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MTEC: What is the No. 1 reason visitors come to the NMI?
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- Students of Dandan Middle School listen to Marianas Tourism Education Council member Catherine Perry as she shares the importance of tourism and environmental protection on Nov. 2, 2015. (MTEC)
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- Students of Chacha Oceanview Middle School show their enthusiasm about winning prizes during the quiz session of the Marianas Tourism Education Council at their school on Nov. 6, 2015. (MTEC)
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- Marianas Tourism Education Council chair Vicky Benavente educates students at Dandan Middle School on the marketing tool “Saipan-da” on Nov. 2, 2015. Saipan-da backpacks from the Marianas Visitors Authority were awarded to students during the quiz portion of the presentation. (MTEC)
What is the No. 1 reason visitors come to the Northern Mariana Islands?
The answer to this question—nature—is the highlight of presentations to middle schools being made by the Marianas Tourism Education Council. Continuing its annual outreach to schools on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota, MTEC is emphasizing the importance of environmental protection to middle school students.
“This year, we want to focus on specific tourism messages for specific age groups,” said MTEC chair Vicky Benavente. “For middle school students, it’s all about recognizing, appreciating, and protecting our natural resources.”
MTEC presented at Dandan Middle School on Nov. 2 and at Chacha Oceanview Middle School on Nov. 6. The presentations also covered tourism statistics and benefits, marketing and signature events by the Marianas Visitors Authority and careers in the industry. The MTEC gave “Saipanda” as an example of one of the MVA’s marketing tools. MVA Community Projects specialist Ryan Calvo presented information about sports and cultural events on the islands.
MTEC plans to visit all public schools on Saipan, Tinian and Rota in partnership with the MVA.MTEC will also present to private schools upon request. Interested schools may contact Calvo at the MVA at 664-3200 /3210 or rcalvo@mymarianas.com. (MTEC)
Students of Dandan Middle School listen to Marianas Tourism Education Council member Catherine Perry as she shares the importance of tourism and environmental protection on Nov. 2, 2015. (MTEC)
