DYS extends thanks after successful softball tourney

The Division of Youth Services wishes to express its profound gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of the “Strike Out Child Abuse” Softball Tournament, which took place from April 4 to 7, 2024.

This event not only aimed to raise awareness about child abuse prevention but also brought the community together in a show of unity and support for the cause.

The proclamation signing and the tournament kickoff was attended by Gov. Arnold I. Palacios and Lt. Gov. David M. Apatang. Palacios, in his remarks, commended the Division of Youth Services and all participating teams, volunteers, and sponsors for their dedication and effort in making the tournament a success. Their participation and support underscored the critical message that every child deserves to grow up in a safe and nurturing environment.

The “Strike Out Child Abuse” Softball Tournament featured 14 total teams: Atoma, Blue Jays, Exotic-Young Gunz, Karidat, Adawayyy, Glove Affairs, ChamLau, What the Heck, Dirty Harry, Ejai, Bat and Boujee, Lucian, Elusive Kulture, and Deewhyess 4 Da Win. These teams played not just for the love of the game but for a cause that resonates deeply within our hearts—ensuring the safety and well-being of every child in the CNMI.

DYS is also thankful to the local businesses who supported this cause through their generous donations and assistance, namely Saipan Tribune, Marianas Variety, Coca-Cola Beverage Micronesia Inc, Bolis R Us 2, Saipan Ice & Water Company, MarPac, Himawari Saipan Inc, Joeten Hafa Adai, Terry’s Snack Bar, Herman’s Modern Bakery, Island Snow, Sweet7oh, Champs Shave Ice, EST Rental, and JG Sablan Ice & Water.

A special acknowledgment also goes to partnering agencies, including the Department of Public Safety, Public School System, DLNR Division of Parks & Recreation, Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services, CNMI Child Care Development Fund, Commonwealth Healthcare Corp., Suicide Prevention Program (988 Suicide Hotline), Northern Marianas College Expanded Food & Nutrition Education Program, Karidat Social Services, Office of the Governor, and the Saipan Mayor’s Office.

DYS also extends its gratitude to the members of the 23rd Commonwealth Legislature for their generous donations and continued support: House Speaker Edmund Sablan Villagomez (Ind-Saipan), Reps. Denita Kaipat Yangetmai (D-Saipan), Julie Marie Atalig Ogo (Ind-Rota), Marissa Renee Flores (Ind-Saipan), Ralph Naraja Yumul (Ind-Saipan), Roy Christopher Ada (R-Saipan), Thomas John DLC. Manglona (R-Saipan), Malcolm J. Omar (Ind-Saipan), Patrick H. San Nicolas (R-Tinian), (D-Saipan), and Manny Gregory Tenorio (Ind-Saipan), Senate President Edith DeLeon Guerrero (Ind-Saipan), and Sens. Celina Babauta, Donald Manglona (Ind-Rota), and Karl Rosario King-Nabors (R-Tinian).

DYS also extends its appreciation extends to the emcee Patrick Arriola for his engaging and spirited coordination of the event. Furthermore, DYS is also grateful to the proclamation readers, Celine Dela Cruz (San Vicente Elementary), Jerry Jr. Ada Deleon Guerrero (Kagman Elementary), Kayla Achime (Tanapag Middle School), and Sebastian Ray Deleon Guerrero (Tanapag Middle School) for their contribution to the ceremony’s meaningful impact.

Congratulations to the winning teams: first place Team Bat & Boujee, second place Team Karidat, and third place Team Atoma.

“A heartfelt thank you to all our volunteers, fans and the community for your unwavering support. Together, we have taken a significant step toward striking out child abuse and neglect in the CNMI. Because every child deserves to go home safe,” added DYS.

For more information on how you can help strike out child abuse or to get involved in future events, contact DYS at (670) 237-1005 to 14. (PR)