Be the change you want to see in this world

"Winning starts in the mind. Whatever the mind can conceive, it will achieve."
-Joaquin Nangauta Naputi

"Be the change you want to see in the world."
-Mahatma Gandhi

Monday, November 02, 2015

Julia makes it to Top 3!

Congratulations, Julia, on making it to the Top 3 in Guam Web Radio's Battle of the Voices competition! Your jazz numbers were a hit!



Biba Kumpleanos Faust!

Happy Birthday and God Bless, my oldest son Fausto!  May you be blessed with many years to come!  Hu guaiya hao!


Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Storytelling at Guma Tasa


Si Yu'os Ma'ase' for a memorable night of storytelling with FestPac authors and Ginen officers/members on Tuesday, Oct. 27, at Guma Tasa, Mangilao.  BIBA GINEN!

Gathering for Rosario Peneinei

Kalangan for the memorable time we spent with our Rosario Peneinei from Pohnpei!





Saturday, October 24, 2015

Biba Kumpleanos Kinny!

Biba Kumpleanos Kinny!  I'm glad you enjoyed your 11th Birthday with Chuck E. Cheese, familia, teachers, and friends from M.U. Lujan Elementary School!  Hu guiaya hao!















Thursday, October 22, 2015

Happy Sweet 16 Julia!


Biba Kumpleanos Julia!  May God bless you always, 
and may you have many more years to come!  Hu guaiya hao!




Sunday, October 11, 2015

Congratulations, Argosy Graduates!

Congratulations to the graduating Argosy class of Fall 2015 who received their Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctorate Degrees on October 10, 2015 at the Pacific Star Hotel.  Kudos to all of you, and may you continue to excel in all that you do!


Saturday, October 10, 2015

Friday, September 25, 2015

Julia Wins 2015 MWG Miss Congeniality Title!

Congratulations, Julia Naputi Rivera, on winning the 2015 Miss World Guam Congeniality title! You have a beautiful heart and touched the lives of your pageant sisters! We love you!

Monday, September 14, 2015

Please "like" Julia's Miss World Guam page

Please support my daughter, Julia Naputi Rivera (Contestant #7), for Miss World Guam by visiting this link and clicking "like" on her page, so that she can win the People's Choice Award:  https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1059724257372962.1073741853.230278126984250&type=3
Kindly share this with all your family and friends.  Si Yu’os Ma’ase’!  



Contestant No. 7:  Julia Naputi Rivera, 21, Yona, Charity:  Island Girl Power


Sunday, September 13, 2015

28th Annual Regional Language Arts Conference

University of Guam

LITERACY FOR THE CONTENT AREAS: EFFECTIVE EDUCATORS AND LIFELONG LEARNING

Annual Regional Language Arts Conference


November 20, 2015 - 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
November 21, 2015 - 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Hyatt Regency Guam


Sponsored by:

University of Guam
College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences
School of Education
International Reading Association, Guam Council
E-mail: uoglac@gmail.com



The LAC is an annual event in which Western Pacific educators are provided with opportunities for professional growth and enrichment in literacy.

This year's Keynote Speaker:

Dr. Kevin Colleary


Dr. Kevin Colleary is an Adjunct Assistant Professor for the Graduate School of Education at Fordham University in New York. He teaches graduate level courses in educational foundations, philosophy and history of education as well as content area reading methods for science (STEM) and social studies. He works with elementary pre-service science, social studies and reading teachers in public and private schools including supporting them in internship and student teaching roles through supervision, mentoring and classroom instruction. In addition, he works closely with school administrators and classroom teachers on issues related to Common Core State Standards. He has also taught at Hunter College in New York and Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Dr. Colleary is an author for McGraw-Hill Education. He is a member of the senior authorship team, which conceptualizes and writes national and state specific K-6 elementary social studies programs. He creates and provides professional development support materials and seminars for state curriculum leaders, district leadership and classroom teachers on content area reading and social studies curriculum issues. He has also served as Director of National Marketing for Benchmark Education Company in New Rochelle, New York. He served in various positions for McGraw-Hill as Senior Marketing Manager of English, National Marketing Manager of Reading/Language Arts, Director of Social Studies Curriculum, National Social Studies Consultant, and Marketing Manager of Social Studies.

If you are interested in presenting or attending, it is important that you return the forms with your check/payment immediately. We have a limit of 300 participants. Last year, many were turned away because we reached capacity before the registration deadline. Don't let this weekend go without signing up. We look forward to seeing you there!

You can also earn two (2) ED894 graduate credit/CEUs. You must register for the conference before you register for the graduate credits at the Professional International Programs, 2nd floor, MARC/Computer Center/PIP Building, Room #217. For more information, call 735-2601 or fax 734-1233. You can also e-mail the Instructor, Lois Taitano Gumataotao, at ltgumataotao@gmail.com.

