Six stories US Army Reservist Toeseinu’upotopoto from Manu’a U. Ume, one of the three men who died High School during an electrocution accident that happened at the Manu’a’s Store site in the part of online Tafuna Industrial Park, on Jan. 14, 20017, Pacific Story tellers was buried with full military honors yes- Page 7 terday, in Futiga. He is the first of the three men that died from the incident to be interned. In a ceremony performed by an Honor First lady says Guard at Ume’s gravesite, the US flag that high profile draped Ume’s coffin was folded and pre- sented to his mother, Mrs. Masina Ume. could mean mil- [photo: Leua Aiono Frost] lions for brand Page 10 ONLINE @ SAMOANEWS.COM Pasia e le Fono Faitulafono ia

C M nisi tofiga a le

Y K Kovana DAILY CIRCULATION 7,000 Le Lali PAGO PAGO, AMERICAN SAMOA WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 08, 2017 $1.00 Math teacher gives Major changes at DPS credit to his students for by Joyetter Feagaimaali’i-Luamanu administration “holds the safety of the people Samoa News Reporter very seriously and the Commissioner is given he Department of Public Safety now the mandate to treat the lives of the people as EXPOSED photography has two deputy commissioners and being sacrosanct and everything must be done an advisor to the Commissioner, to protect them.” The governor’s memo is also By Leiloa Ese Malala at Samoana High School, he according to a memo, (obtained addressed to all DPS personnel. Samoa News staff writer would always find talented, by TSamoa News) dated Tuesday, February 7, The governor points out in his memo that “Here at EXPOSED, we are artistic students and would 2017, in which DPS Commissioner Le’i Sonny the DPS organization chart is being revised and a group of artists who believe work closely with them to Thompson has reassigned certain personnel, would be reviewed and acted upon later. “This, that every day holds beauty. encourage, motivate and inspire and the changes go into effect immediately. The however, serves to promulgate my approval Every moment should be cher- one another. He said some of memo is addressed to all DPS personnel. of the proposed personnel changes within the ished. Every talent should be these students had talents and In his memo, Le’i appoints Falana’ipupu Department of Public Safety.” EXPOSED,” says Ammon interest in photography, cre- Ta’ase Sagapolutele, as Deputy Commissioner He says, “Accountability and collaboration Fepuleai, a 30-year-old from ative media, singing, dancing, of Police Bureau Operations, Vaimaga Maiava reflect the operating mantra of the American Pago Pago, and a Math teacher sculpturing, modeling etc. is now the Deputy Commissioner of the Admin- Samoa Government for the next four years, at Samoana High School. He Fepulea’i said, “Every year istrative Support Bureau, while Police Chief and it behooves all of you, therefore, to work is talking about a highly suc- students would either inspire Vaaomala Sunia is now the Special Advisor to together in order to assure the accomplishment cessful social site he devel- me or I would inspire them. We the Commissioner. of our vision for the safety of our people, and our oped with the help of his SHS have many talented students GOVERNOR’S MEMO community.” students. who I enjoy working with and Le’i’s memo is backed by a memo issued POLICE COMMISSIONER’S MEMO “As much as I would love I have learned so much from.” by Gov. Lolo Matalasi Moliga on the same Le’i in his memo explains the new organiza- to take all the credit, but no In 2010, Fepuleai worked day, where the governor indicates “approval of tional chart for the department. if it wasn’t for my students I closely with some of the stu- Commissioner’s personnel order.” Lolo says the would not have Exposed Pho- dents in creating the SHS (Continued on page 4) tography,” Ammon told Samoa yearbook. One of his students, News. Gabby Fuaiaso, had a strong Fepuleai a graduate of the interest in photography, which University of Wyoming has Fepulea’i took notice of, and been teaching Mathematics started to combine their knowl- for about 7 years at Samoana edge to make that year’s year- High School. Fepuleai enjoys book highly successful. teaching to help his students Gabby, who now owns her reach their potential and goals own photography business told in life — especially students Samoa News, “I have learned a with artistic talents. Art has lot from Ammon, he really did always played a big part in his inspire me to do a lot.” life. Exposed Photography C M But, as with many other started in 2015 when Ammon Y K Samoan parents, Fepulea’i’s and a few of his students such parents encouraged him to as Gideon Leiato and Etenauga focus on Mathematics as a Voigt got together for the fun of career — more than the Arts it to do a photo shoot. — it pays the bills. Fepulea’i saw a lot of talent Fepulea’i agreed, believing in his students, so he decided to the Arts would not get him “expose” it on facebook. Their far in life — Exposed Photog- work went viral in the Samoan raphy has proved him wrong, community — locally and inspiring him to enhance his off-island — on social media students’ lives, as they do his. people shared the work and Fepulea’i still teaches at wanted to see more of it. Samoana High School, but He knew right then with during his spare time exposes technology being the biggest his work with other talented influence in our society today students and artists on social and despite not having a talent media. He encourages students outlet on island, he wanted to to try new things and if you expose his students using social love it to keep doing it. media. Explaining how the idea of The SHS teacher said, “At “Exposed” evolved, Fepulea’i school we even have students says each year while teaching Ammon Fepuleai, Math teacher at Samoana High School – during a photoshoot with some of his tal- (Continued on page 8) ented students who worked with him, and graduated — Class of 2016. [courtesy photo] Page 2 samoa news, Wednesday, February 08, 2017 VALENTINE’S

Feb 3rd – 13th

2 BURNER GAS COOKER with stand incl hose, regulator set WAS: $165.75 NOW: $132.00

Tafuna Industrial Park 699-9740 Nominee for Department of Marine and Wildlife Resources director, Va’amua Henry Ses- Newly confirmed Department of Parks and epasara during his Senate confirmation hearing Recreation director Tamaaiga Pili Gaoteote yesterday. The Senate while pending a motion during his Senate confirmation hearing yes- for reconsideration in the House, later confirmed DID YOU terday. [photo; FS] him. [photo: FS] KNOW? Classifieds Ads are posted on our website DMWR nominee passed by (www.samoanews.com) and read world wide. Senate, but House motion VALENTINE’S for reconsideration pending

