Amnesty bill passes Fono on its way to Governor for signature

Transcription

1 Buckle up! Fatalities rashes LOAL HIGHWAS to date office of highway safety LOAL HIGHWAS to date The Hawaiian Voyaging anoes, the Hokule a and Hikianalia sit serenely in the Apia Harbor the day before departing Samoa. The two canoes are now currently sailing north towards Tokelau. From Tokelau, the voyaging canoes will return to American Samoa before proceeding to Tonga and New Zealand. [Photo: TA] ASTA budget hearing includes questions about 4 samoanews.com Tala ai Samoa: iss Samoa rowned 12 Daily irculation 7,000 PAGO PAGO, AERIAN SAOA Thursday, September 11, 2014 $1.00 Obama signs disaster declaration for A.S. by Fili Sagapolutele, Samoa News orrespondent U.S. President Barack Obama has declared a major disaster exists in American Samoa and ordered federal aid to supplement local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, flooding, and landslides during the period of July 29 to Aug. 3, In a letter last month, Gov. Lolo atalasi oliga petitioned the White House for a Presidential Disaster Declaration that a major disaster or emergency exists in American Samoa. Lolo said the flooding, associated runoff and resulting landslides have produced serious and extensive damage to both public and private property, and directly caused injuries and one death. It has also left many residents homeless, requiring evacuation to temporary shelters. Initial assessment reviews by local agencies reflect public damage estimates in excess of $5 million, not including mitigation costs, he declared. (See Samoa News edition on Sept. 5, 2014 for more details) In a statement, the White House said Obama yesterday issued the emergency declaration for American Samoa. This means federal funding is available to the territory and eligible local government agencies and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storms, flooding, and landslides. Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures in American Samoa. The statement also says that U.S. Federal Emergency anagement Agency (FEA) administrator W. raig Fugate has named enneth. Suiso as the Federal oordinating Officer (FO) for federal recovery operations in the affected area. According to FEA, additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the territory and warranted by the results of further damage assessments. Amnesty bill passes Fono on its way to Governor for signature Over 4,000 foreigners will benefit if signed by Joyetter Feagaimaali i-luamanu Samoa News Reporter The Senate version of the Amnesty Bill will now go to the governor to be signed into law after the House of Representatives unanimously passed the bill yesterday in regular session. This bill establishes the opportunity to grant immigration amnesty to foreigners who are physically present in American Samoa without current lawful immigration status, as well as to those who are lawfully in the territory but subject to specific numerical limitations on their registration by country. The bill allows more than 2,400 foreign nationals who registered during the recent amnesty campaign to reside legally in the territory and also includes just over 1,000 people lawfully present and already in the Immigration Board queue awaiting their quota to become available. The total number of foreigners to be allowed under the proposed amendment to current law stands at 4,111. According to the approved measure the territory has a large number of undocumented foreigners currently residing here, and a large backlog of foreigners who have applied to legally reside in American Samoa. However, due to the American Samoa ode Annotated, the numerical limitation of the law has reached its limit. Furthermore the growing numbers of foreigners have an impact on the local economy, infrastructure, natural resources and government services, putting pressure on the ability of American Samoans and other legal residents to enjoy and fully access these resources. If this problem is not corrected it will continue to grow becoming in the future ever more difficult to rectify says the bill. As part of the a comprehensive overall plan for the immigration reform in the territory it is in the best interest of the territory to provide deceiving undocumented aliens with the onetime opportunity to become lawful and productive members of society. The proposed bill seeks to amend the quota for foreign nationals in order to make them legal residents. (ontinued on page 2) A look at the newly crowned cdonald s iss Samoa Latafale Auva a with a supporter during her first Siva Samoa. See story inside. [photo: JL] olia ni ali i talavou umia 23 sikaleti marijuana tusia Ausage Fausia E to alua ni ali i talavou ua tuuaia nei e le malo i le moliaga mamafa o le umia fa asolitulafono o vaega o le laau fa asaina o le mariuana. O i laua ia o afoa ikaele, 19 tausaga le matua ma Lorenzo Rodriguez, 20 tausaga le matua. O le mataupu e pei ona tuuaia ai ikaele ma Rodriguez e le malo, na alia e mai i se fa alavelave na tula i mai i fafo o le fale kalapu o le Bowling Alley i le vaveao o le aso Sa na te a nei, ina ua vaaia e leoleo i laua o lo o la tutu to alua i vaega e paka ai ta avale, e foliga mai o lo o ula se la sikaleti. Na aga i atu le ali i leoleo sa gafa ma le suesueina o lenei mataupu ma isi leoleo e to alua sa latou galulue fa atasi i lea po i le vaega tonu o lo o tutu mai ai i laua ua molia, ma fesiligia loa i o la igoa ma tausaga, lea na fa ailoa sa o ai e i laua ua molia i leoleo o la igoa ma tausaga. Na malilie alii ua molia e saili e leoleo o la tino ina ua talosaga i ai leoleo, ma amata loa le saili, lea na maua ai loa e leoleo ni sikaleti mariuana se 23 ua uma ona taai i le taga o le ofuvae a Rodriguez sa fai, ae ina ua sailia le tino o ikaele, e lei maua ai e leoleo ni fualaau faasaina. Ina ua fesiligia ia Rodriguez i le ofisa o leoleo, sa ia tautino ai lona fa atauina mai o ni sikaleti mariuana se 24 mai se alii e faigaluega i se kamupani i Faleniu i le tau e $200. Sa fa ailoa uma e Rodriguez i leoleo fa amatalaga uma e fa atatau i le ali i na ia fa atau mai ai sikaleti mariuana, ma le fa amoemoe e ula isi sikaleti ae fa atau atu isi sikaleti i isi tagata. Ae ina ua fesiligia ikaele, sa ia tautino ai fo i e masani ona ia faatauina mai sikaleti mariuana mai se alii ulu Rasta mai Ottoville i le tau e $150, ae o isi taimi e maua fua mai ai ana sikaleti mariuana. Sa faia se suega i sikaleti e 23 ma faamaonia ai, o vaega uma ia o le laau faasaina o le mariuana. E ta i $25,000 lea ua fa atulaga e le fa amasinoga e totogi ona fa atoa mafai lea ona tatala i laua i tua, e fa atalitali ai taualumaga o a la mataupu lea ua i luma nei o le fa amasinoga. Afai ae mafai ona tatala i laua, ua poloaina i laua e le fa amasinoga ina ia aua nei o la toe tagofia ni fualaau faasaina po o le ava malosi, ua fa asa fo i ona la toe solia se tulafono ao faagasolo ai taualumaga o le la mataupu.

