Economic Advisory Council Sends First Report to Governor
The Governor’s Economic Advisory Council has submitted its first report to Governor Togiola Tulafono for his review on the Council’s recommendations for economic development projects designed to stimulate the economy.  The 29 page report, as written in the report’s cover letter, “reflects the expressed thoughts, experiences and recommendations of the private and public sectors as represented by the Council member.”  The projects suggested in the report are believed by the Council to be achievable in the short run, and promising for long term results.  

Faipule Contests Satala Designation in Voting District List
Maoputasi District number 10 faipule, the honorable Vaitoa Hans Langkilde, has written an official inquiry with Chief election Officer Soliai Tuipine, regarding the district designation for the village of Satala.

Liaison Training for Arts Festival
The Personnel Committee of the 10th Festival of Pacific Arts is calling on all those who applied for Liaison Officer positions during the festival as volunteers, that training sessions will be held at the Lee Auditorium next week Monday and Tuesday.

ASCC Students to Visit Tokelau for Archaeological Excursion
Three students from the American Samoa Community College (ASCC) will experience the unique island culture of Tokelau for three weeks as part of an Archaeological Field School organized by instructor Dr. David Addison. Marie Faatuala, Timali Pele and Junior Lokeni will participate in a research project held in conjunction with the National University of Samoa (NUS), the University of the South Pacific (USP) and the Tokelau Department of Education. “As one of the closest island groups to the north of Samoa, we believe that Tokelau at one time had a close connection with Samoa. This research project will give us a chance to investigate that theory,” said Dr. Addison.

U.S. Army Europe Bids Farewell to CSM Iuniasolua Savusa
U.S. Army Europe’s noncommissioned officer corps bid farewell to their top NCO on behalf of the command’s 46,000 Soldiers and their Families during a farewell retreat ceremony in Heidelburg, germany on June 18.

SPEX Receives Nod From USDOT to Operate Inter-Samoa Flights
South Pacific Express has received approval from the U.S. Department of Transportation to operate passenger and cargo flights between American Samoa and Samoa.  The U.S. DOT has granted SPEX a two year permit for inter-Samoa flights, and after the allotted time period SPEX may then reapply for another two year extension.

American Samoa Prepares to Send Youths to Beijing for Wyland Art Project
American Samoa has received confirmation that 4 to 6 of our local youth artists have been invited to join internationally renowned marine life artist Wyland in Beijing, China for an unprecedented global art project celebrating the world’s waters.

Finding Ways to Help the Tuna Canneries
The Governor’s Economic Advisory Board is finding ways to help ensure that Samoa Packing and Star Kist continue operation in American Samoa.  After the minimum wage increase policy went into effect, both canneries were concerned about escalating costs and other strains imposed by the wage increase.  In the Board’s first report to Governor Togiola Tulafono, the suggestion was made to assist the canneries by finding ways to reduce or eliminate minimum wage hikes.

Governor's Task Force Investigates Food Shortage
Malama TV has received numerous calls from local consumers displeased with the hike in the price of rice, among other food items. Some have noticed an apparent shortage of rice in the territory as some stores have already run out or have a low supply.  To address the rise in food prices, Governor Togiola Tulafono has put together a three member Board of Investigation to look into the matter.

More Than 200 Youth Join the Workforce This Summer
More than 200 students are making the most of their summer as they participate in this year’s Workforce Investment Act summer youth employment program.  The program is directed and organized by the Department of Human Resources and is open to private and public high school students, as well as students of the American Samoa Community College.  

ASCC Cafeteria Reopens After Shutdown By DOH
The cafeteria at the American Samoa Community College is once again open after having been shut down for a few weeks due to failure of meeting health regulations. The cafeteria was inspected earlier this month and Department of Health officials found that the facility was in a need of a new paint job and that it also lacked hot water.  In addition, several employees failed to provide health cards which are required under DOH regulations to serve food to the public.

Attorney General Investigating Missing Weapons at DPS
The Attorney General's Office is investigating the disappearance of missing weapons stolen from the Department of Public Safety.

Visiting Cardiologist Conducts Clinics in Manua
A visiting cardiologist from Maui, Hawaii has been conducting a clinic for Manua residents since June 10th.  Dr. Philip Milne has seen more than 20 heart patients so far, and after evaluations, two are being assessed and will be presented to the board for off-island treatment.

Homeland Defense Training for Government Agencies
The U.S. Department of Defense Joint Task Force for Homeland Defense is presently conducting training sessions for local government agencies to focus on skills and capabilities in managing large scale emergency operations.

CRAG Establishes Strategy to Address Population Growth Threat
The population in American Samoa grew from less than 10,000 to 57,291 between 1900 and 2000, and based on these statistics from the Department of Commerce, American Samoa is apparently facing the major threat of overpopulation. Director of the Department of Commerce, Faleseu Eliu Paopao, said this problem must be addressed as its impacts will be inevitable to all residents of American Samoa.  

Togiola Says Fotu O Samoa Could Be Chartered Again
With the MV Sili still dry docked, Governor Togiola is looking into the chartering service of the Fotu O Samoa vessel, which is owned by the Samoa government.  The vessel sailed last night to transport food supplies and fuel to Manu’a as residents have been complaining of a shortage in both necessities since the MV sili has been out of service.  

ASBD Association: Bus Fare Hike Absurd
The American Samoa Bus Owners/Drivers Association is voicing opposition to the 25 cent bus fare hike scheduled to go into effect across the board.  Along with the 50 cent taxi fare hike scheduled for July 1, the increase in bus fares is intended to help offset the increased expenses drivers and owners of commercial vehicles are facing due to the increase in gas prices.

More Arts Festival Donations
The organizing committee of the 10th Festival of Pacific Arts received another donation today from a group of cargo companies doing business in the pacific, with offices in American Samoa, Guam, Tonga and New Zealand.

Measure Introduced to Give US Citizens in All Territories Right to Vote in Presidential Race
The votes of U.S. citizens residing in U.S. territories will be counted in future U.S. presidential elections if a federal measure sponsored by U.S. Senator Bill Nelson is enacted into law.  The measure provides that the Constitution of the United States be amended to abolish the electoral college votes which at current determine the winning ticket of the presidential race.  It was introduced on June 6 and assigned to the Senate Committee on Judiciary.

TAOA Revives Traditional Games for Arts Festival
The elderly population of American Samoa gathered at the TAOA compound last week to enjoy some traditional games that are no longer seen played today.  The traditional games of fitifiti and taulafoga were popular games played in the Samoa islands generations ago.

Procurement Office Presents Three New Vehicles to ASG Agencies
The Office of Procurement last Friday, presented three vehicles to the Departments of Public Safety and Legal Affairs, under a program with the federal GSA.

GHC Reid Donates to Arts Festival
The GHC Reid family of businesses today made their donation toward the 10th Festival of Pacific Arts, at an official presentation ceremony held at the GHC Reid compound in Tafuna.

Governor Togiola Unveils American Samoa Flag Stamp
Last Saturday morning at the Executive Office Building in Utulei, Governor Togiola Tulafono unveiled the new American Samoa Flag stamp, which was one of ten stamps of states and territories that were the first to be released by the U. S. Postal Service.

Togiola Faoa Gubernatorial Team Kicks Off Re-election Campaign
Governor Togiola Tulafono and Lt. Governor Faoa Aitofele Sunia officially kicked off their reelection campaign this past Saturday at the Pago Pago Community Center.  Despite the heavy rain, the rally was packed in attendance with families, friends, and supporters of the incumbent team.  Also in attendance were Senate President Lolo Moliga and House Speaker Savali Talavou Ale.

Governor Lifts ASG Hiring Freeze
The Department of Human Resources has completed its study on the impact of the wage increase on the American Samoa Government’s budget for the current fiscal year.  Based on the finding of no major impacts resulting from the wage hike, Governor Togiola said he will now lift the freeze that prevented any hiring, promotion, and increment within ASG.  

July 1: Taxi Fares Increase, Smoking Banned on Buses
Taxi rates will increase across the board by 50 cents on July 1, 2008 under the proposal of the commerce commission which regulates public transportation.  Taxi drivers have been pushing for the rate increase to help offset increased expenses mainly stemming from the escalation in gas prices.

LBJ Issuing New Hospital ID Cards With Patient Photo
LBJ Hospital is now issuing a newly designed hospital identification card.  Patients were previously issued a green card that contained information such as the cardholder’s name, village, and hospital number.    The new ID card not only provides this information, but also includes a photo of the person to whom the card is issued.

Governor Signs MOU to Pursue Local Alternative Energy Sources
American Samoa has taken a step towards the pursuit of alternative and renewable energy for our territory through a memorandum of understanding that was signed this past Tuesday.  The MOU was signed by the American Samoa Government, MD2 Energy Solutions LLC, and the University of Hawaii through Pacific Business Center Program director Papali’i Dr. Failautusi Avegalio.

Governor Announces the Purchase of New School Buses
Governor Togiola Tulafono announced this week that 10 new school buses have been ordered to improve the Department of Education bus fleet and in preparation for the new school year.

Governor Charters Fotu O Samoa for Manua Service
Governor Togiola Tulafono announced today that the Samoa government boat, Fotu o Samoa, has been contracted to provide much-needed passenger and cargo service to Manu’a.

PICED Summer Program
The Pacific Islands Center for Educational Development began their summer school program this past Monday with an enrollment of 230 students.   Courses are being offered for students in level two through twelve and are being held at PICED’s new location in Nuuuli.  Among the 16 subjects covered in the summer session are math, reading, science, writing, and computers.  

Carvers Prepare to Sculpt Large Tree for Arts Festival
Tile Tuala Tamaalelagi of Laulii is heading a group of carvers who will create a sculpture from a tree for the 10th Festival of Pacific Arts.  Tile is the noted artist who crafted the mosaic for the Laulii CCCAS. The details of the art piece to be created for the festival are not known, but the artists will most likely reveal the specifics during a scheduled press conference this Thursday.

JROTC Fun Run
All high school JROTCs in American Samoa, with the exception of Manua high School, held a fun run today, as well as a course on water safety and floatation.  The courses are part of the summer training which is being held at the Samoana High School campus in Utulei.

YWCA Begins Another Sewing Course for Women
The Young Women’s Christian Association, better known as the YWCA, is starting another of its sewing courses for the women of American Samoa.  The sewing course is another in a series that have already been completed with great success.

ASG Island Cleanup
At the Governor’s cabinet meeting held yesterday, Governor Togiola Tulafono announced that all government departments and agencies will be participating in a cleanup of the island on July 11th, as we prepare to host the 10th Festival of Pacific Arts, and before that, the PREL conference in July.

Health Department to Enforce Health Cards for Arts Festival
As the 10th Festival of Pacific Arts draws near, the Department of Health is reminding all food vendors of the need for valid health permits.  All food handlers will be required to have in their possession a valid health card while handling food for public consumption at all times, according to the law.

Governor to Unveil Flag Stamp this Saturday at EOB
Governor Togiola Tulafono will be unveiling the American Samoa Flag Stamp this Saturday, June 14th, which also happens to be United States Flag Day.

Local Veterans Donate to Arts Festival
The Samoa Veterans Association was added to the list today of contributors toward the 10th Festival of Pacific Arts, as they presented a check for $1,000 toward the major event.

Local Artist Exhibits at Jean P. Haydon Museum
This week Monday, the Jean P. Haydon Museum in Fagatogo opened an exhibit of artwork by local artist Jurgen  Von Radtke.  The paintings will be on display for two weeks, and  Von Radtke  is one of the visual artists who will be featured for American Samoa during the upcoming arts festival.

Lolo Will Not Run for Governor
It’s official.  Senate President Lolo Moliga will NOT be running for governor in this year’s gubernatorial election.   Lolo cited that there are now already four candidates with ancestral ties to the  Manuatele, and his candidacy would only further embolden divisiveness which he said unfortunately, is still visible today.  “My candidacy will only fuel this already very hostile and volatile cultural condition,” said Lolo.

Faleomavaega Clarifies Intent of U.S. Citizenship Bill
Congressman Faleomavaega today clarified the intent of a bill he introduced to make it easier for U.S. nationals living in American Samoa to become U.S. citizens, if they so choose.

Formation of Local Teachers' Association Moving Forward
Local teachers will be rallying this summer to address their needs as educators, and to discuss their goals and issues that need to be addressed by the government.  Tafuna High School social studies teacher, Ben Te’o, is organizing the local teacher’s association, and says that now is an ideal time for the teachers to get together since school is out for the summer.

MV Sili Dry Docked, Manu'a Short on Store Supplies
The MV Sili has been dry docked at the marine railway for the past two weeks as it is undergoing repairs on the aft side of the boat which will be followed by an inspection before it can continue its routine services.  With the vessel temporarily out of service, Manua residents and store owners are complaining that store shelves are becoming empty, and basic food items have become unavailable as stores are running low on supplies. The residents are also concerned of the shortage of gasoline, noting that drivers are having to keep their cars parked and walk.  

Eni Supports SPEX Inter-Samoa Application
Congressman Faleomavaega Eni is supporting South Pacific Express in their quest to receive the green light from the U.S. Department of Transportation to operate inter-Samoa flights.  SPEX recently submitted their application to the USDOT and is still awaiting their response.  Faleomavega wrote to Transportation Secretary Mary Peters in  hopes to expedite the process.

BPWAS Awards $4,500 in Scholarships to Class of 2008
Business and Professional Women of American Samoa showed continued support for the education of our young people through scholarship awards that will help selected high school students further their education at the college level.  This year, BPWAS has awarded a total of $4,500 in scholarships to five young women who have graduated from high school this year.

Hawaii Donates Computers for Local Fono
The American Samoa Legislature today acknowledged receipt of 15 computers which were donated from Hawaii for the Fono.

Local Companies Win Bulk of School Lunch Bids
Out of the ten categories of food items that were put out to bid by the School Lunch Program, nine have been awarded to local companies.  Between GHC Reid, Islands Choice, Pacific Sales and Tautua Mo Oe, over $2 million worth of contracts were awarded.

Young Man Charged for Threatening Woman with a Knife for Money
And in news from the courts, 18 year old Joseph Mamona appeared in district court yesterday for charge of first degree robbery.  The prosecution contends that on May 31 in Tafuna, Mamona hid inside a woman’s car and as she drove away, he came out of hiding and held a knife to the victim’s throat, demanding that she give him $500.  The woman told Mamona that she only had $80, of which she handed over to him.  The defendant then asked the woman to drop him off in front of a laundromat in Iliili.      

Three Local Students Depart for National History Competition
Three students will depart the territory this week to represent American Samoa in the 2008 National History competition, which is being held at the University of Maryland at College Park.  American Samoa will be represented by the winners of the island wide National History Day competition which was held earlier this year.

JROTC Units Go Through Summer Training Sessions
All local high school JROTCs are taking part in the summer training this week at the Samoana high School campus.  The event is being hosted this year by Fagaitua High School.

Election Office Points to Laws Covering Political Contributions
The Election Office is reminding all candidates and their campaign committees, as well as contributors, to make sure they abide by the local laws for election contributions.  Deputy election officer, Filiva’a Mageo, said it is mandatory for candidates to file their financial reports with the Campaign Spending Commission, in accordance with local laws. Filing forms are available at the Election Office.

TAOA Elderly Folks Donate to Arts Festival
As the donations continue to pour in from the community for the 10th Festival of Pacific Arts, the organizing committee was taken by surprise today when they were notified that the elderly folks of American Samoa wanted to hand over their contribution to the big event.

Togiola Opposes Faleomavaega's Citizenship Bill
On his weekend radio program, Governor Togiola voiced strong opposition to Congressman Eni Faleomavaega’s bill which seeks to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act so that certain U.S. citizenship requirements may be waived for U.S. nationals living in American Samoa.