Feb 3rd – 13th by Fili Sagapolutele new six-year Multilateral Treaty on Fisheries LPG-AMANA 30inch wide, Black Samoa News Correspondent was signed Dec. 2 last year in Nadi, Fiji between In separate, but unanimous votes of 16-0, the United States and 16 Pacific Island coun- (free delivery, installation, 1yr warranty) the Senate yesterday confirmed the nomination tries. American Tunaboat Association execu- of Va’amua Henry Sesepasara as Department tive director Brian Hallman told Samoa News WAS: of Marine and Wildlife Resource director and in December that the US purse seiner fleet can Tamaaiga Pili Gaoteote as director of Parks and choose the number of fishing days to purchase $600.00 Recreation Department. under the Treaty in which the US fleet pays NOW: The Fono with the House vote last Friday of $12,500 per fishing day. (See Samoa News edi- 15-3 now officially confirmed Tamaaiga. The tion Dec. 5 for details.) $545.00 Fono now has confirmed six cabinet members. Sen. Misaalefua J. Hudson inquired about the However, for Va’amua, his nomination was alia fishing fleet in Manu’a and what the govern- rejected last Friday in the House but survived in a ment is doing to help them. Va’amua said the Tafuna motion of reconsideration. No date for when the governor asked him last year to look at the alia House will re-vote on Va’amua’s nomination. fleet based in the island group and he also visited Industrial Park Prior to yesterday’s Senate vote, Va’amua, Manu’a. 699-9740 who had served as director for DMWR during And the governor was given a report, which the first Coleman Administration, and - Tama states that there are 12 alia boats on Ta’u Island aiga, who served in the department’s director- in need of repairs while there are about 5 on Ofu ship post in the last four years, went through and Olosega islands. He said the government is separate Senate confirmation hearings. looking at money ASG receives for its shares FAIRNESS DMWR DIRECTOR on fines imposed by the federal government on We make an issue Among the questions asked during Va’amua’s vessels fishing illegally in American Samoa’s confirmation before the Senate Communica- exclusive economic zone to fund repairs for of it every day. tions/ Fisheries/Marine & Wildlife Committee these alias. If you want to comment were those dealing with the local cannery and Va’amua also shared information about the about our fairness, call fishing industry, which Sen. Taua’a Saunoa new “super alia” catamaran, which can go out Lewis at 633-5599. Vaouli says has suffered many challenges in the further to fish and stay out longer compared to We’re here for you! 633-5599 past years. Taua’a wanted to know what type of the current alia fleet. He told senators that the assistance from ASG is needed to help sustain design of the “super alia” is completed and any FAIRNESS the canneries, the largest private employer in fishermen or owner with money to construct the territory and he is concerned with StarKist their own — the design is now ready. We make anVALENTINE’S issue Samoa taking the same action as previous ones Sen. Fai’ivae A. Godinet shared his con- of it every day. by closing down operations. cerns about fishermen selling their catch along If you want to comment Va’amua, who served in the last two years the main highway, especially when the fish is about our fairness, call as executive director of the Governor’s Fishery out in the open in the sun and rain. Va’amua Lewis at 633-5599. Feb 3rd – 13th Task Force, explained that many of the chal- acknowledged that this is a long standing con- lenges faced by the canneries are based on fed- cern, adding that the fishermen are not using the LPGas Instantaneous HOT WATER HEATER eral law and there is not much American Samoa new fish market at the Fagatogo Market Place, 5.5ltrs 10ltrs Rinnai can do. One example is the federally mandated because — fishermen claim — its located in the & minimum wage increases. back of the market place. WAS: WAS: He also says that there have been recent Now tables and ice are provided for fishermen $500.00 changes to help the fishing and cannery industry. to sell their catch on Saturdays under tents in the $350.00 For example, the South Pacific Tuna Treaty market place parking area, he said. NOW: NOW: giving the US fleet fishing on high seas more Some fishermen had told Samoa News late $361.00 fishing days. He explained that while foreign last year that the fish market is not easily acces- $237.00 vessels fishing on high seas have no limitation in sible to the public, based on its current location fishing days, this is not the case for the US fleet. at the market place, and it’s one of the reasons He says American Samoa has shared with the they don’t use the fish market, which was con- US State Department concerns of being “over structed with funding from the Western Pacific Tafuna regulated” when it comes to the US fleet fishing Regional Fishery Management Council. Industrial Park in this region. Va’amua also said that in past years, there (Including free delivery, installations) 699-9740 As previously reported by Samoa News, the (Continued on page 5) samoa news, Wednesday, February 08, 2017 Page 3 Western Association of Schools and Colleges reaffirms ASCC accreditation By James Kneubuhl, values and the work of accred- internal memo. ASCC Press Officer itation to ensure educational “We have faced many chal- In a correspondence dated quality and support student lenges these past few years February 3, Dr. Richard success. Accreditation and trying to understand and apply Winn, Interim President of the peer review are most effec- the WASC-ACCJC Standards. Accrediting Commission for tive when the College and the Not only have each of you Community and Junior Col- ACCJC work together to focus spent long late hours here at leges (ACCJC) of the Western on student outcomes and con- the College during our Show Association of Schools and tinuous quality improvement Cause and Warning sanctions, Colleges (WASC), wrote to in higher education.” each of you demonstrated the American Samoa Community ASCC President Dr. true essence of our ASCC College (ASCC) President Makaiwi-Pato credits the Core Values in achievement Dr. Rosevonne Makaiwi-Pato efforts of the faculty and of your divisional missions with an update on the institu- administrative staff for their and more importantly, our FAIRNESS tion’s accreditation status. longstanding efforts that College Mission. “The WASC-ACCJC, at its have resulted in the Col- On behalf of the Board of We make an issue meeting January 11-13, 2017, lege’s Accreditation being Higher Education, thank you of it every day. reviewed the Follow-Up reaffirmed. for all that you do and have If you want to comment Report and evidentiary mate- “I want to thank you all done for the College. Each of about our fairness, call rials submitted by ASCC,” for your endless commitment you is to be commended,” she Lewis at 633-5599. wrote Dr. Winn. to ASCC,” she wrote in an said. We’re here for you! 633-5599 “College leadership, including the chairman of the FAIRNESS Board of Higher Education and the College president cer- We make an issue tified the Report. of it every day. The purpose of the Com- If you want to comment mission’s review was to deter- about our fairness, call mine whether the College Lewis at 633-5599. resolved deficiencies noted during the spring 2015 com- prehensive review and meets Eligibility Requirements, Accreditation Standards and Commission policies (here- after referred to as Standards). “After considering the material noted above, the Commission acted to remove Warning and Reaffirm Accred- itation. The Commission finds that ASCC has resolved defi- ciencies and meets Standards 1.A.2, 1.B.3, and 1.B.6. The Commission notes that the College has also demonstrated compliance with all Eligibility Requirements and Accredita- tion Standards in its Follow- Up Warning Report. The College is commended for the dramatic progress it has made to collect and ana- lyze data. The Commission also acknowledges the large amount of work the College has accomplished to meet the remaining Standards and sus- tain compliance Standards. The next report due from ASCC is the Midterm Report, to be submitted in fall 2018.” After stating the require- ment that ASCC disseminate his letter among all signatories of the report, College faculty and staff, and the public, Dr. Winn praised the efforts of the College to meet the recent challenges pertaining to its accreditation. “On behalf of the Commission, I wish to express appreciation for the work that ASCC undertook to prepare the Follow-Up Report,” he wrote. “Thank you for sharing the Page 4 samoa news, Wednesday, February 08, 2017 Federal court okays Fletcher’s extradition to Tonga by Fili Sagapolutele sworn statements of three Samoa News Correspondent eyewitnesses who observed A federal judge in Hono- Fletcher assaulting his wife, lulu has ruled that an Amer- Patricia Linne Kearney. ican man, wanted in Tonga “These witnesses’ testi- for the murder of his wife, is mony established probable “extraditable for each offense cause that Fletcher assaulted for which extradition was his wife, either intending to requested” and has certified cause her death, or, intending the federal court’s findings to to cause her bodily injury the U.S. Secretary of State, which he knew was likely who makes the final decision to cause death,” Mansfield on extradition. explained. Dean Jay Fletcher escaped Mansfield’s decision pro- from the custody of Tonga vided specific details of state- police in late September of ments by three witnesses, last year and headed to Amer- and the autopsy report – also ican Samoa where he was received into evidence, which arrested on Oct. 3 and charged identified areas, noted by the with a misdemeanor count witnesses as where Kearney of entering the U.S. territory suffered trauma, which caused without proper authorization. her death. The District Court of “In sum, the evidence pro- American Samoa dismissed vided by Tonga and received Newly appointed Deputy Commissioner, Falana’ipupu Ta’ase Sagapolutele of the Police Bureau, the local charge on November into evidence establishes is one of two deputy commissioners now serving the Department of Public Safety, under the changes 22 and Fletcher was turned probable cause that Fletcher made by Police Commissioner Le’i Sonny Thompson. [Photo: JL] over to US Marshal Service committed the offenses of agents in Pago Pago. murder with intent, murder by He was then taken to recklessness, manslaughter, Honolulu where he was held and grievous bodily harm,” he ➧ without bail while the US gov- said. Major changes at DPS … ernment determined whether Court records shows that Continued from page 1 or not to extradite him back Mansfield’s certification “Our mission to protect and and complex to have only one people’s security in mind. We to Tonga, which requested the of extradition was sent last to serve the people of Amer- Deputy Commissioner — that will work collaboratively with extradition, through the U.S Thursday to the U.S State ican Samoa means very little has proven to be not working. Samoan Affairs, Homeland State Department. An extradi- Department with copies to the if any value at all if we do not “Having a Deputy Com- Security, and all other agencies tion hearing was held Jan. 10. U.S. Justice Department. work together as one organiza- missioner for Operation and who have a part in the security In his 16-page decision Honolulu-based Assistant tion. As such we have a new another for Administration and well being of our people,” issued last week Thursday, US Attorney Larry Butrick DPS organizational chart,” he Support is the best way to he said. U.S. Magistrate Judge Ken- didn’t immediately reply to a says. move DPS’s agenda forward. Samoa News also neth J. Mansfield noted that request for comments on the Responding to Samoa American Samoa’s popula- inquired into the selection of the only purpose of the extra- outcome of the case and also News questions regarding tion of more than 60K with a Falana’ipupu, as the second dition hearing is for the mag- a time frame for when the U.S the DPS changes, the newly per-capita of 500 plus people deputy commissioner, to which istrate judge to determine Secretary of State will make a appointed Police Commis- per one (1) police officer he replied, the decision was not whether the crime is extra- decision about Fletcher. sioner says, “Changes over doesn’t provide the necessary an easy one. ditable and whether there is Assistant Federal Public time have affected our way protection and service to our He said, “I have looked very probable cause to support the Defender Melinda Yamaga, of life, and presented us with people in time of need. carefully at every command- charge. who represented Fletcher, also ever challenging issues both “As I said earlier, the time er’s record of performance and According to the federal didn’t immediately respond judge, the government pro- to Samoa News’ request for economically and socially; we live in changes; so do am very proud of what each of vided for the court an extradi- comments. and civil unrest is created on the types of crimes and the them have accomplished. tion package, which included our island by our people, who methods which these crimes Anyone of them could’ve have learned and experienced are carried out. To combat been appointed; however, … outside of our safety zones them, DPS must have good Commander Falana’ipupu’s — ‘Our Family, Village and cops, smart cops, honest cops service and experience have an LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Community’. and most important, those edge over the others. He will Samoa News welcomes and encourages “We have experienced a who look at being a police as get the job done and fits the Letters to the Editor. Please send them to our great deal of domestic civil a calling; commitment and not DPS agenda moving forward. email [email protected] unrest that threatens the way just a job,” Le’i says. “Perhaps, the most impor- Box 909, Pago Pago, American Samoa 96799. we live, our customs and cul- Asked as to why the Chief tant issue is to bring the team Contact us by Telephone at (684) 633-5599 ture. The influx of drugs; social of Police has been removed, work mentality to DPS,” the Contact us by Fax at (684) 633-4864 instability in families, schools the Commissioner said that police commissioner said. or by Email at [email protected] and villages destroy peace and is not the case. “The Chief of Valedictorian of the 19th Normal business hours are Mon. thru Fri. 8am to 5pm. tranquility in our society. Police is not being removed Police Academy, Falana’ipupu Permission to reproduce editorial and/or advertisements, in And when good order and from his post. He is just being has spent most of his law whole or in part, is required. Please address such requests to the discipline is threatened and the reassigned to be the Special enforcement years with the Publisher at the address provided above. lives and safety of our people Advisor to the Commissioner.” Criminal Investigation Divi- are at stake; the security of our Le’i says, “The whole struc- sion (CID) which he was elected officials and those in ture of the Police Force Organi- overseeing until his new © OSINI FALEATASI INC. RESERVES ALL RIGHTS. leadership positions is com- zation will be changed to pro- appointment that was effective dba Samoa News is published Monday through Friday, promised, then DPS must and vide better service and protec- yesterday. except for some local and federal holidays. shall be prepared to defend, tion for the general public. We An educator by profession, Please send correspondences to: OF, dba Samoa News, Box protect and serve our people,” must be proactive; quick in our Falana’ipupu also served in the 909, Pago Pago, American Samoa 96799. Le’i says. response; have the best equip- military. During his years with Telephone at (684) 633-5599 • Fax at (684) 633-4864 (Samoa News should point ment we can buy and provide DPS, he also ran the opera- Email advertisements to [email protected] out that the DPS motto is to the best training we can get. tions for the Traffic Division Email the newsroom at [email protected] ‘Protect and Serve the General “We must also look at police for more than five years and Normal business hours are Mon. thru Fri. 8am to 5pm. Public’.) salaries. We are very fortunate then was reassigned back to Permission to reproduce editorial and/or advertisements, in The Police Commissioner that the Governor and Lt. Gov- CID, where he was promoted whole or in part, is required. Please address such requests to says the need for two deputy ernor have given their full sup- to Commander. the Publisher at the address provided above. commissioners is because port to me to make the right Please visit samoanews.com for weekend updates. “DPS’s mission is too big and the best decisions with our samoa news, Wednesday, February 08, 2017 Page 5 ➧ DMWR nominee passed … Continued from page 5 Vai’s Flowers-n-Gifts used to be fish exports out of posed budget includes money Located inside Sign Master next to Zeek’s Treats and Matai’s in Nuuuli American Samoa from local to improve parks but in the Be one of the first 100 customers and receive a fishermen to off island locations end it’s taken out by the ASG such as Hawai’i; and DMWR is Budget and Planning Office FREE VALENTINE BALLOON AND DELIVERY working with the Commerce before the final budget docu- Valentine favorites: Department to restart this ini- ment is sent to the Fono. tiative, said Va’amua who However, he noted that SiEDDIE’S SPECIAL Or say it with something sweet” also shared with senators that recently the A.P. Lutali Ele- #1 THREE TOP *Single Rose in Container or Small Clear Vase DMWR’s budget is 95% feder- mentary School requested play- 3 Roses, Baby’s Breath, ferns packed with with a candy treat & balloon: $15.00 ally funded. ground equipment and he used ti leaves, ribbon and touch of white flowers, * Single Rose with Teddy Bear - $20.00 Additionally, there are his own personal money of accesories & balloon - $35.00 *Double Rose in a small clear vase several new federally funded $1,000 to purchase volleyball VAI’S SWEETHEART with accessories, balloon & candy treat: $25.00 programs that are helping to equipment — balls and nets for #2 Four Top 3 Roses with Accessories - $30.00 also employ more staff for the the Aunu’u based school. 4 Roses, Baby’s Breath, ferns packed with department, which has a work- He informed lawmakers that We also have gift baskets, candy grams, teddy bears, ti leaves, ribbon & touch of white flowers, Balloon Bouquets, Variety of Balloons and other force of about 70 people. there are 11 public parks in the accesories & balloon - $40.00 PARKS & REC territory and he wants to add goodies for your sweetheart...... DIRECTOR new ones, but village leaders #3 Fou’s Specialty Get your money’s worth - from $5.00 Sen. Fano Shimasaki would need to meet and assign “Fancy First Red South American Roses” to $100.00 requested Tamaaiga, for the land for a park to be built in a arranged with Baby’s Breath & accessories Order now or come in and see us to avoid last minute government to protect Fagaalu specific village and then relay $50.00 Half Dozen $75.00 Dozen rush at 699-5073/733-9464/731-8363 Park from eroding further. He the information to his office, email: [email protected] said this park is faced with a which would then start the pro- #4 Ed’s Valentine Special major erosion issue. cess moving forward. “Fancy First Red South American Roses” set in a Happy Valentines Day! During the House confir- However, he asked law- med. clear vase with Baby’s Breath & accessories mation hearing, for Tamaaiga, makers to keep in mind that all $50.00 Half Dozen $90.00 Dozen Valentine’s Raffle Any purchase from now until Friday, Feb 1o, 2017 @ it was Rep. Vailoata Eteuati of these plans and new parks #5 Touch of Class Amituana’i who raised the depend on money to carry them Dozen of Roses set in a large clear vase with 12noon qualifies you to enter our RAFFLE Special Prizes: same issue saying that the out. Million Stars, Ferns, accesories & balloon. -$100.00 $100 Gift Certificates give away. park is used many times by the public, including for cricket tournaments. In the Senate, Tamaaiga said the government has sought funding from the US Fed- eral Emergency Management Agency to rebuild this facility as well as protect it from ero- sion. He said the FEMA funding request includes Utulei Beach Park renovations. Sen. Fonoti Tafa’ifa Aufata Thank You sought an explanation on the use of the Rotary Club’s com- munity swimming pool at Lions Park, to which Tamaaiga explained that one of its pur- FA’AFETAI TELE! poses is to teach people how to swim. From the sports side of things, Tamaaiga said he is also American Samoa’s Minister of Sports and the swimming pool is a great way to start preparing and training local athletes for swimming competition in both regional and international levels. Also raised in both the Senate and House hearings was whether the government is looking to add new parks in other villages. Tamaaiga said there are plans but it all depends on the availability of funds, adding that many people now want the same design and layout of the multi purpose Fagatogo Park, which includes a playground for children. Tamaaiga said a request would be made to the gov- ernor to use some funding from The children of Ilove’a T Willis would like to thank all of our family and friends for Capital Improvement Project funding to add new public all of their love and support during our mother’s funeral service. We couldn’t have parks in the territory. Manu’a lawmakers in both the Senate made it through this without you and your love and support mean the world to us. and House also requested a park for their island group. During the House hearing, Special thanks to the Fuga family, Tamaseu family, Andrews’s family, Willis family, which was held last Thursday afternoon, Tamaaiga said he has a long list of plans for Gebauer family, Adam and Chan Mow family and the many more that helped to improvements to parks in the territory but the lack of funding make our mother’s funeral a special day. prevents the department from implementing such plans. He says that every fiscal Faafetai tele lava. year, the department’s pro- Page 6 samoa news, Wednesday, February 08, 2017 House approves nominees for DHS,

