Nine contestants vied for the crown in the 2017 Miss Pacifi c Islands Pageant, with Miss American (center) winning on Saturday, December 09, 2017 in Nadi, , ‘in the place where happi- ness fi nds you’. [photo: Samoa Events Incorporated (SEI)]

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C M Y K

PAGO PAGO, MONDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2017 DAILY CIRCULATION 7,000 $1.00 American Samoa wins 2017 Miss Pacifi c Islands Pageant ENDING A 15-YEAR DROUGHT, SHE IS THE 6TH HOLDER OF THE MPIP TITLE FOR THE TERRITORY

Saturday, December 9, 2017 — American Samoa ended their 15-year drought in the Miss Pacifi c Islands Pageant by winning the crown in Nadi, Fiji on Saturday night. Miss American Samoa, Matauaina Gwendolyn To’omalatai won the crown for the territory in a nailing biting competition. In the special awards, Miss Toomalatai claimed the Best Traditional Wear, Miss Photogenic and Miss Tourism Awards. The 24-year old was offi cially announced the winner Saturday night, and was crowned by the outgoing Miss Pacifi c Islands, Anne Dunn in front of a packed stadium at Prince Charles Park in Nadi, Fiji. American Samoa last won the title 15 years ago, when Lupe Ane Kenape Aumavae was crowned in the in 2002. This is the sixth time the title has travelled to American Samoa. In receiving the title, the new Miss Pacifi c Islands was overwhelmed with emo- tion and could not hold back tears as she acknowledged everyone, including her father who recently passed away. “To my dad, I wish you were here,” said the new Miss Pacifi c Islands with tears of joy. “To my families and friends, to my team and especially to my country, thank you all so much.” “Thank you American Samoa, I’m truly so blessed to represent such a country. ”Faafetai tele lava, vinaka vakalevu.” Miss To’omalatai was born in Onenoa, American Samoa, and was studying nursing at the University of at Kapi’olani Community College before she entered the Pageant, with her goal of becoming a registered nurse specializing in treatment and care of diabetes patients and brings to this year’s reign an awareness on diabetes.

