Turtles shine in Christmas tree decorating contest

Oleai Elementary School garnered a total of 267 points, just three points ahead of defending champion Saipan Community School, to emerge top winner in the annual 2008 Christmas Tree Decoration Contest organized by the Paseo De Marianas Promoters Inc.

Like all the other 12 participating schools, OES Turtles used pet bottles, sachets of coffee, aluminum cans, foil, and other recyclable or non-biodegradable materials to decorate their winning entry.

The pet bottles were shaped into lamps while the other materials were made into Santa Clause images and angels. The school’s mascot, the turtle, was also transformed into Santa Clause and other such images that may have captured the hearts of different judges from government and private agencies.

With its winning effort, Oelai took the first place prize of $3,000, courtesy of one of the major sponsors this year RNV Construction, during the well-attended awarding ceremonies last Thursday night.

First lady Josie Fitial was the special guest of honor.

Last year’s first prize winner Saipan Community School placed second this time after compiling 264 points and took home $2,000 donated by Kinpachi Restaurant.

Two entries were adjudged third place winners, William S. Reyes Elementary School and Garapan Elementary School. They were tied with 259 points and each won $1,000, compliments of Hafadai Magazine.

Four schools landed in fifth place, namely Dandan Elementary School, Joshua Generation International Academy, San Vicente Elementary School, and San Antonio Elementary School. They were awarded $750 each from MISD Bldg.

Consolation prizes of $500 each were given to Kagman Elementary School, Grace Christian Academy, Tanapag Elementary School, Gregorio T. Camacho Elementary School, (all courtesy of RNV), and Ladera International School (donated by Kinpachi).

PDM Promoters Inc.’s Sonia Siwa, who coordinated the event, said this year’s event drew the biggest crowd ever.

Before the awarding, the participating schools presented entertaining numbers to spice up the festivities.

Some of the man’amko also made their presence felt. They were part of the event by decorating their own Christmas tree.

In her message, PDM Promoters CEO and director Misako Kamata said they are very happy to see many people and wished them good luck for the Christmas season.

“I hope that everybody enjoyed it,” she said.