Director nominees for the Department of Agriculture, Filifa’atali Mike Fuiava and Department DOA and PD of Homeland Security, Samana Semo Ve’ave’a who attended their House confirmation hearings by Joyetter principle, high value, integrity yesterday morning. [Photo: JL] Feagaimaali’i-Luamanu and man of honor, thanks for Samoa News Reporter returning to serve your people,” “There is a total of 2.28 mil- that needs to be addressed. was introduced in the House to The House passed three more were praises sung by Faime- lion records in the vault and if Samana said that another mandate the drug testing but it nominees yesterday — Samana alelei Anthony Allen during the anything happens to it, we will “delicate matter” he wants didn’t get through. She said that Semo Ve’ave’a for the Depart- confirmation hearing of Samana lose all those records, as there is to work on is that American it’s an expensive process but ment of Homeland Security, Semo Ve’ave’a yesterday no backup plan. I know it would Samoa has no terrorism plan it’s something that should be Filifaatali Mike Fuiava for the morning. be an expensive process, but and that is something that is a done. Department of Agriculture, During the hearing, Samana it has to be done, our records “must” to have on hand. Sam Ioka Ale Meleisea also and Douglas Fiaui for Public informed the lawmakers that need to be safe and secure,” Vice Speaker Fetu Fetui Jr put it to the nominee that there is Defender’s Office. All three there are “important” issues said Samana. who commended Samana for a federal program called 10:33 were confirmed in a unanimous that need to be addressed imme- He told the hearing that an exemplary resume and his where DHS can fund gear and vote of 18 ayes. diately, for example there is no another issue that he’s looking service in the military, then equipment for law enforcement DEPARTMENT OF HOME- back up to all of the records at is the increase of drugs urged him to be fair with his officers and that could be a LAND SECURITY stored in the Vital Statistics entering the territory and that’s employees and not to show any huge help to the Department of “A man of high standards, vault. a delicate and important issue nepotism among the staff. Public Safety, which is facing a Rep Puleleiite Li’amatua lot of issues, especially the lack Tufele was concerned if there of proper police gear. has been any major withdrawal Meleisea said that with the of funds given the new US pres- gear on hand, it could help ident on board, further noting alleviate the drug problems that the DHS budget is 85% when police officers are fully federally funded. equipped. He urged Samana Samana said there hasn’t to work together with the DPS been any communication Commissioner. between the local DHS office DEPARTMENT OF and US DHS, however he’s AGRICULTURE optimistic from reports he’s Rep. Atualevao Gafatasi seen in the news that Presi- Afavala urged Filifaatali Mike dent Donald Trump is in sup- Fuiava to find a way to have portive of funds allocated for the school lunch program trans- the department of homeland ferred back to under his watch. security. “Although it’s with the Faimealelei told the DHS farmers now, but some will employees who were in the benefit while others don’t get galley that their “new boss” is anything and it’s not fair, that’s the type of person who does why it should be with your not take any nonsense.” department,” he said. The lawmaker pointed out Faimealelei noted that there that when Samana was in charge was an “onion” farm project in of the JROTC, he oversaw the Manu’a and $300,000 was spent JROTC (Junior Reserve Officer on it, yet it wasn’t successful. Training Corps), and there was He urged Filifaatali to hire no evacuation plan in case of a someone from Manu’a to natural disaster and “he’s the oversee that type of project, if one who wrote the plan and car- they anticipate having another ried it out and that’s one of his one — but not hire off island many accomplishments that I contractors to come plant hold highly and he’s more than onions in Manu’a. qualified for this job.” Faimealelei also inquired Vailoata Eteuati Amituana’i if the department has on hand urged Samana to look at having a scanner that tests the quality a shortcut road on the moun- of the produce as to the amount tains from Utulei to Faga’alu in of chemical used on it, and case of a disaster; there is a sec- Filifaatali said no. The faipule ondary road that can be used. urged the nominee to get this Vui Florence Vaili Saulo type of equipment because “we asked the nominee if there are are feeding our children.” any federal grants available that He said, “The affect may not can be allocated for government kick in right away but your chil- employees to undergo random dren will suffer when they grow drug testing, as we need to have old and we have to do some- that on hand. thing about this very important She pointed that a measure issue.” samoa news, Wednesday, February 08, 2017 Page 7