(Continued on page 7) AG disables time clock at main

C M Y K immigration and airport offi ces by Fili Sagapolutele down work times of airport staff and they “must Samoa News Correspondent turn the time in on a weekly basis, directly to the Attorney General Talauega Eleasalo Ale has AG’s Offi ce.” “disabled until further notice” the time clocks for The new time clock policy has prompted criti- the main Immigration Offi ce at the EOB in Utulei cism within the Immigration Offi ce, especially at and the airport, and this is effective immediately, the airport. Some Immigration employees have according to the AG’s Nov. 7th memo. taken their complaints to their lawmakers. “This is an extreme measure to combat the However, Talauega has defended his action continuous disregard for the ASG overtime poli- and pointed to Gov. Lolo Matalasi Moliga’s Oct. cies and the [Department of] Legal Affairs poli- 2, 2017 executive order, which fully enforces the cies on attendance and overtime,” Talauega said, Executive Branch’s regulations on overtime and adding that except for airport staff, immigration compensatory time. offi cers “must” clock in and out using the time The governor requires that all directors fully clock at the AG’s Offi ce. comply with the latest policy. He stressed that work hours are from 7:30am. According to Lolo, it’s the “general policy” of to 4p.m. and employees “cannot clock in” before the government not to incur overtime. start time, and clock out after the end of work And if overtime is unavoidable, the director time — “without prior written approval.” “must seek permission” from the governor or the Miss American Samoa, Matauaina Gwendolyn To’omalatai won the Miss Pacifi c According to the AG, immigration airport lieutenant governor, before it happens. Islands crown for the territory last Saturday, Dec. 9, 2017 in Nadi, Fiji ending a staff supervisors will be responsible for writing (See Samoa News Oct. 11th edition for details) 15-year drought. [photo: Samoa Events Incorporated (SEI)] Page 2 samoa news, Monday, December 11, 2017 day the defendant was arrested. In The High Court To prove the charge of of American Samoa unlawful possession with intent FAMILY, DRUG AND ALCOHOL to distribute, Pengelly not only COURT DIVISIONS Stowers not a drug referred to Sepulona Jr.’s tes- FDA/JR No. 39-17 timony, again, but he also IN RE: A CHILD reminded the jurors of Court Marshall Michael Nix’s tes- NOTICE/FA’AALIGA timony that he saw too many TO: Mr. Paulo (unknown last name) dealer, says jury people and vehicles visiting the Pago Pagot Village Pago Pago, American Samoa 96799 defendant’s home regularly. HOWEVER IS GUILTY OF POSSESSION Pengelly said the defense NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN to the above- name respondent that a petition has been filed will argue that these people before the High Court of American Samoa to by Ausage Fausia that the government’s duty is Another element the govern- were there to fi ll out employ- terminate your parental rights in a female child born on April 22, 2017, at LBJ Tropical Medical Samoa News Reporter to present all the evidence to ment was trying to prove was ment forms but according to Center, Fagaalu, American Samoa. A hearing A six-member jury deliv- prove its case, while their job that the defendant possessed will be held after two months and ten days from Nix, the vehicles included taxis the date of the first publication of this notice, ered its verdict in the trial of is to weigh all the evidence and methamphetamine, and he did and government cars. in which the Court may enter an order that you have not acquired any parental rights to the Falaniko Stowers a.k.a. ‘Nicole’ return with a guilty verdict on it knowingly. Pengelly told the “Your duty is to weigh all minor child and place the child for adoption. last week. both counts. jury that when Paselio and Vao- the evidence of the case before If you have any objection, or wish to claim or assert your parental rights, you must appear Stowers, who is identifi ed For the charge of unlawful fanua stopped the defendant on you decide on your verdict. within two months and ten days from the first as a fa’afafi ne (transgender) in possession of methamphet- said date, they both saw Stowers Remember, the defendant was publication of this notice and file an objection or a claim with the Court. court documents, was found amine, Pengelly told jurors that reach in to his rear pocket and caught by police with meth- O LE FA’AALIGA E TUUINA ATU ia te oe, le ua guilty of unlawful possession of two police offi cers, Det. Johnny remove something. amphetamine in his hand, ta’ua i luga, ua iai se talosaga ua failaina i le Fa’amasinoga Maualuga o Amerika Samoa e crystal methamphetamine, but Paselio and Det. Savelio Vao- When Paselio asked the and Sepulona said he was the iloilo ai ou aia fa’a-matua i se teineitiiti sa fanau not guilty of unlawful posses- fanua truthfully testifi ed that defendant what he was holding o ia i le aso 22 o Aperila, 2017, i le Falemai i defendant’s regular customer. Fagaalu, Amerika Samoa. O lenei iloiloga e sion with intent to distribute. they stopped the defendant on in his hand, the defendant said, I ask you to fi nd the defendant faia pe a tuana’i le lua masina ma aso e sefulu mai le aso o le ulula’i faasalalauga o lenei He didn’t react much when Nov. 28, 2016 near the DPS “You know what it is”. guilty of both counts,” Pengelly faaaliga, ma e ono tuuina atu ai se poloa’iga a the verdict was read. central station in Fagatogo and Paselio asked the defen- concluded. le Fa’amasinoga e faailoa ai ua leai ni ou aia fa’a-matua i lenei teneititi. Afai ete tete’e, pe e Sentencing is set for Feb. 2, found 6 cut-up straws in his dant again what it was, and the When it was his turn, defense te finagalo e faamaonia ou aia faa-matua, ia e 2018. possession. defendant replied, “It’s ice.” attorney Douglas Fiaui told failaina se talosaga tete’e i le Fa’amasinoga i totonu o le lua masina ma aso e sefulu mai le Meanwhile, Stowers remains Three of the six straws were Pengelly reminded jurors about jurors his client is innocent, as ulula’i faasalalauga o lenei fa’aaliga. in custody, unable to post a sent off-island for testing by the testimony of Sepulona Sep- police never found a single drug Dated/Aso: October 25, 2017 $10,000 surety bond. forensic chemist Annysia Martin ulona Jr. who admitted under on him or in his home when CLERK OF COURTS CLOSING ARGUMENTS at the DEA laboratory in Vista, oath that he’s a meth user, and police searched it. Prosecutor Woodrow California, and all three tested he bought ice from the defen- Fiaui said the government Published: 11/10 & 12/11/17 Pengelly reminded the jury positive for methamphetamine. dant regularly, including the never produced any physical evidence to prove their burden, and all they had were pictures of the six cut-up straws they claim were found on Stowers, and pictures of baggies, straws, and broken glasses that were alleg- edly found in his client’s house. Referring to Paselio’s tes- timony, Fiaui said Paselio was under pressure after he searched Stowers twice and found nothing in his possession. Fiaui said Paselio needed to fi nd something to make Stowers look like someone who was selling ice. He said Paselio was assigned to do surveillance on Stowers for over two months and during that time, Paselio didn’t use a pen or a book, he didn’t use a camera nor did he open his mouth to question any person he claimed was going to and from Stowers’ house. Fiaui said Paselio was looking for an answer to give his boss and those who gave him the assignment. Moving on, Fiaui bashed yet another government witness, Sepulona Jr. Fiaui called him a liar, saying Sepulona Jr. initially stated that he never spoke with the govern- ment’s attorney about his tes- timony but later, he admitted speaking to Pengelly about the case. He dissected Sepulona Jr’s statement that he bought ice from Stowers the same week Stowers was arrested. Fiaui said that’s a lie, because Stowers was in that week, and he arrived the same day police arrested him. The defense also questioned why the government only sent 3 cut-up straws off-island for testing, although they claimed there were 6 cut-up straws that were found on Stowers. In the end, Fiaui explained why Stowers was not called to testify. “Nicole has the right to remain silent, because the gov- (Continued on page 7) samoa news, Monday, December 11, 2017 Page 3 Court questions existence — and validity South Korea imposes new — of police procedures on the road sanctions on North Korea MEANWHILE, POLICE COMMISH AND FORMER NEWS REPORTER SEOUL, South Korea (AP) 29 missile launch with fresh ARE ‘NO-SHOWS’ ON ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE — South Korea says it has sanctions. The government says added several North Korean it hopes its move will prompt by Ausage Fausia the court marshall and the judge was informed of groups and individuals to its the international community to Samoa News Reporter the situation. Esera has been advised by the Court sanctions list as part of efforts do likewise. “ .. there’s rule of substitution for people to to seek an attorney to advise her in this matter. to cut off funding for the North U.S. President Donald appear in Court, and for this hearing, I want to She has not been charged. weapons programs. Trump’s U.N. ambassador has see the Police Commissioner in Court, not his Sunia said the reason for last week’s hearing South Korea’s government been urging the world to cut deputy.” was for Le’i to appear in Court, to explain the says the sanctions on 20 North trade and diplomatic ties with This was the clear message from District procedures police offi cers use while performing Korean groups and 12 individ- Pyongyang.Separately, South Court Judge Fiti Sunia during an Order to Show their duties on public highways. uals took effect Monday. Korea, the United States and Cause hearing last Friday, for which DPS Com- The judge acknowledged he received infor- Seoul is among the fi rst to Japan started their two-day mis- missioner Le’i Sonny Thompson was subpoe- mation that Le’i would not be present in Court respond to North Korea’s Nov. sile tracking drills on Monday. naed to appear, but he did not. for the hearing, but he sent a substitute. The Instead, DPS deputy commissioner District Court judge reminded the government Falana’ipupu Taase Sagapolutele appeared on attorney that there are rules of substitution for his behalf. people to appear, and the Court really wants the Assistant Attorney General Christy Dunn police commissioner to appear. informed the Court that Le’i was not available, Sunia then called Falana’ipupu to the stand, and that’s why his deputy was there. and asked him numerous questions in regards According to the District Court’s daily cal- to his role at DPS, what procedures and policies endar for Friday, Dec 08, 2017, the case of DPS is using, and what steps he takes when a “354786 ASG vs Dorah Sua”, was scheduled for person in being investigated for a crime he/ she review that day. is accused of. Le’i and former KHJ Radio news reporter, After Falana’ipupu introduced himself to the Tauva Esera were ordered by the Court to appear Court, Sunia asked if DPS has a standard opera- during the Order to Show Cause hearing. Neither tion policy, and whether it is valid. of the them appeared. The hearing has been con- Responding politely, Falana’ipupu, who has tinued to Jan. 23, 2018, and Sunia has ordered worked for DPS for over 23 years, said DPS does A man walks by a TV screen showing a local news program the government’s attorney to inform Le’i that he have a standard operation to guide police offi cers reporting about North Korea’s missile launch with an images of U.S. needs to be in Court on that day. on how to conduct their daily duty, and as far as President Donald Trump and South Korean President Moon Jae-in According to court proceedings, the hearing he knows, it is still valid. at the Seoul Railway Station in Seoul, South Korea, Friday, Dec. 1, had to do with a traffi c violation against Sua, who The judge then instructed the court clerk to 2017. Two days aft er North Korea test-launched its most powerful is challenging the citation. Le’i was subpoenaed hand over to the witness a piece of paper which missile to date, a clearer picture is emerging of Pyongyang’s impres- to explain DPS procedures for police offi cers was identifi ed as exhibit #2, the DPS fl ow-chart. sive technological achievement ‚Äî and what still remains before when engaging with the community on public Sunia asked the witness if he’s seen that fl ow it can legitimately threaten the continental United States. South highways. chart before, and the witness said yes. He then Korean President Moon shared his country’s assessment with Presi- Esera, on the other hand, is accused of using asked if that fl ow chart was part of the DPS oper- dent Trump in a telephone conversation Th ursday night. Th e leaders her cellphone to allegedly record a hearing inside ations procedure and the witness replied yes. reaffi rmed their commitment to strengthen pressure and sanctions the courtroom last month. Sources tell Samoa “What was the process you went through to on Pyongyang to discourage its nuclear ambitions, Seoul’s presiden- News that Esera’s cellphone was confi scated by tial offi ce said Friday. (AP Photo/Lee Jin-man) (Continued on page 10) Page 4 samoa news, Monday, December 11, 2017 Customary land is not under legal threat by Freehold land laws PRESS RELEASE — December 8, 2017 government via Ministry of Natural Resources — There have been recent suggestions and ques- and Environment (MNRE) must oversee the tions asked of this offi ce as to the supposed alien- compliance as a trustee assisting our families, ation of our customary land under freehold land and further assisted by the Attorney Generals legislation. offi ce where required. In response I respectfully pose this question: The balance the law aims to achieve, is to what customary land has been legally converted protect the land while allowing for economic to freehold land and / or ‘sold off’, since the developments that create jobs and income both enactment of the Lands Title Registration Act for the owners of the land and the community at 2008? (LTRA) large. But in all that the status of the land remains The answer is none. That is because it is a as customary and all legal protection therefore legal impossibility. apply. It can never be legally turned into freehold That Act deals only with freehold land. It land. can never be utilised to interfere at all with our There’s been a suggestion also that provisions customary land rights that are protected in our of the LTRA can give conversion powers for Constitution. individuals turning customary land to freehold. Howard Giske, Curator of Photography, talks about the work The LTRA was introduced to help protect and Reference has been made to section 32 and 33 of his old friend, Al Smith, during a preview for an exhibition of increase clarity for transaction for freehold land of the LTRA 2008 as giving matais the authority Smith’s work, “Seattle on the Spot: Th e Photographs of Al Smith” only. I emphasise that it actually therefore states to sell off customary land. Respectfully, this is a at the Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI), Wednesday, in its own body in section 9 as follows: fundamentally ill advised position. Sections 32 Nov. 15, 2017, in Seattle. Th e show, opening Nov. 18, shows how Section 9(4) and (5) of the LTRA: and 33 of the LTRA 2008 are concerned with the legendary Seattle photographer used photography to docu- “(4) No provision of this Act may be con- ‘registered proprietor’ and sets out their relation- ment the African-American community in the Pacifi c Northwest strued or applied to: ship with existing estate and interest; and the between 1930 and 2005, and includes scenes of night clubs, jazz i) permit or imply the alienation of customary rights of persons dealing with a proprietor if he musicians, and his family and community. Th e photographs were land in a manner prohibited by Article 102 of the or she is contracting, dealing or taking or pro- curated from a collection of more than 40,000 photographs and Constitution; or posing to take a transfer from a proprietor of land negatives donated by his family. Smith died in 2008. ii) permit or deem ownership in any cus- – that being freehold land. (AP Photo/Elaine Th ompson) tomary land to vest in a person otherwise than as These provisions cannot magically have the determined under any law dealing with the deter- effect of transforming customary land into free mination of title to customary land. hold land. That notion or suggestion is fl awed (5) Nothing in this Act permits the exercise and incorrect. Pioneering black journalist of any power or affects any interest in customary The LTRA 2008 defi nes ‘proprietor’ to mean: land that could have been applied by law prior to “in relation to an interest in land means any Simeon Booker dies at age 99 the commencement of this Act.” person seized or possessed of any freehold or That provision is pretty clear when read, in its other estate or interest in land at law or in equity WASHINGTON (AP) — plete with Bible) or a farmer legal intent. in possession in futurity or expectancy.” Simeon Booker, a trail-blazing to escape detection and one Article 102 of our Constitution mentioned in The reference to ‘land’ is defi ned in the LTRA African-American journalist frequently-told tale had Booker s 9 states that: 2008 to mean: and the fi rst full-time black escaping from an angry mob in No alienation of customary land “includes all estates and interests, whether reporter at The Washington the back of a hearse. - It shall not be lawful or competent for any freehold or chattel, in real property, of every kind Post, died Sunday at the age of He rode in one of the buses person to make any alienation or disposition and description or any estate therein, together 99.Booker died at an assisted- to cover the 1961 Freedom of customary land or of any interest in with all paths, passages, ways, watercourses, living community in Solomons, Rides, when black activists customary land, whether by way of sale, liberties, privileges, easements, plantations, Maryland, according to a Post rode from Washington to New mortgage or otherwise howsoever, nor shall gardens, mines, minerals, quarries, and all trees obituary, citing his wife Carol. Orleans to challenge a ban on customary land or any interest therein be and timber thereon or thereunder lying or being He had recently been hospital- segregated interstate transporta- capable of being taken in execution or be assets unless any such are specially excepted but DOES ized for pneumonia. tion facilities. for the payment of the debts of any person on NOT include customary land for the purpose of Booker served for decades Booker was born in Balti- his decease or insolvency: registration of land under this Act (other than as the Washington bureau chief more and raised in Youngstown, Further, the Laws that protect families with registration of licenses or leases of customary for the iconic African-American Ohio. interest in any customary land, mean that where land);”Therefore where the words ‘proprietor’ or publications Jet, a weekly, and He started his journalistic any land is leased without proper consultation ‘registered proprietor’ appears in section 32 and Ebony, a monthly. He is cred- career working for a string of with all members of a family that have connec- 33 it is referring to an owner of land, but that ref- ited with bringing to national African-American publica- tion or claim to such land, those not consulted erence to land does not include customary land. prominence the 1955 death of tions. He joined the Post in can object against the lease or license. The objec- The LTRA 2008 does not have the effect of Emmett Till, the 14-year old 1952, but moved on two years tion is then determined by the Land and Titles amending, repealing or adding to the provisions African-American boy whose later to found the Washington Court (see section 8 and 9 of the CLA 1965). The of Article 102 of the Constitution which spe- brutal murder in Mississippi bureau for Johnson Publishing, Judiciary have upheld such objections to protect cifi cally defi nes our customary land allowing all became a galvanizing point for the parent company for Jet and the rights of those disaffected in such a manner other legal protective measures to therefore by the nascent civil rights move- Ebony.He served in that posi- and therein protecting rights to customary land. operation apply to it. ment. Booker’s article included tion for more than 50 years, In the case that customary land is leased by Our Customary Land is not under any legal an open-casket picture of Till’s authoring the widely-read mutual agreement then the benefi ciary family threat from laws that oversee specifi cally free- mangled face that shocked the Ticker Tape column, chroni- that owns the customary land has rights under the hold land. nation.In a 2013 video tribute cling Washington’s inner work- lease and like all lessees can seek to enforce them (Source: Press Statement issued by Attorney upon Booker’s induction into ings for a national black reader- when required including revoking the lease. The General Lemalu Herman Retzlaff) the National Association for ship before retiring in 2007. He Black Journalists Hall of Fame, covered 10 different presidents former Jet reporter Roy Betts and also traveled abroad to said that Booker’s coverage of report on the Vietnam War. the civil rights movement, “cat- Booker authored or co- apulted the movement onto the authored four books, including world stage.” a 2013 memoir co-written His reporting from the Deep with his wife Carol McCabe South placed him in near-con- Booker and entitled, “Shocking stant danger. Tributes to him the Conscience: A Reporter’s mention that he sometimes Account of the Civil Rights dressed as a minister (com- Movement.”

