Palacios, first lady, Apatang lead Christmas lighting ceremony

Gov. Arnold I. Palacios, first lady Wella Palacios, and Lt. Gov. David M. Apatang led the Christmas in the Marianas Lighting Festivity on Capital Hill Tuesday night to usher in the holiday season in the CNMI.

At the countdown, Wella Palacios pressed the “on” switch, illuminating a giant Christmas tree and many light sculptures and decorations in front of the Office of the Governor’s building.

Cabinet members and their families and friends, some lawmakers, government workers, students, and other people in the community clapped, took photos, and exchanged holiday greetings.

Children posed for photos with two Santa Clauses at the event. The Marianas High School’s Glee Club, Marianas Got Talent, and DPS Blue also performed.

Gov. Arnold Palacios thanked all departments and other offices that helped put together the Christmas decorations.

“Let’s give a round of applause to all those individuals, departments who contributed their time and resources and their talents to make this happen,” said the governor, drawing cheers from the crowd.

A similar Christmas display was simultaneously lit up last night at the Pedro P. Multi-Purpose Center in Susupe. The governor said they decided to just do the lighting ceremony on Capital Hill because of the ongoing construction work on Beach Road.

In a later interview, Gov. Arnold Palacios wished all people in the CNMI happy holidays on behalf of his wife and Apatang.

“I wish them the best always, that they have a very joyous Christmas with their families despite

Apatang thanked the Lady Wella Foundation and the village committee for organizing this year’s Christmas lighting festivity, and all departments that helped put up the decorations and lightings.

He extended his holiday greetings to all the people in the CNMI as well as those families and friends who are currently in the U.S. mainland and other parts of the world.

Apatang also called for sober driving this holiday season. He advised people not to drive when they drink and to call somebody to drive them home.

“Let’s stay safe, enjoy the holidays!” he said.