MTEC, MVA: Imagine your favorite ‘Green Space’

In line with this year’s school outreach theme, “Green Spaces, Memorable Places/Kåmpun Betdi, Kåmpun Rikuetdu/Llingil Leyil Walúwal,” Marianas Tourism Education Council and Marianas Visitors Authority are inviting students to put themselves in the shoes of a tourist enjoying the Marianas’ natural environment.

MTEC and the MVA shared their message on the importance of tourism with students at Franscico M. Sablan Middle School last Dec. 12, at William S. Reyes Elementary School last Dec. 18, and at Kagman Elementary School last Dec. 19. As a majority of today’s travelers rank enjoying nature as one of their top expectations, students were invited to take a moment and reflect on their own favorite “green” space.

“The No. 1 activity visitors have said they want to do when visiting the Marianas is to enjoy our beautiful nature, and the students know just how beautiful our islands are,” said MTEC board member Catherine Perry. “We want to instill in these bright young minds the importance of planting and preserving trees, forests, community gardens and other green spaces for both our visitors and future generations to enjoy. Investing in keeping Saipan green is investing in our tourism economy.”

The outreach team aims to engage 4th graders, 7th graders, and 10th graders this year on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota with information and activities highlighting the Marianas’ primary economic driver, how it impacts their lives, and ways students can support tourism even at a young age.

The presentation also includes an overview of programs and activities of the Marianas Visitors Authority, including its annual signature events like this month’s 19th Annual Christmas in the Marianas and the upcoming Rota Marathon in January.

The presentations were made by Perry, MTEC board chair Vicky Benavente, and MVA Community Projects specialist Jack Aranda.

Other MTEC board members are vice chair Glenn Policare (Kanoa Resort), secretary Martin Duenas (MVA), treasurer Larissa Larson, Dr. Galvin Deleon Guerrero (Northern Marianas College), Larry Lee, Naomi Nishimura (CNMI Public School System), Gordon Marciano (PDI), and Dr. Yunzi Zhang (Northern Marianas College).

Schools interested in starting a MY WAVE Club to engage students with tourism may contact Aranda at jaranda@mymarianas.com or (670) 664-3200 for more information. (PR)