2 Page 2 samoa news, Thursday, September 11, 2014 Amouli Beach Fales in three different sizes are now available for rent, for daytime activities or overnight stays. [photo: B. hen] Amouli Beach Fales now open for business by B. hen, Samoa News orrespondent A new business has opened up in the far eastern village of Amouli where white sandy beaches and the swaying of coconut tree leaves from the cool ocean breeze are an everyday sight. On Saturday, August 30, a small ceremony was held to officially open the Amouli Beach Fales a family owned and operated business that is the brainchild of local US Army recruiter SSG Lauie Laban-Ilalio, her husband Savelio Ilalio, and sisterin-law Levestine Nomani. For now, SSG Laban-Ilalio explained, they have available for rent three fales in different sizes for either daytime activities or overnight stays. Each fale, depending on size, is charged at a different rate. Electricity is available along with water, shower and restroom facilities. Wi-fi services will soon be offered. Saturday s grand opening ceremony included a small prayer service and blessing offered by Rev. Father Faitau Lemautu of the atholic Parish in Alao. Amouli Beach Fales, with its peaceful location and unspoiled beauty is the perfect place for family barbecues, birthday parties, church or office retreats, prayer meetings, or informal get-togethers. The surroundings are very clean, with beautiful white sand and clear blue ocean water that truly make it a dream come true for snorkelers and beach goers. The facilities are now open for business and the owners are planning family-oriented events (open to the public) to be held there for the remainder of the year. So if you re looking for a little piece of paradise, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, book a family outing or party today at Amouli Beach Fales. The spectacular view and experience promise to make a believer out of you. For more information, or to book your reservations, call by Joyetter Feagaimaali i-luamanu Samoa News Reporter DRUG DEFENDANTS HARGED Two men were arrested last week after more than 20 marijuana cigarettes were allegedly found on one of the men while they were in the parking lot of a local night club. Lorenzo Rodriguez, 20 and ikaele afoa, 19 are each held on bail of $25,000. Rodriguez is charged with unlawful possession of a controlled substance, marijuana with intent to distribute, which carries a jail term of not more than 20 years, a fine of not more than $20,000 or both, while afoa is charged with the unlawful possession of a controlled substance, marijuana which is punishable from five to 10 years, a fine up to $5,000 or both. According to the government s case, police officers were patrolling the parking lot of the Bowling Alley bar when they came across two men smoking what appeared to be cigarettes. The men looked as if they were juveniles. One of the officers approached the two men and smelled the odor of marijuana coming from the men. The men were asked to be searched and police found a pack of cigarette containing 23 joints on one of the men, which later tested positive for marijuana. The men were taken into police custody and escorted to the Tafuna Substation where they were interviewed separately. Rodriguez allegedly admitted to buying 24 marijuana joints from a man in Faleniu, and he also provided a description of the seller. He told police that he smoked one of the joints at the bar. Rodriguez also told the police he intended to smoke some of the cigarettes and sell the rest. afoa told police that he bought some cigarettes from a rasta-haired man from Tafuna for $150, but he also received some free marijuana joints. He admitted to smoking the marijuana joint in the parking lot with his co-defendant. The pair made their initial appearance in the District ourt yesterday morning, where they entered a plea of not guilty to the criminal charges. PROBATION REVOED, WOAN JAILED FOR 60 DAS Acting Associate Justice Elvis Pila Patea has sentenced a woman to jail for 60 days after being in court for the third time. This time, Dianne Panapa tried to unlawfully enter a home in Alao to try and see her friend. The incident occurred on Aug. 9, 2014 in Alao. According to the government s case, police received a call from a man that Panapa was trying to enter their house and that she was intoxicated. Police arrived at the scene and an officer approached her and apprehended her and placed her into the police unit. The police say they smelled the strong odor of alcohol coming from Panapa. ourt filings says the victim told police that Panapa tried to enter their house and when they stopped her she kicked the door, causing their daughter to wake up. Last week the defendant pleaded guilty to public peace disturbance, and Patea revoked her probation for two incidents that occurred in October and November last year, sentencing her to serve 60 days in jail. Amnesty bill passes Fono now to Gov ontinued from page 1 THE NUBERS By country, the amnesty bill states that there are 2,845 from Samoa; 457 from Tonga; Philippines have 446; Tuvalu 9; Fiji 101; hina 19; New Zealand 19; orea 12; Taiwan 6; Australia 8; hile 6; osta Rica 6; Germany 8; Indonesia 9, icronesia 6; Panama 7; Papua New Guinea 6; Peru 6; Portuguese 7; Romania 7; Singapore 6; Solomon Islands 8; Great Britain and Northern Ireland 6; Uruguay 6; Vanuatu 9 and 17 from Vietnam. During the hearing before the Senate Judiciary ommittee last month, Attorney General Talauega Eleasalo Ale said the immigration amnesty bill is the first step by the Lolo Administration towards immigration reform, as the governor s office will in the future submit appropriate legislation to fix any current immigration law loopholes which allow more foreigners to stay in the territory than necessary under the annual immigration quota. Talauega also says that the Immigration Office as a newly implemented policy no longer accepts deposits toward bonds for foreigners awaiting their paperwork to go through the Immigration board when the quota for the year is already closed. He said some of these individuals referred to in the bill are getting government services, but are not paying taxes. Additionally, there are others who are paying taxes especially those who are already on the Immigration Board queue but their status is not legal. Talauega says he is sure that there are also foreigners who didn t come forth to register during the amnesty registration campaign and that the proposed quota increase is only for fiscal year 2015 which begins Oct. 1, He also made clear that not all people who registered in the amnesty campaign and put their names on the list will be accepted. For example, individuals with criminal backgrounds are not accepted, he said, adding that American Samoa doesn t need these types of individuals. All those who registered will go thru the Immigration Board for the required board hearing and each individual must have the required sponsor, he said.