Tafuna Residents Seeking Help After Flooding
The heavy rains this past weekend had many Tafuna residents worried about their homes being flooded, as more than ten homes in the village were damaged by flooding two weeks ago.  There have been no reports of flooding over the past weekend, but some Tafuna residents expressed dissatisfaction with the response they received when they took precautions by seeking help from the police, Public Works, and TEMCO.

Governor Togiola Wants to Look Into Cause of Spike in Food Prices

Dr. Seth Galeai Officially Installed As ASCC President
The installation ceremony for American Samoa Community College President, Dr. Seth Galeai, was held this past Saturday at the ASCC lecture hall.  Dr. Galeai was announced as the new college president earlier this month, after former president Dr. Adele Satele-Galeai stepped down for health reasons.

Increase in Demand Predicted for US Passports
The regional director of the Honolulu Passport Agency, Nancy K. Finn, is encouraging all travelers who plan to travel abroad in 2009 or 2010 to apply for passports now.  At present, the amount of time required to obtain a passport averages less than four weeks, however, passport agencies are expecting a great increase in processing time, noting that the U.S. Department of State predicts an estimated 21 million passports to be issued this year, and 30 million next year.

PNRS Schedules Hearing on Fiber Optic Project
The Project Notification and Review System Board will be holding a public hearing on Wednesday, July 2 at the Convention Center in Utulei for open discussion on the fiber-optic cable project, which is scheduled for launch in American Samoa in 2009.

More Donations to the Arts Festival
This week started off with more donations for the organizing committee of the 10th Festival of Pacific Arts.  Steven and Sons this morning made their presentation to the committee for $3,000.

Youth Summer Mini Camp Opens
The Gear Up Program, in conjunction with the Taitaitama Program and the American Samoa National Olympic Committee opened their Summer Mini Camp today, targeting the youth of American Samoa.  The camp continues through June 27th, includes students from the Gear Up cohort schools throughout the island.

LBJ Doctors Working Towards USMLE Certification
The U.S. Medical Licensing Exam policy has required 24 of our local physicians  to seat a three-part exam in order to continue employment at LBJ Hospital.  The USMLE policy was implemented by the LBJ Board in 2006 in an effort to properly license our non U.S. certified doctors in accordance with administrative policies and rules.

ASCC Congratulates Spring 2008 Dean's List
Each semester, the American Samoa Community College (ASCC) recognizes outstanding academic achievement by compiling the Dean’s List. The list consists of full-time students who attain a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.5 or better in courses numbered 100 and above in any given semester, with no failing (F), withdrawal (W), withdrawal fail (WF), incomplete (I) or repeated (R) grades.

Faleomavaega Introduces Citizenship Legislation
In the Congress this week, Congressman Faleomavaega Eni introduced a bill to exempt U.S. Nationals born in American Samoa from having to meet all requirements of becoming a U.S. citizen, as outlined in the federal Immigration and Nationality Act.

Polynesian Airlines Takes Delivery of Second Twin Otter
Polynesian Airlines’ second twin otter aircraft arrived on its maiden flight yesterday morning  at the Tafuna airport.  The 19- seater was in Apia last month and was being used for inter-Samoa flights as well as charter flights to Niue.

DPW Employee Falls From Stadium Height, Doing Fine
Earlier this week during construction of the new grandstand at the Veterans Memorial Stadium, a Department of Public Works employee fell from a section of the stadium that was under construction.  According to Public Works director Taeaotui Punaofo Tilei, the crew member fell about ten feet to the ground and suffered only minor bruises.  With no serious injuries, Taeaotui said the man returned to work the next day but as a precautionary measure, he was sent home to rest.

AG Apologizes for Unauthorized Release of Convicted Police Officer
Attorney General Fepulea’i Afa Ripley Jr. offered his apology to the High Court yesterday for granting the release of Makuisa Amotai from the Territorial Correctional Facility for Mother’s Day weekend.  Amotai, a retied police veteran, was found guilty for vehicular homicide and was sentenced by the High Court last month to 20 months in jail without release, except for an emergency or by court order. The detention period is a condition of Amotai’s five year probation.

LBJ Medical Referrals Still On for Urgent Cases Only
As concerns continue to be raised regarding the status of LBJ’s off-island medical referral program, LBJ chief executive officer Patricia Tindall responded to inquiries noting that the off-island referral program is still open.  However, based on current funding, she said LBJ can only send patients of Level 1 cases, which are urgent and life threatening.

No Serious Offers for Rainmaker Hotel
The American Samoa Development Corporation has not received any serious offers  from investors interested in the development of Rainmaker Hotel.  The deadline to submit offers was May 31, 2008, by which ASDC has received three inquiries but none of which seem to be promising.

Samoan Song Artists Win Big at S3 Pacific Music Awards in NZ
New-Zealand based music group, Te Vaka, received two awards at the S-cubed Pacific Music Awards held last weekend in New Zealand.  Te Vaka consists of eleven members from different countries across Oceania, including Samoa. They were awarded the Radio 531pi Best Pacific Group Award and the S-cubed Best Pacific Music Album for “Olatia.”

Arts Festival Donations
And donations to the Arts Festival continue to roll in as the 10th Festival of the Pacific Arts is right around the corner.   Yesterday, congressional candidate Aumua Amata presented a $6,000 donation on behalf of herself, the American Samoa-based tuna purse seiner vessels and the American Tuna boat Association.

Soldiers of the 400th Return Home From Iraq Tour of Duty
22 soldiers of the local 400th Combat Support Platoon of the U.S. Army Reserve returned home early this morning on a delayed Hawaiian Air flight, after a 10-month tour of duty in Iraq.

Utu Abe Malae is Running for Governor
After weeks of speculation in the community, Utu Abe Malae has made it official.  He will be running for governor in the November elections.

Good Year Disappointed About Comments On Tafuna Scrap Metal Yard
The attorney for Good Year Corporation, Trevor Stevenson, has said that he is disappointed that recent comments have been publicized in the local media concerning Good Year and the Tafuna Scrap Metal Yard.

Financial Assistance Available Through Farm Bill Programs
Farmers in American Samoa are being encouraged to sign up for financial assistance through the Farm Bill, with programs such as the Environmental Quality Incentives Program for ground and surface water conservation and the Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program.

KO Brothers Store Donates to Arts Festival
And yet another donation was made today toward the 10th Festival of Pacific Arts.  Ko Brothers Store in Nuuuli donated a $1,000 plus 500 cases of saimin noodles to help with the hosting of the event.

SPEX Application Being Reviewed by USDOT
The U.S. Department of Transportation is now reviewing the application of South Pacific Express to operate inter island flights between American Samoa and Samoa.

Arts Festival Donations
And the support for the arts festival keeps rolling in to help the organizing committee with preparations to host the pacific countries who will be arriving next month for the major regional event.

Ten Companies Submit Bids for School Lunch
A total of ten companies have submitted bids to supply the School Lunch Program with various food items for the 2008-2009 school year.  This is the first tender since the bidding policies were changed under the new management of Sodexho Inc., who took over the local school lunch program last year.

Nomination Petitions for Candidates Now Available at Election Office
Nomination petitions for those who wish to run for office in the November elections were available for pick up today at the election Office.  The positions included in the nomination petition process are Governor, Lieutenant governor, Delegate to the U.S. Congress, and the local House of Representatives.

ASCO Motors Receives Excellence Award as Top Distributor
ASCO Motors American Samoa has been awarded the Business Excellence Award among Toyota Distributors in the south Pacific.  The presentation was made at a gala dinner held in Brisbane, Australia on May 16th.

Samoa Celebrates 46 Years of Independence
And in news from our neighbors to the west, the Independent State of Samoa will be celebrating 46 years of independence this week.  It is reported that hundreds of guests and invited dignitaries are expected to attend the celebrations.

Heavy Rains, Landslides, and an Earthquake Over the Weekend
It was a weekend of heavy downpours, landslides and even an earthquake for American Samoa.  Many residents stayed home due to the inclement weather.  Flooding was reported in several areas of the island, including the Fagaima area , which was impassible in the morning hours.  Some motorists reported the water level at above the floor boards of their cars, causing the water to seep into their vehicles while trying to drive through the flooding.

It's High School Graduation Week in American Samoa
It’s that time of the year again, with high school graduations scheduled throughout this whole week.  Last week started off with Manumalo, Kanana Fou Pacific Horizons, SDA Iakina, Manua and Faasao Marist High Schools holding their commencement exercises.

Police Revive Outreach Program Amid Increase in Burglaries
With the number of burglaries and public peace disturbances on the rise, the Department of Public Safety is reviving its Community Crime Prevention Program to try to tackle the problem.

LBJ Implements New Policy On Patient Family Caregivers
A new policy went into effect yesterday at the LBJ Tropical Medical Center, to try to regulate patients’ visitors.

Utu Abe Malae Resigns From Development Bank
The president of the Develoment Bank of American Samoa, Utu Abe Malae, has resigned from his position amid rumors that he is preparing to announce a run for governor.  Utu submitted his resignation  letter tp the bank board last week Thursday.

Fiji Dancers Turn on Magic
With the 10th Festival of Pacific Arts less than two months away, other pacific countries that will be participating are also busy in their own way, selecting and preparing their artists for the major regional event to be held in American Samoa.

More Donations for the Arts Festival
Donations continue to pour in from the community to assist the organizing committee of the 10th Festival of Pacific Arts.

Leaeno Frank Reed Laid to Rest
Former faipule of Tualatai County Leaeno Frank Reed was laid to rest today.  He was 65.  His funeral service was held at the Congregational Church of Jesus in Fagatogo this morning, followed by a short wake.

Arts Festival Committee Concerned About Scrap Metal Yard Eyesore
The organizing committee of the 10th Festival of Pacific Arts has expressed concerns about the unsightliness of the Tafuna Scrap Metal Yard near the airport.

Faleomavaega to Introduce Citizenship Bill for U.S. Nationals
Congressman Faleomavaega Eni is planning to introduce a bill in congress next week, that would give U.S. Nationals residing in American Samoa the option of applying for U.S. Citizenship without having to reside in the U.S. for a certain period of time.

Population Growth Threatening Natural Resources in American Samoa
If American Samoa’s present population growth pattern continues, its current population count of 68,000 will double in the next 40 years.  An advisory group to Governor Togiola Tulafono has also pointed to population pressure as the number one threat to natural resources in the territory.

U.S. Senate Wants Impact Study On Minimum Wage Hikes In Territories
The U.S. Senate has included in a war spending bill, provisions for a study to be conducted on the impact of past and future wage increases implemented for American Samoa and the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas.

Little League Baseball Opens Saturday
And it’s Play Ball time again.  The American Samoa Little League Baseball Association has announced that registration for this year’s little league summer program will open this Saturday at the Tony Solaita Field in Tafuna.

American Samoa is First South Pacific Hot Fire Training Facility
American Samoa will soon be the only country in the South Pacific to have a hot fire training facility.  This means that fire fighters at the Tafuna International Airport  will be training to put out aircraft fires using aviation fuel, instead of propane and other gases which have been commonly used.

Governor Togiola Proclaims EMS Week - May 25-31
Governor Togiola Tulafono has proclaimed the week of May 25th to 31st as Emergency Medical Services Week in American Samoa.

Tools Inc. Donates to Arts Festival
Another contribution from the business community to the Festival of Pacific Arts organizing committee was presented today.  Tools, Inc. and Industrial Gases combined a total of $4,000 as their donation toward a successful hosting of the major regional event in July and August of this year.

Department of Public Works Opens New Offices in Tafuna
The Department of Public Works dedicated their new office facilities last Friday, located at the Industrial Park in Tafuna where the Maintenance and Operations complex has been.  The DPW offices added to the complex were formerly located at the Executive Office Building in Utulei.  Those spaces have been vacated and will now be taken over by the Department of Commerce.

U.S. House Passes Faleomavaega Bill to Strengthen U.S. Tuna Fleet
Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that the House recently passed the Coast Guard Reauthorization Act of 2008 which includes his provision to allow U.S. purse seine vessels to fish in the exclusive economic zones of all the Pacific Islands Parties, including any of the U.S. EEZs except Hawaii.

Tax Rebates Disbursement Now on Fifth Batch
The federal  stimulus package tax rebates are still drawing large crowds at the Executive Office Building in Utulei, as hopeful recipients stand in line to see if they are on the latest list of checks issued.

ASG Revenue Collections Up
The American Samoa Government banked over $6.7 million in local funds during the month of March 2008. This is an increase from the $6.2 million and $5.6 million it collected the same time in the past two years, respectively.

Census Data Lacking in Territories: Nikolao Pula
Nikolao Pula, The Director of the Office of Insular Affairs at the Interior Department in Washington DC, testified before a congressional hearing earlier this week, and said that current and complete information on the insular areas is essential for good decision making on important issues involving the U.S. territories.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Assists Local Agencies in Preparation for Arts Festival
Two agents from the U.S. Fish and wildlife Service , an enforcement arm of the Department of the Interior, are in the territory to assist local enforcement agencies in preparation for the arrival of participants and visitors for the Festival of Pacific Arts in July and August.

Stray Dog Eradication Steps Up in Preparation for Arts Festival
The stray dog eradication program being spearheaded by the Department of Agriculture is picking up the pace as the opening of the 10th Festival of Pacific Arts is now less than two months away.  Today, more stray dogs recently captured were put to sleep.

Lions Club Project Eye Care 2008 a Huge Success
The second phase of the Lions Club Project Eye Care 2008 came to a close today, after examining and treating eye patients with diabetes.

ASCC Land Grant Donates Plants to Arts Festival
The American Samoa Community College Land Grant Program today held a presentation ceremony at which ASCC President Seth Galeai presented the organizing committee of the 10th Festival of Pacific Arts with over 400 potted native plants.

Miss American Samoa Visits Schools on Take Pride campaign
The reigning Miss American Samoa, Shanette Tilo has begun a campaign where she is visiting the schools of the territory and speaking to the students about taking pride, as American Samoa reaches the two-month mark before the 10th Festival of Pacific Arts.

Fono Briefed on Fiber Optic Cable Progress
Fono members today were briefed by experts who will be connecting American Samoa to the Pac Rim East underwater fiber optic cable.  The lawmakers were told that American Samoa should be connected and up and running by early next year if all goes well according to plan.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Assists Local Agencies in Preparation for Arts Festival
Special agents of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today held a briefing at the Department of Marine and Wildlife conference room in Fagatogo, to help prepare local officials for the Festival of Pacific Arts in July, concerning protected and endangered species of plants and animals that are not allowed to be brought into the territory.

Governor Togiola Signs Documents for Fiber Optic Cable
Governor Togiola Tulafono today signed documents to bring the first undersea fiber optic cable to American Samoa.  He said the submarine fiber optic cable is the most significant economic development project in the last several decades.

Senior Day Celebrated This Friday
This coming Friday marks the annual celebration of Senior Day, and the Territorial Administration on Aging in American Samoa is preparing for a fun filled day of activities.

Governor Togiola Signs Military Voting Bill Into Law
Governor Togiola Tulafono yesterday signed into law the Absentee Military Voter Bill, allowing military service members to vote from off island starting in this year’s November election.

ASG Grants Star Kist One Year Tax Exemption
Governor Togiola has signed a one year tax agreement with Del Monte Foods, essentially reducing the tax rates for Star Kist Samoa to the American Samoa Government.

Relief for Importers on Customs Inspections for Containers
There is some relief for local importers regarding the dockside customs inspections for all cargo containers.  ASG Treasurer Gaea Pelefoti Failautusi says that some importers with good track records since the new policy was implemented, will be allowed to haul their containers to their place of business and have the customs officers inspect them there.

