(Todd McDonald, Prairie Public) Fargo, N.D. (AP) Kissing a pig might not be one of the first ideas that come to mind for ways to ring in the New Year.

But Kim Bair, a spokeswoman for the Fargo chapter of the American Diabetes Association, says the pig has a role of honor in the group's annual New Year's Eve gala.

She says the event not only is a strong fund-raiser, but it helps generate awareness of diabetes, which she says is reaching epidemic proportions.

Bair says the pig pancreas was an original source of medical insulin.

The diabetes association plans its New Years gala at the Ramada Plaza and Suites in Fargo.

(Copyright 2006 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 12-29-06 1110CST | save this article / add to your favorites list