3 samoa news, Thursday, September 11, 2014 Page 3 Appellate ourt reverses lower court decision in Haleck land case Says Trial ourt exceeded lawful jurisdiction by Fili Sagapolutele Samoa News orrespondent The Appellate Division of the High ourt has reversed for lack of subject matter jurisdiction the lower court s ruling and set aside all injunctions issued against businessman Avamua Dave Haleck over the 26-acre lowland forest in Tafuna known as Naumati, which ASG has been trying for years to secure without success. The 17-page decision, issued Aug 26, was signed by associate justices Lyle L. Richmond and John Ward II, acting associate justice Elvis Pila Patea and associate judges Fa amausili P.F. Poumele and Satele A. Lili o. The local legal battle between ASG and Avamua is a long standing one over Naumati. ASG at one point offered to purchase the land, but never came up with the money. The land is also the subject of a Haleck family lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Interior pending in federal court in Washington D.. since Attempts to develop the land has been blocked by the ASG- Dept. of ommerce- American Samoa oastal anagement Program due to the acreage being identified as the last of the territory s remaining low land rainforest, and ASG wants to preserve it. LOAL APPELLATE DEISION In April 2008, ASG filed a complaint for a Permanent Injunction and monetary fines against Avamua in the Trial Division. The case was later transferred to the Land and Title Division, which subsequently granted ASG permanent injunctive relief against Haleck to enjoin all future development of the rainforest area. Avamua then filed a motion for a new trial or an amended judgement last year, but was denied. Thereafter he filed a notice of instant appeal. In its decision, the appellate judges first explained that the Trial Division is a court of general jurisdiction with the power to hear any matter not otherwise provided by statute. Under the American Samoa ostal anagement Act (ASA), that court has clear jurisdiction to hear and decide criminal actions filed by ASG charging civil infractions for violations of the ASA and related administrative rules, as well as civil actions for exemplary damages. Separately, that court may grant ASG equitable enforcement relief of stop orders in the form of an injunction consistent with the public policy objectives of ASA, the grounds for which could include an individual s consistent and continuous violation of a stop order. ASG may also demonstrate that an injunction would provide greater protection of the public s interest than a multitude of individual criminal prosecutions for each separate offense or even more serious immediate threats to the public welfare, safety and other environmental public policy objectives outlined in local statute. According to the judges, the Haleck case is not a land title case. At issue, they say, are the government regulated uses of real property, the authorized use of the Judicial Branch s equitable relief powers, and the legislatively imposed restrictions placed upon the Executive Branch s enforcement powers under the ASA. For the Haleck case, the appellate judges said ASG prematurely brought an action for injunctive relief without having first issued and served a stop order citing Haleck s violation or threat thereof of the ASA, the sanctions to be applied for any such violation and notice of the administrative procedures by which Haleck could contest and eventually appeal from, if aggrieved, the stop order. They also said that the exercise of the Judicial Branch s extraordinary equitable power to enjoin an individual s actions requires caution and restraint, and, when authorized by statute to be availed of by the government against an individual, be in strict compliance with statutorily imposed preconditions. The judges said, We hold that the trial court s assertion of jurisdiction and the exercise of equitable relief via a Temporary Restraining Order, Preliminary Injunction, and Permanent Injunction exceeded its lawful authority pursuant to the ASA. Accordingly, we vacate all Orders and dissolve all Injunctions issued by the Trial ourt and Reverse for lack of subject matter jurisdiction, the judges ordered. The appellate judges noted earlier in their decision, We decide this matter on the issue of jurisdiction, which we raise sua sponte, as a matter of law. We therefore neither reach nor (ontinued on page 8) LBJ Tropical edical enter Employment Opportunity August 18, 2014 HIEF EXEUTIVE OFFIER (EO) Position Title: hief Executive Officer Salary: ommensurate with Education and Work Experience Reports To: LBJT, ASA Board General Description: The hief Executive Officer directs and coordinates the general managerial responsibility of all functions of the Hospital, including the provision of medical care. The hief Executive Officer is responsible to ensure that all Hospital authority resources, people, programs and facilities coordinated and managed effectively. Primary Responsibilities: 1. Responsible for maintenance of viable quality of care controls to assure that the medical care offered by the Hospital meets acceptable local and required federal standards and that patient safety is given first priority. Assumes the lead role in formulation and recommendation statements of mission, goals and operating objectives of the hospital for adoption by the Governing Board Recommends hospital financial goals and objectives Presents organizational plan for management and medical staff Ensures and facilitates the development of the hospital capital and operating budgets Provides for the proper delegation of authority and responsibility throughout the Hospital Appoints all key management and medical administrative staff in accordance with hospital personnel policies and procedures Ensures that ASG and hospital authority policies and decisions are implemented Directs activities, provides leadership and coordinates the efforts of key managers concerning the planning, budgeting, control and evaluation of all hospital activities including the provision of medical care Ensures that facility and site provisions are adequate to allow implementation of long-range plans Represents the hospital authority s and American Samoa Government s interest in matters of negotiation for professional services Prepares recommendations for expansion and/or modification of facilities and acquisition of major equipment Acts as executive secretary to the Governing Board, ensuring that necessary information, reports, and secretarial services are available to support informed discussion and decision making on meeting agenda items. Evaluates the continuing effectiveness of organization, staffing plans and hospital operations Ensures the hospital meets its operating goals and objectives Assesses the hospital authority s financial position on an on-going basis and presents timely financial reports to the Governing Board Provides the Governing Board, and the Executive and Legislative Branches of ASG with timely reports and recommendations regarding on-going hospital authority activities and operations Represents the Hospital Authority in community activities and deals with other health agencies and groups wither directly or through delegation of authority and responsibility Qualifications: 1. ust have at least five (5) years experience in positions of increasing responsibility in the area o f hospital administration and management. The following additional experience and personal attributes provide preferred status for the applicant. experience working in a rural hospital environment with limited resources and access to medical services; experience working within a pacific island or other overseas culture; experience developing and/or working with a hospital authority; work history that includes the successful rehabilitation of hospitals in grave financial or operational jeopardy; demonstrated leadership and ability to rally subordinates in support of common objectives under difficult circumstances demonstrated ability to achieve success through teamwork amongst individuals of different race, culture, temperament and levels of expertise. 2. ust possess at least a aster s Degree in health planning, hospital administration, health care administration, public administration, public health administration, or business. APPLIATIONS ARE AVAILABLE FRO THE LBJ DEPARTENT OF HUAN RESOURES OFFIE. Deadline for filing applications & resumes is September 12, 2014 at 4:00 p.m.