Contact LAC Committee Chairpersons:
Dr. Christopher Garcia: guamchrisgarcia@gmail.com
Dr. Clarisa Quan: risaquan@yahoo.com
Dr. Catherine Stoicovy: stoicovy@guam.net
Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera: mnrivera1@yahoo.com
Dr. Michelle Santos: msantos@uguam.uog.edu

Administrative Coordinator:
Kathleen Duenas
E-mail: kduenas@triton.uog.edu

Download the registration form by clicking on the link above. If you are interested in presenting or attending, it is important that you return the forms with your check/payment immediately. We have a limit of 300 participants. Last year, many were turned away because we reached capacity before the registration deadline. Don't let this weekend go without signing up. We look forward to seeing you there!

Saturday, September 05, 2015

Happy Labor Day!

Pacific Islands Bilingual Bicultural Association (PIBBA) officers/members culminate the celebration and hard work of a successful 34th Annual International PIBBA Conference in Kosrae, FSM.  Pictured L-R:  Frances Sablan, PIBBA International Secretary; Dr. Arlene Diaz, PIBBA Guam President; Alister Tolenoa, PIBBA International Historian and Immediate Past President; Rosa Salas Palomo, PIBBA International Treasurer; Joey Leon Guerrero, PIBBA Member; Norma Tabayoyong, PIBBA Member; Dr. Gregorio Tainatongo, PIBBA Member; and Dr. Matilda Naputi Rivera, PIBBA Webmaster.

Hafa Adai! May you all have a Happy Labor Day weekend! Hopefully, you’ll be able to enjoy the Labor Day holiday, since there’s no doubt that many of us have exerted much effort to contribute to the betterment of our island. Our genuine commitment to work hard and wisely should not go unnoticed. I salute all of you who sincerely strive to make a difference! Kudos to all of you!

Thursday, August 20, 2015

Miss World Guam Tickets for Sale


If you are interested in purchasing a ticket for the Miss World Guam 2015 pageant on September 23, 2015, please e-mail Julia Naputi Rivera at julianaputirivera@gmail.com.  

You can also support Julia by purchasing a delicious Outback lunch plate scheduled for September 3, 2015.  Proceeds of the fundraiser will be donated to Island Girl Power.  Saina Ma'ase'!




Wednesday, August 12, 2015

Support to CNMI - Container for Relief Effort

Hafa Adai UOG Tritons,


As you are aware, CNMI has been declared an emergency disaster area due to the severe damages done by Typhoon Soudelor 13W.  We will be serving as a site for a container that will be filled with needed items such as water, non-perishable food items, and other supplies.  

The container that will be going to Saipan is scheduled to arrive at the UOG Calvo Field House on Saturday, August 8, 2015, sometime late morning.  Projected hours for donations are Aug 8, 12pm-5pm and Aug 10, 8am-5pm.  

We encourage our community to help by providing generous donations.  Donations can be taken directly to the UOG Calvo Field House. 

Thank you for your generous support in advance. 

Friday, August 07, 2015

For Immediate Release
The Search for the Recipients of the 2015 UOG Distinguished Alumni Awards is on!
(Mangilao, Today) The University of Guam Alumni Association in cooperation with the University of Guam Office of Development and Alumni Affairs is excited to announce that nominations for the 2015 UOG Distinguished Alumni Awards will be accepted from August 10 to October 16, 2015, no later than 4p.m. A total of (6) awards will be given to deserving individuals. Five awards will be given to one individual from each of the University’s schools and colleges: (1) College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences, (1) College of Natural & Applied Sciences, (1) School of Business & Public Administration, (1) School of Education and (1) School of Nursing and Health Sciences. (1) Award will be given to an alumnus/alumna who is currently serving or is retired from military service.
Awards
All recipients will be recognized at the UOG Alumni Reunion scheduled for November 14, 2015 at the Lotte Hotel from 6p.m. to 9p.m. They will each receive a plaque, a certificate of recognition from the President of the University of Guam; and will be featured in a news release distributed to all local media. Awardees will be featured on the University’s website and social media channels.
Eligibility
Any individual who has graduated earlier than 2008 is eligible to be nominated. The nominee must consent to being included in the selection process.
Nomination Process
Nominations may be submitted by any individual, independently or on behalf of a group or institution. Self-nominations will not be accepted. Requirements:
Submit an official Nomination Form highlighting the nominee's achievements, and explaining how the nominee meets the criteria for the Award.
Submit a CV/resume and two letters of support from individuals familiar with the nominee’s work addressing the eligibility criteria (see below).
Supporting documents: depending on the nominee's field of endeavor, such documents could include notices and reviews of the nominee's work, sample publications, samples of media coverage, personal citations and testimonials, etc.
Nominees will be contacted as soon as the Nomination Form is received. If a nominee cannot be contacted and their consent is not given by October 16, 2015, no later than 4p.m., the individual will not be considered for the award.
Upon acceptance of the nomination, nominees may submit specific evidence of their accomplishments in the following areas, limited to five pages.
Judging Criteria
Professional accomplishment in the field. The nominee has 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.
Nominee's achievements have local, national and/or international significance.
For Military Nominees:
Professional accomplishment in their field. The nominee held critical positions of responsibility and authority (i.e. command and key staff positions).
Nominee attained above normal promotion achievements.
Level of rank achieved or level of elected official capacity.
Awards that have been earned exhibiting exemplary performance.
Significant community service or civic involvements that have been achieved.
Submission of Forms
All nomination forms, CV/Resume and two letters of support (due October 16, no later than 4p.m.) may be transmitted through any of the three methods below. Submissions received after the abovementioned deadline will not be considered.
The form will be available for download soon. In the meantime, email nanalista@uguam.uog.edu to get the form.
Mail to/Hand Delivery:
University of Guam President’s Office – ATTN: Norman Analista
UOG Station 2nd Floor, Jesus & Eugenia Leon Guerrero Building
Mangilao, Guam 96923
For more information, please contact Norman Analista, Director, Development & Alumni Affairs at 797-3333 or email nanalista@uguam.uog.edu.

