The Belau Tourism Association (BTA) on Saturday night held its 3rd White December Gala showcasing the Palau traditional dances and costumes.
This year the theme was “White December Goes Palauan,” where beautiful women adorned in beautiful gowns and traditional wears.Proceeds of the fundraising event will go to the construction of the Palau Tourism and Hospitality School of Excellence.The learning institution is a collaboration among BTA, Ministry of Education and the Palau Community College (PCC).The BTA, Wilma Kumangai said hosts fundraising events to raise funds for the association but this year , the school will get the bulk of the money raised in Saturday’s night gala held at the Palau Pacific Resort (PPR).Kumangai said that the school is the brainchild of one of the members of the association.Kumangai said there was a need for a school that trains hospitality personnel especially Palauans.She said that school will cost about $750,000 to build and its construction will begin in January.She added that the school will meet the need of the hospitality industry allowing retirees and housewives to get a five-week course and get a diploma and be ready for the job market.Kumangai said that the event will not be possible without the help of the Bank of Hawaii, Surangel and Sons and CTSI-Western Union.These companies, Kumangai said donated$2,000 each while Mobil and Kumangai donated $500 each.PPR, Little Beijing, Melusch, Impact, Splash and North Beach Cottages also assisted in the event through in-kind donations.