4 Page 4 samoa news, Thursday, September 11, 2014 TOFR existence extended, renamed a mouthful by Fili Sagapolutele Samoa News orrespondent In an executive order, dated onday, Sept. 8, 2014, Gov. Lolo atalasi oliga extended the existence of the Territorial Office of Fiscal Reform (TOFR) and renamed it the Office of Disaster Assistance and Petroleum anagement (ODAP). Extending the existence of TOFR comes amid concerns by lawmakers, who threatened not to act on TOFR s budget for fiscal year 2015 until there was an official written document from the administration showing the legal existence of this office. It was learned during the current budget hearings that the executive order which last extended TOFR s existence expired in In his letter to the Fono, which included the new executive order, the governor said with regards to your request during the TOFR budget hearing that brought to light the necessary and overdue amendments outlined in the new executive order regarding TOFR. In the executive order s preamble, Lolo said responsibilities of TOFR have evolved significantly from its original focus on fiscal reform, general fund debt management, financial reviews and audits, along with administering the tobacco settlement loan. ost, if not all, of the initial objectives and functions of TOFR since its inception in the year 2000 have either been fulfilled or transferred to ASG Treasury Department. Further, TOFR s current functions and responsibilities include among other things, management of the American Samoa Disaster Recovery Office (ASDRO), administration of FEA grants, FAA airport improvement, and the remaining American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Therefore, Lolo says it s necessary and appropriate to extend the existence of this office, to change its name and update its functions, responsibilities, and authority to reflect its current duties and services to ASG and the people of American Samoa. He said TOFR is changed to ODAP, and any and all legal rights, property, entitlements and obligations previously held by and under the name TOFR shall be retained, accepted and honored by ODAP. Additionally all services and functions being provided by ODAP formerly TOFR will continue without interruption and all ASG departments and vendors, and private entities are asked to assist in making this transition as seamless and as smooth as possible. FUNTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES ASG FEA public assistance and hazard mitigation Assist ASG and the community in the recruitment, administration and implementation of FEA Public Assistance and Hazard itigation, FAA Airport improvement funds, American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and other special programs and projects. ASG Disaster Property Insurance Program administer and manage in cooperation with the ASG Property Insurance ommittee of Treasury, Procurement, ASTA, LBJ hospital and AS the solicitation and maintenance of qualified, cost-effective property insurance for insuring ASG fixed assets, structures and contents funded and required by FEA. Office of Petroleum anagement administer and manage, in cooperation with the American Samoa Petroleum ooperative, the ASG fuel storage and distribution facility including the Fuel Dock, Tank Farm in Gataivai and the Tafuna Airport fuel depot to ensure American Samoa maintains an adequate and reliable supply of uniformly high quality petroleum products at reasonable and competitive prices. BUDGET AND PERSONNEL According to the governor, ODAP shall maintain and retain its current fiscal year 2014 budget and F 2015 budget, including any and all accounts and personnel as established and submitted under TOFR. ODAP is to also remain as part of the Governor s Office and be managed by an executive director, who reports directly to the governor. Its current executive director is Alfonso Pete Galeai, who has been at the helm of TOFR since last year. ASTA budget hearing includes questions about former EO by Fili Sagapolutele Samoa News orrespondent Questions concerning what happened to the former chief executive officer of the American Samoa Teleommunications Authority as well as the ASTA board off island trips were some of the interesting issues raised during last week s ASTA budget hearing for fiscal year Board chairman Roy J.D. Hall Jr. and acting EO Alex Sene Jr. testified during the budget hearing, where lawmakers also raised questions about the proposed ASTA call center and five internet cafes, which Samoa News reported on last month. BOARD TRAVEL Among the many questions raised by Rep. Vui Florence Saulo concerned the board s travel expenses, and why there has been an increase in travel for the board, to which Hall responded that the board will attend certain conferences and events which relate to management or telecommunication development, not so much the technical side. Hall added, There are five events that the board members would attend, but we ve also taken the position that not all nine members would travel. We try to keep it down to six or seven to manage our travel budget. Vui s questions come amid allegations that some board members recently attended a meeting in the U.S. where those board members received large stipends. FORER EO Vui also inquired about the $50,000 that was paid to hief Toomata of Leone for an ASTA land lease agreement, and Hall responded that the board is reviewing the lease to determine actions... available to recover the funds. He said, But at this stage, no decision has been made. The money has been paid, should the money be used, it s going to be difficult to collect, and noted that the board needs to find out what avenues are available to ASTA to recover the funds. Sen. Laolagi F.S. Vaeao, co chair of the Fono Joint Budget ommittee sought additional details about this matter and Hall reply that it was a land settlement over ownership of property in Leone with chief Toomata... who claimed ownership of the property. Laolagi said this issue needs to be further probed by the Fono. Vui then questioned what she called the termination of the EO, oefaauo Bill Emmsley, saying