Governor Issues Hiring Freeze on ASG, Reviews Minimum Wage Impact
Governor Togiola Tulafono yesterday issued a General Memorandum to freeze all hiring, promotions and increments until further notice.

Lion's Club Begins Project Eye Care Phase II
The Lions Club of Pago Pago has begun the second phase of Project Eye Care 2008, with the arrival of Dr. Alan Lacoste and his team of eye specialists from the U.S. mainland.  

UCEDD and Health Department Hold Cancer Screening
The University Center for Excellence on Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD), based at the American Samoa Community College, in collaboration with the Department of Public Health, will offer a free screening for breast and cervical cancer for women with disabilities on Tuesday, May 20th, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Nazareth House-Fatuoaiga. While the UCEDD and Public Health hope to primarily serve women with disabilities, they will also examine women from the general public free of charge.

KS Mart Donates to Arts Festival
And the support from the community for the Festival of Pacific Arts is building up dramatically, as more and more donations roll in to help with the major regional event which will be hosted in American Samoa from July 20th to August 2nd.

Training Begins For Arts Festival Volunteers
The 10th Festival of Pacific Arts in American Samoa is just over two months away, and the organizing committee is at the stage now where they are bringing everything together.

Afoa and Velega Promise Transparency and Accountability
The gubernatorial ticket of Afoa Lutu and Velega Savali held their official campaign kick-off last Saturday at the Tradewinds hotel.  The event was well attended, some reports saying around 600 while others putting it at around 1,000 supporters who filled the poolside area of the hotel.

Three Designs Received for American Samoa Quarter
Governor Togiola Tulafono today announced that the United States Mint has created three candidate designs for the American Samoa Quarter – the 25 cent coin that will be produced as part of the congressional 50 State and Territory Quarters Program.

Hundreds Show Up at EOB to Claim Tax Rebates
Some showed up at the Executive Office Building in Utulei as early as 5 a.m., and by 7 a.m., the atrium of the EOB was filled with people, who were hoping they were included in the first batch of the stimulus package rebate checks that were issued today.   This first batch totaled 1,500 checks for $1.9 million.

Faleomavaega to Request GAO to Review ASG Customs
Congressman Faleomavaega Eni has yet to submit an official request to the U.S. Government Accountability Office to conduct a review of the Customs Division of the American Samoa Government.

Bar Association Accepting Applications for Law Scholarship
The American Samoa Bar Association is currently accepting applications for their Legal Education Scholarship.  The ASBA’s total scholarship awards this year will total $1,000, and the deadline to submit applications is July 1st, 2008.

Makuisa Amotai Sentenced for Vehicular Homicide
Police Sergeant Makuisa Amotai was sentenced in the High Court today to 20 months in prison, plus probation.  His conviction for Vehicular Homicide is in connection with the death of a 12 year old boy who was struck by Amotai’s pick up truck in Nuuuli last year.

Doug Domenech to Head Insular Affairs at Interior
Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne has named Douglas W. Domenech to be Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary for Insular Affairs.

Stimulus Package Rebates Ready for Distribution Tomorrow
The first batch of the federal stimulus package rebate checks will be ready to be picked up tomorrow morning, according to the local tax office.  It was announced earlier by the Treasury Department that the checks would be ready today, however, due to a computer problem, it has been put back one day.

Teachers' Reclassification Bill Passes Fono
The conference committee which was appointed yesterday to iron out the differences between the senate and the house on the amendments to the Teachers’ Reclassification Bill, agreed this morning to make the teachers’ increments annually instead of every two years, as proposed by the administration.

Teo Fuavai Awarded Aumoeualogo Title, Appeals Pending
The Land and Titles Court issued their ruling this week on the High Chief Aumoeualogo title of Aoa village, awarding it to Teo Fuavai.  The four cane court decides on the appeals. candidates who were vying for the title were Teo Fuavai, Simei Pulu, Fepuleai  Sila Poasa and Malagamaalii Misailegalu.

More Donations for the Arts Festival
Contributions toward the 10th Festival of Pacific Arts continue to roll in, as the community catches the festival fever and the festive spirit  to make the major regional event a success.

Court News
And in news from the courts,  The police officer who was convicted of punching an ASCC student after he was arrested for Public Peace Disturbance, was sentenced this week to seven days in jail, and he was placed on two years  probation for third degree assault.

Governor Clarifies Teacher Re-Classification Issues, Bill Passes Fono
As the Teachers’ Re-Classification Bill was met with a lot of questions in the Fono after it was introduced by the administration this week, Governor Togiola Tulafono yesterday sent a letter to the Fono leaders to try to clarify some of the concerns raised by lawmakers.

Nurses Recognized For Service To Community
In a special awards ceremony held at the hospital chapel yesterday, Governor Togiola Tulafono paid tribute to the nurses of American Samoa for their service and dedication to care of the people of the territory.

Governor Togiola Accepts Commissioner Sotoa's Resignation
Commissioner of Public safety Sotoa Savali said that he received a letter from Governor Togiola Tulafono this week, saying that he has reluctantly accepted his resignation from the commissioner post.

Senator Alo Wants Review of U.S. National Definition
There is concern in the senate over immigrants entering the territory under the “guest worker” program, and having children born here who then become U.S. Nationals by birth.

Arts Festival Committee Seeking Solutions To Limited Hotel Accommodations
The organizing committee of the 10th Festival of Pacific Arts is continuing its search for solutions to the problem of limited accommodations for visitors to the festival which is from July 22 to August 2nd.  Potential visitors who are now trying to come for the major regional event are finding that all hotels are fully booked for the two week period this summer.

Governor Signs Notary Act Into Law
Governor Togiola Tulafono announced this week that he has signed into law a bill called the Notary Act of 2007, which beefs up the Notary rules and procedures and brings American Samoa up to par with the rest of the world.

Court News
In news from the courts, the attorney for Elijah Leasau has filed a motion with the High Court to have his client’s sentence amended.

Governor to Propose Bill to Penalize Importers of Undeclared Goods
With several cases of undeclared goods caught through the dockside customs inspection of containers, Treasurer Gaea Pelefoti Failautusi told senators yesterday that Governor Togiola Tulafono will be submitting legislation to the Fono that would set penalties for importers who bring in goods that are undeclared.

Senate Passes Teacher Re-classification With Amendments

It's Nurses' Week in American Samoa
Nurses’ Week kicked off on Sunday with a church service honoring all nurses and the service they provide.  This year’s theme is “Making a Difference Every Day.”

ANZ Amerika Samoa Bank Launches New Banking System
ANZ Amerika Samoa Bank this week launched their new banking system, which replaces their old computer system of over 20 years.  The new system cost the bank over $5 million, which they said is further evidence of their commitment to the American Samoa community.

"AIDA" Opens to Rave Reviews
The ASCC’s latest musical play “Aida” opened to rave reviews last night at the Lee Auditorium in Utulei.  Billed as the most advanced acting, singing and dancing production yet by the college, Aida lived up to all expectations and more.

Ipulasi and Tulifua File for Protective Order
As the watchdog group Common Cause yesterday petitioned the Fono to begin impeachment proceedings against Lieutenant Governor Ipulasi Sunia, and to remove Senator Tulifua Lam Yuen from the Senate, it has been revealed that Ipulasi and Tulifua recently filed a joint motion with the federal court for a protective order to prevent public release of all documents pertaining to their cases as they prepare for trial.

Parents Speak Out Over School Bus Shortage
As the Department of Education tries to address the shortage of school buses in the territory, frustrated parents are voicing their complaints with the Fono concerning the safety of the school children.

School Lunch Bidding Process Changes
With a new change in the bidding process for the Department of Education’s School Lunch Program, more vendors will be able to compete for supply contracts, particularly for milk and juice.

SPEX Hopes to Be Flying Again in 2 Weeks
Travel between American Samoa and Independent Samoa has become tighter this week with the absence of SPEX flights.  South Pacific Express has grounded their flights for two weeks while they go through the process of getting approvals to operate under  New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority regulations.

Star Kist Asking For More Favorable Tax Structure
As the minimum wage in American Samoa is about to go up by 50-cents this month, Star Kist is looking for ways to offset the increase.  The cannery is proposing a new tax structure with the local government which they say is already being provided to other businesses.

Dr. Seth Galeai Officially Appointed As ASCC President
Dr. Seth Galeai was officially announced today as the president of the American Samoa Community College by the Board of Higher Education.  Dr. Galeai has been serving as the Acting President since the retirement of Dr. Adele Satele Galeai, and during her extended absence due to illness.

Under Age Drinking Now Against the Law
Persons under the age os 21, beware.  It is now against the law for anyone under the age of twenty one to consume or possess alcohol or even beer.  Governor Togiola Tulafono has signed into law a bill which was introduced in the Fono to address concerns often raised by the courts that a law is needed to make it a crime for minors to consume alcohol.

Governor Togiola Signs Visitors Bureau Bill
Governor Togiola Tulafono has signed in to law a bill which establishes the American Samoa Visitors Bureau.  The new entity is a semi-autonomous agency that will promote American Samoa as a tourist destination.

ASG Receives $20.4 Million for Tax Rebate Checks
Governor Togiola announced today that $20.4 million was received yesterday from the U.S. Treasury for tax stimulus rebate distribution and is being held in a separate account.

McConnel Dowell Donates to the Arts Festival
One of the two largest construction companies in American Samoa today made their contribution towards the 10th Festival of Pacific Arts.  McConnell Dowell presented their donation of $10,000 today to members of the organizing committee.

Fono Conference Committee Rejects Inclusion of Church Ministers in Military Bill
At a special joint conference meeting of the whole yesterday, members from both the Senate and the House voted by majority not to include church ministers and their dependents in the military personnel absentee voting bill.  It was a close vote though, 11 to 10, with several members being absent.

ASCC "AIDA" Production Most Contemporary To Date
American Samoa Community College (ASCC) drama and dance instructor Carmela Gallace, along with her student cast and the technical crew organized by visual arts instructor Regina Meredith, have spent the last few days frantically attending to the multitude of last-minute details required to mount their three-day run of musical play “Aida,” which will open this Thursday evening at 7 p.m. in the Lee Auditorium, and continues through Saturday.

MAJ Tauapai Laupola
“May you travel with our Lord.”  This was the theme amongst the three separate gatherings to bid farewell to SPC Hana Moors, CPT Fitiuta Galeai, CPT Pili Faagai & MAJ Manu Yasuda. Supporting Samoan service members that pass through Ft Bragg, NC,  and other states nearby is our goal commented Chief Warrant Officer 5 (CW5) Totolua “Koko” Yandall, of Leone, AS, who is serving over 36 years in the U.S. Army.  These sentiments were echoed during SPC Moors departure at Pope Air Force Base
by Command Sergeant Major (CSM) Tuileama Nua, of Ta’u, Manu’a, serving over 30 years in the US Army.

Tafuna High School Receives Donation of Football Uniform Pants
In a related story, the Tafuna Warriors football team today received a donation of football uniform pants from the Coaches of Influence organization.

American Samoa Baseball Association Receives Equipment Donation
The American Samoa Baseball Association has received a donation of baseball equipement from the Coaches of Influence organization.

Tufele Confirmed By Senate to LBJ Board of Directors
In other news from the Fono, the Senate today confirmed the nomination of Paramount Chief Tufele Liamatua to the hospital board of directors.  The vote was 14 to 2 to pass.

Star Kist Samoa Implements Cutbacks to Offset Wage Hikes
The effects of the next escalation of the minimum wage for American Samoa are starting to show, as one of the tuna canneries has announced cost cutting measures they are taking to try to offset the wage hikes.

Military Voting Bill
The joint conference committee of the Senate and House of Representatives could not reach an agreement on the language of the military voting bill in order for it to pass.  At issue is language which the House of Representatives has added to the original bill, to include church ministers and their dependents who are assigned off island to be able to register and vote absentee along with military personnel, who were the original intent of the legislation.

Festival Flags Add to Festive Mood in Community
Drivers along the main road from Nuuuli to Fagatogo will have noticed the colorful flags of the 10th Festival of Pacific Arts, which ASPA crews have started mounting on the light poles along the coastal drive from Nuuuli to Utulei.

Eni: Minimum Wage Increases Inevitable
Unable to stop the next escalating minimum wage increase which goes into effect next month, Congressman Faleomavaega is criticizing the canneries for not providing the necessary data on their profitability to Congress in order for lawmakers to determine the impact the increases would have on the local economy.

Fono Special Session Opens Today
The special Fono session called by Governor Togiola Tulafono for ten days convened today, with each house opening the session in their own chamber.

ASG Treasury Receives $20.4 Million for Economic Stimulus Payments to Taxpayers
Qualifying local taxpayers will be able to start receiving their checks for the federal economic stimulus package that was signed into law last year, now that the U.S. Treasury has forwarded $20.4 million to the American Samoa Government to pay out the tax benefit.

Local Red Cross Unit to Fall Under San Diego Chapter
The American Samoa Chapter of the American Red Cross will soon be under the San Diego Imperial Counties Chapter, according to local chairperson Brenda Epati Tanoi.

Kayla Sauafea Wins Miss ASCC Title
A large crowd of supporters turned out at the American Samoa Community College gymnasium last Saturday evening for the Miss ASCC 2008 pageant.  Five contestants vied for the title in four categories of competition, which were Puletasi Wear and Siva Samoa, Sarong Wear, the Talent competition and Evening gown and Interview.

Schools Riot In Apia
Violent rioting in Apia, Samoa last Friday between students of two schools, has left several people injured and buildings and property damaged.  One of the injured is a college student who was rushed to the hospital with severe burns to her face and chest resulting from a gasoline bomb.

Lions Club Project Eye Care Brings in Hundreds of Patients This Week
Hundreds of people in the community have shown up at the LBJ Hospital this week for a chance to see the eye specialists from Benevolent Missions International under the local Lions Club’s Project Eye Care 2008.  BMI is a non-profit group of renowned eye doctors from the U.S. who have been working with the Lions for the past five years in bringing the free eye clinics to American Samoa.

Miss ASCC Pageant This Saturday
And if you haven’t got anything planned for the weekend, well, the American Samoa Community College is holding its Miss ASCC Pageant this Saturday night at the ASCC Gymnasium in Malaeimi.

Senate President Says Special Session Not Long Enough for Agenda
Senate President Lolo Moliga says that the special session of the Fono which Governor Togiola has called for ten days beginning next Monday will probably not be enough time for the fono to review all of the measures which the governor has listed on the agenda.

Police Commissioner Sotoa Resigns

Brian Mix Resigns As ASG Comptroller
The American Samoa Government Comptroller Brian Mix submitted his resignation letter to ASG Treasurer Gaea Pelefoti Failautusi yesterday, and was on last night’s flight out of the territory.

Health Command Team Prepares for Arts Festival
A team of health officials consisting of representatives from LBJ Hospital, the Health Department, EMS, and the Army Reserve gave a presentation this week to the Board of Directors of the 10th Festival of Pacific Arts, on what the health concerns are and how they are preparing for the influx of visitors during the two week event in July this year.

Lolo Announces Intention to Run for Governor
Senate President Lolo Moliga announced this morning that he intends to run for Governor in this year’s gubernatorial race.  At a press gathering at his office this morning, Lolo said he has been asked by many about his political aspirations, and after consulting with relatives, friends and co-workers, he has decided to announce his intention to run for the office of governor.

Falemovaega to Ask GAO Review of ASG Customs Division
On his radio program yesterday, Congressman Eni Faleomavaega said he will be requesting the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) to conduct a review of the local Treasury department’s Customs Division, including the way they inspect incoming cargo containers.

