano’ family of… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/local/japan-professor-broadens-students-cultural-horizons-on-saipan/article_a2e64a62-53c6-11ef-b1b9-6ba1f10a7d31.html
Japan professor to lecture on Chamorro culture
August 6, 2024
The Northern Marianas Humanities Council invites the public to its community lecture series this Wednesday, featuring Teikyo University Professor Kyoko Nakayama, who will discuss her interest in Chamorro culture, history, and dance. Nakayama also leads the dance troupe Guma Famagu’on Tano’ Yan I Tasi. Her presentation takes place at the American Memorial Park Visitor Center on Aug. 7 at 5:30 p.m. There is no entry fee. Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/local/japan-professor-to-lecture-on-chamorro-culture/article_2ac27c1a-52cf-11ef-952b-b74bca5361ff.html
Marianas tourism ambassador Nakayama lecture on Aug. 7
August 2, 2024
Honorary Marianas tourism ambassador Kyoko Nakayama of Teikyo University in Tokyo, Japan will present the lecture “Sharing Mariana Islands History and Culture in Japan” on Aug. 7, 2024, on Saipan. he free lecture will be held at 5:30pm at American Memorial Park Visitors Center in Garapan. Doors open at 5pm. Nakayama’s visit to the Marianas is… Read More
Source: https://www.saipantribune.com/news/local/marianas-tourism-ambassador-nakayama-lecture-on-aug-7/article_49b57ef6-4fc8-11ef-be4e-f7745d04b7a2.html
Humanities lecture series features Chamorro dance instructor from Japan
August 1, 2024
The Northern Marianas Humanities Council will feature Chamorro dance instructor Professor Kyoko Nakayama in the Community Lecture Series on Aug. 7 at the American Memorial Park Visitor Center. The lecture begins at 5:30 p.m. There is no entry fee. Nakayama is a student of Guam-based fa’fa’nague or… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/lifestyle/humanities-lecture-series-features-chamorro-dance-instructor-from-japan/article_64e69662-4f4e-11ef-a79b-bf60c3b5c51a.html
A strategically Located Tropical Paradise Full with Untapped Potential
July 2024
Being at the crossroads of Asia and America, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, CNMI, has been on the front line of geopolitics for over a century, and looking into the future, it certainly has plenty of potential as one of the most strategic locations in the United States of America. Read More
Source: https://oneworldmediacorp.com/the-northern-marianas-islands/
July 19, 2024
In the Pacific Ocean, lies a group of neighboring islands called the Marianas. Among the 14 islands, one of them is my home: the beautiful island of Tinian. The home of luscious beaches, where your toes dig into the sand, your ears are treated to the wonderful sounds of waves crashing, and… Read More
Source: https://www.saipantribune.com/opinion/columnists/more-than-a-marianas/article_9118de5c-44ef-11ef-8564-0be3d432320c.html
FEATURE ǀ More than a Marianas
July 18, 2024
The following essay won third prize in the Northern Marianas Humanities Council’s 2024 My Marianas Writing Contest. In the Pacific Ocean, lies a group of neighboring islands called the Marianas. Among the fourteen islands, one of them is my home: the beautiful island of Tinian. The home of… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/views/columnists/feature-more-than-a-marianas/article_96181de6-444f-11ef-a68a-df6ca9b22037.html
Cruz, Yiftheg and Diaz top My Marianas Writing Contest
July 18, 2024
The Northern Marianas Humanities Council on July 17 announced the three winners of the 2024 My Marianas Writing Contest. In first place was Marianas High School junior Jhaylin Cruz, in second place was Kagman High School sophomore Isabella Yiftheg, and in third place was Tinian High School junior Stephanie Diaz. Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/local/cruz-yiftheg-and-diaz-top-my-marianas-writing-contest/article_88359296-440c-11ef-bb80-db7d34975c24.html
