Mejiron’s family members are increasing!

Oita Godo Newspaper (evening edition on February 4, 2008)

To be 17 in number

A cute green bird named “Mejiron” is well known as the mascot of the 63^rd National Sports Festival and the 8^th National Sports Festival for the disabled held in Oita this year, 2008, with the slogan “CHALLENGE! OITA.”  

Due to those significant festivals, the office in charge has decided a plan to increase 8 more huge models of Mejiron, in order to send out for the promotion at every event held in the area of Oita within the end of March. Plus now existing 9 models, there will be total 17 models.

The launch of Mejiron models is deemed as an effective promoting strategy that is currently full-operated by the office. In addition, it is lending models to a number of schools as well as some business workplaces. But the popularity is very skyrocketing, “Especially weekends, the reservation has already been filled until several months ahead” said an official.

As a result, the idea of escalating Mejiron’s family members, which initially started only 2, was inspired so as to respond augmenting demands better, and so that there will be no more rejected case.  Another reason is about the changing season seeing that after it becomes Spring, more events will be arranged outdoor. The demand in Mejiron reservation tends to be higher likewise.

All these can be said that the office is working carefully every step for the perfect provision. It additionally encourages Oita citizens to help promote the festivals and be warm hosts welcoming guests, who will visit in this September and October, for the success and prestige of Oita prefecture.

I as an international student living in Oita, also participate in these National Sports Festivals. Many of APU students were invited to dance in the open ceremonies. I and my friends are looking forward to taking part in this challenging experience!

PUNTHUCHAT Siripun

Thailand

APS2, Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University