Crowd turns out for Wellness Family Fun Fair

Organizers reported a big turnout during last Saturday’s Second Annual Wellness Family Fun Fair at the Minachom Atdao pavilion, part of the celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month.

The event was organized by the Coalition of Anti-Stigmas Mental Illness in the CNMI and its community coalition partners. This year’s theme was “Live Your Life Well.”

Close to 200 participated in the walkathon and other physical activities while over 100 youngsters submitted entries for the essay writing contest.

One of the organizers, Kaye Christian, said the activity’s main goal was to heighten awareness in the community of the importance of good mental health practices.

She said alternative stress reduction activities were introduced during the six-hour program.

“Mind, body and spirit for holistic health activities included an essay contest, walkathon, paddling, dancing and Tai Chi,” Christian said.

The topic for the essay writing contest was, “What good mental health means to me and three things I do for myself to feel better when I feel unhappy.“

Ann Jeline Manabat of San Vicente Elementary School topped the contest in the 6 to 12-year-old category. George Race won in the 13-15 years old category, while Ron Ron Catap of Marianas High School led in the 16-18 years old category. Joe Race triumphed in the 18-and-above category.

Second place winners were Rufina Olupomar of Tanapag Elementary School (6-12), Feng Liang Lizama of Mt. Carmel School (13-15), Maryana Gramlich of Marianas High School (16-18) and Jhoanna Fernando (18 and above).

The student winners will enjoy a day with their best friend at the Pacific Islands Club waterpark while the adult winners will enjoy a day for two at the Hyatt Club Elan.

A special category was added for the second grade entries. The winners were CJ Bernardo and Isaiah Dela Cruz, both of San Antonio Elementary School.

Second place and special category winners won tickets for two to the Hollywood Theatres and a $10 gas coupon from Shell.

People of all ages participated in the walkathon and received “Live Your Life Well” t-shirts that displayed 10 tips for healthy lifestyles.

They later joined the Tai Chi demonstration presented by Barry Wicksman, an instructor at the Northern Marianas College.

Justin Andrew and the Fatuul Outrigger Canoe Club helped in the canoeing activity, during which several people had the opportunity to experience the benefits of paddling an outrigger canoe.

Ellena Sutton and Band entertained and provided dance music for the cha-cha contest. The winners were Paz Younis and Matilde Rosario who will enjoy a day at the Mandi Asia Spa at the Marianas Resort.