Christmas Tree decoration competition draws 13 schools

The first two days of the month-long Christmas activities at Paseo De Marianas in Garapan drew its biggest crowd ever.

On its opening day on Wednesday, Dec. 3, a total of 13 schools participated in the Christmas Tree decoration contest.

Not only the students themselves exerted effort to complete their entries but also their teachers were there to provide the concept.

The judging was done on the second day on Thursday, Dec. 4, while the awarding ceremony will be on Dec. 18.

Also on Thursday, organizers turned on the lights of the giant Christmas Tree that has been a traditional part of the fun and activities. RNV Construction donated the giant Christmas Tree this year.

Each school used recyclable materials, such as styro-foam, pet bottles, tin cans, aluminum foil, and other plastic materials, to decorate their Christmas Tree.

Misako Kamata, chief executive officer and director of the organizing PDM Promoters Inc., said they are happy for the big turnout.

“This is so amazing. We thank all the participants for their efforts. We also invite the public to visit this place. It’s a beautiful way of welcoming the Christmas holidays,” she said.

PDM is a non-profit corporation aimed to make Paseo de Marianas and the Garapan vicinity back to a family oriented place and safe and clean for tourist and the local community.

Card drawings by students from Rota and Tinian were also posted in boards and in full view of the visitors to the area.

The participating schools in order of their entry number are San Antonio Elementary School, Garapan Elementary School, Grace Christian Academy, Tanapag Elementary School, Saipan Community School, Oleai Elementary School, William S. Reyes Elementary School, San Vicente Elementary School, Dandan Elementary School, Joshua Generation International, Gregorio T. Camacho Elementary School, and Ladera International School of Saipan.

The first prize winner will win $3,000 and consolation prize is $500. Both are sponsored by the Tax Education Credit Program.

The event is in close coordination with the Department of Community and Cultural Affairs and other government agencies and schools and private groups.

For the first time, strong participation from tourists will be part of the event.

A red ribbon would be provided to each tourist, who will make a wish and tie it to the Christmas Tree, starting Dec. 4 to Jan. 6.

Building owners along the PDM have volunteered to put up Christmas lights in front of their establishments.