Senior Policy Specialist for the Pacific Resources for Education and Learning (PREL) in Honolulu, HI Daniel Lin (center) is surrounded by five “storytellers” from Manu’a High School, who submitted stories and photographs as part of the Pacific Storytellers Cooperative last week.[photo: courtesy] Six stories from Manu’a High School part of online Pacific Storytellers by Blue Chen-Fruean back in 1972 when the Amer- generators, which provided the next day. “Most locals don’t see the Samoa News Correspondent ican Samoa Power Authority power for schools and indi- According to Scanlan, the change in our environment, but A group of young people brought the original power vidual homes. teacher said that once the gen- they know the benefits of this from the Manu’a Islands have plant to Ta’u. “This provided She interviewed a 61-year- erators were shut down, the project and what will become begun their journey of “sto- the entire island with power old teacher who said that the only light source they had was of it in the long run,” Scanlan rytelling”, documenting and from the burning of diesel fuel,” power generators never failed the moon. wrote. “For example, we don’t sharing their experiences and Scanlan wrote, adding that during school hours, although For the present time, Scanlan have to heavily depend on the thoughts about their homeland before ASPA built the power there was a 10p.m. curfew, noted that the whole island is M/V Sili to transport diesel to to the world, through a collabo- plant in Ta’u, each village sur- during the time all generators now powered entirely by the our island anymore. Instead of ration with Pacific Storytellers vived off from smaller power were shut down to save gas for sun. producing just electricity, the Cooperative, and mentoring by diesel power generators pro- Daniel Lin, a Senior Policy Spe- duce air pollution as well. This cialist for the Pacific Resources has been hurting our environ- for Education and Learning ment and also the health of our (PREL) in Honolulu, Hawai’i. people. With this solar project, Last week, Lin traveled to our air is clean and our environ- the Manu’a Islands where he ment is safe.” spent a week hosting a work- Nobody knows what the shop for high school students project holds for the future of there, training them on ways to Ta’u. “Personally, I am just properly use the written word, glad to be able to see this project video clips, and photographs come to life. We have taken the to tell ‘their story’ about life in biggest step to saving our sur- Manu’a. roundings and especially our After all was said and done, precious home we call Earth. a total of six stories, about six To be a part of this movement places, were completed and in taking the initiative to “Go all of them can be viewed Green” is the best feeling ever. I online at https://maptia.com/ can’t wait to see what’s in store manuastorytellers for the future of my people, my The site includes the text, environment and most of all, my a portrait of the author, and at island. What a time to be alive.” least one photo they took during DANIEL LIN’S REACTION the course of the project. “It should come as no sur- SELESITINA SCANLAN prise that Manu’a holds a spe- Today, the spotlight is on cial place in my heart. I first Selesitina Scanlan, whose ventured onto the shores of story is entitled: “Transforma- Faleasao village in 2009. At tion in Ta’u, Manu’a.” Scanlan that time, I was a naïve and focused on Ta’u leading the wide-eyed wanderer setting out way with solar energy power, to educate students who ended with the island now being 98% up teaching me just as much as energy efficient. I taught them. Needless to say, “As exciting as it is, it was my experience there changed not always this way,” the high me: it made me stronger, kinder, school student wrote. and more dedicated than ever to She reflected on the past, (Continued on page 16) Page 8 samoa news, Wednesday, February 08, 2017

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Exposed Photography Samoa, a part of Ammon Fepuleai’s work that went viral on social media and was shared by many — calling the photo “Samoan fairy”. [courtesy photo]

➧ Math teacher gives credit… Continued from page 8 who can sing, dance but were “On my Facebook page it is too shy to show it, so I would mostly about my students, so I also share it on social media constantly would share about and people noticed their talents. my students because they do I want them to not only share it need to be recognized even in school but also outside in the though people think it’s about big world.” me.” Some of these students who He said, “I get excited and Fepulea’i has worked closely happy when I see some of the with, and showcased their tal- great Polynesian communi- ents on social media, were also ties share our work, like Lani chosen to be part of ASTCA Wendt, Coconet TV etc. Peo- and Bluesky advertisements, ple’s responses keep me going performing and entertaining at and (they) want me to do more.” various occasions and events. (Continued on page 9)

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Ammon Fepuleai, from Pago Pago, a teacher at Samoana High School teaching his math class. During his spare time, he works with talented students and artists for Exposed Photography, which can be found on social sites such as You Tube and Face- book. [photo: Ese Malala] samoa news, Wednesday, February 08, 2017 Page 9

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Ammon Fepuleai, Math teacher of Samoana High School with one of his students, Gabby Fauiaso Class of 2010, working together for a wedding pho- toshoot late last year in Apia, Samoa. [photo courtesy]

work and posted on Facebook Students gravitate to him, talents in song and performance. me and we continue to work saying, “I love Ammon’s work wanting to be involved because Fepulea’i said, “My biggest together just like he/ she was ➧Math teacher... at Exposed Photography in it’s an interest, hobby or idea accomplishment as a teacher, still my student in high school”. Continued from page 8 American Samoa.” that sparks a desire to learn and is to see my students become BACKGROUND Dakota who is also a teacher apply! Ammon is definitely an successful because they have Exposed Photography does Lani Wendt Young, author at Samoana High told Samoa asset to Samoana High School learned one or two things from do photo shoots for a fee. How- of Telesa and a great role model News, “Ammon’s charisma and the community.” me. Some of these students ever, the fee schedule is not in the Samoan community also and fresh perspectives in any Samoana High School has went away to college, have posted on the social site, and featured Fepulea’i on her news academic or extracurricular opened a You Tube account come back and shared more of can only be found by contacting blog, Samoa Planet, about his setting is positively infectious. showing students sharing their their knowledge and ideas with Fepulea’i.