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[photo: Blue Chen-Fruean] samoa news, Monday, December 11, 2017 Page 5 Voting counting begins in Venezuela’s mayoral elections CARACAS, Venezuela although the opposition has (AP) — Vote counting began been largely unable to capitalize Sunday night in mayoral elec- on Maduro’s unpopularity. tions across Venezuela that Opposition candidates suf- Compiled by Samoa News staff group include vice president Aioletuna Sunia, pitted candidates backed by fered a crushing defeat in Octo- ALOFA FOAI FUA COLLECTS ITEMS and secretary/treasurer Jewel Tuiasosopo. socialist President Nicolas ber’s gubernatorial elections, FOR THE LESS FORTUNATE HAWAI’I RESIDENT CLAIMS HE Maduro against a fractured winning just fi ve of 23 races Last Friday, Dec. 8th, was the last day for WAS FIRED BECAUSE HE IS “SAMOAN” opposition still bruised by a amid allegations of offi cial vote- donations to the Alofa Foai Fua project, a com- A Samoan man, who claims he was fi red by a poor showing in gubernato- buying and other irregularities. munity service drive that the folks with Pacifi c security guard company because of his Samoan rial contests earlier in the year. Three of the four biggest Global Citizens Inc. have been coordinating over ancestry has fi led a civil rights lawsuit in the Voting for mayors in all of Ven- opposition parties said they the past few months. federal court in Honolulu, seeking an unknown ezuela’s 335 municipalities was were boycotting Sunday’s may- President /founder of the group, Patrick T. amount of money to be determined by a jury. the last national elections before oral races in protest of what they Reid, told Samoa News last week that the goal of Honolulu resident Saute Sapolu alleges in the next year’s presidential race, called a rigged electoral system. the project is to donate “canned food, toys, and Aug. 8th lawsuit that his employment with Star in which Maduro is expected Maduro responded on state gently used items to our children and families in Protection Agency LLC, was terminated Sept. to seek re-election despite his television after casting his vote need this holiday season - be they at shelters, the 13, 2016 “due to discrimination based on [his] steep unpopularity. by threatening to ban political pediatric ward, LBJ Medical Center, the Territo- national origin and ancestry — Samoan — and Various polling places groups that boycotted the may- rial Correctional Facility, etc.” sex, male.” appeared to be sparsely fi lled oral races from future political There were a handful of drop-off locations Sapolu, who was hired by Star Protection in throughout the day, with only contests.“A party that has for those who wanted to donate (Tutuila Stores 2012, was sent home on Sept. 10, 2016 during his handfuls of people seen casting not participated today cannot - Nuuuli, Petesa, Tafuna; TJ’s Gym- Tafuna; shift, after one of the company’s client “accused ballots.“Let’s hope they’re late participate anymore,” said ASTCA- Tafuna, Nuuuli; Dept. of Youth and plaintiff of verbally threatening him and his sleepers and this isn’t a phenom- Maduro, who called Sunday’s Women’s Affairs- Pago Pago; and Panama’s Tire wife,” the lawsuit alleges. enon of abstention,” said retired turnout “extraordinary.”Given Shop- Leone). The lawsuit further notes that Sapolu was librarian Jose Tomas Franco, an the opposition’s disarray, polit- Reid said they were able to partner with and informed three days later by his supervisor that early morning voter in the cap- ical analysts said they doubted receive support from various governmental orga- he was discharged from his job for making threat- ital of Caracas who called the Maduro’s opponents would be nizations as well as NGOs, to include: the Amer- ening comments to a client. Despite completely small turnout “alarming.” able to rally behind a single ican Samoa Telecommunications Authority; denying the allegation and an attempt to explain The elections took place candidate in next year’s presi- Dept. of Youth and Women’s Affairs; Dept. of himself, Sapolu’s supervisor him to “shut up” against a backdrop of soaring dential election.“The opposition Human and Social Services; Leone High School and “just by the way plaintiff looks, he believes infl ation, shortages of food is condemned to trying to fi nd Green Club; other high school organizations; plaintiff said what the client alleged.” and medicine, and charges a solution to its internal prob- Lions Club of American Samoa; the American Sapolu denies any wrongdoing, the lawsuit that Maduro’s government lems,” said Edgard Gutierrez, Samoa Red Cross. and KHJ Radio. said and alleges that if not for plaintiff’s national has undermined Venezuela’s coordinator of local pollster “We are a locally incorporated organization origin, ancestry, and sex, Sapolu would not have democracy by imprisoning dis- Venebarometro. “Either that or that is currently undergoing 501c3 review from been terminated by his former employer. sidents and usurping the powers simply not compete in 2018.” IRS as we speak, and our mission is community The lawsuit came after the US Equal Employ- of the opposition-controlled The last time the opposition service with a focus on youth development,” Reid ment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) dis- National Assembly. refused to compete, in con- said. “Our offi cers and volunteers are employees missed early this year, Sapolu’s complaint against Economic and political gressional elections in 2005, it of the public sector and have an interest and pas- his former employer, who has since asked the crises have caused the presi- strengthened the government’s sion for community service.” court to dismiss the lawsuit which, if it were to dent’s approval rating to plunge, hand for years. In addition to Reid, other offi cers from the (Continued on page 8) Page 6 samoa news, Monday, December 11, 2017 ASCC-SSI awards win- ners of Samoan language writing competition

