September 2023

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: September 27, 2023 – The Pohnpei State Government is pleased to extend heartfelt gratitude as we acknowledge the generous contributions of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS). The LDS Church’s recent donation of wheelchairs, walkers and crutches is an embodiment of compassion and generosity that will enhance the lives of Pohnpeian residents facing mobility challenges.     The recipients of these life changing mobility aids have already been identified through local municipal governments in collaboration with the Governor’s Office. The individuals set to receive these mobility aids will be contacted with details on the distribution process.     In a brief ceremony at the Governor’s Cabinet Conference room, Elder Bill Davis, acknowledged and praised the “Faithful members” of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints for their contributions that have made this donation possible. He spoke of the two great commandments of loving God and loving your neighbor as a basis for the good work that the LDS church continues to do across the world, regardless of race, country or religion.     Governor Oliver expressed his deepest gratitude to Elder Bill Davis and the LDS Church, on behalf of the Pohnpei State Government and the intended recipients of the donations. He related the cooperation and collaboration of the local municipal governments to identify and verify those who require wheelchairs, walkers or crutches.     The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints has a rich history of humanitarian service throughout the world. This is not the first donation of wheelchairs made by the LDS Church to Pohnpei. This donation reaffirms the Church’s mission shared by Elder Bill Davis to “love and serve our neighbors”.   Accompanying Elder Bill Davis, Welfare and Self-Reliance Manager, who flew from Guam, were the following Church members:   Elder Allan McMakin, Humanitarian Project Manager   Sister Dana McMakin, Humanitarian Project Manager   Elder Kim Burtenshaw, Public Affairs & Communications   Sister Cyndi Burtenshaw, Public Affairs & Communications   President Williamson Rodriguez, Pohnpei Stake President

Governor Oliver recently met with Chinese Government officials who will be responsible for the renovation of the Pohnpei State Administrative building. The long-awaited renovation of the building will take place at the end of the year and will see the Governor’s Office and other offices remaining in the building relocated.     Special Assistant to the Governor, Mr. Wincener David, formerly Director of the Department of Health Services will lead the relocation effort for the Governor’s Office and the general public will be advised of new office locations once plans have been confirmed.  

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: September 15, 2023 – Welcome to Pohnpei, U.S. Ambassador to the FSM, H.E. Jennifer L. Johnson. Governor Oliver received Ambassador Johnson today at the Governor’s conference room.     In the introductory visit, Governor Oliver warmly welcomed Ambassador Johnson, Deputy Chief of Mission Alissa Bibb and Military/Political Analyst Lynn Pangelinan. He thanked Ambassador Johnson for all the assistance and support that has been provided by the U.S.A and looked forward to the continuing partnership.     Ambassador Johnson also returned Governor Oliver’s book; “Profiles in Courage” written by President John F. Kennedy. It was signed by President Kennedy’s daughter, Caroline Kennedy, who is the U.S. Ambassador to Australia and presented to Governor Oliver during the visit.     Welcome to Pohnpei, Ambassador Jennifer L. Johnson!

Palikir firing range, Pohnpei: September 14, 2023 – Governor Oliver, Speaker Yamaguchi and Director of the Department of Public Safety, Patrick Carl, joined U.S. Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel Robert Hillery and Captain Kevin Justice for the official handover of the newly renovated Pohnpei State firing range.     The U.S. Marines of Task Force Koa Moana completed the Pohnpei State firing range renovations. The Marines renovated the range using Marine Corps standards. The project cost for the upgrades was $50,000.00 for the supplies and materials to renovate the firing range. The Marines provided their expertise with firing range renovations for free.     In his speech at the handover ceremony, Governor Oliver expressed his gratitude to the Marines for the renovations. He said “I’m sure this place will be utilized properly and appropriately” to help the Department of Public Safety fulfill its role in safeguarding the public.     The Pohnpei State Government is grateful for all the help and support provided by the few and the proud of Task Force Koa Moana. Semper Fidelis, Marines!

Governor Reed B. Oliver is at the 2nd Chief Executive Council in Yap State, joining forces with Speaker Yamaguchi and collaborating closely with President Wesley W. Simina, Speaker Esmond B Moses, and fellow State Governors. Together they will strategize and find innovative solutions on how to make the most of the amended compact fund contributions, fishing license fees revenue as a result of the 2023 constitutional convention referendum and mutual state and national priorities. The discussions are not just about numbers; they’re about addressing immediate and pressing needs of our people. Governor Oliver and his counterparts are exploring ways to tackle challenges like salary increases, workforce attrition, and outmigration. These issues matter to all of us, and together, they’re working towards a brighter future for Pohnpei State and the rest of the nation. Pohnpei State Attorney General Belsipa Mikehl-Isom, Director of Treasury and Administration, Christina Elnei and Financial Advisor Kelly Keller accompanied Governor Oliver and Legislature Legal Counsel Tom Beckman accompanied Speaker Yamaguchi. Stay tuned for updates on this crucial initiative! #Enginkehlap #collaborationforchange

Peilapalap, Pohnpei: August 30, 2023 – Governor Oliver received Mr. Sosler Edgar and Mr. James Tim from the Division of Agriculture, Department of Resources and Development. Mr. Edgar and Mr. Tim paid a visit to Governor Oliver to present a vibrant array of freshly harvested vegetables from the Pohnpei Botanical Gardens.     The Division of Agriculture maintains an office at the botanical gardens, known locally as Pwunso. The visit showcased the rich variety of crops cultivated at the Pohnpei botanical gardens in Kolonia.     Governor Oliver expressed his delight at receiving the local produce. He thanked Mr. Edgar and Mr. Tim, the Division of Agriculture and the Director of the Department of Resources of Development, Mr. Hubert Yamada, for the good work being done to advance and highlight the agricultural sector in Pohnpei. Governor Oliver was especially pleased to learn that most of the produce was grown and harvested in Kolonia at the Pohnpei Botanical Gardens, Pwunso area, with the remaining produce brought down from the China Pilot Farm in Madolenihmw.     The bountiful assortment of vegetables underscored the successful implementation of the Division of Agriculture’s strategies for improving crop yields, optimizing resource utilization, and showcased the bountiful harvest from the soil of Pohnpei. The botanical gardens hold historical, cultural and educational value and present a unique opportunity for fostering local initiatives that benefit our community in diverse ways.