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24X24 $ $ per4.99 piece 8.99 PH: 699-3666 Page 10 samoa news, Wednesday, February 08, 2017 IMPORTANT NOTICE MHJ Development Corporation would like to sincerely apologize to All-Star Signs company for wrongfully affiliating their company name with All Star Property Management company. We would like to inform the public that All-Star Signs does not have an account with MHJ-DC and the correct name of business to be listed at our gas station(s) for “Accounts On Hold” has been changed from All-Star Signs to All Star Property Management. We do apologize for the inconvenience this may have caused. Ma le fa’aaloalo lava, MHJDC MANAGEMENT A supporter of Haiti’s President Jovenel Moise impersonates the new president, with a sign behind him that reads in Creole “Energy plus encouragement plus movement plus work” during Moise’s inauguration in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2017. Moise was sworn-in as president for the next five years after a bruising two-year election cycle, inheriting a struggling economy and a deeply divided society. (AP Photo/Dieu Nalio Chery) TRADESMAN WANTED! Refrigeration and Air- Conditioning Technician Jovenel Moise sworn in • For new Installations & Maintenance. • Excellent salary plus sales commissions. as Haiti’s new president • This is a great opportunity to join a PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti eign dignitaries from countries “He has to revive domestic winning team. (AP) — Jovenel Moise was including the U.S., Venezuela production, increase foreign sworn in Tuesday as Haiti’s and France. He smiled slightly and local investments, rebuild Apply with educational credentials and president for the next five years as the Senate leader slipped the moribund agricultural references to: after a bruising two-year elec- Haiti’s red and blue presidential sector, create a sense of national tion cycle, inheriting a chroni- sash over his left shoulder. solidarity, and generate a sorely cally struggling economy and a In his inaugural address lacking political stability,” he TRANSPAC deeply divided society. during the day of prayer and said, adding that all this will Industrial Park, TAFUNA The 48-year-old entrepre- platitudes, Moise gave a rough have to be achieved amid dimin- [email protected]. neur took the oath of office in outline of his government’s ishing international assistance. a Parliament chamber packed priorities and pledged to bring But Fatton suggested that with Haitian lawmakers and for- “real improvements” to the Moise might actually benefit economically strapped nation, from citizens’ low expectations particularly the long-neglected of political leaders following countryside. many years of broken promises He urged unity and prom- and failed policies. ised to strengthen institutions, “If he manages to deliver fight corruption and bring more a modicum of change he may investments and jobs to one of restore a sense of hope for the the least developed nations in future,” he said. the world. The Tuesday inauguration DEPARTMENT of COMMERCE “We can change Haiti if we was the concluding step in Hai- work together,” Moise said to ti’s return to constitutional rule Project Notification & Review System applause on the grounds of what a year after ex-President Michel used to be the national palace, Martelly left office without an which was one of many build- elected successor in place amid Legal Notice ings obliterated during a devas- waves of opposition protests tating earthquake that hit out- and a political stalemate sus- PNRS BOARD MEETING side the capital in January 2010. pending elections. A caretaker There’s little expectation government was quickly cre- February 15, 2017 among citizens that Moise’s ated to fill the void and pave the new government can overcome way for elections. Haiti’s deep problems of pov- While Moise won a Nov. 20 Notice is hereby given that the Department of Commerce/American Samoa Coastal Management Program has erty and economic malaise in election redo with a dominating received a Land Use Permit Application from the following individuals. the next five years, but he does 55 percent of the votes cast, his 1. S.D.A. Church c/o Ropati Ropeti ...... 17-4548 -L have a majority in Parliament critics suggest he did not gain Proposal for new construction of a church building with utilities - Alofau and some are hopeful the busi- a mandate as barely 20 percent nessman-turned-politician will of the electorate bothered to go 2. O & O Inc. c/o Osuk Ko ...... 17-4556 -LVB make steady advances. to the polls. The results with- Proposal to repair parking lot (ref. Lup#10-0949-L) - Nu’uuli “What we still really need stood challenges by three of his in this country are the basics: closest rivals. 3. Zou Zhuo Qin ...... 17-4551 -LVB working hospitals, better That election victory came Proposal for container storage - Nu’uuli schools and security. I think it more than a year after Moise 4. Carolena Masaniai ...... 17-4545 -LVB can be done,” said Maxime Can- topped an initial vote in 2015 Proposal for new commercial structure with utilities, road, walls and clearing - Auasi tave, owner of a car wash and that was eventually thrown out propane business in the Port-au- amid suspicions of fraud. 5. ASPA c/o Katrina Mariner ...... 17-4547 -L Prince district of Delmas 48. Senate leader Youri Federal Consistency Certification and well drilling - Islandwide Nearby, Charles Bichotte Latortue, who led the swearing- agreed but said he’d wait and in ceremony Tuesday and leads Persons interested in or affected by a proposed project, are invited to review the project file and provide see if Moise was sincere with a party allied with Moise’s comments based on environmental issues, by contacting Aokusotino Mao at 633-5155, at the Department of his various vows. “We’ve heard Tet Kale faction, told the new Commerce in Utulei during regular ASG working hours. Public comments must be received no later than 4:00 so many pledges from our president that lawmakers were p.m. on Tuesday, February 14, 2017. Interested individuals are also invited to attend a Public Hearing at 9:00 presidents but here we are, still “ready to cooperate with you a.m. Wednesday, February 15, 2017 at DOC Conference Room, on the 2nd Floor of the Executive Office struggling,” said the houseplant for the benefit of the country.” Building in Utulei. vendor. A businessman from O lo’o iai i le Ofisa o Fa’afetauaina ni talosaga mo Pemita e Fa’atagaina ai le Fa’aaogaina o Fanua ma Laueleele Robert Fatton, a Haitian-born northern Haiti, Moise had politics professor at the Univer- never run for office until he e tusa ma ala o le Tulafono. A iai se tasi e fa’asea pe fia tusia se molimau i ni afaina o le si’osi’omaga pe a sity of Virginia, described the was hand-picked in 2015 to be galueaina nei galuega, telefoni mai ia Aokusotino Mao i le 633-5155. E mafai fo’i ona e auai i le fono a le Komiti many challenges facing Moise the Tet Kale party candidate by Fa’afoe ia Fepuari 15, 2017, ile itula e 9 ile taeao. as “herculean.” Martelly. samoa news, Wednesday, February 08, 2017 Page 11 Dozens plead guilty, but doctor goes to trial in Origin Energy American Samoa Inc $200M fraud Did you know?

Origin stands by its five S’s (Safety, Standard, Supply, Service & Solutions). Bernard Greenspan arrives at Martin Luther King, Jr., Fed- Origin supplies “Premium” LPG Butane (not mixed LPG). eral Court for a hearing, Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2017, in Newark, N.J. One of the advantages of Butane is its improved fuel efficiency. If the same volume of Butane and Greenspan is charged with crimes including violating federal anti-kickback laws in a case in which more than 40 people have Propane are burnt, Butane will provide about 12% more energy. In other words you cook faster, use already pleaded guilty in a $200 million health care fraud scheme less gas, and save money. run by a New Jersey blood testing lab. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez) Black pots and pans are caused by incomplete combustion not by your gas being Butane or Propane. Incomplete combustion is the improper mix of air & gas. This is why it is very important to have your NEWARK, N.J. (AP) — Details of a long-running health care appliance set up by a trained and certified gas fitter. kickback scheme that allegedly featured prostitutes, cash-stuffed envelopes and private jet junkets began to unfold in federal court Origin has trained certified fitters that can help provide service and support for your gas appliance Tuesday as a 79-year-old physician went on trial. needs. Dr. Bernard Greenspan isn’t alleged to have engaged in any Origin cylinders can only be filled by Origin, and not by other gas suppliers. of the seamier activities surrounding now-defunct Biodiagnostic Laboratory Services, but prosecutors painted him as eager to Origin tanks (23#, 33# and 115#) hold more gas compared to other gas tanks (20#, 30# and 100#). accept about $200,000 in bribes from the company over several You can exchange your (gray) empty Origin tank for another Origin full tank (same size) at any of years in exchange for sending his patients’ blood samples there. our dealers nearest you. The bribes came in the form of inflated rental payments for the You have the right to refuse any swapping or switching of your Origin tank(s) by any dealer. If you company to use space in Greenspan’s office, bogus consulting fees and even a job at the lab for Greenspan’s alleged mistress, Assis- have swapped and wish to return to using Origin gray tanks you can contact our office for assistance tant U.S. Attorney Danielle Alfonzo Walsman told jurors. at 699-9740 or 644-2170. “Blood is not a commodity doctors can sell,” Walsman said. Stay original, stay with Origin!!! Greenspan’s attorney Damian Conforti painted a contrasting picture of a venerated community member who has practiced medicine for 50 years and who did nothing illegal — even cooper- ating with investigators four years before BLS was charged. BLS allegedly made $3 million from its arrangement with Greenspan, who is charged with conspiracy, violating federal anti- kickback laws and honest services fraud. The counts carry a com- bined maximum penalty of decades in prison. More than 40 people, including more than two dozen doctors in New York and New Jersey, have pleaded guilty over the last four years; Greenspan is the first defendant to go to trial. The charges stemmed from an investigation into Parsippany- based BLS, a previously nondescript New Jersey company that had experienced a large spike in revenues between 2006 and 2013. The firm made $200 million between 2006 and 2013, with more than $100 million as a result of the bribery scheme, authori- ties said when charges were announced in 2013. U.S. Attorney Paul Fishman estimated Medicare was defrauded out of tens of millions of dollars during that time. David Nicoll, the company president and a former pharma- ceutical salesman; his brother, Scott, who previously sold concert tickets for a living; and Craig Nordman, David Nicoll’s cousin, are among those who have pleaded guilty. David Nicoll, who is expected to testify against Greenspan, faces up to 25 years in prison. Authorities said he used company profits on a $300,000 Ferrari, $392,000 on tickets to sporting events and $154,000 at a strip club and restaurant. While some doctors frolicked with prostitutes or received $50,000 monthly cash payments stuffed in envelopes, Conforti told jurors, Greenspan’s dealings were legitimate. “It’s not illegal for a doctor to be paid rent,” Conforti said, adding that Greenspan wanted patients to have the convenience of being able to give blood samples in his office to a BLS phleboto- mist. He said Greenspan even kept the phlebotomist on after the company stopped paying him rent. David Nicoll, meanwhile, saw Greenspan as an easy target and “sold him on the legality” of the arrangement, Conforti said. Page 12 samoa news, Wednesday, February 08, 2017