Ipulasi Waives Right to a Speedy Trial
The federal court has posted an affidavit this week on the electronic federal court record, regarding Lieutenant Governor Ipulasi Sunia waiving his right to a speedy trial.  Ipulasi is currently scheduled to have his trial on January 12, 2009 to answer to federal charges on his involvement in  the awarding of DOE contracts.

Mixed Testimonies at Rainforest Public Hearing
A public hearing was held yesterday at the Convention Center in Utulei to hear testimony on a proposal by the Department of Commerce to impose a temporary moratorium on all development in the Tafuna Lowland Rainforest, until a management plan is developed to guide future use of the land.

"Segaula" Medivacs 91 Year Old Woman From Manua to LBJ
The government owned aircraft “Segaula” flew to Manua yesterday to medivac a 91 year old woman who had not eaten in a week.  Family members said that they would have flown her to Tutuila onboard Inter Island Airways, however, her condition was too fragile.

Arts Festival Will Be Broadcast Via Satellite
The organizing committee for the 10th Festival of Pacific Arts said on their weekly television program last night that they have hired a consultant to coordinate and negotiate on their behalf to have the two-week long festival broadcast via satellite to the pacific region.

Administrative Professional Day at ASCC
The American Samoa Community College is holding its Administrative Professionals Day, in celebration of the National Administrative Professional Day.  The three day celebration started on Wednesday this week, and features topic discussions and presenters.

Teens Catching Measles in American Samoa
The Chief of Pediatrics at the LBJ Tropical Medical Center has expressed concern over the number of older children in American Samoa who are  catching the  measles.

Nike Sparq Training for Local Athletes
Representatives from Nike Sparq are in town to help train local athletes, using special training equipment manufactured by the company.  The equipment , though appearing to be simple, are actually of modern technological advancements, which help develop strength and speed among local athletes

Court News
In news from the court, the government’s pending case against local businessman Joe Tavale may be dismissed by the court, after hearing arguments on the matter yesterday.  Tavale is charged with writing a bad check, which he used to pay for an order of fish filets for the School Lunch Program.  The check was for nearly $35,000 and was made out to an off island company that supplied the order.

DOI Presents Tavita Togia With Conservation Award
At a ceremony in the nation’s capital yesterday, Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne recognized Tavita Togia , a Samoan biologist with the National Park of American Samoa, as one of 21 recipients nationwide of the Department of the Interior’s Cooperative Conservation Award.

Haleck Family Puts Rainforest Clearing On Hold
At a court hearing held yesterday, the attorney for the Haleck family, Roy Hall, Jr., assured the court that the Halecks will not proceed with the clearing of about 20 acres of rainforest in Tafuna.

Pacific Air Cargo Bids for Aloha Airlines Cargo Division
And in news from the Los Angeles Business Journal, Pacific Air Cargo has made the highest bid for Aloha Airlines' contract services unit.

Honoring American Samoa with Flag Raising Ceremony at COB Adder, Iraq
As American Samoa awoke on 17 April to begin Flag Day celebrations, little did she know, on the same morning more than 12 hours earlier in the sandy desert of Iraq, a flag raising ceremony honoring and celebrating American Samoa’s 108th year existence under the U.S. took place at Contingency Operating Base (COB) Adder, Iraq.  

Fisheries Council Closes Territorial Waters to Pursue Seiner Fishing
According to a media release from the Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council, they have upheld a council decision to close federal waters around American Samoa, Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) to purse seine fishing.  This is the fishing method used by purse seiner fishing boats which catch skipjack tuna to be processed at tuna canneries, including Star Kist Samoa and COS Samoa Packing.

Historical Naturalization Ceremony - Baghdad, Iraq
On 12 April 2008, the first and largest overseas naturalization ceremony in history took place at Al Faw Palace, Camp Victory where over 250 U.S. service members raised their right hands in the heart of the war zone to take the oath of U.S. allegiance to become U.S. citizens.  Participating in the historical event on the outskirts of Baghdad were six of our own Toa-O-Samoa:  SSG Alumamalu A. Filoialii, SSG Maranata Temese, SGT Lauie A. Laban-Ilalio, PFC Thomas Eseroma, PFC Perry Fetu, and PFC Sialei Tapusini.

Flag Day Volleyball Tournament Opens
The Flag Day Volleyball tournament opened today at the American Samoa community College Gymnasium.  The tournament includes teams from both American and Independent Samoa.

Florence Saulo and Associates Donates $10,000 to Arts Festival
American Samoan owned Florence Saulo and Associates Insurance and Finance Company today made their contribution toward the 10th Festival of Pacific Arts, presenting a check for $10,000 to help make the major event a success.

Flag Day 2008 Celebrations Thursday and Friday
American Samoa’s celebration of Flag Day 2008 continue tomorrow morning with the festivities at the Veterans Memorial Stadium to begin in the morning.

Church Service Officially Opens Flag Day 2008 at Fagatogo Malae
A church service was held at 5 o’clock this evening at the Fagatogo Pavilion to officially open the Flag Day 2008 celebrations.  The service was led by Bishop John Quinn Weitzel, leader of the local Catholic Diocese.

Governor Togiola Calls Fono Special Session for April 28th
Governor Togiola Tulafono has made it known that he will be calling a special session of the Fono beginning on Monday, April 28th.  Two of the main matters to be deliberated are the military voting bill and teachers’ pay.

No News Thursday and Friday
And we also wish to inform our viewers that Malama TV will not be having a Malama newscast this Thursday and Friday, which have been declared holidays for the Flag Day celebrations.

USEPA Honors ASEPA Piggery Compliance Program
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency honored American Samoa’s piggery compliance program yesterday at the 10th annual Environmental Awards Ceremony in San Francisco.

Falemavaega Responds Regarding Trade and Globalization Assistance Act

Dept. Of Commerce Petitions Court for Injunctions Against Haleck Development
In the latest move on the controversy between the Haleck family and the Public Notification Review System, which issues land use permits, the PNRS has petitioned the court for an injunction against the Haleck family to prevent them from clearing family land.

Donations Roll In For Festival of Pacific Arts
The local business community and organizations have stepped up to the plate to show their support for the 10th Festival of Pacific Arts which will be hosted in American Samoa from July 20th to August 2nd.  Hardly a day has gone by in the last week or so, that a contribution has been made to the festival organizing committee to help out with the biggest event ever to be hosted in the territory.

Tomorrow is Tax Filing Deadline
Tomorrow is April 15th, and in case you forgot, it is the dealine for all taxpayers to file your tax returns for the year 2007.  Any later than tomorrow and you will be assessed a penalty and interest.  Of course, if you are unable to file in time, then you are required by law to file for an extension.

Little League Registration Opens for Summer League
The League Association is announcing registration for this summer’s little league baseball competition, which will start on June 7th.

KSBS 92.1 FM Celebrates 20th Anniversary
Today marked the 20th anniversary celebration of American Samoa’s first FM radio station.  From 6 o’clock this morning until midnight tonight, KSBS is giving away lots of prizes to winners of their trivia quizzes.  Listeners all day today enjoyed answering trivia questions on the history of the station from its humble beginnings 20years ago, at the Sene home in the village of Auto, right up to now at its Fagaalu location.

Wyland 'Ai O le Tai' EOB Mural Dedicated
A large crowd consisting of government leaders, the local art community, and art lovers, gathered at the EOB lawn last Saturday morning for the dedication of the marine life mural which was painted by world renowned artist Wyland.

Marine Forces Pacific Band Performs in Concert Wednesday

Arts Council Flag Day Festival Opens Tonight
The Annual Arts Council Flag Day Performing Arts Festival opens tonight at the Fagatogo Pavilion, marking the opening of the Flag Day 2008 festivities as American Samoa celebrates 108 years since it became a U.S. Territory.

Governor Plans for Marine Science Center
At the dedication last Saturday for the Wyland Ai o le Tai mural, Governor Togiola Tulafono announced that he is planning to establish a Territorial Marine Science Center to promote marine research, academic education and public awareness.

Governor Signs Agreement to Launch Call Center
Plans to build a call center in American Samoa took a major step forward Saturday when a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the American Samoa Government and Information Technologies American Samoa  was signed by all parties at Government House on Maugaoali’i. The purpose of the MOU is to identify, with clarity, what each party will provide. InfoTech is the company that has been planning a call center operation here for over two years.

100 Days Til the Festival of Pacific Arts, "Take Pride In Our Islands"
The 100-day countdown begins today to the opening of the 10th Festival of Pacific Arts to be hosted in American Samoa from July 20th to August 2nd.  The festival organizing committee today launched their 100-day countdown campaign, and are dubbing it “Take Pride in Our Islands.”

Fono Members Rebuke Faleomavaega for Comments on Fono Sessions
The Fono is sharply criticizing Congressman Faleomavaega Eni for comments he made on a radio program on Wednesday, in which he suggested that the Fono should pass a measure to increase the number of days they are in session.

Ituau High Orator Maluia Iosefa Passes Away
One of American Samoa’s colorful orators from Ituau County died suddenly this morning while being rushed to the hospital.  Sources said that Maluia was speaking on behalf of the family at the funeral for Taito Fale Tuilagi in Faganeanea this morning.  It was after the sii of late Taito’s wife’s family, or the paolo, that he suddenly collapsed.

LBJ Hires Full Time Psychiatrist
LBJ Hospital announced today that they have hired a full time fully trained and qualified psychiatrist to join their medical staff.  Dr. Penni Moi Biukoto is scheduled to begin working at LBJ on Monday next week.

Lions Club Prepares for Project Eye Care 2008
The Lions Club of Pago Pago is once again preparing for their largest annual community service event, Project Eye Care 2008.  For the fifth straight year, the Lions will be hosting renowned eye specialists from across the U.S., who are part of Benevolent Missions International, a humanitarian goodwill organization based in Houston, Texas.  The eye clinics, which are conducted at the LBJ Hospital Eye Clinic, are offered as a free service to the community.

Haleck Family Challenges PNRS Authority Over Family Land
The Haleck family, which owns the lowland rainforest area in Tafuna, is objecting to the American Samoa Government stopping any development on their family’s privately owned properties, saying that if the ASG wishes to manage the use of their lands, then they should buy and own the property, and not try to impose “Their will because they feel it’s a protected area.”

ASCC ITT Holds Training for Public Works
Thanks to collaborations between ASG Public Works and the Institute of Trades and Technology (ITT) at the American Samoa Community College (ASCC), the automotive technicians of the government’s Maintenance and Operation facility in Tafuna are currently being trained in the most efficient use of diagnostic scan tools. These tools will soon be at their disposal as they service ASG vehicles.  This computerized device plugs into the built-in computer found in most automobiles today, and allows mechanics to make quicker assessments of automobile problems, as opposed to the traditional method, which involved trial and error.

Court News
In news from the courts, the case against Parks and Recreation Department Director Taamu Iakopo has been continued until next week Tuesday.

Hospital Incident Command Center Training
Another training session going on this week  is at the LBJ Hospital, called the Hospital Incident Command Center Training.  It is to enhance the hospital staff’s leadership knowledge in times of disaster.

Wyland Mural at EOB Progressing Well
Still drawing crowds of spectators who want to watch while the marine life mural is being painted on the north wall of the Executive Office Building in Utulei, world renowned artist Wyland is scheduled to finish the mural tomorrow.  He began he project this week Monday.

New Vehicles for Customs and LBJ Hospital
The Office of Procurement recently received 4 new vans through a federally funded program.  Chief Procurement Officer Seui Laau today presented 3 of the vans to the Department of Treasury for use by the Customs Division, and one van to the LBJ Hospital.

Cultural Sensitivity Issue Addressed at 21st Meeting of Council of Pacific Arts
At the 21st Meeting of the Council of Pacific Arts which was held in American Samoa last week, the issue of cultural sensitivity was raised and discussed at length.  This includes the acceptance of the cultural dress of each country by the host country of the Festival of Pacific Arts.

Samoan Soldier Wounded in Iraq, Recovering from Surgery
U.S. Army Specialist Sene Polu of Faleasao, Manua was seriously injured recently in Iraq resulting from an IED explosion while he was on foot patrol.  He is presently recovering at the Walter Reed Hospital in Washington DC, according to Congressman Eni Faleomavaega on his radio program yesterday.

Wyland Marine Life Mural Draws Crowds
Since world renowned artist and muralist Wyland began work on his marine life mural on the north facing wall of the EOB Building on Monday, he has been drawing spectators who have enjoyed watching him at work and how the mural is coming to life, so to speak.

Flag Day Concession Stands Still Available
Flag Day festivities are around the corner and anyone interested in operating a concession stand at the Veteran Stadium must sign-up by Friday, April 11.  The original deadline was set for Monday, April 14, however the change was made to allow sufficient time for vendors to set up their food stands. All interested vendors must obtain a health permit from the Department of Health in Fagaalu, and must also pay a $50 fee per day of operation.

KSBS-FM 92.1 Celebrates 20th Anniversary
American Samoa’s first FM radio station, KSBS FM 92.1, will be celebrating its 20th anniversary next week Monday, April 14th.

Readers Jam Tomorrow Night
The Arts Festival will be hosting Readers Jam tomorrow night at Deluxe Cafe in Tafuna.  Readers Jam calls for all literary artists to showcase their work as a prelude for the actual event in this year’s Festival of Pacific Arts.

Court News
In news from the courts, Andre Matautia made his initial appearance in court yesterday for charges of first degree burglary, two counts of second-degree burglary, and three counts of stealing. The 19-year-old is being charged for three break-ins of a Vaitogi home, from which he allegedly took a 12 gauge shotgun, a cell phone, a car key, liquor, and chips.  The break-ins happened over a three-day period, beginning on March 21st.

Patients Experiencing 5-Hour Waits to See a Doctor at LBJ
If you’ve been to the LBJ Hospital in Fagaalu lately to see a doctor at the ER, you would know that it’s taking up to five hours for a patient to finally get in to see a doctor.

Governor Togiola: Business Threats to Raise Prices on Goods Will Be Investigated
On his weekly radio program last Saturday, Governor Togiola Tulafono said that threats from the business community to raise prices on goods due to added costs at the dock inspections will be fully investigated if they occur.

Immigration Visas to Samoan Citizens on the Decline
According to a U.S. State Department report, there has been a drastic decline in the number of immigration visas issued to orphans from the Independent State of Samoa.

Wyland Arrives to Paint Marine Life Mural
World renowned artist and muralist Wyland arrived in the territory last night to work on a marine life mural on the north facing wall of the Executive Office Building in Utulei.  Wyland was diving in the Fagatele Bay National Marine Sanctuary today to derive inspiration for his mural that will commemorate the Festival of Pacific Arts and the International Year of the Reef.

Governor Togiola Rushed to Hospital This Morning
Governor Togiola Tulafono was reportedly rushed to the hospital this morning from his office in Utulei.   According to a press statement from the Governor’s Office, he experienced some discomfort while working in his office, and was taken to the hospital for testing at 10 o’clock where LBJ Hospital staff reported that the Governor’s condition was stable and his vital signs are all normal.

Lions Club Holds Eye Clinics for Fifth Year
The Lion’s Club of Pago Pago has announced that for the fifth year, “Benevolent Mission International Ophthalmic Team” consisting of 16 members (ophthalmologists, optometrists, nurses, ophthalmic technicians) headed by Dr.  C. Downey Price, a world renowned ophthalmologist, will hold a free eye clinic for the entire population on American Samoa beginning Tuesday, April 22nd through Friday April 25th.

DBAS Joins "Walk for Soldiers"
The Development Bank of American Samoa is showing support for our sons and daughters serving in the military by accepting an invitation to join Bravo company soldiers in the “Walk for Soldiers.”  Judy Taufete’e, DBAS collections officer and wife of soldier Fa’aagi Taufete’e, said that the invitation was extended to bank President Utu Abe Malae and his employees.