that the House had asked Hall during a hearing earlier this year about his confidence in the former EO, and Hall had replied at the time that he had all the confidence in the EO. Hall replied that he remembered that hearing where you asked me that question and at the time it was in January this year I said I had a 100% confidence in our EO at that time. Since January until recently, my personal opinion has changed. Hall didn t elaborate and Vui didn t seek further comments on what had changed. Sen. agalei Logovi i asked if the lease agreement with hief Toomata was with ASTA or ASG. Hall replied that he was told that the lease with To omata was with ASG. agalei responded, But you paid out $50,000. Is that the reason you fired the [former] EO? Hall replied that the former EO has retained an attorney, and as such he was not able to discuss the matter at this time. OTHER ISSUES Also raised by lawmakers are increments for workers and the increase in personnel costs, despite the fact that there is a reduction of four people in the workforce for F 2015, compared to F Sene said that all employees are being paid their required increments and the increase in personnel costs in F 2015 is due to retraining of staff to meet the necessary skills. He noted that some of the current positions will be eliminated when the new Broadband Linking American Samoa Territory BLAST project is fully implemented. The plan is to train our people to be efficient. The technology we re about to approach is more high tech than anything else, Sene told the joint budget committee. As previously reported by Samoa News, based on the ASTA budget submission, the Authority plans to creating a 100-seat all enter thereby providing jobs and setting up five business centers or internet cafes territory-wide. Funds are earmarked on the F 2015 budget for transitional training, hardware and software development to fully implement the call center project and internet cafes. (See Samoa News story Aug. 4 for more details). Also questioned during the budget hearing is the status of the BLAST project, which Sene says is on target to be completed by June next year, followed by two months of audit by the federal government, which is providing $91 million in funding under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (or ARRA). The Fono has requested a report of the BLAST project, which is not part of ASTA s annual budget. As to when the BLAST project will reach the anu a island group, Sene says ASTA is looking at November this year for the contractor ichels Inc. to lay the cable line from Tutuila to anu a with the hope to have it completed by early next year. Sene was questioned several times by lawmakers on the status of the BLAST project and he maintained that it will be completed on time which is June next year, followed by auditing to be completed by September. It was also revealed in the hearing that activation of the BLAST project for some villages in the Bay Area is to happen sometime in the next couple of days. Sen. Galeai Tuufuli asked what will happen to the ASTA building in Fagatogo, and Hall replied that right now, the lease has expired and the High ourt has asked the Executive branch if they could have the building to build additional jury court rooms, for the High ourt. Osini Faleatasi Inc. reserves all rights. dba Samoa News publishes onday to Saturday, except for some local and federal holidays. Send correspondences to: OF, dba Samoa News, Box 909, Pago Pago, Am. Samoa Telephone at (684) Fax at (684) advertisements to ads@samoanews.com the newsroom at news@samoanews.com Normal business hours are on. thru Fri. 8am to 5pm. Permission to reproduce editorial and/or advertisements, in whole or in part, is required. Please address such requests to the Publisher at the address provided above.

5 samoa news, Thursday, September 11, 2014 Page 5 Newly crowned cdonald s iss Samoa says it s a dream come true Where it s at in 2 American Samoa Amouli Beach Fales Newly crowned cdonald s iss Samoa Latafale Auva a with her mother and sister. [photo: JL] by Joyetter Feagaimaali i-luamanu Samoa News Reporter It s a dream come true, we vied for iss Samoa New Zealand, for the opportunity to compete in the cdonald s iss Samoa this year, for a shot at the iss South Pacific title and it s two down and one more to go, said cdonald s iss Samoa Latafale Auva a, who is honored to have won the crown on onday (Samoa time). She s the daughter of Velocity and Auva a Auva a from Tiave a/saleaumua, Vailoa Faleata, and Satupaitea Si ufaga. The pageant was slated to be held in front of the government building Saturday night (Samoa time) but was postponed to onday evening, (Samoa time) with a change of venue it was held inside the E.F..S Hall at Sogi, Apia. The pageant s organizer is anaia Events headed by Leiataualesa Tai i Jerry Brunt, owner of Orator Hotel. aster and istress of eremony were Samoa Tourism Authority s arketing anager, Dwayne Bentley and former iss South Pacific and iss Samoa, Janine Tuivaiti. Entertainment was provided by indy of Samoa and the Taupou anaia dance group. The ten contestants were iss Polynesian Shipping Line, Josephine afoa; iss Thomsen s Bridal outure, Faalagilagi Vaifale Tuisalega Farani; iss Le Spa Lelalelei o Samoa, onica Giselle Sene Schwenke; iss oataga Enterprises, Tu utasio Aiga Jessica Taulaga; iss Samoa Australia, Tusipepa Sandra Lilomaiava; iss Veronica s, Tili Lafaele; iss Lavashe outure, onica Tuaimau Evans; iss Superidz Samoa Foundation, Fa ailoga Leagiagi Leota; iss y Tiara s Boutique, heyenne Faapaia aiava and iss Samoa New Zealand, Latafale Auva a. This year s pageant was sponsored by cdonald s, which was given the naming rights to the pageant. cdonald s Samoa is owned by Tautolo harlie Tautolo, who also owns the cdonald s American Samoa restaurants. Tautolo congratulated the newly crowned iss Samoa minutes after the pageant, saying she was well deserving of the honor. The new iss Samoa, who s the youngest of four siblings, said she was humbled with winning the title and will carry this title with humility and pride. s Auva a, who s currently a student