US Army Reservist Toeseinu’upotopoto U. Ume, one of the three men, who died from an electrocution accident that happened at the Manu’a’s Store site in the Tafuna Industrial Park, on Jan. 14, 20017, was buried with full military honors yesterday, in Futiga. He is the first of the three men that died from the incident to be interned. Ume’s Honor Guard is seen here marching to his gravesite to perform final full military honors for their fallen comrade, yesterday, in Futiga. [photo: Leua Aiono Frost] Seattle to cut ties with Wells Fargo over oil pipeline SEATTLE (AP) — The stream from the pipeline’s people. financing the construction of the stand ready to support Seattle Seattle City Council on Tuesday crossing, fears a leak would “You have been a city setting oil pipeline as well as on indi- with its financial services needs voted to cut ties with banking pollute the tribe’s drinking the example to the world and I viduals to pull their money out in the future,” said Tim Brown, giant Wells Fargo over its role water. The tribe has led pro- look to you to do that now,” of those banks. Wells Fargo Middle Market as a lender to the Dakota Access tests that drew hundreds and at Olivia One Feather, a member Wells Fargo has said it is one Banking regional manager. pipeline project as well as other times thousands of people who of the Standing Rock Sioux of 17 involved in financing the Wells Fargo manages more business practices. dubbed themselves “water pro- tribe, told the council. “When pipeline and that it is obligated than $3 billion of Seattle’s oper- The crowd erupted in cheers tectors” to an encampment near big cities such as this do the by carry out its credit agree- ating account, processing every- and chanted “water is life” when the crossing. right thing, it sparks hope in the ment. The bank is providing thing from payroll and vendor the council unanimously passed Tribal members urged the world.” $120 million of the $2.5 billion. payments to revenues collected the measure, which directs offi- Seattle council to send a broader Environmental activists “While we are disappointed from city business taxes to city cials to end the city’s contract message to oppose the pipe- across the country have called that the city has decided to end fines. with the San Francisco-based line and stand with indigenous on a number of banks to stop our 18-year relationship, we The legislation passed bank once it expires in 2018 and Tuesday calls out Wells Fargo not to make new investments in for a number of enforcement Wells Fargo securities for three orders issued against it in years. recent years. Regulators fined “The example that we have Wells Fargo $185 million after set today can become a beacon employees opened millions of of hope” for activists across the customer accounts fraudulently country, said Councilmember to meet sales goals. Kshama Sawant, who co-spon- In the wake of that scandal, sored the legislation. $90 California and Illinois $80 2016 Toyota Corolla Seattle’s measure comes on Daily Rate 2013 Hyundai Sonata Daily Rate announced they would suspend the same day that the Army told Automatic (Red Car) Automatic (White Car) some business relationships Congress that it will allow the with the bank. Also in response, $3.8 billion Dakota Access oil Seattle city officials last October pipeline to cross under a Mis- ended negotiations with Wells souri River reservoir in North Fargo over a $100-million bond Dakota, completing the disputed deal for the city’s electric utility. four-state project. The stretch Some who spoke Tuesday is the final big chunk of work *NEW* $90 urged the council to look for a $120 Daily 2015 Kia Sedona Daily Rate 2010 Toyota Tundra on the 1,200-mile pipeline that Automatic Automatic (White Truck) nonprofit bank, credit union or would carry North Dakota oil other financial institution that through the Dakotas and Iowa O&O INC. CAR RENTAL Contact Information: Jiin Jang aligns with the city’s social to a shipping point in Illinois. (258-4563) or Tafa Leaupepe values when it seeks to replace The Standing Rock Sioux, PO Box 3897, Pago Pago, AS 96799 Office: 699-4484 • Fax: 699-2307 Wells Fargo. Located in Nu’uuli (O&O Inc. Wholesale) Email: [email protected] whose reservation is just down- samoa news, Wednesday, February 08, 2017 Page 13