Bill to Ban Plastic Bags Passes House
It took a vote by House Speaker Savali Talavou Ale yesterday to pass a bill that would ban the distribution of plastic shopping bags at wholesale or retail stores in the territory.

National Park Service Cleans Up WWII Gun Placement in Utulei
Just above Blunts Point in Gataivai, a large caliber gun in its concrete placement still remains intact as a relic of World War Two.  The gun was placed there by the U.S. Marine Corps to protect the harbor entrance from any enemy ships trying to enter.

More Donations for the Arts Festival
ANZ Amerika Samoa Bank today presented their contribution to the 10th Festival of Pacific Arts.  Bank President Gary Ayre said that ANZ was proud to support the arts festival, which no doubt will be successful, and will be the biggest event ever hosted in American Samoa.

Six ASCC Students Accepted to Broadway Theater Project
Every summer, some of the most distinguished professionals currently working in American theater, television and film act as mentors for approximately 200 promising young performers from across the nation during a three-week apprenticeship program called the Broadway Theater Project, held at the University of South Florida. Names like Ben Vereen, Debra McWaters, Pierre DuLaine, Terrence Mann, Frank Wildhorn, and Patrick Wilson may not sound instantly familiar, but these seasoned performing arts veterans who serve as Master Artists at the BTP have all gained renown for their accomplishments in their respective theater-related fields.

Prayer for the Nation
The Chairman of the All Pacific Prayer Assembly arrived in American Samoa this morning from Papua New Guinea, on his way to Honolulu.  The annual pacific-wide prayer will be held this year in July in Honolulu.

Pago Mayor Found Guilty of One Misdemeanor Charge
Pago Pago mayor Vila Tufele appeared in court yesterday for two misdemeanor charges.  The charges were both for third-degree assault, as prosecutors alleged that Tufele had struck Siale “John” Rarotoga with a bat and punched Fereti “Fred” Liliva on the face in October of last year in the parking lot across from Evalani’s in Pago Pago.

House Approves Military Voting Bill
Today the House of Representatives has approved in its 3rd reading their version of the military voting bill. Yesterday’s Fono session and its second reading raised much debate among the representatives, ending in agreement to approve the House version of the bill with the amendment brought forth in the Senate’s measure that was passed by Senators on Saturday.

Keleni Taaseu Pleads Guilty to First Degree Robbery
Keleni Taaseu pled guilty yesterday to first degree robbery and was dismissed of first degree assault charges. Taaseu was charged in connection with last year’s burglary of O and O store in Nuuuli. Prosecutors claim that Taaseu and a 15-year-old broke into O & O store in December and assaulted the couple that was sleeping inside. Taaseu allegedly struck the man with a rock while his accomplice allegedly punched the woman. The culprits took a cell phone, jewelry, and cartons of cigarettes.

Togiola Pledges to Reiterate $1 Payroll Deduction for ASG Employees
Governor Togiola attended the first annual red cross ball that was held last Saturday at the Lee Auditorium. In his address, Togiola pledged that he will again urge all ASG employees to sign up for a $1 payroll deduction, an effort put forth to help maintain our red cross center and provide disaster relief service for people in need.  

Local Business Owners Concerned About Employees' Safety on Dock
Malama TV has received numerous phone calls from local business owners complaining about the new policy of container inspections at the dock.  Local business owners said they are concerned about the safety of their employees while in the dock warehouse.  When side-lifters enter the warehouse to bring or remove containers, the fumes generated from them stay in the warehouse and at times can be very strong causing dizziness to their workers.  The conditions are especially bad when there are a lot of containers arriving for inspection.

Senator Alo Urges Senate to Look into Status of Canneries
In the Senate today, Senator Alo Dr. Paul Stevenson asked the Chamber to look into the status of the local canneries, as there have not been any recent updates for Star Kist Samoa and Samoa Packing.  The Senator added that it is a fact that Star Kist Samoa is up for sale. According to Star Kist General Manager, Brett Butler, American Samoa’s minimum wage of $3.76 per hour is the highest rate in the world for tuna packers.  In countries such as Thailand and South America, wages for tuna packers range from 60 cents to $1 per hour, and American Samoa cannot compete with those rates, especially with the minimum wage increase.

Mosooi Petitions Court's Decision for Satele Title
Mosooi Soonata’u Mapu is petitioning the Court’s decision of awarding the Satele title to Galu T. Satele.  The Lands and Titles Division of the High Court awarded the Vailoatai paramount chief title to Galu earlier this month after concluding that he was the rightful holder through blood hereditary right.

Togiola to Ask Faleomavaega to Include American Samoa in Federal Trade Adjustment Act
Governor Togiola, on his weekend radio program, said he plans to ask Congressman Faleomavaega to help include American Samoa in the Federal Trade Adjustment Act, which designates funding for states to assist workers who have lost their jobs due to businesses relocating. American Samoa is currently not included in this federal law, and with the threat of the two canneries leaving our island, Togiola feels that it is important that we seek assistance for our possible future displaced workers.

Concerns Raised in the Senate regarding Centralized Inspections at Dock
During the Senate’s Saturday session, Senator Alo Dr. Paul Stevenson voiced concern about the new government policy of centralizing container inspection at the dock.  Alo is the chairman of the Senate Economic Development Committee and he said that the new policy has raised serious concerns for the business community as they are experiencing delays in receiving their goods at their premises.

ASG and KS Inc. Lease Agreement submitted to Fono for Additional 30 Years
A lease agreement between ASG and KS Inc. has been submitted to the Fono for approval of an additional 30 years.  In a letter to the Fono leadership, Governor Togiola stated that the initial lease agreement was executed in January 2006 for nine years and 11 months, and it provides KS with an option to extend their leasehold for an additional 30 years.  By law, leases of 10 years or more must be approved by the Fono.

Senate Inquires Status of SSIC Referrals to ASG
Inquiries have been raised in the Senate regarding the status of the Senate Select Investigative Committees’ referrals submitted to ASG.  During the Senate’s Saturday session, Senator Tuaolo M. Fruean asked Senate President Lolo M. Moliga if there has been any official response from the Attorney General’s Office and Lolo replied that no official response has been received, despite separate inquiries he has sent to the administration.

Senate Approves Military Voting Bill
This past Saturday, the Senate approved in third reading legislation that will allow absentee registration for American Samoa voters in the military to participate in the gubernatorial and local House elections.  The Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing on the bill last Friday morning and it was chaired by Senator Tuaolo Fruean.  Chief Election Officer Soliai Tuipine and Election Office legal counsel Gwen Tauiliili-Langkilde were called upon to take part in the hearing, and both expressed full support for the measure. Soliai stated that amendments in the bill were made to better address the needs of American Samoa’s military voters.  He also added that these amendments preceded discussions between his office, the governor’s office and the Fono’s legal team.

Togiola Appoints Save Liuato Tuitele as Associate Judge
Governor Togiola Tulafono yesterday appointed Save Liuato Tuitele as Associate Judge in the High Court of American Samoa. The governor’s appointment of Save was made with the express recommendation of the Chief Justice of the High Court, said Governor Togiola,” in his memorandum.  The governor’s nomination has been forwarded to the Fono for confirmation.

Island Clean Up Effort Today
The island was noticeably cleaner today as government employees from all departments held a field day to pick up trash along the roadside and public works crews were seen mowing the grass from Nuuuli to Fagatogo and going the other direction toward Aua as well.

Container Inspections Cause Major Delays, Store Stocks Low
Two container ships arrived in port over the last two days bringing in a total of more than 600 total containers for American Samoa.  And with the new dock inspection policy, delivery of the containers to wholesalers and retailers has been seriously backlogged.  Store owners are also complaining of empty store shelves because they cannot get their goods off the dock in time.

Kanana Fou Wins Speech Festival Overall Championship Again
Kanana Fou High School did it again!  They won the first place overall trophy for the Annual High School Speech Festival which was held today at the Tafuna High School Gymnasium.

Barstow Library Offering Windows Excel Course
For the first time ever, the Feleti Barstow Public Library is offering an introductory course for the Windows "Excel" program.

ASG Collections Up Last Month
The American Samoa Government’s official website reports that ASG cash collections for local funds last month amounted to $600,000 more than what it collected the same time last year.

Bowling Alley Robber Sentenced to 30 Years in Prison
In News from the High Court, former security guard at the Samoa Sports Center Bowling Alley Viliamu Maea was sentenced yesterday to 30 years In prison for his involvement in a robbery at the bowling alley last year.

Festival Committee Plans Community Cleanup for Friday
The organizing committee of the 10th Festival of Pacific Arts is organizing a major island-wide cleanup campaign for this week Friday, in preparation for the Pacific Arts Council Conference to be held here March 31st to April 2nd.

House Bill Introduced to Ban Plastic Shopping Bags
A bill has been introduced in the House of Representatives to ban plastic shopping bags that are commonly used in supermarkets and retail stores.

Governor Togiola Announces Langkilde-Fernando as PBDC Fellow
Governor Togiola Tulafono today received the announcement from the Pacific Basin Development Council office in Honolulu that Ms. Taui’ilelagi Langkilde-Fernando has been selected as PBDC Fellow for Summer 2008.

Cancer Survivors Group Helps Cancer Patients
The American Samoa Cancer Survivors Support Group is helping many families who have loved ones who have been diagnosed with cancer.  Yesterday, the group presented four checks of $500 each to the families of cancer patients who will be or are already in Honolulu or the mainland for treatment.

Bill for Military Voters Held Up Due to Language
The administration bill to allow American Samoa’s military personnel to vote from wherever they are stationed at, will be reviewed in a senate committee to iron out concerns that were raised in the senate yesterday.  The Uniformed Service Absentee and Overseas Voter Act was introduced by the administration to make it easier for those serving in the armed forces to be able to register and vote in local elections without having to be here physically.

Fagaitua High School Class of 1988 Offers a Scholarship Award
To mark our 20th year anniversary, the Fagaitua High School Class of 1988 announces its first Scholarship Award for FHS seniors.

Coral Reef Task Force Meeting Begins
Presentations during the Coral Reef Task Force meeting this afternoon focused on the theme of this year’s conference which is “Bridging Culture and Science for Conservation.”

AG to Prosecute to Former Treasury Employees
Two Treasury employees implicated in defrauding the US government of more than $60,000 in additional child tax credit refunds are being investigated by the Attorney General’s Office and the two will face prosecution if allegations are proven.

Doctors Testify at Senate Hearing
The Senate Health Committee today heard testimony of LBJ doctors affected by the Board’s decision to have all doctors licensed by sitting the USMLE exam by June 30th, 2008.

Coral Task Force Delegate Found with Marijuana Not Charged Yet
No charges have been filed against a woman found with marijuana at the airport last Thursday night.

Court News
The government has entered a plea agreement in High Court today with one of the defendants accused of beating to death Nicholas Afa Mahe in early June behind the Tedi of Samoa building in Fagatogo.

DOH Conduct Immunization Program
The Depart of Health is set to begin its Immunization Program with three outreach programs for the community.

Absentee Ballot for Military Active Duty in Local Elections
A lot has been written and published on Faleomavaega’s bill that would allow all military active duty service members to register through their respective command post in order to vote absentee for the American Samoa gubernatorial and House of Representative races, so we’ll defer the discussions and the deliberations of the issue to our respective Congressman and local political leaders. Most of our local politicians that deliberated over the current law as well as the issue at hand were either military retirees or have served in the military. We are confident that the final resolution will be a win-win situation for American Samoa as well as military active duty service members.

Court News
A 30-year-old woman was caught with suspected marijuana on last night¢s flight made her initial appearance this morning in District Court.

US Coast Guard Cutter Walnut Visits the Territory

ASNOC to Pay Half of Entry Permit to Samoa

Kelemete Pleads to Reduced Charge of Rights Violation
In a report from Honolulu, former Tafuna Correctional Facility warden Mike Kelemete yesterday pleaded guilty to the 2003 beating of inmate Sopa Siagiagi at the TCF compound.

Doctors Testify at House Hearing
Doctors affected by the LBJ Board’s decision to enforce US licensing and certification by June 30th of next year are miles apart from the LBJ Board and management on this issue.

Hundreds Attend Government Auction
The Government Property Management compound in Tafuna was packed with members of the public who turned up to bid in the government auction this morning.

Government Refiles Case Against Benjamin Ard
The government has re-filed charges against Benjamin Ard who is accused of inappropriately touching a girl.

ASPA Water Division Attend Chlorine Training
Staff members of the American Samoa Power Authority Water’s Division this morning attended a Water Quality Training.

Senate Introduces Bill for Annual Report of Alien Immigration
In the House yesterday nine representatives sponsored a legislation calling for an annual report on foreign nationals and their immigration status.

Court News
Four individuals made their initial appearance in court and are facing charges in connection with a burglary case back in May.

Patricia Tindall is New LBJ CEO
The American Samoa Medical Center Authority Board of Directors today announced the appointment, effective immediately, of Patricia Tindall as Chief Executive Officer of the LBJ Tropical Medical Center.

Court News
20-year-old Dwayne Moliga who was accused of assaulting a Tongan national in Manu’a was sentenced in high court today.

LBJ Board and Management Officials Testify in House Hearing
LBJ Board chairman Charles Warren, LBJ CEO Patricia Tindall and management staff members testified at a hearing in the House of Representatives this morning.

ASNOC Receives the Needed Funds to Send Team to SPG
GHC Reid Coors Light today donated a check for $5,000 to ANZ Amerika Samoa Bank general manager Gary Ayre and ASNOC president Ban Solaita to help fund American Samoa’s contingent of athletes and officials participation in the South Pacific Games in Apia which kicks off in 10 days from now.

Bill for Purchase of Four New DPS Vehicles Introduced in House
In the House of Representatives this morning, a bill was introduced which calls for the appropriation of funds from the Special Revenue Account for the purchase and outfitting of four new vehicles for the Department of Public Safety.

ROKSA Bids Farewell to its President, MAJ Tauapai Mika Laupola
On 30 June 2007, ROKSA members and friends gathered at Camp Casey’s ACE II to farewell its standing President, MAJ Tauapai Laupola and his daughters as they prepare to depart Korea for Ft. Bragg, North Carolina.  Although they were the guests of honor for the evening, the spotlight was also shared with other departing ROKSA members:  SSG Talalelei Fautanu, Jr. (ROKSA’s Senior Military Advisor), SPC Leilani Pine (member) and Peati Mene (member, school teacher from New Zealand).

ASPA and Tri-Union Samoa Packing Corp Execute Power Purchasing
A public hearing on the power purchasing agreement between American Samoa Power Authority and the Tri-Union Samoa Packing Corporation or COS Samoa Packing took place this morning at the ASPA premises.

Court News
A college student accused of having sex with a 13-year-old case has been set for trial on September 25th.

Senate Unanimously Passes Teacher's Salarie's Bill
The Senate today unanimously passed in third reading, a bill amending the excise tax laws to provide for additional teachers’ salaries.

SSIC Requests Criminal of Four Individuals in DOE School Bus Scam
The Senate Select Investigative Committee has called on the Attorney General Fepuleai Afa Ripley to launch a criminal investigation of four individuals in connection with public school bus repairs and orders of spare parts.

APIPA Conference Begins Today
The Association of Pacific Islands Public Auditors conference began this morning at the Clarion Tradewinds Hotel attended by more than a hundred participants from various islands of the Pacific.

Christening of DMWR Research Vessel Pualele
The Department of Marine and Wildlife Resources’ new research vessel “Pualele” was christened this afternoon in a ceremony attended by Governor Togiola Tulafono and other government officials.

