Principal honored by PETA for stopping donkey basketall game

MIDLOTHIAN -- When students at Bremen High School in Midlothian came up with the idea of playing basketball while riding donkeys, principal Dave Kibelkis thought it was a bad idea.

Kibelkis canceled the fundraising event out of concern for the safety of both the students and animals.

As a result, Kibelkis is being honored by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals with a Compassionate Educator Award.

PETA official Daniel Huff says the award is meant to draw attention to individuals who take thoughtful steps to protect animals. The fundraising game at Bremen, scheduled for Monday night, had been in the works for more than a year and was to raise money for scholarships for seniors.

But after some students complained to PETA, the group contacted Kibelkis about their concerns. He said he did some research and decided he couldn't support it.