by James Kneubuhl, ASCC Press ‘Olomatua,” which looks at the Officer iron fist rule of a feisty Samoan The Samoan Studies Insti- matriarch and how her grand- tute (SSI) at the American child inspires forgiveness and Samoa Community College unity. (ASCC) held an awards cer- Ms. Ah Sam won second emony on Tuesday, November place with “E ui ina avea ma i‘a 28th, to recognize the top three ae la ‘uma le alofa”, in which finalists in its Samoan lan- she successfully weaves a fish- guage writing competition: Lau erman’s story around a legend, Gagana Samoa Tauvaga Tusiga and Mr. Iefata came in third Tala. with “E fai i le loto”, a pow- ASCC student Ms. Oneata erful testimony about Samoan Rosie Soi authored the piece identity and getting a tatau for a that took top honors, with person raised off island. fellow students at the College “Through the writing com- Ms. Jaradine Ah Sam and Mr. petition, we try to create more Moe Iefata taking second and awareness of Samoan way third place respectively. of life by offering a platform Now in its third year, and for local voices to share their open to all ASCC students, the stories and their creativity,” The ASCC Samoan Studies Institute held a ceremony in late November to recognize this year’s writing competition attracted 33 said SSI Director Okenaisa winners for its writing competition in the Samoan language. (l-r) Moe Iefata, third place winner; submissions this time. Ms. Soi, Fauolo-Manila. “Writers must Jaradine Ah Sam, second place winner; and 2017 first place winner Oneata Rosie Soi. See story for who won third place in the 2016 keep developing their craft so details. [photo: J. Kneubuhl] competition, this time took top they can share their stories in honors with her story “O le a more powerful way. We’ve noticed some general improve- ments in the writing submitted for the competition compared to last year, but we still have a DEVELOPMENT BANK OF AMERICAN SAMOA lot of fine-tuning to help with. We also take it to heart that a P.O. BOX 9, Pago Pago, American Samoa 96799 great concern was noted in a Office: (684) 633-4031 Fax: (684) 633-1163. past UNESCO survey about Website: www.dbas.as what they term a famine in writing and fiction ‘in the ver- nacular,’ referring to Pacific languages, including Samoan. The SSI hopes to fill this niche and create more awareness by REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) encouraging students to write as well as providing opportunities for them to read their stories on RFP: Financial and Single Audit Services for 2017-2019 our Faasamoa Pea radio pro- Approved to issuance by: Ruth Matagi-Fa’atili; DBAS President gram, if they feel comfortable Date of issuance: Dec 1, 2017 doing so.” The writing competition Date & Time Due: December 30, 2017 aligns with the ASCC mission No later than 2:00 pm local time to promote awareness of Samoa and the Pacific, a goal also per- DBAS requests proposals for financial audits and the related single audits for a period of three years, beginning with the petuated by the SSI. To this audit of fiscal year 2017 through fiscal year 2019. Fiscal and calendar years are coincident at DBAS. effect, the SSI also researches local narratives and legends, and DocuMeNT then offers these stories in both DBAS requests proposals for financial audits and the related single audits for a period of three years, beginning with the English and Samoan to meet the audit of fiscal year 2017 through fiscal year 2019. Fiscal and calendar years are coincident at DBAS. growing interest and needs of a non-Samoan speaking audience Document: Requests for proposal packet outlining requirements will be available for pick up at DBAS on Friday Dec 1, 2017 or those who need translations. or emailing [email protected] for information regarding the RFP. It can also be accessed through the DBAS website: The same literature is uti- www.dbas.as (click public notice). lized by classes such as SAM The Request for Proposals (RFP) describes the specifications for the services to be provided in sufficient details to permit 151 (Freshman Samoan & Lab), competition and allow the interested party to properly respond to the RFP. SAM 154 (Intro to Samoan Lit-

erature) and Sam 271 (Samoan This RFP is issued under Title 28, Chapter 1, of the American Samoa Code Annotated. Creative Writing). Students DBAS invites the submission of proposals to include pricing and other details as indicated in the specifications. Attachments in these classes are regularly will be provided as an aid in presenting a comprehensive proposal consistent with the requirements of DBAS. assigned with writing critiques DBAS will select a contractor who best meets the needs of DBAS. The factors for selection will include, but not be limited to of competition stories and others aired on the radio pro- the following: understanding of the requirements of the financial and single auditors; verifiable ability to perform well; good gram, and this work is included reputation; flexibility, including ability to respond quickly to needs of a small client in a remote location and throughout the as part of each student’s class year; and reasonability of costs. achievement assessment. The proposals will be reviewed by a committee consisting of representatives from DBAS management and board. The Judges for this year’s com- committee may request interviews with potential contractors after reviewing the proposals before the final selection is made. petition included Department Chairperson To‘oto‘oolevavau Submission: Proposals must be received by DBAS no later than 2:00pm local time on December 30, 2017. They may be Evile F. Feleti, instructors Alofa mailed or hand delivered in a sealed envelope to: Nuusila and Ti‘a Tasia Tala- Development Bank of American Samoa moni, Researcher and Language PO BOX 9 Interpreter Tupa‘isiva Tamari Mulitalo-Cheung as well as Attention: Charmaine Faleaana Community Outreach Coordi- Pago Pago, American Samoa 96799 nator Falefata Moli Lemana . They may also be emailed to [email protected], as an attachment in Word Format with a confirming email required to At the ceremony to recog- confirm receipt; or faxed to DBAS at (684) 633-1163 with a confirming fax to confirm receipt. The original is to follow by nize the competition winners, airmail first class. ASCC’s Director of Physical (Continued on page 11) samoa news, Monday, December 11, 2017 Page 7 ➧ American Samoa wins… Continued from page 1 She recently worked for — Matauaina Gwendolyn the American Samoa Visitors To’omalatai Bureau, and will now focus — Ener- on fulfi lling her role as the stina Pokuia Bonsu-Maro Pacifi c Queen. It was a feeling — Hally Qaqa of warmth witnessed on stage Miss Nauru — Tansy amongst the nine beautiful Angelique Itsimaera. contestants, in what is a fi tting Miss Papua New — fi nale to what has been a hectic Niawali Anastacia Twai and fun-fi lled week of activities Miss — Alex- for the contestants from around andra Iakopo the region, in the place where Miss — happiness fi nds you, Fiji. Emily Chan. On the theme of Climate Miss — Ophelia Change to Sustain our Islands, Kitiliti Kava the judged categories of the The major sponsor for the Pageant were divided into three 2017 Miss Pacifi c Islands Pag- nights, with the crowning on eant was the Fijian Government the fourth and fi nal night as and it was supported by Voda- witnessed also by the Pacifi c fone Fiji Limited, Nadi Town region and around the world, Council, Miss Fiji Pageant through live stream coverage Association, Go Advertising, broadcasted through Fiji TV. Pure Fiji, Fiji Marriott Resort Miss Samoa, Alexandra Momi Bay, Garden of the Iakopo was the 1st runner up Sleeping Giant, Offi cial Sports and she claimed special prizes Activity Wear partner – Qaqa, which included Miss Internet, Opening Night Gown Designer Miss Personality, Best Talent - Mausio Designs. and Best Interview. The Host for the next Miss Miss Fiji followed as 2nd Pacifi c Islands Pageant is the runner up; 3rd runner up is Miss Kingdom of Tonga. Cook islands; and 4th runner up View photos and take a look is Miss Rapanui. at the events of the Pageant week While not placing, Miss on Website: http://www.mis- — Niawali spacifi cislands.org/ and Face- Anastacia Twai won Best book page: https://www.face- sarong. book.com/MissPacifi cIslands/. The nine Pacifi c Island par- (Sources: Samoa Events ticipants were: Incorporated, NADI, FIJI and Miss American Samoa Miss Pacifi c Island Pageant)

➧ Stowers not a drug… Continued from page 2 ernment has the duty to prove no and fi nd Nicole not guilty on their burden, not us.” both counts.” He said to jurors, “You have (Samoa News should point the power here. You have the out that the defense throughout power to say no to what the the trial referred to Stowers by government is trying to do in his transgender name, ‘Nicole’, this case. We don’t want people while the government identifi ed in our community to be treated the defendant only by his birth like this. Your vote is your or male name.) power. Use that power to say Plane crash on Molokai kills 2 people HONOLULU (AP) — Kentizer says at least two Maui fi re offi cials say two people were aboard the plane people have died in a plane when it crashed about 4 miles (6 crash on Molokai, a Hawaiian kilometers) west of the airport. island located between Oahu Offi cials were notifi ed by and Maui.Hawaii News Now the Molokai air traffi c control reports that the plane crashed tower that communication with Sunday afternoon. the plane was lost. Federal Aviation Admin- The Maui Fire Department, istration spokesman Allen Federal Aviation Administra- Kenitzer says the plane crashed tion and National Transporta- due to “unknown circum- tion Safety Board are investi- stances” while on its way to the gating the crash. Molokai Airport.