July 18, 2024
“Here you can try it on, just this once.” Mom smiles; carefully she places the tedious necklace around my neck, across my shoulders. I feel the warm beads pressing against my skin. Their vibrancy seemed to cast a spell, darkening the tone of my surroundings, as if… Read More
Source: https://www.saipantribune.com/opinion/columnists/milestones/article_741238a2-4419-11ef-889b-63503817d921.html
July 17, 2024
The following essay won second prize in the Northern Marianas Humanities Council’s 2024 My Marianas Writing Contest. “HERE you can try it on, just this once.” Mom smiles; carefully she places the tedious necklace around my neck, across my shoulders. I feel the… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/views/columnists/feature-milestones/article_7144a020-438c-11ef-858f-0b4c08085ff9.html
July 17, 2024
Born and raised in La Union, Philippines, in the early ‘70s, my mother’s childhood was marked by the rhythms of agrarian life on a rice farm. She toiled the fields planting cash crops such as… Read More
Source: https://www.saipantribune.com/opinion/columnists/from-firewood-to-stove-top/article_54c21f8e-4357-11ef-93f9-dbd26d2c8744.html
FEATURE ǀ From firewood to stove top
July 16, 2024
The following essay won first prize in the Northern Marianas Humanities Council’s 2024 My Marianas Writing Contest. Born and raised in La Union, Philippines, in the early 70s, my mother’s childhood was marked by the rhythms of agrarian life on a rice farm. She toiled the fields… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/views/columnists/feature-from-firewood-to-stove-top/article_81d9d85a-42c0-11ef-b52a-37744ce31cb1.html
2024 Pride Talks highlight queer experiences
July 2, 2024
The Northern Marianas Humanities Council marked the end of Pride Month on June 28 by hosting its annual Pride Talks panel discussion at Bravo Restaurant in Garapan. This year’s theme was “The Bridge to Equality: Connecting allies and queer voices.” Featured on this year’s panel were… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/local/2024-pride-talks-highlight-queer-experiences/article_3504c44a-378a-11ef-aa49-d322a9f56716.html
Marianas Values Survey and raffle giveaway
June 28, 2024
As part of the Inafa’maolik-Tipiyééw (IT) Matters project, the Northern Marianas Humanities Council is conducting a survey to examine cultural values, perspectives, and experiences as they relate to biases and conflicts between various social groups within the community. Read More
Source: https://www.saipantribune.com/news/local/marianas-values-survey-and-raffle-giveaway/article_32c75702-3464-11ef-9d54-cb18600a3552.html
Marianas Values Survey and raffle giveaway
June 26, 2024
AS part of the Inafa’maolik-Tipiyééw Matters project, the Northern Marianas Humanities Council is conducting a survey to examine cultural values, perspectives, and experiences as they relate to biases and conflicts between various social groups within our community. Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/lifestyle/marianas-values-survey-and-raffle-giveaway/article_19896b02-32bd-11ef-9f44-7b05feeccd60.html
Pacific Islands Humanities Network elects officers
June 14, 2024
HONOLULU — The Pacific Islands Humanities Network or PIHN (not PIHC as previously reported) elected its officers on Tuesday, June 11, here. Last week, the network was established with the signing of a memorandum of understanding. The network comprises… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/local/nmi-delegation-reflects-on-hornbostel-collections-significance/article_4fcbfb20-27d8-11ef-8032-ab8230e3646e.html
NMI delegation reflects on Hornbostel Collection’s significance
June 12, 2024
HONOLULU — The Bishop Museum hosted a special tour of the Hornbostel Collection for some members of the CNMI delegation to the Festival of Pacific Arts and Culture on Monday, June 10. The Hornbostel Collection comprises over 10,000 artifacts from the Marianas or the Caroline Islands. Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/local/nmi-delegation-reflects-on-hornbostel-collections-significance/article_4fcbfb20-27d8-11ef-8032-ab8230e3646e.html
