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 sta