© OSINI FALEATASI INC. RESERVES ALL RIGHTS. dba Samoa News is published Monday through Friday, except for some local and federal holidays. Please send correspondences to: OF, dba Samoa News, Box 909, Pago Pago, American Samoa 96799. Telephone at (684) 633-5599 • Fax at (684) 633-4864 Email advertisements to [email protected] Email the newsroom at [email protected] Normal business hours are Mon. 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. Please visit samoanews.com for weekend updates. Page 8 samoa news, Monday, December 11, 2017

C M Y K

On Saturday, the Rotary Club Of Pago Pago hosted Leone High School’s Interact Club for a community service work day at the Pala Lagoon Swimming Center at Lion’s Park. Interact is supervised by Rotarian and LHS English teacher Alice Raynar. Interact clubs bring together young people ages 12-18 to develop leadership skills while discovering the power of ‘Service Above Self’. Meanwhile, the swimming pool is slated to open within the next month. [courtesy photo]

➧ Community.. Continued from page 5 proceed further, the defendant “would be prepared to demon- strate how devoid of merit the claims are,” court documents note. Among the “defects” cited by the defendant is that a “very signifi cant portion” of the com- pany’s workforce “shares both a gender and a national origin with Plaintiff, and are clearly not discriminated against on that basis.”Additionally, the plaintiff “voluntarily resigned”, but was not terminated. Further- more, the defendant’s actions with respect to the incident ref- erenced in the lawsuit would have been more than suffi cient to justify termination. Late last month, Sapolu asked the court to deny the defendant’s motion to dismiss the case, arguing — among other things — that he should be permitted a jury trial on all claims asserted. According to court records, a settlement con- ference hearing is set for July 2018 and if nothing is resolved, trial will proceed in October 2018. C M Queens of the Stone Y K Age singer apologizes for concert kick INGLEWOOD, Calif. (AP) — Queens of the Stone Age frontman Joshua Homme has apologized after a photogra- pher claimed the singer kicked her camera while she photo- graphed the band’s concert in Southern California.Photogra- pher Chelsea Lauren said on Instagram that she sought med- ical treatment after the camera smashed into her face from the kick Saturday night at a radio station’s annual Christmas event. Video posted to social media shows Homme swinging his leg and connecting with the camera while playing guitar. samoa news, Monday, December 11, 2017 Page 9 Boys & Girls Clubs of Amer- ican Samoa offers Computer Science Education Program PART OF CS PATHWAY PROGRAM IN PARTNERSHIP WITH MICROSOFT PAGO PAGO, December BGCAS and thirty-one 8, 2017— Boys & Girls Clubs Boys & Girls Clubs across the of American Samoa (BGCAS) country took part in the CS is helping community youth Pathway program offering four learn critical thinking, problem- levels of fun and engaging CS solving, and coding through the curriculum. Pathway delivery new Computer Science (CS) and acquired skills build on one Pathway program, thanks to a another to encourage members $3 million partnership between to develop passion and profi - Boys & Girls Clubs of America ciencies in coding, over time (BGCA) and Microsoft. and at any level. BGCA and Microsoft devel- “The Bureau of Labor Sta- oped the CS Pathway to pre- tistics projects there will be C M pare the next generation of stu- one million unfi lled jobs for Y K dents with science, technology, computer scientists and pro- engineering, arts, and math grammers by 2020, yet many (STEAM) skills. children today still lack access The program puts a special to the tools and resources they emphasis on helping a larger need to learn and love computer number of underserved youth science” said Mrs. Mary A.T. learn and apply computer sci- Tulafono, BGCAS Chairman ence skills throughout their of the Board of Directors and education so that they will Chief Volunteer Offi cer. be prepared to succeed in an “Thanks to CS Pathway, we increasingly technology driven will be able to help our Club economy. The pathway struc- members interact with code and ture empowers young people other computer science skills by to fi nd programs that best meet channeling their personal inter- their needs. ests and providing a long-term For Club members who path to develop program capa- already have some coding profi - bilities over time,” she said. ciency through Hour of Code or “Jobs increasingly require other programs, the CS Pathway critical and computational provides additional options to thinking skills, yet only 25% them further and build on that of high schools in the United interest. (Continued on page 12)

C M Y K Page 10 samoa news, Monday, December 11, 2017

FILE - In this Th ursday, Oct. 20, 2005 fi le photo Dr. Nathan O. Hatch speaks during his installa- tion ceremony as the 13th president of Wake Forest University on the university’s campus in Winston Salem, NC. Hatch, Wake Forest’s 13th president, tops the list of the nation’s highest paid private col- lege presidents with total compensation of $4 million, including nearly $3 million paid as a perk for leading the North Carolina school 10 years. (AP Photo/Rusty Burroughs) More private university chiefs top $2M as pay keeps climbing BOSTON (AP) — Presi- Hatch’s achievements in able. The publication’s last dents at America’s private uni- fundraising and other areas have study on private university pres- versities saw their pay increase been worth the investment, said idents found that their pay grew by 9 percent in 2015, according Donna Boswell, head of the uni- by 8.6 percent in 2014. to a new report , with several of versity’s governing board. Figures for overall compen- them topping $2 million in total “President Hatch’s compen- sation include yearly salaries, earnings. sation over the course of his medical insurance, retirement The average chief received tenure refl ects his exceptional benefi ts and a variety of other total compensation of nearly leadership,” Boswell said in a perks from housing to cars pro- $570,000, including salary, statement, adding that Hatch vided by the schools. bonuses and benefi ts, according has helped raise $795 million as Nine of the top 10 earners to a survey of 500 schools part of an ongoing campaign. made most of their pay through released Sunday by The Chron- Hatch was followed by bonuses and deferred-compen- icle of Higher Education. Emory University’s James sation plans, which provide Among the highest earners were Wagner, who received $3.5 one-time payments for reaching 10 who made more than $2 mil- million, and the University of milestones. Boston University’s lion, up from eight who crossed Southern California’s C.L. Max Robert Brown, for example, was that mark the year before, while Nikias, with $3.2 million. paid a base salary of $883,000 another 48 made at least $1 Emory, in , said its but made another $1 million for million. president’s pay is “consistent reaching 10 years at the helm. Topping the list was Wake with that of other top university The University of Dayton, Forest University’s Nathan presidents in the nation, par- in Ohio, similarly paid Daniel Hatch, whose total pay of $4 ticularly those who lead major Curran nearly $1.7 million after million included a payment research universities.” he reached age 65, on top of his of nearly $3 million as a perk The Chronicle’s study is $611,000 salary. Curran retired for leading the North Carolina based on university tax fi lings from the university the fol- school for 10 years. for 2015, the latest year avail- lowing year.