at University of Otago, on the Faculty of Law s Prestigious 5-year Scholarship said it s unclear if she will place her education on hold, but she will sort it out, as her main focus is her reign and the upcoming iss South Pacific pageant to be held in December. She s currently studying for a double degree in Law and usic. She says the motto she lives by is Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through hrist who strengthens me and she believes in making the very best of opportunities presented in life. rs. Auva a told Samoa News that she s overjoyed with the results of the pageant and said that her daughter is so proud of her Samoan culture and roots and that she s so eager to be involved in the Samoan community; and now that she s won the crown she will be afforded the opportunity to remain in Samoa to serve during her reign. r. Auva a, who had to leave after the first pageant was postponed, told Samoa News over the phone that he s very proud of his daughter s achievements. She was crowned by former iss Samoa, Susana Fanueli. The following awards were handed out: * onica Schwenke won the Best Sarong * Afiogatutasioaiga Jessica Taulaga won for best puletasi * iss internet was awarded to Tusipepa Sandra Lilomaiava * heyenne aiava won iss Personality * Tili Lafaele was named iss Photogenic * Fa alagilagi Farani won Bluesky s People hoice Award and the National Tourism Award The Best Talent Award was awarded to Fa alagilagi Farani The fourth runner up is Fa alagilagi Farani, third runner up Tili Lafaele, second runner up Josephine afoa and first runner up is Afiogatutasioaiga Jessica Taulaga. The newly crowned iss Samoa received $5,800 cash, an iphone 5S, the use of a brand new Ford Fiesta with a one-year-lease, a full year Body and Hair are package, a roundtrip to New Zealand or Australia, and gift vouchers, wardrobe from ENA, Ulasina Samoa Gifts and hair pieces from Le Apia- Amy s gift shop, for a total value at WST $64,490 in prizes. The judges were: Agnes Loheni, one of the owners of ENA, a well renowned Pacific fashion clothing business; Angeli Fitch, an attorney by profession, who owns her own law firm in San Francisco and was the former iss Samoa; Isabel Hudson- a successful business woman in American Samoa, who also serves on the American Samoa hamber of ommerce Board; Rep. Larry Sanitoa, who is serving his third term as a local faipule and serves on the cdonald s board of directors; and, Shira atsuwaza, who is a journalist and one of the youngest members of NB4 News in LA. atsuwaza has also run for iss American Samoa in the past. ontact us for SPEIALS (684) or AmouliBeachFales@gmail.com Aitulagi Building 2nd Floor Fagatogo Square Fagaima RoadSuite 208B Ph: Ph: Fax: Fax: Business Hours are onday - Friday 10:00am - 4:00pm Located inside the Pago Plaza or heck out our daily lunch specials! Serving breakfast & lunch. ON THRU SAT 7:00am to 2pm Island Funeral Services in Nu uuli FOR ALL OUR FUNERAL NEEDS!!! 24 Hour Services LIA FESOASOANI QUI FINANIAL SOLUTIONS ALL US TODA!! (on Lion s Park Road) OPEN FOR LUNH & DINNER 9:00A-10:00P BAR OPEN UNTIL 12:00N SATURDA BREAFAST OPEN 7:00 A.. 10% US ILITAR DISOUNT 10% SENIOR ITIZEN DISOUNT AES, ATERING & RESERVATIONS, all TAE-OUT ORDERS, all Lean on Us in our Time of Need Office: Fax: Home: obile:

6 Page 6 samoa news, Thursday, September 11, 2014 THAN OU! AERIAN S AOA O tautai matapalapala ua iloa ogasami o penina tautele It is with profound humbleness that I offer my sincere fa afetai tele and fa amalo to the people of Tutuila, anu a, Aunu u and Olohega; and also the people of Samoa for their prayers and well-wishes for me during my time of illness. Like in every sickness, there is nothing more desirable and more welcoming and encouraging than the healing power of prayer. I was always uplifted and spiritually comforted because I felt your prayers and well-wishes all along, and they were always soothing and comforting in my moments of infirmity. I thank the various denominations and churches; servants of God and all the prayer groups; families, relatives, friends, individuals, and the countless of those whose kindness, love and faith I can never ever hope to repay. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart. I have recovered and am ready to serve the people of American Samoa again, God willing. And so it is with this renewed health and refreshing spirit that I humbly seek re-election as your representative in the United States ongress. I respectfully ask for your vote for me for the United States ongress the next two years in the November 4 Elections. Thank you and God bless, ENI F.H. FALEOAVAEGA, EBER OF ONGRESS This ad is paid for by the ommittee to Re-Elect Eni Faleomavaega for ongress

7 samoa news, Thursday, September 11, 2014 Page 7 FAAFETAI TELE AERIA S AOA O tautai matapalapala ua iloa ogasami o penina tautele Tulouna ia oe Samoa o le atunu u tofi, i le afua mai alaetele na ma ape ai tofiga, se ia pau mai i Agalega sa teu ai malo, ma valo ia ai le suluia o Samoa i ave o le Tala Lelei. O upu o le Tu itu i Fa atau a Samoa, o Samoa o le Ati-poia, o le Ati-pouniu, o le Ati-fasia. O Samoa ua so o ona ta iao, o le maota e malamalama. E lasi fo i vasa, ae ua iloga le tolotolo o fa amoemoega lelei. Pe o le a fo i le ninimo, ae ua maitaulia e le tautai matapalapala ogasami o penina tautele. Ta alolo la ia ou paia fa aleatunu u i To oto o Sisina ma le Au-fueloloa, o le latou fatu aiga tausi lena. Ae ou te mua i fa atulou atu i le paia o Lupesina o le Tala Lelei, le mamalu o le Aufaigaluega a le Atua, o lo o asuina le ipu vai o le ola, aua Samoa ma ona tagata. O a outou taulaga si i ma tapua iga i ao ma po, lea e fa aifo mai ai pea i lagi manuia o Samoa atoa i ona auga-tupulaga. Tulouna lava Ou te fa atulou atu Tutuila ma anu a, o oe o le ao mamala mai le fa asouga o ao ma le atu folasa. O ou pa ia ua fai ai oe ma papa e le gae e, a o o le oneone fo i e le utufia. O le paia lava lea ia Sua ma le Vaifanua, Fofo ma Aitulagi, Itu au ma Alataua, Sa ole ma le Launiu Saelua, fa apea afioga i a opu. E le vaea fo i fala o oto i le paia maualuga i le otu Sa, le La au na Amo tasi