ANZ Amerika Samoa Bank Makes Customers Dreams Come True
Blue was the dominant color at ANZ Amerika Samoa Bank today as the bank’s management and staff went all out in the second Go O – Blue Day in support of American Samoa’s athletes for the South Pacific Games and of course, their staff member Ora Brown who is a member of the girl’s national soccer team.

Mosi Pesa Back From Israel
A young man who spent a year living in Israel is currently visiting family and friends before returning next week.

At the Fono Today
President Lolo Moliga introduced a bill that provides new sentencing guidelines for possession of a controlled substance including drug rehabilitation and treatment programs.

SSIC Investigates Agreement Between DOH Canneries
The Senate Select Investigating committee has turned its attention to the agreement between StarKist Samoa, Samoa Packing and the Department of Public Health over the issuance of health cards for employment.

Convicted Rapist Deported Back to the Territory
A US national convicted of rape in New Zealand was escorted into the Territory by a New Zealand police officer after serving five years of an 8-year jail term for raping a 14-year-old girl in Christchurch in 2001.

Uiniasolua Lashes Out at Lawmakers
The highest ranked Samoan in the US Army, Command Sergeant Major of the United States Army Europe and Seventh Army, Iuniasolua Savusa has lashed out at lawmakers who were against Congressman Faleomavaega’s military absentee ballot bill.

Sheep Farming in the Territory Proposed
A delegation of lawmakers that went to Apia has recommended that the territory investigate the possibility of grazing tropical sheep in the Manua islands.

Yacht Sinks Near Aunu'u Island
A yacht heading out to sea near Aunuu island yesterday ended up at the bottom of the sea when it took in water.

FAA Agrees to New Deadline for $16 Million

Court News
In court news, the three defendants that were charged with attempted burglary were arraigned in High Court.

Faleomavaega Meets the Fono
Congressman Faleomavaega Eni Hunkin appeared this morning before a joint hearing of the Fono to discuss several issues including measures he introduced in Congress.

ASCC Nursing Department Announces 2007 Courses
The Nursing Department at the American Samoa Community College (ASCC) will accept applications through the end of this month for students wishing to enroll in classes for Practical Nursing (PN) for 2007-2008 and Registered Nursing (RN) 2007-2009.  

SSIC to Resume Investigative Hearings Friday
The Senate Select Investigative Committee will resume hearings this Friday.

Senate President Presents School Buses for Manu'a to DOE Director
Senate president Lolo Moliga in a short ceremony this morning officially presented two new school buses earmarked to be used for students in Manu’a, to DOE director Claire Poumele and Manu’a district governor Tufele Li’amatua.

High Court Rules Against Governor Togiola
The High Court has ruled that Governor Togiola Tulafono exceeded his constitutional authority when he vetoed a provision in the bill authorizing ASG to loan $10 million from the Retirement Fund for the LBJ hospital.  

Court News
Government has filed additional charges against David Golk who has been remanded in custody since Easter for stealing a vehicle.

Accreditation Workshops Close at ASCC
Accreditation workshops for the American Samoa Community College ended this afternoon.

Watch the Malama TV April 2, 2007 newscasts here.
Click on the links to watch the Apr. 2, 2007 newscasts in english with Marie Langkilde and samoan with Andrew Fa'asau

No Evidence Hawaiian Air Fares are Suppressing Passenger Traffic:  USDOT
The U.S. Department of Transportation has issued a ruling that they could find no evidence that Hawaiian Airlines is suppressing passenger traffic on the Honolulu-Pago Pago route  by charging higher fares as compared to other destinations of similar distance.

Inter Island Airways Gets 3-Month Certificate to Land at Faleolo
Local carrier Inter Island Airways has received a three-month Foreign Air Operator Certificate to operate flights between Pago Pago International Airport and Faleolo International Airport.

Tsunami Watch Issued Sunday, Weather Station Clarifies Alert Procedures
The tsunami watch issued by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center yesterday as a consequence of the earthquake in the Solomon Islands caused concern for some people here in the Territory.

Swains Island is No. 1 Hot Spot for Ham Radio Operators
Swains Island is currently the most popular place on earth for ham radio operators around the world and this afternoon, a team of 15 amateur radio operators from eight different countries left for Swains to broadcast from there to their counterparts around the world.

Fanau Tautua Organization Highlights Tautua
The Samoan saying, “O le ala I le pule o le tautua” or “The road to authority is through service” is being highlighted in a project undertaken by the Fanau Tautua Organization of the Futiga Methodist Church.

Watch the March. 30, 2007 newscasts here
Click on the links to watch the Malama TV Mar. 30, 2007 newscasts in english with Marie Langkilde and samoan with Andrew Fa'asau

Senators Oppose Faleomavaega's Ballot Legislation
Most senators did not sit well upon hearing of Congressman Faleomavaega’s bill introduced in the congress, directing the Secretary of the Interior to ensure that certain questions related to American Samoa’s political status, democratic process, and federal relationship are to be placed on the ballot of American Samoa’s 2008 general election.

ASABF to Select National Boxing Team Next Week
The American Samoa Amateur Boxing Federation is getting ready to pick their elite boxers to represent the Territory in the upcoming South Pacific Games in Apia.

TAOA Exhibits Senior Citizens' Handicrafts
The fact that senior citizens have a lot to offer the community was reinforced today in a program coordinated by the Territorial Administration on Aging where handicrafts made by senior citizens across the island were proudly displayed.

Charges Against Fa'amausili Dismissed, AG to Re-file Monday
Charges against former TEMCO director Faamausili were dismissed without prejudice this afternoon at the District Court after government was not permitted to amend the criminal complaint at this stage of the case.

Senate and House Agree on Loan Bill Amendments
The administration bill requesting a $20 million loan from the American Samoa Employees’ Retirement Fund was finally given the green light today by the Fono.

YWCA Concludes Sewing Workshop
An eight-week sewing workshop coordinated by the American Samoa YWCA in conjunction with the ASCC Land Grant culminated this morning with an awards ceremony at the YWCA headquarters in Tafuna.

House Passes $20 Million Loan Bill
The House of Representatives this morning passed in its second reading the administration bill proposing a $20 million loan from the American Samoa Government Employees’ Retirement Fund after lengthy deliberation by the Government Operations Committee members.

Seven Charged with Theft of Hospital Food
Seven former employees of LBJ Tropical Medical Center appeared this morning for the first time in the District Court charged with the theft of food items valued at about $10,000.

AG's Office Lifts Leiataua Stop Order
The Attorney general’s Office yesterday lifted the stop order against former director of the Territorial Office of Homeland Security Leiataua Birdsall Alailima, which prevented him from leaving the island.

Underage Drinking Addressed in Substance Abuse Prevention Program
A community discussion was held last night at the Tautua Hall in Pago Pago to address the problem of underage drinking.  The meeting was organized through the Strategic Prevention Framework State Incentive Grant Prevention Fa’aSamoa Project, and it was well attended not only by adults but also school children.

Faleomavaega Working to Bring Local Issues to Ballot
Congressman Faleomavaega has introduced legislation in Congress directing the Secretary of the Interior to ensure that certain questions related to American Samoa’s political status, democratic process, and federal relationship are to be placed on the ballot of American Samoa’s 2008 general election.

Faleomavaega Introduces COLA Bill for American Samoa Federal Employees
Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that he has introduced legislation to provide federal employees in American Samoa with a cost-of-living allowance (COLA).

Katina Brothers to "Rock the Rock" in June
World renowned contemporary gospel singing group The Katina Brothers are coming home to perform for the first time since they became one of the most popular singing acts in the Christian music genre.

Monty Betham Ready to Rumble in Apia
Team Monty has arrived in Samoa ahead of Monty Betham's debut professional fight on Saturday 31st March, as confirmed by Teleiai Su'a Edwin Puni and Zita Martel, co-promoters of the upcoming boxing main event.

Three ASCC Students Accepted to Broadway Theater Academy
Three students from the American Samoa Community College now have the opportunity to attend a unique musical theater program this summer, after having passed the audition for the Broadway Theater Project, based at the University of South Florida.

Worker Claims Fa'amausili Forced Him to Make False Statement
Mika Ilimaleota, the man who was awarded a janitorial/night watchman contract by former TEMCO director Fa’amausili Pola, told the Senate Select Investigative Committee this morning that he was forced to write a statement that had already been prepared by Faamausili.

Evelyn Stevens Testifies in SSIC Hearing on TEMCO
Former TEMCO deputy director Evelyn Stevens told the Senate Select Investigative Committee this morning that former director Faamausili Pola and the transfer of a federal grant to the Department of Homeland Security caused the freezing of federal funds.

IRB Coach/Trainer Conducts Local Workshops
IRB Coaching Education Officer Hugh Galvan is currently conducting coaching workshops for local rugby coaches.

Alailima's Attorney Demands Apology for Misrepresented Stop Order
Legal counsel for former director of the Territorial Office of Homeland Security Leiataua Birdsall Alailima is demanding the Stop Order preventing him from traveling be lifted immediately, and that a public apology be issued from the Attorney General’s Office stating that Mike Sala seriously misrepresented the AG’s Office to secure the Stop Order.

Senate Approves $20 Million Loan Bill
The Senate this morning approved an administration bill for a $20 million loan from the Retirement Fund to finance several infrastructure projects.

Strong Opposition to 500% Tax Hike on Vailima Beer
Local Distributors of Vailima Beer, G.H.C. Reid & Company, testified before a senate committee this morning and voiced strong opposition to the proposed legislation to impose a 500% excise tax on Vailima Beer imported from Samoa.  Representing G.H.C. Reid was their President Olivia Reid-Gillet.

Prevention Fa'asamoa Project Kicks Off
Reducing the onset and/or progression of substance abuse including childhood and underage drinking, is the focus of the Strategic Prevention Framework’s “Prevention Faasamoa Project” which kicked off this morning at the First Samoan Full Pentecostal Church in Ottoville.

Marriage Education Program Through Churches
Pastors and their wives from six different local denominations are currently being trained on marriage education in a federally funded program coordinated by the Department of Human and Social Services.

Table Tennis Coach Assists Local Association
The recently revived American Samoa Table Tennis Association is currently receiving top instruction from the sport’s Oceania Development Officer.

Watch the March 27, 2007 Malama newscast
Click on the links to watch the March 27, 2007 Malama newscast with Marie Langkilde(Eng) and Andrew Fa'asau(Sam).

COS Samoa Packing Has New GM
COS Samoa Packing yesterday announced the appointment of Mr. Willem Martins as the company’s new general manager.

Watch the March 8, 2007 Talofa Samoa show here
Click on the links to watch the Talofa Samoa show with Hon. Toatasi Archie Soliai and Fatima Langkild

Watch the Mar. 6, 2007 Talofa Samoa Show here
Gests:
- Gunnery Sgt. Brian Lancioni, Gunnery Sgt. Andrew Antenorcruz -Marines recruiters
- Taotasi Archie Soliai, Michael Leau (Pres.), Iki Scanlan (V.Pres.) -Shriner's Doctor's visit

Watch the Feb. 27, 2007 Talofa Samoa Show here
Click on the links to watch the Talofa Samoa show with Fatima Langkilde and Vaito'a Hans Langkilde special guests:

Watch the Feb. 22, 2007 Talofa Samoa Show here
Special Guests:

Segment1 - Youth for Change Y4C (Leone) Teri So'oto-Palmer (Program Coordinator), Fiti Faiivai (Group Leader) and Brian Toelupe (Group Leader)

Segment2 - Samoa for Missions - Fa'atu Laolagi (Chairman), Usufono Fepulea'i (Nat'l Dir. YWam Taiwan)

Segment3 - Visit of Papal Delegate/Pastoral programs in Nu'uuli - Monsignor Etuale Lealofi (Catholic Pastor)

Segment4 - Revival Team USA Program - Lloyd Greenhaw (Country Coordinator), Greg Trainor, Kristin Taylor, Caroline Paul-Ah Chong and Litara Alaimalo

Watch the Feb. 20, 2007 Talofa Samoa Show here
Guests:

Segment 1 - Special Guests:
Charismatic Renewal Movement
          
Segment 2 - Special Guest:
Lawrence Wilson
Film Producer - Director TV show "Seki"

Watch the Feb. 8, 2007 show here
Guests:

Segment 1 - Galu Satele Jr, The Maiava's - 2nd Annual Ukulele Festival.

Segment 2 - Director of Health Uto'ofili Maga - Dept. of Health Issues

Segment 3 - Daniel Lee and Maile Norman - USCG

Segment 4 - Boyscouts

Watch the Jan. 30, 2007 Talofa Samoa Show here
Click on the links to the right to watch the Talofa Samoa Jan. 30, 2007 show with Vaito'a Hans Langkilde & Fatima Langkilde.

Watch the Jan. 25, 2007 Talofa Samoa Show here
Special Guests:

-Talalelei Fautanu Jr.- ROKSA (Korea Senior Military Advisor)

-Dr. Williams Acting CMO, Dr.Satyanarayana Chekuri MD, Dr. Eugene Porreca Vascular Surgeon  -  LBJ's Hospital's visiting Specialists

-Upuolevavau Lilio Tuitele, President, Dr. Salu Hunkin, Ta'ita'i komiti fa'afoe, Suavai Satele Tagaloa, Pres. o le motu - YWCA Programs

Watch the December 17th Malama TV newscast here
Watch the December 17th, 2006 Malama TV newscast with Marie Langkilde (English) and Tauileave Toluono (Samoan).  Click on the links to watch

U. S. Consulate Recommends Permanent Visa Program for Samoa
The U.S. Consulate to Samoa, William McCormick says that the U.S. Entry Visa Pilot Program which was tried in Apia over the last two weeks went so well that he is recommending to the U.S. State Department to make it a permanent program that would make it easier and open doors for the people of Samoa.

High Number of Police Arrests Over Weekend
The heavy rains over the weekend did not stop the police from locking up lawbreakers.  Malama TV newscrews witnessed on Friday night many people who were arrested and placed in the Territorial Correctional Facility until Monday morning when they would make their court appearances.  

Governor Addresses Police Uniforms on Radio Program
Callers to the governor’s weekly radio program last Saturday morning brought up the issue of police uniforms.  They said that it is getting very confusing to try to differentiate territorial police officers from private security guards because they are wearing the same colored uniforms.

Ella Gurr Doing Good as Air Traffic Controller
Governor Togiola Tulafono had a special guest on his weekly radio program last Saturday.  Ella Ae Gurr is one of the air traffic controllers at the Pago Pago International Airport tower.

Open House at Governor's Mansion Today
And we remind everyone of the governor’s invitation to the public to visit the Governor’s Mansion tomorrow afternoon from 12 noon to 6 p.m. at Mauga-o-Alii.

ASPA Celebrates 25 Years as an Authority
The American Samoa Power Authority celebrated its 25th anniversary last Friday evening, with a party at the ASPA compound in Tafuna for all its employees and guests.  The 25-year anniversary marks the time when the operation of American Samoa’s electric and water utilities were no longer under the American Samoa Government, and became a semi independent authority, overseen by a board of directors that is appointed by the governor.  

ASPA Advises to Still Boil Water Before Drinking
The American Samoa Power Authority said today that although follow-up tests yesterday by the ASEPA Office showed negative presence of fecal coliform bacteria in the central water system, they are still advising the public to boil the water for at least 10 minutes before using it for drinking or food preparation.

Christmas at Part C Helping Hands Program
The Department of Health Part C Helping Hands Program today held a Christmas celebration for all its participants.  It included gift presentations and a Christmas party.  It was Christmas fun and cheer for everyone who was there.

"Teachers' Physical Day" at Samoana High School
Samoana High School knocked off early today, as we reported earlier, for Teachers’ Physical Day”.  What does that mean?

December is 3-D Month
The Department of Public Safety in collaboration with the Department of Human and Social Services are once again promoting 3-D Month in December.  The “Don’t Drink and Drive” push heightens public awareness on the dangers of drunk driving, especially during the holiday season.