➧ Court questions existence… Continued from page 3 adopt that procedure?” Sunia asked Falana’ipupu, Sunia wanted to know how DPS oper- who said DPS distributes copies of said proce- ated before they adopted this new policy, and dure to each police station so cops are aware of it Falana’ipupu said cops needed to comply with and follow through with it. the law. Sunia then shifted his questions from DPS Judge Sunia shifted his questions again, this procedures to the DPS academy. time from the policy issue to the witnesss’ career. “How many academies have you been He asked Falana’ipupu what position he held involved with throughout the 23 years of your before he was appointed as deputy commis- career?” Sunia asked. sioner. Falana’ipupu said he was commander for Falana’ipupu replied, “More than 2, your the Criminal Investigation Division (CID). honor.” “So you’re an investigation police offi cer?” “Have you taught at any of those academies?” Sunia asked, to which Falana’ipupu responded Sunia asked. affi rmatively. Falana’ipupu replied yes. Sunia asked the witness what method he used When he was done, Sunia asked the govern- — as an investigating police offi cer — to fi nd ment attorney whether she had any questions for people in unknown matters, like incidents with the witness. Prosecutor Dunn asked Falana’ipupu no suspects, no witnesses, etc. if the piece of paper he was holding explains Falana’ipupu said he fi rst asks for the person’s DPS’s new policy and Falana’ipupu said, “Yes, I.D., and if there’s no I.D on the person, he has to it’s a new way to explain the new policy.” look for someone who might know that person, Judge Sunia immediately interjected and asked and he has to ask if this person has a family. the witness, “What’s the policy?” Falana’ipupu “And that’s not part of the fl ow chart, right?” said every time a police offi cer makes a stop on Sunia asked. the road for a traffi c violation, that offi cer has to Falana’ipupu replied no. make sure he/ she complies with the law. The case is continued to Jan. 23rd, 2018. samoa news, Monday, December 11, 2017 Page 11 A look at what didn’t happen in the Alabama Senate race BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) and audio lectures on U.S. law — As Alabama’s high-pro- and public policy. The course fi le Senate race heads toward packaging also identifi es him a Tuesday vote, supporters as a “featured speaker.” Despite and opponents of GOP candi- claims spread on the web this date Roy Moore are bending week, however, Moore did not the truth — or shattering it to author the specifi c section or pieces — in the campaign’s deliver the lecture that argues fi nal stretch. that women should not hold One website falsely pro- elected offi ce. That talk was claimed that one of the women given by William Einwechter, who accused Moore of sexual an elder at Immanuel Free misconduct had recanted. Reformed Church in Pennsyl- Another erroneously reported vania. Moore’s offi ce says he that a Moore accuser “forged” does not believe that women are his yearbook inscription to unqualifi ed for public offi ce. her. On the other side, Moore’s NOT REAL: BREAKING: detractors took to social media ROY MOORE ACCUSER to assert, erroneously, that ADMITS SHE FORGED Moore had written in a 2011 PART OF YEARBOOK textbook that women shouldn’t INSCRIPTION!!! hold elected offi ce. THE FACTS: Moore sup- Miss Rapa Nui — Tiare Pakarati — was 4th runner-up in the 2017 Miss Pacifi c Islands Pageant The Associated Press porters celebrated misleading held in Nadi, Fiji last week. Rapa Nui () is a newcomer to the MPIP, participating for checked these out; here are the news that Beverly Nelson, one the fi rst time in the event. [Photo: Samoa Events Incorporated (SEI)] real facts: of his accusers, “forged” a 1977 NOT REAL: BREAKING: yearbook inscription that was Human Resource Department, Tafuna PO Box PPB, Pago Pago Roy Moore’s Lying Accuser considered key evidence against American Samoa 96799 Admits He Didn’t Ever Touch the Alabama Republican. The Phone No: (684) 248-1234 Option #5 Her inscription reads, “To a sweeter [email protected] THE FACTS: None of the more beautiful girl I could not women who accused the Ala- say, ‘Merry Christmas.’” It is bama Republican Senate can- followed by the signature “Roy PUBLIC JOB POSTING didate of sexual misconduct, Moore D.A.” and the nota- Position Title Staff Accountant Posting Date December 4, 2017 including two women who said tion “12-22-77 Olde Hickory Department Accounting Deadline December 15, 2017 - 4:00pm Moore molested them, have House.” Nelson’s attorney, Division Support Services Starting Rate $13.08/hr - $15.04/hr backed off their initial claims. Gloria Allred, said Friday that This fake headline is from a Nelson had added the date and Position Type Career Service - 12 months probation website, Reagan Was Right, restaurant name to the inscrip- Reports To Accounting Supervisor Job Grade/Status G/6/C-G/10/A, Non-Exempt which promotes hoaxes and tion. However, Allred also said satire. The woman featured in that a handwriting expert found Major Duties & Responsibilities a photograph accompanying the Moore’s signature in the year- The Staff Accountant will provide management with financial information by researching and story shows a British reality TV book to be authentic. analyzing accounts and preparing financial statements. This position will prepare consolidated internal star, not any of the eight women Associated Press writer and external financial statements by gathering and analyzing information from the general ledger system who have accused Moore of Michael Rubinkam contributed and from departments. This position will maintain and balance an automated consolidation system by sexual misconduct. to this report. inputting data, scheduling required jobs, and verifying data. He/she will analyze information and options NOT REAL: Claims that This is part of The Asso- by developing spreadsheet reports and verifying information. This position will also prepare general Roy Moore authored a text- ciated Press’ ongoing effort ledger entries by maintaining records and files. Other duties of this position are as follows: prepare payments by accruing expenses; assign account numbers; request disbursements; reconcile accounts; book in 2011 that says women to fact-check misinformation develop and implement accounting procedures by analyzing current procedures; recommend changes; shouldn’t run for offi ce that is shared widely online, answer accounting and financial questions by researching and interpreting data; provide accounting THE FACTS: Moore is in including work with Facebook support for mergers and acquisitions by reviewing financial information; convert data to general ledger fact a co-author of a “textbook” to identify and reduce the cir- system; obtain supplementary information for preparing financial statements; protect organization’s which serves as a study guide culation of false stories on the value by keeping information confidential; update job knowledge by participating in educational for a series of Bible-based video platform. opportunities, reading professional publications, maintaining personal networks, and participating in professional organizations; accomplish accounting and organization’s mission by completing related results as needed. The Staff Accountant will also perform other duties and projects as assigned by the ➧ Accounting Supervisor and/or Controller. ASCC - SSI… Minimum Requirements Continued from page 6 Education BA/BS degree or equivalent experience from an accredited college or university with the Facilities Maintenance Fata to learn and get as much help necessary skills in accounting, information technology, and ethics. Must possess basic Lokeni Lokeni, who is also a possible to achieve this.” math skills, ability to analyze figures, knowledge of accounting principles, and excellent family member of Ms. Ah Sam, verbal and written skills. Extensive experience with accounting software used at similar sized companies and spoke on behalf of the parents The SSI’s weekly program expertise in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint is also essential. and guests to commend the SSI Faasamoa Pea is broadcast Experience Minimum of five (5) years related work experience in the accounting field is required in for their continuous efforts to every Saturday morning from addition to the minimum educational requirement having been obtained. promote the second pillar of 9:00 to 9:15 a.m. on local radio • Must possess skills in accounting, reporting, time management, attention to detail, Samoan identity –the Samoan station KSBS-FM 92.1. Sto- Knowledge, Skills & Abilities confidentiality, PC proficiency, productivity, verbal communication, general math skills language, not only through ries that the SSI consider as • Must be knowledgeable of US GAAP and GASB as well as automated accounting and the work of students, but also appropriate and relevant for the financial information systems. through their many additional general public, especially chil- • Must be detail-oriented. activities. dren, are shared on-air under • Must have knowledge of SFA rules. the guidance of SSI faculty • Must have the ability to prepare payments by utilizing the accounts payable system, Refl ecting on winning fi rst and Faasamoa Pea host Alofa accrue expenses and maintain a prepayment schedule, assign account numbers and place this year, Oneata Rosie Nuusila. process disbursements. Soi looks forward to doing • Must have the ability to analyze, develop, and implement accounting procedures, more writing in the future. For more information on the recommend changes, and be able to write standard operating procedures. • Must have skills to answer accounting and financial questions by researching “Although I have a passion for Samoan Studies Institute, see and interpreting data. writing, winning the fi rst prize the ASCC Catalog, available • Must have ability to interact with auditors as required, providing analysis, reports was unexpected,” she said. online at www.amsamoa.edu, or and data as requested during audits. “I give God the glory for it. It call the SSI at 699-9156, exten- Qualified applicants: Please submit a completed ASPA Employment Application with a copy of your resume to ASPA makes me want to encourage sion 347. The SSI expresses Tafuna (address listed above) by the deadline. Please attach copies of credentials and transcripts. Candidates selected other students to keep writing. their gratitude to KSBS-FM for hire must pass examinations (when applicable), pre-employment clearances & test negative on pre-employment drug Ultimately, I want to see my 92.1 for their support of the pro- test. ASPA reserves the right to waive education and experience requirements as necessary. No phone inquiries accepted. name on a book, so I’m going gram Faasamoa Pea. An Equal Opportunity Employer * A Drug Free Workplace Page 12 samoa news, Monday, December 11, 2017 After allegations, Moore Ph. 252-2964 avoids spotlight, questions MONTGOMERY, Ala. accuse Moore of engaging in and you get offended when we Location:Room 209, Tedi of Samoa - Fagatogo (AP) — Republican U.S. Senate sexual misconduct when he don’t talk to you, but we’ve got candidate Roy Moore has been was in his 30s and they were Twitter. We’ve got Facebook. Office Hrs. 9am to 2pm a rare sight on the traditional teenagers.Moore has denied the He’s doing interviews. He’s campaign trail in the days ahead allegations and refuses to back doing radio.”Moore campaign (684) 633-0179 of a critical U.S. Senate race. down.Moore’s stealth effort has chairman Bill Armistead said He’s appeared at only a handful left Jones resorting to mockery Moore has spent the week doing Family Owned & Operated since 1998. We are American of rallies in front of friendly as the Democrat crisscrosses smaller unannounced event Samoa’s only full time Pest Control Company. We provide audiences and steadfastly has the state trying to pull an upset with supporters and has been a very affordable and friendly service. shunned reporters from the in Tuesday’s special elec- on the phone with pastors and mainstream media.Moore’s tion, buoyed by the possibility others urging supporters to get Do you have ROACH, ANT, FLEAS, TICKS, TERMITE, past campaigns have never been that enough Republicans will to the pools on Tuesday. He said heavy on the conventional, but abandon the 70-year-old Moore the campaign feels confi dent RATS, AND OTHER PEST PROBLEMS? his relative absence from the in the wake of the allegations. going into Tuesday.Moore’s • Call for a FREE PEST EVALUATION OR NO spotlight this time around is “Roy Moore is in hiding. campaign is actively pushing nearly unheard of for a major He’s kind of like the groundhog. his narrative on social media OBLIGATION INSPECTION party candidate.Moore has He comes out every so often to and in press releases. He’s also focused on meeting with small see if he can see his shadow,” drawing headlines with the help • We do GROUND TERMITE TREATMENT & groups of supporters and an Jones said Saturday in Selma of President Donald Trump, CONSTRUCTION PRE_TREATMENTS aggressive social media cam- during one of several stops for who came to the Florida Pan- paign out of camera range as he the Democrat this weekend. handle on Friday night and has • We provide services for Houses, Boats, Cars, tries to win Tuesday’s election Ben DuPre, a campaign lined up a recorded telephone Offices, Warehouses, Storage, Restaurants, Furniture against Democrat Doug Jones - spokesman, said Moore is not call from the president that will a contest that was supposed to holding back.“He’s talking to start being delivered to Ala- pieces, stores and cafeteria and health clinics. be an easy GOP victory - until voters. We are getting the mes- bama voters on Monday. November, when a number sage out any way that we can. Moore has never been con- of women stepped forward to I know you are the old media ventional. He has built a large following among some evan- gelical voters from two failed gambits: upholding a display of the Ten Commandments in a state building and trying to block same-sex marriage in Alabama.