Wednesday, August 05, 2015

PEC Unforgettable!

The 29th Pacific Educational Conference (PEC) held in Majuro, Marshall Islands was meaningful! The theme was “Our Ocean, Our Islands, Our Children.”  Over 80 Guam Delegation members participated, and many of them had the honor of presenting their educational workshops at the conference hosted July 28-31, 2015 at the College of the Marshall Islands.  Enjoy the following snapshots!











Sunday, July 26, 2015

GPLS Summer Reading Program a Success!

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


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

Sunday, July 19, 2015

Happy 71st Liberation Day, Guam!



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

Happy 71st Liberation Day, Guahan! Biba Guahan!

Friday, July 17, 2015

IGP Presents Pulani Performance - July 16, 17, 18

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



I Can Too! Summer Camp - July 27-31

Sunday, July 05, 2015

Lunch plate fundraiser for Julia Naputi Rivera, Miss World Guam Contestant

Please support my daughter Julia in her quest to become the next Miss World Guam!  Thank you!  Si Yu’os Ma’ase’!  Mahalo nui loa!  Kalangan!  Kommoltata!  Kinissow!  Mesulang! Kammagar! Salamat!  DomoArigato!  Gracias!

Saturday, July 04, 2015

ADA Anniversary Celebration


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

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

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

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

July 1 – 31, 2015

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


Friday, July 03, 2015

Holiday - July 4 ~ Happy Independence Day!


Happy 4th of July to one and all! We are grateful to all veterans & those who serve in the Armed Forces, for they are instrumental in the freedom we enjoy today.

Variously known as the Fourth of July and Independence Day, July 4th has been a federal holiday in the United States since 1941, but the tradition of Independence Day celebrations goes back to the 18th century and the American Revolution (1775-83). In June 1776, representatives of the 13 colonies then fighting in the revolutionary struggle weighed a resolution that would declare their independence from Great Britain. On July 2nd, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence, and two days later its delegates adopted the Declaration of Independence, a historic document drafted by Thomas Jefferson. From 1776 until the present day, July 4th has been celebrated as the birth of American independence, with typical festivities ranging from fireworks, parades and concerts to more casual family gatherings and barbecues.

Source:  http://www.history.com/topics/holidays/july-4th
Image source: www.estateweddingsandevents.com

Wednesday, July 01, 2015

UOG Alumni & Founders Day Gala Sponsor Appreciation Reception - 7-2-15

Guam Council IRA in partnership with PIBBA Guam Chapter promotes literacy in Micronesia

GC-IRA-PIBBA Guam Chapter book donation to Kosrae DOE 

GC-IRA-PIBBA Guam Chapter book donation to CNMI PSS 

The Guam Council IRA-PIBBA Guam Literacy Project:  As part of GC-IRA's mission to promote literacy in Guam and Micronesian, they have partnered up with the Pacific Islands Bilingual Bicultural Association (PIBBA) Guam Chapter to donate books to children in the various islands in Micronesian.  This year, Okkodo High School students participated in a service learning project that provided books for GC-IRA and PIBBA Guam Chapter to give the students of Kosrae and CNMI the gift of literacy with a collection of children's and young adult books.  The book donation was presented at the 34th Annual International PIBBA Conference in Kosrae, FSM.  Si Yu'os Ma'ase'!  Kuloh!