Seumanutafa Granted Work Release
Former Chief Procurement Officer Faau Seumanutafa who was convicted both in federal court and local court for defrauding the governments has been granted work release by Associate Justice Lyle Richmond, to begin on December 20th.

Manu'a District Council Reaffirms Vaitautolu to the Senate
The Manua Council of the Faletau gathered today at Malaetele, Manua to select a replacement that would serve the remainder of the late Senator Ma’o Tima’s term.

Watch the Malama TV newscast in English and Samoan here (December 15th, 2006)
Watch the December 15th, 2006 Malama TV newscast in English with Marie Langkilde and Samoan with Tauileave Toluono

Open House at Governor's Mansion
Governor Togiola Tulafono has announced that the official Open House for Government House on Mauga o Ali’i will be on Monday, December 18th from 12noon to 6pm.

Special Ed Students Experience the Spirit of Christmas
The Special Education Division provided Christmas gifts for the disabled children in the Special Ed Program, and it brought a lot of smiles to their faces.

Water Rescue and Helicopter Operations Training for Emergency Responders
The Territorial Office of Homeland Security is continuing a training course for emergency responders, that includes water rescue and helicopter operations.

Senate Challenges Government to Seek Solutions for Piggeries
The senate is challenging the Department of Health and the American Samoa Environmental Protection Agency to seek a medium that will allow the seemingly contrasting issues of cultural traditions and health edicts to co-exist, with the inerent adverse impacts controlled.

Be Cautious About Hooking Up Christmas Lights During the Rain
With the Christmas season upon us, many families, businesses and various organizations are getting into the spirit with the installing Christmas lights all over the territory.  But there’s a potential problem right now with all the heavy rains we’ve been experiencing, and ASPA officials are cautioning everyone of potential hazards when hooking up electrical lights in the rain.

Don't Drink the Water -  ASPA Issues Drinking Water Warning
The American Samoa Power Authority issued a Drinking Water Warning today after fecal coliform bacteria was found in the water supply yesterday, December 13th.

Malama TV newscasts in English with Marie Langkilde and Samoan with Tauileave Toluono.
Watch the December 14, 2006 newscast in English and Samoan here

'Live' Museums at Samoana High School
With the lack of museums in American Samoa on Early America, the Junior class at Samoana High School are working to try to enact some of the things that they are learning about in their American Literature class in what they call “live” museums..

Healthy Marriage Initiative Launched
The Department of Human & Social Services announced a new program today, focused on providing support and resources for married couples, as well as couples that are thinking about getting married, along with new parents and single parents, called Li’o o leAlofa, or Circle of Love, which is part of the Health Marriage Initiative.

ASPA Explains Power Outage Last Monday
If your electric power went out last Monday night, then you would be interested to know that the outage was caused by a faulty jumper connection near the airport road.

ASG Territorial Christmas Program Opens Tonight
And tonight is the opening of the Territorial Christmas Program at the Malaeole talu in Fagatogo.  The program is scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m.

LBJ Birthday Party Nixed as Media Shows Up
Several employees of the LBJ Hospital called Malama TV this morning that the hospital was having a birthday party for its CEO Kirk Gray today.  The employees also voiced their displeasure about it, because they said it has never been done before at the hospital, that a CEO’s birthday was celebrated by the hospital.

ASCC Nursing Program Recognizes Class of 2006
9 ASCC nursing students graduated as Practical Nurses, and 7 as Registered Nurses last night at the American Samoa Community College, as the college recognized them in a ceremony held in the ASCC Auditorium.

No Mail Backlogs So Far Says Postmaster
According to American Samoa Postmaster Smitty McMoore, mail between Hawaii and American Samoa has been flowing smoothly so far this Christmas season.  This time of year, the volume of mail both incoming and outgoing is usually very high due to Christmas packages being sent to loved ones, and it usually means backlogs of mail at both ends as postal workers try to move the Christmas time mail.

Faleomavaega:  This Week Only to Apply for U.S. Visas in Apia
Non-U.S. citizens or nationals seeking to obtain visas to the United States should know that this week only, they can apply for the visas in Apia, under a new pilot program allowing Samoans and eligible foreign nationals to interview for non-immigrant status.

Gov. Togiola Grateful for Passage of 30A Tax Credits
Governor Togiola Tulafono yesterday expressed his appreciation on the passage of the Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006 in both the U.S. Senate and House last week that includes a two-year extension of tax credits for American Samoa’s tuna canneries.

Samoa Packing and Workers Come to Agreement on Gifts
The management of COS Samoa Packing Company and the approximately 2,000 workers have seemingly come to terms over an employee Christmas Gift Program which caused the workers to walk out of the cannery last week and shut down production for a few hours.

Tutuila Natural Resource Conservation Corps
Managing natural resources is what the Tutuila Conservation Corps is all about, and they are ready to assist the community with projects that villages or other community groups may have.  The corps has received funding from the Americorps organization and other local sources.

Watch the Malama TV newscasts here. December 12, 2006
Watch the Malama TV newscasts here in English with Marie Langkilde and in Samoan with Fagafaga D. Langkilde

LACJ and Region Pacific Sales Disqualified from School Lunch Bidding
After coming in as the lowest bidder on at least nine food items in the latest bid offerings for the local School Lunch Program for the remainder of the school year, LACJ Import and Export Distributors, which is owned by Joe Tavale, received a letter from Acting Chief Procurement Officer Pat Tervola informing him of the decision not to award his company according to bids that were received for the School Lunch Program.

Canneries to Shutdown for the Holidays
As they do every year, both tuna canneries will be shutting down during the holidays.  The break allows the two canneries to perform annual maintenance and to upgrade some of their production equipment, and it also gives the employees, most of whom are from neighboring Samoa, to spend the holidays at home with their families.

Chief Justice Kruse Satisfied with Ufuti's Explanation
The High Court yesterday let Chief Immigration Officer Ufuti Ieremia off the hook for not appearing at a court hearing in October.  The court was satisfied with Ufuti’s explanation that he was off-island at the time answering to a federal subpoena.

Leone High School Choir Performs Christmas Concert Tonight
The ever popular Leone High School Choir is putting on a Christmas concert tonight at the Catholic Church in Leone.  The choir which has recorded 10 CDs over the past several years, will be selling CDS at the concert.

Dog Beds Donated to Customs K-9 Unit
The hard working drug sniffing dogs of the Customs K-9 Unit should be sleeping well from now on, thanks to Faasegi Caldwell.  In the spirit of Christmas, four brocade dog beds were donated by Faasegi to the ASG Customs K-9 Unit.  The beds are pretty cozy, with beautifully corded edges in classic heavyweight floral brocade which, Faasegi says, helps cushion the dogs’ tired bones. And to top it off, the beds are overstuffed with Miracleloft polyfil to ensure a contented night’s sleep.  Now if that’s not reward enough for these drug sniffing canines, then who knows what is.  

ASCC SEEDS Club to Do Research in Savaii
Several SEEDS environmental club students will be traveling to Savaii to conduct an ecological and geological comparison between the islands of Upolu and Tutuila.

It's Palolo Time Again!
The Department of Marine and Wildlife Resources is saying that there should be palolo to harvest tonight.  The sea delicacy is harvested once a year in October or November, depending on when the last quarter moon falls.  Harvesting often happens two nights in a row.

Political Status Commission Returns
The Future Political Status Study Commission recently returned from their fact finding trip to visit Samoan communities in the United States.  The commission is gathering information to formulate their report and recommendations to the Governor and the Fono on the future political status of American Samoa in its relationship with the United States.

Leone High School Achieves 6-Year Accreditation
Leone High School, the Home of the Lions, are roaring with pride after receiving word from the Accrediting Commission for Schools that they have achieved accreditation for six years, the highest term a school can be accredited for before having to be reviewed again.

Senate President Supports Governor's Decision on DOE
Senate President Lolo Moliga said today that he supports Governor Togiola 100 percent on his decision to place Director of Education Malaetele Lui Tuitele on leave and order an investigation into the numerous allegations of possible criminal activity within the department.

Four More to Appear Before Grand Jury in Prostitution Case
The FBI has served subpoenas for four people to appear before a grand jury in Honolulu next week in connection with the federal investigation into the sex trafficking case in Chinatown, Pago Pago.  

Mother of 'Baby Malama' Charged for Abandonment
22 year-old Imelda Easter Tuitama of Mapusagafou was charged in the district court this morning for abandoning her newborn baby at the Futiga Landfill last month.  Official charges of Abandonment of a Child and Abuse of a Child were filed as police served an arrest warrant  against the defendant.  Bail has been set at $10,000.

David Cohen Promoting Diversification of American Samoa's Economy
Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Department of the Interior Papaaliitele David Cohen is in town since his arrival last Sunday, and is meeting with territorial leaders to discuss a number of issues.  Topping the priority list is the economic development situation in American Samoa, as DOI tries to promote the diversification of the local economy by enticing new industries to move in and set up business in American Samoa.

Chamber of Commerce Commits to 'Free Enterprise' on HAL Issue
The Chamber of Commerce of American Samoa has written Governor Togiola Tulafono to reaffirm its commitment to the free enterprise system in light of the current Hawaiian Air controversy.

Beware of Mail/E-mail Scams!
The Consumer Advocate at the Attorney General’s Office is warning everyone to beware of the increase in mail and e-mail scams being received locally from seemingly legitimate businesses or organizations, that ask for money in order to receive a much larger amount of money.

Captain Tillis Thompson Retires from EMS
EMS Captain Tillis Thompson is retiring from the Emergency Medical Services after 18 years of service.  Thompson began having medical problems earlier this year when he had to be medivaced from Manua where he was stationed as the head of the EMS station there.

Faleomavaega Asks for Federal Review of HAL Airfares
Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that he has written to Mark Dunkerley, President of Hawaiian Airlines, and informed him of his intent to ask for a federal review of airfares between Pago Pago and Honolulu.  Faleomavaega also asked Mr. Dunkerley for an explanation as to why roundtrip airfares between Pago Pago to Honolulu are more than 100% higher than roundtrip fares from Honolulu to California considering the destinations are of almost equal distance.  .  

ASCC Instructors Return from Mainland Extension Classes
With tears in her eyes, an emotional young Samoan woman, standing before a room in California packed with members of her congregation, exclaimed, “We’re hungry to learn about our language and our culture, but we have no one to teach us.” Pa’u Faleatua of the Samoan & Pacific Studies Department (SAMPAC) at the American Samoa Community College (ASCC) still recalls the moment from earlier this summer with amazement. “The young woman’s statements made it clear to me how strongly the Samoan communities in the United States want to connect with their homeland.”

Korean Consul General Pays Courtesy Call on Governor Togiola
Korea Consul General, the Hon. Kang Dae-Hyun, based in Honolulu, today paid a courtesy call on Governor Togiola Tulafono at the Office of the Governor in Utulei.

Court News
In news from the court, Mausali Puepuemai appeared before District Court Judge John Ward today to answer to charges of Embezzlement and Tampering with Public records.  The charges stem from the time the defendant was employed at the American Samoa Community College.

Samoa PM Open to U. S. Military Using Savaii Lands for Training Exercises
According to Radio New Zealand International, Samoa's Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi has agreed to discuss a request from American Samoa to use land on Savaii island for military training.

FAA to Extend Advisory Services at Pago Pago International Airport
Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has agreed to continue airport advisory services at the Tafuna/Pago Pago International Airport for one more year.  Faleomavaega said he requested the extension in a letter dated July 27, 2006 to Mr. William C. Withycombe, the Regional Director for the Western-Pacific Region.  

Dr. Saleapaga Officially Notified of Contract Non-Renewal
After Malama News broke the story on Sunday about Dr. Ioatamo Saleapaga’s contract as Director of Medical Services not being renewed by the hospital board at LBJ, a few actions have taken place at the hospital this week to try and satisfy the concerns or complaints voiced by Dr. Saleapaga and several hospital staffers.

David Cohen Hopes Governor and HAL Can Find Middle Ground
Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Interior Papaalii David Cohen arrived in the territory last Sunday to meet with local government leaders.  Topping the list of issues to be discussed during his trip is the diversification of American Samoa’s economy.  

Police Lieutenant Lanu Mapu Reinstated at DPS
Police Lieutenant Lanu Mapu has been notified by the Department of Public Safety to report back for duty immediately.  This is according to a letter from the Commissioner of Public Safety Sotoa Savali to the Director of Human Resources, Mageo Malu.

Staff Sergeant Jeffrey Sifoa Loa Killed in Iraq War
Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that he has learned last week from reliable sources about the death of Staff Sergeant Jeffrey Sifoa Loa in Iraq.  SSG Loa was killed in Ar Ramadi, Iraq on August 16, 2006 when an improvised explosive devise (IED) exploded.

Police Continue Search for Missing Fisherman
Police are continuing their search for a 28 year old man who was swept by a wave while fishing on the reef at the head of the airport runway in Tafuna last Saturday.

Iliili Man in Court on Drug and Firearm Charges
A young man from the village of Iliili made his appearance in court today, in connection with a police raid on his residence and his vehicle on August 3rd this year.  Brian Kisena was finally served a warrant of arrest late last week since the day of the police raid, after the Attorney General’s Office formally put together the charges against the suspect.

Governor Togiola Meets with Honolulu Mayor Hanneman
Governor Togiola Tulafono met with the Mayor of the City and County of Honolulu, the Hon. Muliufi ‘Mufi’ Hannemann, at a breakfast meeting on Friday, where discussions included possible assistance of the Honolulu Police Department for local law enforcement personnel training and other matters related to the American Samoa Government.

Fono Reconvenes for Final Session
The Fono reconvened today for its final session before elections in November.  Both houses of the Legislature returned from a three week recess while awaiting the submittal of the government’s Fiscal Year 2007 budget proposal.

Governor Requests Fono for Additonal Funding for FPSSC
Governor Togiola has submitted a request to the Fono for additional funding of $150,000 to sustain the Future Political Status Study Commission’s work up until the newly extended deadline that was passed in the Fono three weeks ago.

Calvary Chapel Youth Ministry Visits Territory
A youth ministry from Southern California is visiting the territory, and they performed at the LBJ Tropical Medical Center today for members of the community who were in the public waiting areas.  The group is called Calvary Chapel South Bay, and American Samoa is the first pacific island country they have visited, and they are planning to visit more islands in the pacific.  

Ueligitone-Leaea Wedding Last Saturday
Hundreds of family members and friends attended the wedding last Saturday of Marjorie Ueligitone and Siaosi Pona Leaea.  Marjorie is the daughter of Siva Failolo Ueligitone and Eseta Satele Ueligitone of Vaitogi, and the groom is the son of Migi and Fa’asili Leaea of Nu’uuli.

Dr. Saleapaga No Longer Director of Medical Services
Malama News has learned that Dr. Ioatamo Saleapaga’s contract as Director of Medical Services at the LBJ Tropical Medical Center has not been renewed by the Hospital Board as of last week Thursday when it expired.  Dr. Victor Tofaeono has been appointed Acting Director in the interim until the Hospital Board selects a new Director of Medical Services.

Honolulu Mayor Visits American Samoa
Honolulu Mayor Muliufi "Mufi" Hanneman arrived in the territory last Thursday night for his annual visit to his mother’s grave in Nuuuli.  Malama News caught up with him last Saturday morning to talk about some of the things he is working on, not only in Honolulu, but also matters that might benefit American Samoa as well.

Fono Reconvenes Monday
As of last Friday, the Fono had yet to receive the proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2007 from the administration, and the Fono will reconvene tomorrow morning after a three week recess, which was called in order for  the  legislators to have time to review the budget proposal.

