May 2005 is CNMI Tourism Month

The month of May promises to be a very busy month for the local tourism industry as May events will take place in celebration of CNMI Tourism Month.

Even before the month begins, events have already been scheduled to happen. Today, Gov. Juan N. Babauta will sign a proclamation at the Marianas Visitors Authority signifying the month of May as Tourism Month.

The island of Tinian will begin its festivities for the annual San Jose Fiesta, in celebration of the island’s patron saint on April 27 through May 1. The event will showcase a variety of live entertainment, carnival rides, cockfighting, a canoe race, as well as a scrumptious feast that all visitors are invited to partake in.

The annual Ayuda Fun Run has been slated for various times throughout the month, in Saipan, Tinian, and Rota. The proceeds from each event will be donated to a non-profit organization on each respective island.

For the island of Saipan, the Ayuda Fun Run will take place on May 7 at 6am. The Ayuda Fun Run will start from the Kilili Beach Park all the way to Triple J Motors and back. The proceeds will be given to both the CNMI Chapter of the American Red Cross, and the Make A Wish Foundation. On May 14, the Ayuda Tinian Fun Run will be taking place at 6am and will start off from Taga Beach to M&F Corp. On May 28, the island of Rota will be holding its Ayuda Fun Run, which will be at 6am and take place from the Leadership Park to Songsong Nicolas Bridge and back. There will be prizes for the top three finishers in each age category. The registration fee for the events is $15.

The Wakai Nekko No Kai Group aboard the majestic Fuji Maru will be docking on the port of Saipan on May 4, 2005. This will be the 37th annual voyage for the group. Public and private agencies, as well as various school groups will be present to greet the ship upon arrival.

The Taste of the Marianas International Food Festival/Beer Garden, will officially kick off on Saturday, May 7, and every Saturday for the month of May. It will be held each night at the American Memorial Park from 6pm to 10pm. The event will feature local and international cuisine sold by participating hotel and local restaurant outlets. There will also be a variety of entertainment from local and international groups.

The Marianas Visitors Authority will be holding a photo contest, from May 1 through May 20. The theme for the contest ties in with the MVA slogan, “Tourism is Everybody’s Business.” All shots must be taken in the Northern Marianas Islands. Photographers are limited to 2 entries per category. The categories are as follows: (1) Scenic (2) Events (sports, fiestas, spa & beach, diving, etc.) (3) Cultural. Entries must be submitted as 8”X 10” prints only. There will be prizes for the top three in each category. Photographers must retain negatives. The Marianas Visitors Authority reserves the right to publish the winning photos in promotional materials for the Northern Marianas Islands.

The Saipan Walking Association will be holding the 4th Annual World Walking Day, sometime in the month. The dates and times, and more information will be announced at a later time.

On May 15, the Pacific Islands Club will be holding the 4th Annual PIC Soccer Tournament that will have both 3 on 3 and random draw teams. Prizes will be awarded.

On May 19, the Marianas Visitors Authority is promoting the day as “Wear Red Day.” The community at large is encouraged to wear red to emphasize the importance of the tourism industry in the CNMI.

On May 21, the 3rd Escape from Managaha Island will be taking place. There is a pre-race briefing for all participants on May 20th at 6pm at the Hafa Adai Beach Hotel. There will be prizes for each respective age category. For more information call MVA @ (670)664-3200/01 or email at kfc-onishi@gem.hi-ho.ne.jp.

“We are very excited about all the events that will be taking place during CNMI Tourism Month. These events will help to further promote the awareness of the CNMI as a travel destination. It is also to recognize the collaborative efforts of the Visitor Industry, which include the community at large, the residents who recognize the value of our culture, music and language, as well as those who support MVA Events and activities such as the MVA members and public agencies,” said Vicky Benavente, MVA managing director. (PR)