CNMI, American Samoa, Guam, and Hawaii form regional humanities group
June 11, 2024
HONOLULU — Leo Pangelinan, the executive director of the Northern Marianas Humanities Council, signed a memorandum of understanding with his counterparts from American Samoa, Guam and Hawaii to establish the Pacific Islander Humanities Councils or PIHC. Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/local/cnmi-american-samoa-guam-and-hawaii-form-regional-humanities-group/article_faec6578-2731-11ef-a9bf-4f40c6bf5769.html
CNMI participates in FestPac parade of cultures
June 10, 2024
HONOLULU — The 13th Festival of Pacific Arts and Culture or FestPac held its opening ceremony on Thursday, June 6 at the University of Hawaii’s Stan Sheriff Center, gathering together thousands of Pacific Island dancers, weavers, musicians, traditional sailors, artisans, carvers, and more alongside host Hawaii. Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/local/cnmi-participates-in-festpac-parade-of-cultures/article_62a2b246-264a-11ef-82a5-3308a4aa1565.html
CNMI canoes take part in FestPac Wa’a ceremony
June 7, 2024
HONOLULU — Three canoes represented the CNMI in the Wa’a ceremony of the 2024 Festival of Pacific Arts and Culture here in Hawaii. The Wa’a opening ceremony is a highlight of every FestPac, gathering the seagoing vessels of Oceania in a parade of boats. This year’s Wa’a ceremony was held at Kualoa… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/local/cnmi-canoes-take-part-in-festpac-waa-ceremony/article_67b473a6-23fb-11ef-8d38-ffc8e1b4ce8e.html
Humanities Council elects new board leadership
May 6, 2024
The Northern Marianas Humanities Council board of directors elected a new slate of officers during its quarterly meeting on April 27, 2024. Gretchen “Gin” A. Smith will serve as chairperson, Dr. Bobby James A. Cruz as vice chairperson, and Lynette L. Villagomez as secretary/treasurer. Read More
Source: https://www.saipantribune.com/news/local/humanities-council-elects-new-board-leadership/article_b67e8eb0-0a6d-11ef-a551-6721c3cda033.html
Northern Marianas Humanities Council elects new board leadership
May 3, 2024
The Northern Marianas Humanities Council Board of Directors elected a new slate of officers during its quarterly meeting on April 27, 2024. Gretchen “Gin” A. Smith will serve as chairperson, Dr. Bobby James A. Cruz as vice chairperson, and Lynette L. Villagomez as Secretary/Treasurer. Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/local/northern-marianas-humanities-council-elects-new-board-leadership/article_4ab339ca-0887-11ef-96e0-dfdbfdcb57f3.html
Revised Chamorro-English dictionary entries uploaded to local group’s website
April 15, 2024
Isidoro T. Cabrera, president of Inetnun Kutturan Natibun Marianas/Kkoor Aramasal Marianas, said they have begun uploading on their website natibunmarianas.org some of the revised Chamorro-English Dictionaries by Topping, Ogo and Dungca, 1975, as revised… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/lifestyle/revised-chamorro-english-dictionary-entries-uploaded-to-local-group-s-website/article_46344f08-fa25-11ee-98ff-d34605d2357b.html
Local historian Don Farrell launches 12th book
March 20, 2024
Local historian Don A. Farrell launched his 12th book, “Seabees and Superforts at War — Tinian’s Critical Role in the Ultimate Defeat of Japan” at American Memorial Park’s Visitor Center on Friday. Farrell made a slide presentation about his 519-page book and shared some historical facts regarding… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/local/local-historian-don-farrell-launches-12th-book/article_731125c4-e5d9-11ee-a482-3ba9a9a9a776.html
Shape the future with your words!
