By R. Vincent Tupaz
For Variety

THE benevolence of one organization during times of need has garnered the attention of one of the island’s premiere financial institutions.
The famous green color scheme of the People’s Bank, the Bank of Guam (BOG) will intertwine with the familiar bright and lifesaving color of the American Red Cross (ARC) as they team up in a “Run for the Red” to ensure a healthy fund for the local chapter. And there will be cheering sections for the runners.
In celebration of the Bank of Guam’s 35th Anniversary the financial powerhouse jumped on the American Red Cross’ “Run for the Red 5K Run/Walk” slated for this Saturday, March 10th.
Show time is set for 5:15 a.m. in front of the Bank’s main branch in Hagatna. Go time is scheduled for 6 a.m. Register at Hornet sporting Goods in Tamuning or any of the Bank of Guam Branches throughout the island. Cost is just $5 per person for pre-registration. It will cost $10 on race day. There will be various age categories for both male and females participants and a host of awards will be offered including watches from Macy’s a Trip via Northwest Airlines and more. And the Guam Track and Field Federation will officiate the event.
BOG Vice President Mike Naholowaa invited the public to come on down for a great cause. He added that all proceeds benefit the local chapter of the American Red Cross. ARC Chief Executive Director Chita Blaise reminded all that all the Guam Red Cross does not receive federal or local monies, and operations rely heavily on community fundraisers such as Saturday’s scheduled 5K and from generous contributors like the Bank of Guam. “All the funds we raise locally stay here and that is what we use to supports our ongoing programs. We don’t receive money from the federal government and we don’t receive money from the government of Guam either,” explained Blaise.
Blaise said that she was very appreciative for the Bank of Guam’s commitment. “This will become an annual event and we’re very thankful.”
Naholowaa said that partnering for the 5k with the ARC is the Bank’s first step as it expands its support of the local ARC. Each time disaster strikes, the BOG opens its doors a ARC control hub for operations.”
“We’re expecting over a thousand plus participants. We’re looking forward to a good showing,” stated Naholowaa.