➧ Boys … Continued from page 9 States offer computer science,” said Mary Snapp, Corporate Vice President and head of Microsoft Philanthropies. “The Computer Science Pathway is an after-school program that will empower young people from all backgrounds to pursue a broad range of career oppor- tunities, both in technology and otherwise.” According to STEMCon- nector.org, STEM jobs in the U.S. are expected to grow nearly twice as fast as other fi elds by 2018. By 2020, one million jobs will likely go unfi lled due to a lack of com- puter science skills. The CS Pathway curriculum taps into engaging content like gaming and app development to introduce more underrep- resented youth, of all ages, to computer science skills. Boys & Girls Clubs of American Samoa serves over 150 youth through Club mem- bership and community out- reach annually. CS Pathway is part of Boys & Girls Clubs of American Samoa’s strategy aimed at ensuring all members graduate from high school on time, are ready for a post-secondary education, and a 21st century career. ABOUT MICROSOFT Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT” @Microsoft) is the leading platform and productivity company for the mobile-fi rst, cloud-fi rst world, and its mis- sion to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. samoa news, Monday, December 11, 2017 Page 13 Bitcoin futures rise as virtual currency hits major exchange CHICAGO (AP) — The Futures are a type of contract tions on the amount of margin a fi rst-even bitcoin future began in which a buyer and a seller trader can use in bitcoin futures, trading Sunday as the increas- agree on a price for a particular or putting limits on the amount ingly popular virtual currency item to be delivered on a cer- that can be purchased. made its debut on a major U.S. tain date in the future, hence the The digital currency has exchange. name. Futures are available for had more than its fair share of The futures contract that nearly every type of security but critics on Wall Street. JPM- expires in January rose $340 to are most famously used in com- organ Chase CEO Jamie Dimon $15,800 in the fi rst hour and 15 modities such as wheat, soy, has called bitcoin “a fraud.” minutes of trading on the Chi- gold, oil, cocoa and, as drama- Thomas Peterffy, chairman cago Board Options Exchange. tized in the Eddie Murphy and of the broker-dealer Interac- The contract opened at $15,460, Dan Aykroyd movie “Trading tive Brokers Group, expressed according to data from the Places,” concentrated frozen deep concerns about the trading CBOE. orange juice. of bitcoin futures last month, The CBOE futures don’t The futures signal greater saying “there is no fundamental involve actual bitcoin. They’re mainstream acceptance of bit- basis for valuation of Bitcoin securities that will track the coin but also open up bitcoin to and other cryptocurrencies, and price of bitcoin on Gemini, one additional market forces. The they may assume any price from of the larger bitcoin exchanges. futures will allow investors to one day to the next.” The start of trading at 5 p.m. bet that bitcoin’s price will go Peterffy noted that if bitcoin CST overwhelmed the CBOE down — a practice known as futures were trading at that time, website. “Due to heavy traffi c shorting — which currently is under the CBOE’s rules those on our website, visitors to very diffi cult to do. futures likely would experience www.cboe.com may fi nd that it There have been other repeated trading halts because is performing slower than usual attempts to bring bitcoin 10 percent or 20 percent moves and may at times be temporarily investing into the mainstream. in bitcoin prices have not been unavailable,” the exchange said Tyler and Cameron Winkle- unusual in recent months. in a statement. But it said the voss, twin brothers who own Bitcoin is the world’s most trading in the futures had not large amounts of bitcoin, tried popular virtual currency. Such been disrupted. to create an exchange-traded currencies are not tied to a bank Another large futures fund based on bitcoin, but fed- or government and allow users exchange, the Chicago Mercan- eral regulators denied their to spend money anonymously. tile Exchange, will start trading application. They are basically lines of FILE - In this Monday, April 7, 2014 fi le photo, Bitcoin logos its own futures on Dec. 18 but How much actual investor computer code that are digi- are displayed at the Inside Bitcoins conference and trade show, will use a composite of several interest there will be in these tally signed each time they are in New York. Th e price of bitcoin, the most widely used virtual bitcoin prices across a handful bitcoin futures is still up in the traded. currency, rose above $10,000 on Wednesday, Nov. 29, 2017 for of exchanges. air. Many larger Wall Street A debate is raging on the the fi rst time, breaking a symbolic threshold in what has been a The price of a bitcoin has brokerages and clearinghouses, merits of such currencies. vertiginous ascent this year. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan, File) soared since beginning the year including Goldman Sachs and below $1,000, hitting a peak of JPMorgan Chase, are either not Human Resource Department, Tafuna more than $16,858 Dec. 7 on allowing customers to trade bit- PO Box PPB, Pago Pago American Samoa 96799 the bitcoin exchange Coindesk. coin futures or only allowing Phone No: (684) 248-1234 Option #5 As of 6:25 p.m. CST, it was at select clients to do so. Other [email protected] $15,244 on Coindesk. brokerages are putting restric- PUBLIC JOB POSTING Comedian Hannibal Buress Position Title Security Officer I (2) Posting Date December 4, 2017 Department Facility, Security & Maintenance (FSM) Deadline December 15, 2017, 4:00 pm arrested on intoxication charge Division Support Services Pay Rate $7.26/hr - $7.56/hr MIAMI (AP) — A Florida was being arrested. One offi cer Position Type Career Service - 12 months probation Job Grade/Status C/4/A - C/5/A, Non-Exempt newspaper reports that come- said, “trespassing,” but he Reports To Security Supervisor dian Hannibal Buress was wasn’t charged with that. arrested on a disorderly intoxi- A police report obtained by Major Duties & Responsibilities cation charge after an encounter the Herald said Buress asked an Makes periodic walking tours around buildings and grounds examining doors, windows, and gates to with a police offi cer. offi cer to call him an Uber, and ensure they are properly secured; ensures proper identification of employees and/or visitors; maintains logs of all vehicle entries and departures including driver and passenger identification & equipment; The Miami Herald fi rst when the offi cer refused, Buress reports irregularities such as fire hazards, leaking water pipes, oil leaks and spills in ASPA plant, and reported that 34-year-old Buress became loud and belligerent. security doors left unlocked; investigates disturbances; and in the event of emergency, maintains order was booked into Miami-Dade Miami Police did not and safety of personnel; protects ASPA property against misuse and theft by immediately following re- jail at 1:57 a.m. Sunday and respond to calls and an email porting procedures and reporting illegal activities including theft, property damage, etc. Prepares daily posted bail just before 6 a.m. requesting to release the report attendance roster; answers phones and assists plant operators during plant & system outages; assists with facility maintenance as assigned and required (yard cleanup, office maintenance, etc.); makes recommen- A video circulated on social on Sunday. dations on improving safety and security measures and processes; and performs other tasks as assigned media showed Buress hand- A call to his agent and an by Security Supervisor. cuffed against a Miami patrol email to his attorney weren’t car.According to the paper, immediately returned Sunday. Minimum Requirements Buress asked offi cers why he Education High School diploma or equivalent. Experience Minimum of one (1) year in Security field or related area preferred.

Skilled In: Written and oral communications (i.e. reporting, answering phones; basic computer skills), discerning wrongful and adverse activities before they manifest and immediately act to prevent them. Ability To: Operate office equipment such as fax, computer, wireless radios etc.; maintain good and healthy habits; remain alert and watchful especially during swing and graveyard shifts; prove he/she is honest; work in an outside environment; report perpetrators regardless of relationship; walk and stand for long hours; take over another security officer’s shift when necessary; work overtime if necessary at assigned ASPA sites.

