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First lady lights giant Christmas tree
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Posted on Nov 28 2011
By Clarissa David
Reporter
Reporter
The holiday spirit came to life with much glow with the Christmas tree lighting ceremony Friday night at the Pedro P. Tenorio Multi-Purpose Center grounds in Susupe, marking the beginning of the Yuletide season in the CNMI.
First lady Josie P. Fitial, along with Gov. Benigno R. Fitial, led the traditional lighting of the giant Christmas tree and the outdoor nativity set depicting the birth of Jesus Christ in the event organized by the First lady’s Vision Foundation and the Women’s Affairs Office.
“I hope that our islands’ children and families can find the spirit of peace and renewed hope each time they pass by or visit these beautifully lit grounds,” Josie P. Fitial said in her remarks.
As the holiday season is a “joyous” time for family and friends, Fitial encouraged the audience to remember this Christmas is also for those who are less fortunate, those who are alone this holiday, and those who can’t be home for the holidays “especially all our courageous men and women serving overseas.”
“The greatest blessings of all are the ones that don’t cost a thing: the comfort of spending time with loved ones, the freedom we enjoy, and the joy we feel upon giving something of ourselves,” added Fitial.
Fitial, whose birthday coincided with the ceremony, said in an interview that it’s in the face of a tough economy that the community should remember the true meaning of Christmas.
“It’s when Jesus was born,” Fitial told Saipan Tribune. “So let’s love, have peace, and be always together. I just want everyone to love each other. No fighting; just be nice to each other. That’s my wish.”
Fitial thanked all those who helped make possible the putting up of the giant Christmas tree and the nativity scene for the holidays. They are director Arnold Seman, Lt. Pius Yaroitemal, Capt. Joe Pangelinan, staffers Carlo Evangelista and RB Camacho, and the Community Outreach of the Department of Corrections; Ting Jian Tang and Ramil of Kevin’s Corp., Jun Manlulu of Jems Corp., Angel Hocog and Piding Camacho of the Food Committee; Department of Public Works-Maintenance; Governor’s office maintenance; Multi-Purpose staff; Chong Fitial, Jack Omar, and Remy and Danny Buniag.