TEL: 633-4266 OR 699-1267 • FAX: 633-2964 OR 699-1263 Employment Opportunity HEALTH & SAFETY ADVISOR Only those who can demonstrate all of the below will be considered: Role Responsibilities: • Increase visible leadership of the company’s Health & Safety culture and practices • Lead the development of Health & Safety risk registers and management plans for each of our projects • Assist Project Management Teams to assess the Health & Safety competency requirements relevant to individual projects. • Develop company-wide Health & Safety procedures as part of continuous improvement Here’s what you’ll need: • 7+ years experience in a Health & Safety advisory/management role • Extensive knowledge of legislative requirements and the ability to translate these into clear procedures US Army Reservist Toeseinu’upotopoto U. Ume, one of the three men, who died from an electro- • Demonstrated ability to coach and influence staff at all levels cution accident that happened at the Manu’a’s Store site in the Tafuna Industrial Park, on Jan. 14, 20017, was buried with full military honors yesterday, in Futiga. He is the first of the three men that • Clear and concise communication skills (written and verbal) died from the incident to be interned. If you are interested in applying, please deliver your CV (Resume) to During the funeral service, Congresswoman Amata’s condolences were read out loud as part of McConnell Dowell office by 4:00pm by Wednesday, February 15th. the “molimau” honoring Ume’s life. [photo: Leua Aiono Frost] McConnell Dowell is an Equal opportunity employer. Judges hammer AUTO NATION attorneys on both sides NU’UULI: (684) 699-7168 FAGATOGO: (684) 633-2239 FAX: (684) 699-7175 2 Ton Jack $99.00 Boombotix Speaker (Bluetooth) of travel ban case $50.00 SAN FRANCISCO (AP) gion. The two states are suing to Clifton said he understood — President Donald Trump’s invalidate the ban. if the government argued that travel ban faced its toughest “I have trouble under- statements by Trump and his test yet Tuesday as a panel of standing why we’re supposed advisers should not be given appeals court judges hammered to infer religious animus when much weight, but he said they away at the administration’s in fact the vast majority of Mus- are potentially evidence in the Battery $109.00 $119.00 claim that the ban was moti- lims would not be affected.” case. vated by terrorism fears while Only 15 percent of the Friedland also asked whether also directing pointed questions world’s Muslims are affected, the government has any evi- to an attorney challenging the the judge said, citing his own dence connecting the seven executive order on grounds that calculations. He added that the nations to terrorism. Ball Joint it unconstitutionally targeted “concern for terrorism from Flentje told the judges that $40 + Up Muslims. those connected to radical the case was moving fast and The contentious hearing Islamic sects is hard to deny.” the government had not yet before three judges on the San Noah Purcell, Washington included evidence to support Francisco-based 9th Circuit state’s solicitor general, cited the ban. Flentje cited a number Court of Appeals focused nar- public statements by Trump of Somalis in the U.S. who, he rowly on whether a restraining calling for a ban on the entry said, had been connected to the order issued by a lower court of Muslims to the U.S. He said al-Shabab terrorist group. should remain in effect while a the states did not have to show The ban has upended travel challenge to the ban proceeds. every Muslim is harmed, only to the U.S. for more than a week But the judges also jumped that the ban was motivated by and tested the new administra- into the larger constitutional religious discrimination. tion’s use of executive power. questions surrounding Trump’s Clifton also went after the Whatever the court eventu- order, which temporarily sus- government’s attorney, asking ally decides, either side could pended the nation’s refugee whether he denied statements ask the Supreme Court to program and immigration from by Trump and former New York intervene. seven mostly Muslim coun- City Mayor Rudolph Giuliani, The government asked tries that have raised terrorism who said recently that Trump the appeals court to restore concerns. asked him to create a plan for a Trump’s order, saying that the The hearing was conducted Muslim ban. Judge Michelle T. president alone has the power to by phone — an unusual step — Friedland, who was appointed decide who can enter or stay in and broadcast live on cable net- by President Barack Obama, the United States. Several states works, newspaper websites and asked why the case should not insist that it is unconstitutional. various social media outlets. It move forward to determine Flentje offered the 9th Cir- attracted a huge audience, with what motivated the ban. cuit a third option, saying the more than 130,000 alone tuned “We’re not saying the case court could exempt from the in to the court’s YouTube site to shouldn’t proceed, but we are ban people who have previously hear audio. saying that it is extraordinary been admitted to the U.S., but A decision by the 9th Circuit for a court to enjoin the presi- keep it in place for people who was likely to come later this dent’s national security decision have never been to the country. week, court spokesman David based on some newspaper arti- The judges repeatedly ques- Madden said. cles,” said August Flentje, who tioned Flentje on why the states Judge Richard Clifton, a argued the case for the Justice should not be able to sue on George W. Bush nominee, Department. behalf of their residents or on asked an attorney representing Under questioning from behalf of their universities, Washington state and Minne- Clifton, Flentje did not dispute which have complained about sota what evidence he had that that Trump and Giuliani made students and faculty getting the ban was motivated by reli- the statements. stranded overseas. Page 14 samoa news, Wednesday, February 08, 2017 Trump’s list of underreported terror doesn’t back up claim WASHINGTON (AP) — A compiled and included several White House list of what it calls typos — ranges from several underreported terrorist attacks dozen dead to one or two people did not support President Donald injured. Trump’s claim that the media It has some notable omissions. are downplaying a “genocide” It did not include any attacks by carried out by the Islamic State Boko Haram, an Islamist insur- People with the Women’s March on Washington standing at the Ellipse of the White House can be group. But it did shine new light gent group operating in West seen from a motorcade carrying President Donald Trump as he arrives back at the White House, in on the difficulty in defining Africa that is responsible for far Washington, Saturday, Jan. 21, 2017. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik) the scope, source and motives more deaths than the Islamic in San Bernardino, California, in of a police officer in Philadelphia radical Islamic terrorist has just behind the violence carried out State. The group, which has 2015 in which 14 people were were also reported. attacked in Louvre Museum in the name of radical Islam. pledged allegiance to the Islamic killed and 21 injured, and the “The notion that terrorism in Paris. Tourists were locked A close review of the 78 State, has led an uprising that has June 2016 nightclub shooting in is an under-covered subject is down. France on edge again. attacks listed by the White House killed more than 20,000 people Orlando, Florida, which left 49 preposterous,” said David H. GET SMART U.S.” shows almost all the attacks were and left 2.6 million homeless dead, the biggest mass shooting Schanzer, director of Duke Uni- All of the attacks cited on reported by the news media and this decade in Nigeria and neigh- in the nation’s history. Both of versity’s Triangle Center on Ter- the list in Europe were widely that many were widely covered boring countries. those attacks received blanket rorism and Homeland Security. reported both by international by local and international out- It also pays little heed to the news coverage for days, and “It’s highly over-covered com- and local media — some in real lets. The review, carried out scores of terror acts that have all of the attacks in the U.S. pared to the amount of violence time. A 2015 attack at a Paris by Associated Press reporters plagued nations like Syria and received at least some attention that we face in society.” supermarket was covered live on four continents, found that Iraq that are close to the Islamic by the American media. Citing a study his department as it was happening. When the more than half of the attacks, State’s caliphate and under near- A 2015 attack in Garland, recently published, Schanzer attacker, Amedy Coulibaly, including most of those in the daily siege. Texas, took place outside a venue said, “one out of every 2,000 pledged allegiance to the Islamic Middle East, were linked to the The list itself was created hosting a provocative contest for homicides since 9/11 have been State group, it was urgently Islamic State group, as the White to bolster the case for Trump’s Prophet Muhammad cartoons. linked to al-Qaida or ISIS-inspi- reported by The Associated House suggested. Others were executive order restricting According to trial testimony, the ration or control.” Press and others. ruled IS-inspired, but carried immigration from seven suspect, Elton Simpson, was an CANADA Links between the attackers out by lone wolf attackers. But Muslim-majority countries and American Muslim who became Two October 2014 attacks in and terror groups were also in some cases, the motive was suspending the U.S. refugee the subject of a criminal inves- Canada — one in Quebec and reported, although at times that unclear, and investigations as program. But that ban would tigation in 2006 because of his one in Ottawa — received media did not happen until they were to possible extremist links were not have prevented any of the association “with an individual coverage in Canada, where unearthed by investigators days inconclusive. terrorist attacks on the list that whom the FBI believed was attacks of this nature are rare. In later. The examples range from occurred in the United States. attempting to set up a terrorist Quebec, soldier Patrice Vincent In London, a 2015 knife knife-wielding assailants in Here’s a closer look at some cell in Arizona.” He was never was killed in an apparent act of attack by a man shouting “this Texas to hostage-takers in Aus- of the attacks on the list: found to have links to the Islamic homegrown terrorism. The sus- is for Syria” at an underground tralia to the gunman who killed UNITED STATES State group or any other estab- pect was known to police and rail station made headlines in at least 129 people across Paris The inclusion of some of lished radical groups. had his passport seized to stop newspapers around the world. in 2015. The magnitude of the the attacks in the United States Non-fatal knife attacks on him from traveling to Syria. It Police said they treated it as a attacks on the document circu- defies credulity. police officers in Boston and was never determined whether terrorist incident, although a lated by the White House — Among those on the White New York, a knife attack at a the suspect had any ties to link was never drawn between which appeared to be hastily House’s list are a deadly rampage Minnesota mall and the shooting Islamic militant groups, though the attacker and any particular former Canadian Prime Min- group. ister Stephen Harper described A 2014 attack on a police sta- the suspect as an “ISIL-inspired tion by a Muslim convert in Joue- terrorist,” referring to the Islamic les-Tours, France, was reported State group by an acronym. by The Associated Press at the In the Canadian capital, one time and followed up with his soldier was killed at a war memo- brother’s arrest in Burundi. AP rial and two were wounded did not report on any links to the in shootings at the Parliament Islamic State group, although building. British media later said he posted Meanwhile, in Quebec last a black Islamic State flag on his week, a gunman who reportedly Facebook page. held anti-immigrant views killed MIDDLE EAST AND six men at a local mosque in an NORTH AFRICA incident described by Canada’s The Muslim world is the Prime Minister Justin Trudeau front line in the battle against the as a “terrorist attack.” Trump has Islamic State group, and civil- yet to personally comment on ians across the region have not the attacks, although the White been spared the group’s deadly House did offer assistance to campaign. Trudeau. That attack wasn’t A number of attacks cited on listed. the White House list occurred in EUROPE Egypt. A 2015 attack on a camp Across Europe, attacks are used by a multinational peace- increasingly being attributed keeping force was reported by to the flow of refugees across several news outlets, as was the the continent — and it’s hard Islamic State group claim. Other to find a single attack, large or attacks occurred in Cairo in small, that didn’t generate global 2015, including one that resulted coverage. in the kidnapping and beheading Trump himself used a non- of a Croatian national, and a car fatal knife attack outside the bomb at the Italian Consulate Louvre in Paris last week to that left one dead. Both were underscore his efforts to ban claimed by the Islamic State migrants from entering the U.S., group and reported worldwide. writing on Twitter, “A new (Continued on page 15) samoa news, Wednesday, February 08, 2017 Page 15 First lady says high profile could mean millions for brand WASHINGTON (AP) — jewelry, cosmetics, hair care brand, according to business First lady Melania Trump has and fragrance, among others, documents. said little about what she intends the suit says. The first lady As of Tuesday, she was to do with her prominent posi- is seeking compensatory and listed in New York filings as tion. But in new court docu- punitive damages of at least the CEO of Melania Marks ments, her lawyers say that the $150 million. Accessories Member Corp, the “multi-year term” during which Richard Painter, who advised holding company of Melania she “is one of the most photo- former President George W. Marks Accessories LLC, both graphed women in the world” Bush on ethics, said the lan- of which remain active. Those could mean millions of dollars guage in the lawsuit shows companies managed between for her personal brand. Melania Trump is engaging “in $15,000 and $50,000 in royal- While the new documents an unprecedented, clear breach ties from her accessories lines, don’t specifically mention her of rules about using her govern- the Trumps’ May 2016 financial term as first lady, the unusual ment position for private gain. disclosure filing shows. statement about her expected This is a very serious situa- A third company, Melania income drew swift condemna- tion where she says she intends LLC, was also still active, tion from ethics watchdogs as to make a lot of money. That though the Trumps had listed inappropriate profiteering from ought to be repudiated by the it as having less than $1,000 her high-profile position, which White House or investigated by in value and producing less is typically centered on public Congress.” than $200. Two other of Mrs. FILE - In this Jan. 20, 2017, file photo, first lady Melania service. Painter is part of a group of Trump’s companies tied to skin- Trump leaves the President’s Room of the Senate on Capitol Hill The statement came Monday attorneys suing the president for care products were shut down in Washington after President Donald Trump signed his first leg- in a libel lawsuit the first lady an alleged violation of a con- last week, according to business islation. First lady Melania Trump expected to develop “multi- re-filed in a state trial court in stitutional clause that prohibits filings in Delaware. Both were million dollar business relationships” tied to her presence in the Manhattan. Mrs. Trump has presidents from receiving for- listed in the May 2016 financial White House, according to a lawsuit she filed. And she has yet been suing the corporation that eign gifts or payments. disclosure as having little to no to step away from the companies that manage royalties from her publishes the Daily Mail’s web- In response to questions value or income. name-branded products, business documents show. site over a now-retracted report from The Associated Press, (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, Pool) that claimed she once worked as Charles Harder, Mrs. Trump’s an escort. In the filing Monday, attorney, said “the first lady has Mrs. Trump’s lawyers argued no intention of using her posi- that the report was not only false tion for profit and will not do so. AMERICAN SAMOA and libelous, but also damaged It is not a possibility. Any state- her ability to profit off her high ments to the contrary are being COMMUNITY COLLEGE profile and affected her business misinterpreted.” opportunities. Harder did not respond to a Mrs. Trump “had the unique, follow-up question about what once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, the lawsuit means by “once-in- as an extremely famous and a-lifetime opportunity.” well-known person, as well as To Painter and others, there INVITATION FOR BIDS a former professional model, is no ambiguity. brand spokesperson and suc- “She’s not talking about the IFB No. ASCC# 002-2017 Due Date and Time: February 24, 2017 cessful businesswoman, to future,” Painter said. “She’s Date of Issuance: January 30, 2017 No Later than 2:00p.m. Local Time launch a broad-based commer- talking about earning money cial brand in multiple product now.” The American Samoa Community College (ASCC) and funded under Title III College categories, each of which could Scott Amey, general counsel Accelerated Preparatory Program (CAPP) issues an Invitation for Bids (IFB) from qualified have garnered multi-million of the Washington watchdog and licensed firms to provide the following: dollar business relationships for Project on Government Over- a multi-year term during which sight, said it is “another example “COMPUTER DESKTOPS, LAPTOPS, PRINTERS, COPIERS, PROJECTORS, plaintiff is one of the most pho- of the first family blurring the tographed women in the world,” line between public service and & OTHER MISCELLANEOUS MATERIALS FOR ASCC” the lawsuit said. private business interests.” SUBMISSION: The products could have Melania Trump has not included apparel, accessories, stepped away from her Original and five copies of the Invitation for Bids must be submitted in a sealed envelope marked: ASCC IFB#002-2017 Computer Desktops, Laptops & Other Instructional ➧ & Miscellaneous for ASCC.” Bids are to be sent to the following address and will be Trump’s list of … received no later than 2:00p.m. Local Time, Friday, February 24, 2017. Continued from page 15 Additional attacks in Saudi influence across the globe. ASCC Procurement Office Arabia, Jordan, Tunisia and Monis himself was never Mapusaga Campus, Turkey were also reported by determined to have had contact Pago Pago, American Samoa 96799 various news outlets, citing with the group. officials who linked the attacks An incident shortly before Attn: Jessie Su’esu’e, Procurement Officer to the Islamic State group — a that in Melbourne also made Any bids received after the aforementioned date and time will not be accepted under any common claim by governments headlines when Numan Haider across the Middle East, even was shot dead by police in con- circumstances. Late submissions will not be opened and will be determined as being when dealing with lone wolf nection with the stabbing of two non-responsive. attackers. police officers. Photographs on The White House list did Haider’s Facebook site included DOCUMENTS: not include any attacks in Iraq, images of what appeared to be The IFB complete package detailing requirements is available at the ASCC Procurement Syria or Yemen, where civil- members of the Islamic State ians are targeted almost daily group. Office, Mapusaga Campus during normal working hours and may also be obtained by by militant attacks. Many of Lemire reported from New emailing [email protected] those attacks are covered by the York. Geir Moulson in Berlin; media, despite the often-perilous Jan Olsen in Copenhagen; Jill RIGHT OF REJECTION: conditions involved in reporting Lawless in London; Vladimir The American Samoa Community College (ASCC) reserves the right to reject any and/or those stories. Isachenkov in Moscow; Domi- all bids and to waive any irregularities and/or informalities in the submitted bid proposals AUSTRALIA nique Soguel in Basel, Switzer- Included on Trump’s list is land; Adam Schreck in Dubai, that are not in the best interest of the college or the public. a standoff at a Sydney choco- United Arab Emirates; Rob latier in 2014. The incident drew Gillies in Toronto; Lori Hin- round-the-clock coverage by the nant in Paris; Andrew Mel- Approved for Issuance by; world’s news outlets. A request drum in Johannesburg, South Dr. Rosevonne Makaiwi Pato by attacker Man Haron Monis Africa; Rahim Faiez in Kabul, President, American Samoa Community College (ASCC) for an Islamic State group flag Afghanistan; and Leon Keith in during the faceoff fueled anxiety Bangkok, Thailand, contributed about the group’s expanding to this report. Page 16 samoa news, Wednesday, February 08, 2017 ➧ Six stories from Manu’a … Continued from page 7

