Booth competition highlights MHS cultural day

The rain did not stop Marianas High School from holding its 34th Annual Cultural Day, which it celebrated along with students from Japan’s Seisa Gakuen/Aoba School last Friday.

MHS principal Karen Borja, in her message, said for many years its students have had the opportunity to create and experience strong bonds of cultural exchange between two international schools.

“This exchange program has inspired our students to share international peace and goodwill within our school community,” she said.

Yesterday’s celebration was highlighted by the traditional booth competition for each grade level utilizing natural materials.

For the freshman class, the group wowed the crowd with their presentation of a Chuukese-inspired booth decorated by native plants, fruits, and flowers.

Class president Michelle Casilla revealed that it took them a while to prepare and gather all the materials for the competition.

But the experience, she said, was worthy and memorable for all members.

“We’re able to know more about our theme—Chuukese culture,” she said, adding that besides utilizing the venue for their class fundraising, students also developed appreciation to other cultures and traditions.

The sophomore class entered a Palauan-inspired booth, all decorated by features mostly found in Palauan culture.

Aside from all-natural inspired materials, members were also shown wearing traditional Palauan clothes as they accommodated visitors inside the house.

The junior class, meanwhile, adopted the unique Marshallese tradition of cooking food underground, called “um.”

“The ‘mon-komat’ or the ‘um’ is one sure way of making them aware about the Marshallese culture,” said class treasurer Arisha Nishimura, adding that it attracted visitors who bought food cooked underground.

Nishimura said research has been conducted by the group prior to finalizing their entry to the competition.

“We make sure that we know a lot about our theme…and it’s very helpful to the group,” she added.

The booth was also decorated by some island flowers such as ginger and bird of paradise which they said are also found in the Marshall Islands.

Nishimura’s group is confident they will get the nod of judges in the competition.

The senior class entered a Tahitian-inspired booth accessorized by island fruits and flowers on the sides.

MHS principal Karen Borja said winners of the competition will be known on Monday.

“All these booths were built using no nails, roofs, and other materials. Students have been very creative in showcasing their talents and skills. Every year, it’s one aspect of the celebration that we’re excited about,” she said.

Last Wednesday, MHS hosted a dinner party for Japanese visitors and gave them a send-off party on Saturday.

“We’re very proud of celebrating this occasion with these kids annually,” she said.

Various performances demonstrating different island cultures, games, and rifle drill presentations were also showcased in yesterday’s event.