Inter Samoa Talks End
Samoa Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi returned home Saturday morning following the Inter Samoa Talks which were held here at the Clarion Tradewinds Hotel last Friday.  A number of issues were on the agenda, including immigration, drug trafficking and control, law enforcement, among others.  In a press conference following the talks last Friday, Governor Togiola and Prime Minister Tuilaepa jointly announced that a task force has been formed comprised of cabinet members from both governments, to iron out and finalize many of the issues that were agreed upon during the talks last Friday.

ASHSAA Football Season Opens
The Veterans Stadium was filled Saturday morning for the opening of the American Samoa High School Athletic Association (ASHSAA) football season.  Easily the most popular sport in local high school competition,

Are You Ready for Some Football?
Excitement is in the air once again for football fans, as not only the NFL pre-season games have started this week, but also, the local high school ASHSAA season officially opens this Saturday at the Veterans Stadium in Tafuna.

Track and Field Tryouts
The American Samoa Track and Field Association is looking for a few good men and women to represent American Samoa in the South Pacific Games next year in Apia.

Togiola: Faleomavaega is Out of Touch
Governor Togiola Tulafono also responded today to a recent press release issued by Congressman Faleomavaega Eni concerning the Hawaiian Air situation.  He said he can’t believe Faleomavaega does not support the push for Hawaiian Air to lower fares and offer equal treatment of American Samoans.  

ASCC Students Conduct Environmental and Cultural Exchange in Maui
Eight students enrolled in the American Samoa Community College’s MSC/AGR 297 Environmental and Cultural Service Learning Course just returned from Hawaii after a 10-day intensive course working with various agencies on the island of Maui.  The participants started with a two-day community service project assisting the Haleakala National Park with invasive plant eradication, native plant replenishment and trail maintenance.  The participants also traveled to Lanai to conduct a Coral Reef clean-up and explore the history of the island.  The highlight of the course was attending the three-day “Islands of the World IX” conference held by the International Small Islands Studies Association in partnership with Maui Community College.  

Tafuna High School Gets 6 Year Accreditation
Tafuna High School announced that it has for the first time in its history earned a six-year accreditation by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.  The principal and Parent Teachers Association received the good news through an accreditation letter from WASC,

Career Development Workshop for School Counselors
The American Samoa Government Department of Human Resources is conducting a Career Development Workshop this week at the Convention Center in Utulei for school counselors in local schools.

16 Year Old Charged with Assault
A 16 year old minor appeared in court this morning to answer to charges of Assauly in the First Degree, Burglary in the Second Degree and Stealing in the Third Degree.

Help for Developmental Disabilities
The University Centers for Developmental Disabilities in affiliaton with the Association of University Centers on Disabilites (AUCD) from Washington D.C. here to conduct a 2-day workshop on how to improve consumer advisory councils and research.

Sauni Fanua a le Malo e Fesuia'i ma Utulei
O le aso na fa’ailoa aloa’ia mai ai e Kovana Togiola ua fa’agaoioia nei e lona ofisa ni fanua o le malo e fesuia’i ai le vaega o le matafaga i Utulei, lea ua malilie i ai le Ofisa o le National Park, o le a fesuia’i ai se fanua i le matafaga i Utulei sa i lalo o le latou tausiga ma se isi fanua o le malo.

Governor Prepares Comparable Sites for NPS Conversion of Utulei Beach Lot
Governor Togiola Tulafono today issued an update on the land conversion process for the Utulei Beach Park site with the National Park Service.

E le o ni Ivi o se Tagata
Ua mae’a nei le su’esu’ega a le CIIB o le vaega o leoleo ma le Alii Fomai fa’apitoa e su’esu’eina mafua’aga o maliu, le susuga i le foma’i o Dr. Gonzales.  O le su’esu’ega fa’apitoa lenei sa va’ava’alua ai leoleo o le CIIB ma le susuga ia Dr. Gonzales e su’esu’eina ni ponaivi na maua mai i Vatia i le taulotoa’iga o le vaiaso ua mavae.  

Teacher Orientation Begins for New School Year
The American Samoa Government Department of Education's Annual Orientation for Teachers was held today at the Samoana Gymnasium to as they prepare to kick off the new school year 2006-2007.

ASCC Bids Farewell to Talitiga Dr. Vena Sele
The American Samoa Community College bid farewell to their colleague, Talitiga Dr. Vena Sele in a presentation at the annual Curriculum Committee Retreat held at Sadies Restaurant.  Present were ASCC President Dr. Adele Satele-Galea’i, Vice-President Dr. Seth Galea’i, the Deans and Directors of the College along with the Chairpersons of the academic disciplines, many of whom bore testimony of their memorable events of working with Dr. Sele throughout the years.  

Governor to Hawaiian Air:  Reduce Fares and We'll Meet
Last Saturday morning on the governor’s radio program, Togiola said he is prepared to meet with Hawaiian Airlines only if they are ready to discuss lower airfares and elimination of excessive fees for the Pago Pago – Honolulu route.

Governor Togiola Responds to the F.A.A.
Governor Togiola Tulafono wrote a strongly worded letter today to Ronnie Simpson, The F.A.A.’s Manager of Honolulu Airports District Office, saying that it is important that he review the Executive Order because it is a border control issue and not an operating authority issue.

Skeletal Remains are not Human
The CIIB Division of the Department of Public Safety have completed their investigation into the skeletal remains that were found in Vatia last week Thursday, after the Pathologist at the LBJ Tropical Medical Center determined that the remains are not human, but rather most likely a cat.

Second Fire in Two Days Destroys Matu'u home
Just two days after a fire completely destroyed a home in Auasi last Friday, another home was razed by fire early Sunday morning in the village of Matuu.

Congressional Delegation to Visit
A U.S. House Committee on International Relations delegation will be visiting the territory for a few hours on August 16.

Tapalega Papaali'i Receives Collegiate Award
Tapalega Malaepule Papali’i has been awarded the United States National Collegiate Award in Physical Education for volleyball.

Bus Accident in Afono Sends 14 to the Hospital
A bus accident on the mountainside heading down to Afono village happened at about 5:30 p.m. today (Monday), sending 14 people to the hospital for treatment.

Togiola:  Tu'u Muamua i Lalo le Tau o Pasese, ona Tatou Talanoa Lea
I le polokalame i le leitio a Kovana Togiola Tulafono i le Aso Toonai ua mavae, na ia saunoa ai, ua ia sauni e fono ma le kamupani va’alele o le Hawaiian Air pe a fai ae ioe le kamupani va’alele e tu’u muamua i lalo le tau o a latou pasese i le va o Pago Pago ma Honolulu, ma taofi le so’ona faia o sala i le alavaa lenei mo tagata Amerika Samoa.

Tali Kovana Togiola i le Tusi a le FAA
Ua tusia nei e Kovana Togiola Tulafono se tusi o lo’o i ai se tali malosi ma ni upu e matua malolosi lava i le aso, e tali atu ai i le tusi a le pule o le FAA i Hawaii, le susuga ia Ronnie Simpson, ma o lo’o fa’ailoa ai e Kovana Togiola ia Simpson le taua o le silasila muamua i lana poloa’iga faa-kovana talu ai o lana fa’atonuga faa-kovana e le o talanoa i tulafono tau le fa’agaoioiga o va’alele, ae o lo’o talanoa i le tulafono tau tiute ma tuaoi.

Alofau Coral Farm Opens
Last Saturday morning marked the opening of the Alofau Coral Farm and Community Ecology Center.  The opening ceremony was held on site in the village of Alofau, and was attended by Governor Togiola Tulafono, and other government and traditional leaders.

Amata le Atina'e o le Totoina o Amu i Alofau
O le taeao o le Aso To’ona’i na tatala aloa’ia ai se tasi o atina’e tele i totonu o le afioaga o Alofau, ma o lenei polokalame o lo’o lalamua ai le Afioga i le Tupufia ia Faumuina Satele.  O le afio’aga muamua lenei i Tutuila ma Manua ua amatalia ai lenei ituaiga fa’asao, lea ua fa’aaogaina i ai le atamai fa’aonapo nei o se ali’i papalagi o lo o galue i le Matagaluega o le Puipuiga o le Vaomatua ma le Gataifale, e toe totoina ai le 'amu talu mai le afaina ma le nuti palaina o a’au amu i totonu o motu o Tutuila, Aunuu faatasi ai ma Manu’a, i afa tetele o Ofa, Valelia, Tusi, Olaf ma le tele o nisi afa ua le mafai ona faitaulia.

Samoana Class of '86 Holds Reunion
The Samoana High School Class of 1986 will be holding its class reunion this week here in American Samoa, with a host of activities starting on Tuesday.

Store and Residence in Auasi Burn to the Ground
A combination store and home belonging to the Danny Masaniai family in Auasi burned to the ground last Friday afternoon.

Fa'atasiga o le Vasega '86 a Samoana
O le a amatalia i le Aso Lua i le itula e lima i le afiafi o le vaiaso nei le fa’atasiga, po’o le reunion, a le tausaga fa’au’u o le 1986 a le a’oga maualuga o Samoana, lea o lo’o faia mai i Amerika Samoa nei.

Oso se Pasi i Afono, to'a 14 ua Manunu'a
E to’a 14 le au manunu’a ina ua lavea se pasi i Afono i le afiafi o le Aso Gafua, pe tusa lea o le 5:30 e tusa o se ripoti a leoleo.  O le fa’alavelave lenei na tulai i le mauga i Afono e le mamao ma le vaega aupito sili ona matautia i lea auala, lea na tupu ai nisi fa’alavelave tau taavale i le tuana’i ma maliliu ai nisi ua fai i lagi la latou folauga.

Manumalo George Tanoa i le "Last Man Standing"
O le ua manumalo i le sa’ilia o le ali’i e aupito i sili ona malosi, po’o le tama tane e uma lelei le ta’amilosaga o tu, ua tula’i mai ai "The Olympian", George Tanoa. E pei ona silafia e le mamalu o le atunuu na matua fa’atumulia le mamalu o le atunu’u, i le afiafi o le Aso To’ona’i ua te’a i le fale ta’alo i le laumua o le EFKAS i Kanana Fou.

Fa'anoanoa Danny Masaniai i le Leai o se Fesoasoani i le Taimi na Mu ai Lona Fale
E le i i ai se mea na fa’asaoina mai o le fale o le aiga a Danny Masaniai i Auasi, lea na mu i le aoauli o le Aso Faraile na se i mavae atu nei. Na fa’ailoa e Danny Masaniai i le Malama News, e mu la latou fale e na o le ava o lona atali’i o loo mai tagata (tulou) ma lana fanau laiti.

To Be Young And Samoan
“To Be Young and Samoan” is the most recent on stage production from Crossroads Theatre for Youth (CTY) in Nu’uuli. It was part of a youth summer drama collaboration that culminated with a participating student original theatre performance at ASCC

FAA: Governor's Executive Order Violates Airline Deregulation Act
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has expressed their concern, that if Governor Togiola Tulafono’s Executive Order to oust Hawaiian Airlines from the American Samoa market is implemented, it would violate federal law.

30A Tax Provision For American Samoa Held Up In U. S. Senate
Congressman Faleomavaega Eni Hunkin announced yesterday that the 30A tax provision bill to extend tax credits for the tuna canneries in American Samoa was put on hold in the U.S. Senate on Thursday.

CSM Savusa Endorses Bill To Allow Absentee Registration For Military Personnel
U.S. Army Command Sergeant Major Iuniasolua Savusa has written the Fono, asking for support to pass a pending bill that would enable active military personnel from American Samoa to register and vote in local elections.  The current law requires them to appear in person in order to register to vote.

Political Study Commission Arrives In Saipan
The Future Political Status Study Commission (FPSSC) was recently in Palau to discuss how the sovereign state in free association with the United States negotiated their status.

Court News
Taamila Mokoma was in court today, after being charged with 12 counts of felony stealing and drug dealing, punishable up to 24 years imprisonment.

Samoana High School Freshman Orientation
The Back-To-School season is right around the corner, and Samoana High School has announced their Freshmen Orientation to be held on Friday, August 11 at the Samoana Gymnasium.  

Local Businesses Say ASG Vendor Payments Have Improved
A number of local businesses have said that the American Samoa Government’s turn around time in paying its vendors has improved over the last two years.  In the past, it has been one of the major causes of complaints from the business sector, to a point that many businesses no longer wanted to do business with the government because they would have to wait a year or more to get paid.

FAA: E Fete'ena'i Ma Tulafono Feterale Le Aveesea O Le Hawaiian Air
Ua faailoa mai e le pulega a le FAA, po’o le matagaluega o le malo tele o loo gafa ma faigamalaga i le ea; "O le aveeseina faamalosi e Amerika Samoa o le tautua a le Hawaiian Air mai le alavaa i le va o Pago Pago ma Honolulu, o se tulaga e fete’ena’i ma le tulafono feterale."  O le fautuaga a le FAA na fa’aauala mai i le Faatonu Sili o le Matagaluega o Uafu ma Malaevaalele e ala i se latou tusi e lua itulau, o loo sainia e le Pule o le FAA i Honolulu, le susuga ia Ronnie Simpson.

Taofia Le '30A' I Le Senate O Le Unaite Setete
Ua fa’ailoa mai e le Ofisa o le Tofa ia Faleomavaega Eni Hunkin e fa’apea, ua taofia mo se taimi le tumau le Lafoga i le Maga 30A i totonu o le Senate o le Iunaite Setete i le Aso Tofi o le vaiaso nei.  Fai mai a Faleomavaega, na palotaina le pili lenei ma maua ai le faitauga e to’a 56 na palota e ioe, ae to’a 42 na palota e tetee. Ma e le i mafai ona maua le fuainumera tatau ina ia pasia ai.

Maua Ponaivi o se Pepe ua Lafoa'i
Na logo e nisi o le afioaga o Vatia le Ofisa o Leoleo ma o latou tu’uina i ai ni ponaivi e foliga mai o se pepe na fa’ato’a fanau mai, ma afifi i se ofu ona tu'u lea i se atigi pusa ma lafoa’i ai i tua maota ma laoa o le afioaga.

Mu le Faleoloa a Danny Masaniai i Auasi
Na fa’amaonia mai e le Ofisa o Leoleo i le aoauli nei (Aso Faraile) se faalavelave ina ua mu se faleoloa i le alaalafaga o Auasi, ma na le i mafai ona fa’asaoina ai se mea e tasi o lenei fale.  O le faleoloa na mu i le eleele, o se fale sa masani ona to’omaga i ai tagata o Aunu’u e faatalitali ai le taimi o va’a i le motu.  Peita’i, na fa’ailoa mai i Tala Fou a le Malama i le afiafi nei, e toe o pou sima o lo’o tutu mai.

Baby's Skeletal Remains Found Discarded In Vatia
Police responded to a call from Vatia villagers yesterday, and upon arriving at the scene, they were handed what appeared to be the skeletal bones of a newborn baby.  

ASPA Says Farewell To JTPA Summer Interns
The American Samoa Power Authority today said farewell to its summer interns who worked there during the summer under the Junior Training Partnership Act program.

Little League Season Winding Down
The 2006 Little League season in winding down in the territory, with the playoff games being played this week, culminating with the championship game to be played this Saturday.

Last Man Standing Competition This Saturday
Who will be the toughest man on the rock?

Little League Baseball Playoffs
August 3, 2006

Legal Opinion Given on Governor's Executive Order
August 2, 2006

Nancy Daschbach Leaves Fagatele Bay After 18 Years
August 2, 2006

UCEDD Technical Training Assistance
August 2, 2006

August is Breast Feeding Month
August 2, 2006

Rising Fuel Costs Compared in the Region
August 2, 2006

Local Samoa Consulate Office Busy
August 2, 2006