Qualified applicants: Please submit a completed ASPA Employment Application with a copy of your resume to ASPA Tafuna (address listed above) by the deadline listed above. Please attach copies of credentials and transcripts. Candidates selected for hire must pass examinations (when applicable), pre-employment clearances & test negative on FILE - In this May 16, 2016 fi le photo, Hannibal Buress arrives pre-employment drug test. ASPA reserves the right to waive education and experience requirements as necessary. at the Los Angeles premiere Th e Miami Herald fi rst reported that No phone inquiries accepted. 34-year-old Buress was booked into Miami-Dade jail at 1:57 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP, File) An Equal Opportunity Employer * A Drug Free Workplace Page 14 samoa news, Monday, December 11, 2017 Firm convictions, uneasiness at churches before Senate race BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) After church, Jones told — Alabama’s race for U.S. supporters in a cramped cam- Senate settled into church for paign offi ce that the results of worship on Sunday, with the Tuesday’s vote would send a minister at a historic black message far beyond Alabama’s congregation calling the race a borders. life-or-death matter for equal “This is an election to tell rights, conservatives standing the whole world what we stand by Republican Roy Moore and for,” he said, adding: “This cam- others feeling unsettled in the paign, ladies and gentlemen, is middle. on the right side of history.” Speaking at Birmingham’s President Donald Trump 16th Street Baptist Church, weighed in on the race with a where four black girls died in a phone message that state voters Ku Klux Klan bombing in 1963, will receive beginning Monday the Rev. Arthur Price evoked urging them to vote for Moore. the civil rights era between “I’m going to make America hymns. Democratic nominee safer and stronger and better Doug Jones prosecuted the last than ever before. But we need two Klansmen convicted in the that seat; we need Roy voting attack and has attended events for us,” Trump said in audio of Jacqueline Belcher rejoices during a 16th Street Baptist church service, Sunday, Dec. 10, 2017, in at the church, a downtown land- the call provided by the Moore Birmingham, Ala. At the church pastor Arthur Price told the mostly black congregation that Ala- mark with twin domed towers. campaign. bama’s U.S. Senate election is too important to skip. “Th ere’s too much at stake for us to stay home,” “There’s too much at stake Polls show the race too close for us to stay home,” Price said to call. While Moore had a Price said of Tuesday’s election. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson) of Tuesday’s election. He didn’t clear path to victory in a state Human Resource Department, Tafuna endorse Jones from the pulpit where no Democrat holds state- PO Box PPB, Pago Pago but in a later interview called wide offi ce, the 70-year-old has American Samoa 96799 the candidate “a hero” to the been fi ghting for his political Phone No: (684) 248-1234, Option #5 Email: [email protected] congregation and Birmingham. life since reports surfaced a Website: www.aspower.com Despite allegations of sexual month ago that he made sexual misconduct involving teen girls advances on teen girls when he decades ago, Moore isn’t being was a deputy district attorney in APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM abandoned by worshippers at his 30s. Montgomery’s Perry Hill Road Speaking on CNN on The American Samoa Power Authority announces an excellent opportunity for Baptist Church, where Moore Sunday, GOP Alabama Sen. young technically minded individuals who want a challenging, profitable career in spoke at a “God and Country” Richard Shelby said allegations American Samoa. rally in September before the that Moore molested a 14-year- ASPA is looking for its next generation of technicians and engineers. Over the accusations arose. old were the “tipping point” next few years, ASPA will be developing young technicians and engineers for Leaving the red-brick in his decision to cast a write- key positions within the organization. It needs skilled specialists in a number of building after a service that in ballot for a “distinguished fields. ended with a hymn and an Republican” rather than to vote altar call, Kevin Mims said he for Moore or Jones. ASPA will provide employment and professional training for successful appli- didn’t believe the claims against “There’s a lot of smoke,” cants. Apprentices will receive training both on the job and in formal apprentice- Moore. But even if true, he said, Shelby said. “Got to be some ship classes. Qualified apprentices will receive an all-expense paid education at a they occurred long ago, and fi re somewhere.” technical school or university in Fiji or equivalent. Applicants must be willing to Moore is a conservative who Roy Moore’s chief strategist, commit to spending 2 – 3 years off-island in pursuit of a diploma or degree. The stands “on the word of God.” Dean Young, tried to tie Moore focus for this apprentice program will be on mechanical and electrical trades or a “Everyone has to vote to the star of President Donald related field. their convictions,” said Mims, Trump, who remains pop- Selected apprentices will be employed by ASPA in preparation for the academic holding a Bible. “My convic- ular among state Republicans session starting in February 2018. tion is he’s the right man for the despite low national approval job.” ratings. Applicants must have the following qualifications: Lines aren’t so clearly “If the people of Alabama defi ned elsewhere. vote for this liberal Democrat Educational Requirements: High School graduate (minimum); Associate degree Interviews with a dozen Doug Jones, they’re voting or better preferred. Must have a “B” or better grade parishioners at Mobile’s Ash- against the president, who average in the following courses: land Place United Methodist they put in offi ce at the highest (1) Physics, Chemistry, General Science Church, the home church of U.S. level,” Young said on ABC (2) Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus Attorney General Jeff Sessions, News’ “This Week with George turned up neither any Moore Stephanopoulos.” (3) English (TOEFL score of 600 or better) defenders nor confi rmed votes In a state considered part of Skills and Aptitudes: Intermediate level computer skills. Ability to work for Jones. The prevailing mood the Bible Belt, the allegations independently, disciplined, self-starter, technically seemed to be one of frustration transformed a race into an unex- minded (confirmed by required references).Other over having to choose between pected referendum on which is desirable skills include hand-eye coordination, motor a Republican with Moore’s bag- better: a man accused of child skills, attention to detail, and work well in a team gage and any Democrat. molestation claims he vehe- environment. “I will vote for Judge mently denies or a Democrat? Moore,” said Bill Prine, of For many conservative Citizenship: US National or Citizen. Mobile. “I’m not a fan of his, Republicans, there’s really no Testing: All applicants will be required to complete ASPA’s internal but I’ll have to stick with the choice. testing for science and math ability. Republicans.” “To me, there’s only one The candidates also spent person in the race, and that’s Salary will be based on the technical area and job duties assigned. time in church. Accompanied Judge Moore,” said David by Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ), Smith, leaving Perry Hill Bap- Applicants must complete an ASPA Employment Application Form and provide two Rep. Terri Sewell (D-Ala), and tist with his wife, Cecilia. The written references. The form is available at ASPA Human Resource Office in Tafuna or via others, Jones tweeted a photo two have a recording of Moore’s ASPA’s website at www.aspower.com from More Than Conquerors speech earlier this year at their All application information, including school records and references, will be subject to Faith Church, a large black con- church and sometimes listen to verification as part of the screening process. gregation in Birmingham. Aides it in the car for inspiration. to Moore, who has been almost At 16th Street Baptist, Deadline for submitting applications is 4pm on Friday, December 8, 2017. invisible on the campaign trail Merion Turner recalled partici- This ad has been revised as of 11/30/2017. during the closing days of the pating in civil rights marches race, didn’t disclose his where- and was in high school at the An Equal Opportunity Employer * A Drug Free Workplace abouts Sunday. time of the bombing. samoa news, Monday, December 11, 2017 Page 15 Israeli, French leaders tangle over US Jerusalem decision JERUSALEM (AP) — States could play in the region The French and Israeli leaders and create more confusion sparred verbally Sunday over around this.” the U.S. decision to recognize The meeting could be a pre- Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, cursor for what seems to be an while new violence rippled emerging rift between Israel across the region following the and the U.S. on one side, and move by U.S. President Donald Europe and the Palestinians on Trump. the other. In Jerusalem, a Palestinian Palestinian President Mah- stabbed an Israeli security moud Abbas has said Trump’s guard, seriously wounding him decision has in effect disquali- in the fi rst attack in the volatile fi ed the U.S. from continuing in city since Trump’s pronounce- its role as the traditional medi- ment Wednesday. In Beirut, ator of peace talks. The Pales- scores of Lebanese and Pales- tinians have spent recent days tinian demonstrators clashed trying to rally Arab and broader with security forces outside the international opposition to the heavily guarded U.S. Embassy, decision. and Arab foreign ministers After Abbas political adviser meeting in Cairo demanded that Majdi Khaldi said Saturday that the United States rescind the the Palestinian leader won’t decision. meet with Vice President Mike The move upended decades Pence when he visits the region of U.S. policy, and a long- this month, a spokeswoman standing international con- for Pence said Sunday it was sensus, that the fate of Jerusalem “unfortunate that the Pales- be decided in negotiations. tinian Authority is walking Israeli and Palestinian claims away again from an opportu- to the city’s eastern sector form nity to discuss the future of the the emotional core of their con- region.” fl ict, and Trump’s announce- EU leaders, including ment was seen as siding with Macron, have reiterated support the Israelis and has drawn wide for establishing an indepen- international criticism. dent Palestinian state alongside At a meeting in Paris with Israel. Trump has said he would Israel’s visiting prime minister, support the idea if both sides French President Emmanuel endorse it — effectively giving Macron condemned recent vio- Israel a veto over any peace pro- lence against Israelis. But he posal. Netanyahu’s government also expressed “disapproval” is dominated by opponents of Trump’s decision, calling it to Palestinian independence. “dangerous for peace.” Trump’s Middle East team, “It doesn’t seem to serve, headed by his son-in-law Jared in the short term, the cause of Kushner, has been working for Israel’s security and the Israelis months on a peace plan but has themselves,” Macron said. not yet released it. He urged Israel to freeze its Israel captured east Jeru- construction of settlements on salem from Jordan in the 1967 occupied lands and called for Middle East war and annexed other confi dence-building mea- the area to its capital in a move sures toward the Palestinians. that was not internationally rec- Israeli Prime Minister Ben- ognized. The Palestinians claim jamin Netanyahu, who has east Jerusalem as the capital of called Trump’s decision “his- a future state, along with the toric,” said Israel has main- West Bank and Gaza Strip. tained its capital in the city for East Jerusalem is home to 70 years and the Jewish con- Judaism’s most sacred site, nection to Jerusalem goes back as well as key holy places for 3,000 years. Christians and Muslims. These “Paris is the capital of confl icting claims have erupted France, Jerusalem is the capital into deadly bloodshed in the of Israel,” he said. “We respect past. your history and your choices. A senior U.S. offi cial And we know that as friends, appealed to world leaders, espe- you respect ours.” cially in the Middle East, to “I think the sooner the Pal- calm regional tensions. estinians come to grips with Acting Assistant Secretary this reality, the sooner we move of State David Satterfi eld told toward peace,” he added. Arab journalists that Trump’s The exchange between pronouncement was merely a the two allies set the stage for “recognition of simple reality” what could be a tense meeting that Israel’s government already Monday for Netanyahu with is in Jerusalem. European Union foreign minis- He said the U.S. was not pre- ters in Brussels. The Jerusalem judging fi nal-status negotiations issue and the moribund peace about the city’s fi nal borders process are expected to be high and expressed hope that world on the agenda. leaders understand the U.S. is Last week, EU foreign committed to moving forward policy chief Federica Mogherini with a peace plan he expects to warned that Trump’s decision be unveiled in the new year. “has the potential to send us “This is a question of choice: backward to even darker times Do leaders choose to speak to than the one we are already their peoples, to their regions living in.” in terms that refl ect reality or in She also warned that terms that incite or infl ame?” he Trump’s “move could diminish said. “We hope it’s the former.” the potential role that the United Page 16 samoa news, Monday, December 11, 2017

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