March 19, 2024
Our stories commemorate the past, preserve our cultural identity, and entertain our family and friends! While we have a rich memory for stories from the past, and active imaginations to create fiction, the best way to ensure these stories live on in the future is to write them down! Read More
Source: https://www.saipantribune.com/news/local/shape-the-future-with-your-words/article_0c809750-e4e8-11ee-ac5c-ff7c952d5b5e.html
A Battle of Saipan veteran’s son pilgrimage
March 15, 2024
Back in time. Alan Sonntag’s father participated in the Battle of Saipan. His wife Peggy’s father stormed Utah Beach (Normandy, France) on D-Day. The couple recently visited Saipan ona pilgrimage to have a virtual “Then & Now Father & Child Reunion” with… Read More
Source: https://www.saipantribune.com/a-battle-of-saipan-veterans-son-pilgrimage/article_764a0f6c-e2b9-11ee-bf35-a37644326790.html
Local historian to present 12th book on Friday at AMP
March 13, 2024
LOCAL historian Don A. Farrell will make a Power Point Presentation about his new and 12th book, “Seabees And Superforts At War — Tinian’s Critical Role in the Ultimate Defeat of Japan,” at the American Memorial Park Visitor Center on Friday, March 15, 2024, at 6 p.m. Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/lifestyle/local-historian-to-present-12th-book-on-friday-at-amp/article_6a9896ee-e07e-11ee-a9f2-df2ab96ff29a.html
Humanities Council accepting entries to My Marianas Writing Contest
March 12, 2024
The Northern Marianas Humanities Council is now accepting submissions for its third annual My Marianas Writing Contest. According to the council’s website, the contest is open to all high school students in public and private CNMI high schools. It aims to… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/lifestyle/humanities-council-accepting-entries-to-my-marianas-writing-contest/article_268daab0-dfb2-11ee-8b5a-b34827f280b5.html
All hands on deck as 500 Sails prepares for FestPac
March 8, 2024
500 Sails staff and volunteers are preparing their various ocean-going canoes ahead of the 13th Festival of Pacific Arts and Culture or FestPac in Honolulu, Hawaii. According to the festival’s website, the Wa’a Arrival Ceremony is set for Wednesday, June 5 at Kualoa Regional Park. Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/local/all-hands-on-deck-as-500-sails-prepares-for-festpac/article_93f9f1a2-dc93-11ee-9b03-e749888d463c.html
Saipan resident wants archaeologist’s help to solve Earhart mystery
February 21, 2024
Saipan resident Ernesto C. Arriola needs the help of an archaeologist in order to learn more about the “anomalies” buried behind the old Japanese jail in Garapan. He said in February 2023, with the use of ground penetrating radar equipment, which he rented, he discovered a number… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/local/saipan-resident-wants-archaeologists-help-to-solve-earhart-mystery/article_995b374e-cff2-11ee-955b-6f4f70b0c35d.html
Ware: Territories have common civil rights issues
February 20, 2024
Ahead of a panel discussion on U.S. territorial rights, Right to Democracy founder Neil Weare and the other panelists held a press conference on Monday at the Garapan Public Market. Ware said the U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Puerto Rico, the CNMI and Guam have common civil rights issues. These include… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/local/ware-territories-have-common-civil-rights-issues/article_ae519a22-cf38-11ee-8cd8-9f6f2631d12e.html
Inafa’måolik-Tipiyeew Project deadline extended to Feb. 21
February 20, 2024
To accommodate more aspiring student participants, the Northern Marianas Humanities Council has extended the submission deadline for its Inafa’måolik-Tipiyeew Matters project to Feb. 21, 2024. The initiative, whose initial… Read More
Source: https://www.saipantribune.com/news/local/inafa-m-oli-tipiyee-project-deadline-extended-to-feb-21/article_a6372308-cee2-11ee-b2b2-cf5fe27c8c66.html
NMC, Right to Democracy to host talk on building solidarity in US territories
February 16, 2024