ia Samoa, le afifio o Fa atui ma le Fetalaiga i To oto o o le Fale ula. Tulou, tulouna lava. Ou te fa atulou atu i lau faigamalo Tutuila ma anu a, i le afio o lau afioga i le ovana Sili, lau Tofa Lolo atalasi oliga ma lou tausi le Tina ole Atunu u. Afio fo i le afioga i le ovana Lutena Lemanu Peleti auga ma lou faletua, o le ao-telega lava lea i le nofo i matagaluega ese ese ma ofisa o le faiga malo a Amerika Samoa. Tulouna lau afioga i le Peresitene o le aota aualuga ma le mamalu o afioga i Senatoa. Tulouna le Fofoga Fetalai ma Faipule o Sui Filifilia o Itumalo Palota i le aota o Sui, o pa ia lava ia o le Fono Faitulafono a Amerika Samoa. Tulouna fo i lau afioga i le Fa amasino Sili, le vasega o ali i Fa amasino ma le ofisa o Fa amasinoga. Tulouna lava. Ona ou tu ai lea i fatifatiga ma ou matamata i uluvao tetele, i le tapua iga mamalu i le usoga ia Tumua ma Pule -- i le afio o lau afioga le Ao o le alo o Samoa: Lau afioga Tupua Tamasese Efi ma lau asiofo; lau afioga i le Palemia; le mamalu i le Palemene ma le alo o Samoa, ma ona tagata nu u uma. O le paia lava lea i Aiga ma a latou Tama, o Tama ma o latou Aiga, Itu au ma Alataua, Aiga i le Tai ma le Va a o Fonoti. E ui ina ta vao ese ese ia ta faiga-upu-fai fa a-malo, ae o ta ua lava o le uso tu ofe. Tulou, tulouna lava. Tutuila ma anu a, Aunu u ma Olohega, ma Samoa atoa le mamalu i auauna paia a le Atua i so o se fata faitaulaga, tama ma tina matutua, tupulaga lalovaoa o le atunu u, ae maise o le au fai tatalo: Ua outou seu i le vateatea lupe o matagi, lea ua to a malie ai peau lagalaga. Ua mou atu fo i galu tau ma galu fesoua i, ona ua tali mai a outou tatalo fa atauanau i le Atua mo a u, a o apulupulusia i tofaga ma fala efu lo u nei tagata fa atauva a. Ua o o ifo i le ta ele o lo u agaga le mafanafana o lo outou alofa, i a outou talosaga mamana. O a outou tatalo na avea ma lamepa i le pogisa, i taimi na mu itiiti ai le fa amoemoe, i le luluti o le apulupulutia o le tino-ma i ma le sapo-tu-vale o le manava, tulou. A o ai ea lenei tagata noa ua e manatu mai pea lava i ai? Paga lea, ua le tasi ae ua atulasi lo outou agaga faitama fa apito mo a u. E le lilo lo outou alofa i sa u upu, e le lanu fo i lo outou agalelei i so u manatu, aua o a u lava ua na o se auauna vaivai ma le fa atauva a. E ui ina tata fa alau fesilia i, a o lea ua to a peau taulaga, ina ua lafo le malu, ona o le agalelei ma le alofa o le Atua, e ala i le mamana o a outou tatalo. Fa afetai, fa afetai, fa afetai tele. Ua le lava upu o le gagana e sula ai lou alofa ae maise o au talosaga mamana Tutuila ma anu a, Aunu u fo i ma Olohega. E fai fo i o lena, ae i le taimi a o o u tauavea le tofi o le atunu u i nei tausaga e tele. Talofa e, ua e taoto lava i le mageso o le ta ata a, ma e tofa i le gaoa ma le pefu o le ala, ona o lau fa aeaea i lo u nei tagata vaivai. Ae o le a ea se auala ou te toe taui atu ai lenei fa aaloalo faifai pea ua matua i maualuga? Tau ia ina ou fa apea atu ma le agaga maualalo lava: alo le tiu, malo le fili fetu una i, ua malie le pale; malo le fatu, ua malie le ula i lau teu fa atupu ma au fa aaloaloga fa atamali i. Tutuila ma anu a, Aunu u ma Olohega, afai lava sa i ai se mea na pona i lau silasila ma lau fa afofoga i le tele o nei tausaga o o u tauavea le tofi o le atunu u i Uosigitone, ou te tatalo ma le agaga maualalo, ia natia fa amanu-gase ma e fa amagalo mai se sese o le auauna. Ou te fa afetai i le afioga i le aluolefale o le Alataua, lau afioga Faiivae Iuli Alesana Godinet ma le faletua ia Ilaisa. Ua oulua sautia ma timu ia pea lava pea e ala i lo oulua agalelei ma la oulua lagolago mo a u i nei mau tausaga e tele. E momoli fo i la u fa afetai tele i nai o u aiga uma, o uo ma e masani, o pa aga ese ese ua le mafai ona ou tolaulauina i le taimi nei, fa afetai tele lava. Tutuila ma anu a, Aunu u ma Olohega: Ua lagona le toe fa afouina o le mafaufau, le agaga, fa apea le tino ona o le alofa o le Atua. Ona osofia ai lea o le manatu tumau pea ia te a u, e le mavae le fia tautua tuavae pea mo oe e ala i le tofi i Uosigitone mo le isi lua tausaga o lumana i, pe a tusa ai ma lou finagalo. E ui ina o le a ou toe tagi-sa fo i ia te oe, ae pau lea o le auala e mafai ai ona aoga lo u fa atauva a, e tali atu ai i lou agalelei ma lau fa aaloalo. O a ni aso o totoe o lo u nei ola, ta te fia aoga pea e asu vai ma molimoli lou finagalo i le Laumua i Uosigitone, aua se manuia o si o tatou atunu u, ae maise se lumana i manuia mo Amerika Samoa. I le mamalu o sui tauva uma mo le tofi o le atunu u i Uosigitone i lenei faiga palota, fa amalo le finau, fa afetai le agaga fia fai mea lelei aua Amerika Samoa ma lona lumana i. Ia tatou maua pea le fa atamali i a o tatou alo faiva i le fa amoemoe, ma ia manuia lava le palota. Lo u atunu u e, o la u tatalo i le Atua ia tumau pea Lona alofa ma Ana fa amanuiaga i totonu o ou pa, ia si omia ai ou maota ma ou laoa, ma ia lau usiusi pea le tamaoaiga o ou la o ai aua tupulaga fai a e i le lumana i. Sau se aso, a o se taimi lata mai ona tatou feiloa i lea i fanua i le finagalo alofa ma le agalelei o le Atua. Ia manuia lava le atunu u pele. Soifua ENI F.H. FALEOAVAEGA Totogia e le komiti mo le toe filifilia o Eni Faleomavaega mo le onekeresi

8 Page 8 samoa news, Thursday, September 11, 2014 EPLOENT OPPORTUNIT S amoa otors is looking for an AOUNTS PAABLE LER Responsibilities/duties Prepares and vouch invoices into the accounting system ompare vendor invoices and statements with balances due and investigate differences aintain and prepare reconciliations of local and off-island vendors Prepare and process local and off-island payments aintain vendor filings in a logic and orderly manner Other general accounting duties as directed by management from time to time Qualifications Diploma in Accounting and/or equivalent preferably with majors in financial accounting High School Diploma and an AA with majors in the business area (prefer) Skills At least 4yrs experience in office clerical work in particular reconciliation(s) preparation and balancing (essential and a must)) omputer literate and proficient n icrosoft Office Applicants must have a current driver s license and a clean