serve our island communities. Some may see this as a problem This most recent storytelling that shackles our younger gen- project – The Pacific Story- erations, but I choose to see it tellers Cooperative – has been as an opportunity – a chance to my favorite initiative thus far.” bring our storytelling traditions The project, according to into a new age of connection Lin, draws upon two basic and creativity.” premises: Lin explained, “This “Firstly, it acknowledges blending of traditional craft that storytelling has always and modern technology per- been part of the DNA of Pacific fectly reflected in last week’s Island communities. Story- Manu’a Storytellers workshop, telling is how we connect to sponsored by PREL. For an our past, present, and future. It entire week, I worked closely is heard in the quiet whispers with five young high school of our ancestors and the joyful storytellers to help share their laughter of our children. But island’s perspective on the simply, stories remind us of new solar energy power plant who we are and who we strive on Ta’u. Their published work to be.” is a reflection of the collec- C M “The second major premise tive voice of their community Y K of this project is a recogni- as well as a testament to their tion that we are in a digital age capacity for using everyday where technological capacity devices – phones, tablets, and and connectivity are both at computers – as powerful tools US Army Reservist Toeseinu’upotopoto U. Ume, one of the three men, who died from an electrocution an all-time high. This is espe- for telling stories. I couldn’t be accident that happened at the Manu’a’s Store site in the Tafuna Industrial Park, on Jan. 14, 20017, was cially true for the youth of our prouder of this young bunch buried with full military honors yesterday, in Futiga. He is the first of the three men that died from the islands. Give a young person and I challenge people of all incident to be interned. any device and they seem to ages in American Samoa to do Ume’s mother, Mrs. Masina Ume, was overcome with grief after the Honor Guard presented her with master it without any trouble. the same.” the folded US flag that had draped her son’s coffin during the burial ceremony. [photo: Leua Aiono Frost] It’s been almost 8 years since Lin first ventured out to these islands and he says he’s “blessed to be able to continue Buy This: Get This serving American Samoa after FREE: all this time. I owe so much of my own personal growth to the people of Manu’atele and BUY ONE I hope this project can serve as the beginning of a much 6” bigger movement of digital sto- BO rytelling for all of our young GET ONE people. I would also like to give O a special “fa’afetai” to Samoa G News, ASPA, Manu’a High School Faculty and Staff, and (of course) the amazing people NOW!!! of Manu’a.” SALEMon., February 6 through PACIFIC STORYTELLERS Sat., February 18 BO COOPERATIVE Last year, PREL launched SORRY O the Pacific Storytellers Coop- BUYG ONE GET ONE erative, an Internet platform OUT OF STOCK for place-based stories from all Pacific Islands to be shared with FREE a global audience. The multimedia effort embraces the rich Pacific sto- rytelling heritage and brings it into the Internet age. Lin serves as the director of the program. He explained that the project stock up & SAVE!!! seeks to find the nexus between oral traditions of our island communities and present-day Microfiber Living Room Set: modalities of communication, especially among youth of the C M great buy! Pacific. Y K “Storytelling is a very embedded part of Pacific culture Blu-ray DVD player and Indigenous cultures gener- Choose 1 ally. We want to encourage the younger generations to take up the mantle of telling stories and to take advantage of greater They all levels of connectivity and improved technical capacity— RECLINE! which exists even in remote places.” The Cooperative accepts BO submissions in all forms from buy 1 get 10% OFF Indigenous Pacific Islanders O and residents, including written BUYG ONE GET ONE buy 2 get 15% OFF stories, photos, videos, and buy 3 get 20% OFF poetry. 50% OFF If anyone wishes to con- tribute stories to PREL’s Pacific Storytelling Cooperative (www. storytellers.prel.org), please 699-9770 / Monday - Friday 8:00 to 5:00, Saturday 7:30 to 2:00 / Like us on contact Lin at [email protected].