Northern Marianas College and Right to Democracy are set to host a conversation on democracy, equity, and self-determination in U.S. territories with legal experts from American Samoa, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, and the Northern Mariana Islands on Monday, Feb. 19, 2024, from 5pm to 7pm at the American Memorial Park Visitor Center Theater… Read More
Source: https://www.saipantribune.com/news/local/nmc-right-to-democracy-to-host-talk-on-building-solidarity-in-us-territories/article_3e6fb776-cbe5-11ee-b378-b3087881b03a.html
OPINION | Northern Marianas Humanities Council celebrates Black History Month
February 15, 2024
The Northern Marianas Humanities Council is proud to celebrate Black History Month in the spirit of inafa’måolik and tipiyeew. This celebration honors the pivotal role that Black Americans have played in shaping a more equitable and just society… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/views/columnists/opinion-northern-marianas-humanities-council-celebrates-black-history-month/article_0a243b2a-ca70-11ee-9dda-9708b9fe4e69.html
The Northern Marianas Humanities Council celebrates Black History Month
February 15, 2024
The Northern Marianas Humanities Council is proud to celebrate Black History Month in the spirit of inafa’måolik and tipiyeew. This celebration honors the pivotal role that Black Americans have played in shaping a more equitable and just society… Read More
Source: https://www.saipantribune.com/opinion/columnists/the-northern-marianas-humanities-council-celebrates-black-history-month/article_b76e0ce0-cb2c-11ee-8f65-5f3564eb5d19.html
Book launch celebrates Chamorro language and culture
January 22, 2024
“FINU’ Chamorro,” authored by Dr. Faye Untalan, was launched Friday at the Joeten-Kiyu Public Library as a special collaborative project between Northern Marianas College’s Proa Publications and the University of Guam Press. The 450-page book, which is intended for post-secondary education classes, covers 24 units and includes… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/lifestyle/book-launch-celebrates-chamorro-language-and-culture/article_b2a6c280-b824-11ee-8ba4-871437f7cf41.html
Dr. Untalan discusses ‘Finu’ Chamorro’ in book launching
January 22, 2024
Book author Dr. Faye Untalan, whose newest book, Finu’ Chamorro for Beginners, had its book launch at the Northern Marianas College last Friday, said she was inspired to write the book when some Chamorros students at the University of Hawaii at Manoa asked her teach them their language when she was still teaching there. Inspired by that incident, Untalan used a 2013 grant… Read More
Source: https://www.saipantribune.com/news/local/dr-untalan-discusses-finu-chamorro-in-book-launching/article_c0c5a792-b832-11ee-8a59-ef62a1a4deb1.html
‘Finu’ Chamorro book launch and panel discussion on Jan. 19
January 17, 2024
Doctor Faye Untalan, the author of a brand-new Chamorro language learning resource, said “Finu’ Chamorro for Beginners” has been a long time in the making. “I am so relieved and so excited,” Untalan said. “[I’m] looking forward to it being used by all Chamorros.”… Read More
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/lifestyle/finu-chamorro-book-launch-and-panel-discussion-on-jan-19/article_8e1f4ec0-b44e-11ee-8ad6-7f16ab009ff0.html
Finu’ Chamorro for Beginners to hold book launch
January 15, 2024
The University of Guam Press is launching Finu’ Chamorro for Beginners by Dr. Faye Untalan under their Proa Publications imprint at Northern Marianas College on Saipan. Finu’ Chamorro is a thorough and hands-on instructional guide with language exercises for… Read More
Source: https://www.saipantribune.com/news/local/finu-chamorro-for-beginners-to-hold-book-launch/article_38e4801e-b292-11ee-a2e2-4b054c04013d.html
Free canoe rides at Crowne Plaza
January 9, 2024
A collaboration between Crowne Plaza Resort and 500 Sails will bring Chamorro sailing canoes back to Garapan this month. Free canoe rides will be available from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the resort’s beach side and will take place every Tuesday and Thursday until Jan. 30… Read more
Source: https://www.mvariety.com/news/community_bulletins/free-canoe-rides-at-crowne-plaza/article_cfb40b28-ae04-11ee-9eb1-ff76d25beebb.html