record. Applications shall include clean copies of (incomplete applications will not be considered): academic scripts and results from former schools and institutions references from previous employers (must be current and no later than 30 days) Address and hand deliver all applications to: Samoa otors Inc Accounts Payable lerk PO Box 1120 Tafuna Industrial Park Pago Pago, AS losing date is Friday, September 12th, compiled by Samoa News staff FREE SPA AND NEUTER LINI TODA IN PAGO PAGO The DOA Veterinarian linic will be doing a FREE Spay & Neuter linic at the ageo guesthouse in Pago on Thursday, Sept. 11 today. The surgeries are free of charge and vaccinations will be given for a $10 fee. The vaccinations are against Leptospirosis and the Parvovirus the two major dog killers in the Territory. The clinic will be taking both dogs and cats males and females to be spayed and neutered, leading to fewer unwanted kittens and puppies roaming the streets and (in the case of dogs) fighting. The public is asked to please OFFIE OF THE GOVERNOR PAGO PAGO AERIAN SAOA PUBLI ANNOUNEENT The Veto Override Public Awareness ommittee will be holding the following meetings to help voters u nderstand the Veto Override onstitutional Amendment that will be voted on November 4, There will be an oppo rtunity for questions and answers about the Veto Override onstitutional Amendment. All voters of any age, gende r, and ethnic background, clergy, village matai and pulenuu, Fono Senator and Representative are welcome to attend. Thursday September 11, 2014, 6:30pm: Fagatogo JS Hall, for voters and residents of Fagatogo, Utulei, Gataivai, Fagaalu, Fatu ma Futi. Friday, September 12, 2014, 6pm: Nuuuli atholic hurch Hall, for voters and residents of Nuuuli, atuu and Faganeanea. onday, September 15, 2014, 6pm - Fagasa AS Hall, for voters and residents of Fagasa Tuesday, Sep tember 16, 20 14, 6pm: Aoloau AS Hall, for voters and residents of Aoloau, Aasu, and alaeloa - Aitulagi. Friday, September 19, 2014, 6pm: Vailoa AS Hall, for voters and residents of Vailoa, Taputimu, Futiga a nd alaeloa Ituau. FA AALIGA FA ALAUAITELE O le a faia se Talanoaga a le omiti Fa amatala o le Teuteuga o le Fa avae i le Fa aleaogaina o le V ito e fa amalamalama ai le Teuteuga o le Fa avae i le Fa aleaogaina o le Vito lea e palotaina ia Novema 4, E iai le avanoa mo Fesili ma Tali e fa atatau i le Teuteuga o le Fa avae i le Fa aleaogaina o le Vito. E valaaulia soo se tagata palota, tupulaga talavou, tina, tagata matutua, aufaigaluega a le Atua, matai ma pulenuu, Senatoa ma Faipule o le Fono Faitula fono: Aso Tofi, Setema 11, 2014, 6:30 i le afiafi: aota o le Galuega, EFIS Fagatogo, mo le au palota ma tagata e alaala i Fagatogo, Utulei, Gataivai, Fagaalu, Fatu ma Futi. Aso Faraile, Setema 12, 2014, 6 i le afiafi: aota o le Galuega, Ekalesia atoliko, Nuuuli, mo le au palota ma tagata e alaala i Nuuuli, atuu ma Faganeanea. Aso Gafua, Setema 15, 2014, 6 i le afiafi, aota o le Galuega, EFAS Fagasa mo le au palota ma tagat a e alaala i Fagasa Aso Lua, Setema 16, 2014, 6 i le afiafi: aota o le Galuega, EFAS Aoloau, mo le au palota ma tagata e alaala i Aoloau, Aasu, ma alaeloa - Aitulagi. Aso Faraile, Set ema 19, 2014, 6 i le afiafi: aota o le Galuega, EFAS Vailoa, mo le au palota ma tagata e alaala i Vailoa, Taputimu, Futiga, ma alaeloa Ituau. Approved by Veto Override onstitutional Amendment Public Awareness ommittee Fa ataga e le omiti Fa amatala o le Teuteuga o le Fa avae i le Fa aleaogaina o le Vito bring animals for surgery by 10a.m. to the guesthouse, and animals will be ready for pickup by 3p.m. The venue for next week s spay/neuter clinic will be in Leone, at Andra Samoa s house. DHS TRAINING FOUSES ON DISASTER DELARATION PROESS The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) coordinated a training session/ workshop earlier this week to discuss the subject of hurricane preparation as well as public assistance and the disaster declaration process, as the territory s hurricane season is looming (November through April). Officials representing the Federal Emergency anagement Agency (FEA), ark Armstrong and Terry Zuiderhoek, conducted the training, which focused on enhancing the partnership between FEA and the American Samoa Government. Representatives from local government agencies and departments including the Dept. of Public Works, the Fire Department, the American Samoa Telecommunications Authority, and the Dept. of Interior s local field office were present. The training included discussions on regional capabilities available from FEA, in addition to local and joint preliminary disaster assessments. A tabletop exercise for ASG department heads as well as Governor Lolo atalasi oliga will take place later this week. The exercise will feature a scenario of questions and actions that need to be carried out before a hurricane hits and immediately after, and how FEA plays a role in the process of coming in after the fact to provide assistance. FHS TO HOST URRIULU DA FOR PARENTS Parents of students attending anana Fou High School have the chance to find (ontinued on page 9) Haleck land ontinued from page 3 decide other issues raised on appeal from the trial court s opinion. ( Sua sponte is Latin for of one s own accord; voluntarily. Used to indicate that a court has taken notice of an issue on its own motion without prompting or suggestion from either party, according to ornell University website). One of the issues from the trial court is Haleck ownership of the Tafuna lowland forest. FEDERAL OURT The appellate court s decision was included as part of the joint summary status report of the local legal battle submitted last Friday to the federal court in Washington D.. The federal suit is stayed until the local case has been resolved but both sides are required to file a Joint Status Report regarding the local case. Attorneys for the Halecks and USDOI have since asked and the federal court granted their joint request to file no later than Oct. 6, a new status report and recommendation for further federal proceedings in this case. Avamua and his siblings filed the federal lawsuit two years ago.