House presents commemorative resolution honoring Alina Velaluz

The House of Representatives of the 24th Northern Mariana Islands Legislature presented Commemorative Resolution No. 243 on an occasion recognizing 13-year-old Alina Velaluz for academic and extracurricular achievements, including two-year participation in the Scripps National Spelling Bee.

House members gathered with Velaluz and her family to present the resolution, which the presiding member summarized as honoring her “exceptional achievements in the Scripps National Spelling Bee, academics, and extracurricular activities” and celebrating her “unwavering dedication and exemplary contributions as a role model for the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.”

The presentation noted that Velaluz placed 22nd out of 245 competitors in the national spelling bee and highlighted her involvement in math, literature, the National Honor Society, Lincoln-Douglas debate, and a first-degree black belt in taekwondo. Speakers referenced her family legacy, including a grandfather described as the first chief justice of the CNMI. Velaluz briefly addressed the chamber, saying, “Thank you so much for recognizing me at this scale. I’ve dedicated a lot of time and effort to my various endeavors, and I’m so proud that my work is recognized.”

Remarks at the ceremony framed Velaluz’s achievements as bringing recognition to the Commonwealth and as inspiration for other students. The transcript records only the ceremonial presentation and personal remarks; it does not record any vote, amendment, committee referral, or other formal legislative action related to the resolution.