Environmental stewards who were honored by MINA pose for a photo with their awards: former Rep. Sheila Babauta, Elina Chhetri, owner of Marianas Creations, and Robbie Suzuki, NMC-CREES extension agent, representing NMC’s 4-H Club.
Frankie Eliptico delivers his remarks while the rest of the MINA board members stand on stage.
THE Marianas Islands Nature Alliance held its 10th Green Gala on Friday, Oct. 6, at the Crowne Plaza Resort to honor the CNMI’s environmental stewards and raise funds for the organization.
Roberta Guerrero, MINA’s executive director, said they sold out all tables available at the event — 25 tables in total with eight people per table. Individual tickets for the event cost $100, with a separate price for tables.
MINA likewise offered a bottle and bar service as well as a silent auction of sponsor prizes as part of its fundraising efforts.
The funds raised will go to the operational budget of MINA, allowing it to continue implementing environmental projects such as the community plastic recycling program.
“The Green Gala is a signature fundraising activity that brings us together to celebrate [MINA’s] work, and also to celebrate each other’s contributions to environmental conservation,” said MINA board member Frankie Eliptico
At the gala, MINA honored this year’s environmental stewards.
Northern Marianas College’s 4-H Club received the Environmental Heroes Award; local business Marianas Creations took home the Green Business of the Year award; and former CNMI Rep. Sheila Babauta was named the MINA Environmental Champion for 2023.
The Environmental Heros Award recognizes a school group or club that exemplifies “an eagerness to learn about and demonstrate a passion for conservation,” Eliptico said.
He added that NMC’s 4-H Club was recognized because it advocates “for policies and practices that improve environmental stewardship,” and “[builds] an awareness and interest in careers in conservation by engaging youth in projects that have positive impacts on land and sea.”
The Green Business of the Year Award was presented to Marianas Creations because it “upcyled materials to create an atmosphere of an inviting green space,” Eliptico said.
Marianas Creations was likewise recognized for replacing plastic bags with paper bags; using metal straws; growing its herbs and vegetables; selling organic eggs; and encouraging customers to bring their egg cartons back for reuse.
For her part, Babauta was named MINA’s Environmental Champion in recognition of her “deep sense of responsibility for the homeland,” Eliptico said.
She was also honored for her work with the United Nations Climate Change Conference since 2021.
“I’m full of gratitude,” Babauta told the media after receiving her award.
“We all do such very important work, and it can be so draining on the spirit and the mind,” Babauta said, referring to environmental activists. “To be recognized by my peers and family is such a wonderful feeling,” she added.
Babauta dedicated her award to the late Rep. Cinta Kaipat, who she called an “inspiration” and a “dear mentor.”
Babauta said environmental stewardship is necessary for the future. “When we take care of our environment — our oceans and our lands — the environment will take care of us,” she added. “We can go on to contribute to a brighter CNMI.”
MINA sold out all available tables at its 10th Green Gala.
Frankie Eliptico points to an item available for auction at the Green Gala.
