Be Kind to Animals Week

In order to increase awareness of kindness to animals, the American Humane Association began in 1915 , began “Be Kind to Animals Week.” It is an annual event celebrated all over the United states. This is PAWS (Pet Assistance and Welfare Services) first time to share in this worthwhile event. This year Be Kind to Animals Week is May 7-13, 2000, and was kicked off with a message through Saipan’s clergy last Sunday.

PAWS sponsored a poster contest through Saipan’s elementary schools, grades 4-6. The participating schools were Garapan, Gregorio T. Camacho, Koblerville, Oleai, San Vicente, Tananao, and WSR Elementary Schools, Grace Christian Academy, Mount Carmel School, and Saipan International School. The posters were judged on fitness for the theme, originality, and artistic ability.

The winners were awarded their prizes last week. First place Blue Ribbon went to Daggar Diaz from San Antonio School. He received a certificate, a $50 cash prize and a PIC Waterpark pass for his family. Jonathan D.L. Guerrero from William S. Reyes School took second place Red Ribbon and also received a certificate and a $25 cash prize. The Third place winner was Presty Yobai from San Vicente School who received a white ribbon, a certificate and $1 0 cash prize. A Special Mention and Certificate will be issued to Hanna Hofschneider from MCS, Pomai Koi from MCS, Charis Dunn B. Lopez from GCA, and Ella Larin from WSRES.

Their posters can be viewed at Joeten Kiyu Library all week. Many of the other posters will be on display at the Legislature, Paradise Island Animal Hospital, Coffee Care, and various banks and offices this week.

We thank the principals, teachers and students who did a great job in promoting the message of kindness to animals. PAWS received over 160 posters.

The educational benefit is to prevent cruelty, abuse, neglect and exploitation of pets and to assure that their interests and well-being are fully, effectively, and humanely guaranteed by an aware and caring society. There is also statistical evidence that links violent people to those who abused animals as children. Kindness to animals is an important trait to teach and develop in our young people.

NMC KRNM and Hot 98 will be airing Pet Care tips throughout the week. There will be a special presentation of the video “Share the World” aired on MCV.