The end of Public Safety Week – Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
KOLONIA, POHNPEI – After a parade from the Spanish Wall, signaling the end of Public Safety week, First Lady of Pohnpei, Mrs. Estle G. Oliver assisted by U.S. Embassy Chargé d’affaires Alissa Bibb, Mrs. Jaap Van Hierden, wife of the UN Resident Coordinator and Ms. Inomata Maho, Researcher/Adviser for the Japan Embassy, lit up the 2022 Pohnpei State Christmas Tree. Youth groups, Government organizations, Non-Government organizations and community groups marched from the Spanish Wall under the theme of “Resilient to Cyber Crime through Education” to raise awareness of Cyber crimes. After reaching the Governor’s Office, a short program was held before the lowering of the Pohnpei State flag and the lighting of the Christmas Tree. In his remarks, Director of the Department of Public Safety, Mr. Patrick Carl, related the history of the Department of Public Safety (DPS), separating from the Department of Justice in October of 1999 and eventually having four divisions (Police & Security, Fire & Rescue, Corrections and Rehabilitations and Fish and Wildlife) under DPS. He gave an overview of the week’s events, explaining the importance of awareness efforts to prevent cyber crime. He noted that anyone with a device is prone to committing or being a victim of cyber crimes, and that one of the unfortunate crimes is identity theft. He wanted the public and especially the youth and parents to be aware of the dangers of cyber crimes. Special awards were also given to winners of the health and wellness event that was part of Public Safety week and a special lifesaving award was presented to Firefighter Mike Lucas for actions performed while off duty that resulted in saving the life of a child. Governor Oliver echoed and acknowledged the need to raise awareness of cyber crimes. He praised the efforts of Director Carl and the Department of Public Safety. He noted that with technology advances, it is important to be careful online. He shared the three virtues of respect, responsibility and honesty that can also be applied when online as well. Governor Oliver also acknowledged the presence of the UN Resident Coordinator, Mr. Jaap Van Hierden, US Embassy Charge’ d’Affaires Alissa Bibb and Ms. Inomata Maho, Researcher/Adviser for the Japan Embassy. He thanked everyone who helped with the Christmas Tree: PUC, PTA and Mr. Strickson Anson from the Facilities/Maintenance crew of the Office of the Governor. Governor Oliver closed his remarks recognizing the participants and winners of the Christmas Tree contest, whose Christmas trees were also part of the Christmas Lighting Ceremony. Thank to all who supported and participated in this year’s Public Safety Week and Christmas Tree Lighting. Donors & Sponsors: FSM Congress Vice Speaker Esmond Moses Congressman Dion G. Neth Department of Education Pohnpei Transportation Authority Pohnpei Utilities Corporation Pohnpei Broadcasting Corporation Mr. Strickson Anson Ace Hardware Black Sand Store Genesis Hospital Pohnpei Hardware Pohnpei Arts & Craft Micro Printer Pohnpei Service Station Best Buy Island Security Agency Isamu Nakasone Store MCS Pohnpei Leo Etscheit Foundation SDA High School Seniors Kolonia Town Government Parade Participants 2022 Madolenihmw Junior Police 2022 Sokehs Junior Police 2022 Nett Junior Police Ohmine Elementary School Pohnpei Catholic School Our Lady of Mercy High School College of Micronesia Pohnpei Port Authority MCS Pohnpei US Veterans of Pohnpei Association Pohnpei Public Auditors Office Sokehs Community Youth Association Pohnpei Broadcasting Corporation Nanpei Memorial High School PICS High School FSM National Police Sokehs Municipal Police U Municipal Police Kitti Municipal Police Kolonia Town Police Pohnpei State Department of Public Safety