Success Is All About Following Your Dreams
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Nearly $5Mil was paid to Native Hawaiian Holding Company by Fili Sagapolutele NHHC official Quin Ngoc Rudin Samoa News Correspondent had signed the ASG contract with ov. Lolo Matalasi Moliga former Human Resources Department has confirmed that the Director Evelyn Vaitautolu Langford. American Samoa govern- Under the area of financial over- ment is only able to recoup view of the governor’s official State justG over $2 million of the nearly $5 mil- of the Territory Address Comprehen- sive Report, Lolo said the administra- lion paid to Native Hawaiian Holding tion was “critical in prosecuting those Company (NHHC), which was awarded a responsible for the failure” of the NEG multi-million dollar contract funded by the program, in which American Samoa federal National Emergency Grant (NEG) was awarded $28 million to create per- program following the 2009 earthquake manent jobs and training for displaced and tsunami to provide among other things workers. a job training and call center. (Continued on page 4) Latest drug bust at Post Office is allegedly a repeat case Siulepa Uiagalelei, a teacher at Samoana High School, was star-struck to meet by Joyetter Feagaimaali’i-Luamanu The court filing says that when Parris Goebel in Samoa during the holidays. Parris, who is half Samoan, is a well- Samoa News Reporter CID Detectives arrived there were known choreographer, performing with stars such as Jennifer Lopez, Nicki Minaj, Drug defendant, Gerhard Haleck four sandwich-plastic baggies. The K9 C M Rihanna, Ariana Grande, and Justin Bieber. She was in Samoa for the holidays, Otto is facing one criminal count of handler informed the Detectives that visiting her mother’s family in Pesega. Read story below. [Courtesy photo] Y K unlawful possession of a controlled their dog alerted near the parcel during substance, marijuana, in connection usual inspection and the following day with the latest drug bust at the Post Haleck picked up the parcel. Office last week. The package was addressed to Samoa News notes the court docu- Gabriel Otto Haleck, PO BOX 1138, Success is all about ment identifies the defendant as — 96799 and the sender’s address was Gerhard Haleck Otto — however, from a Haleck, 17214 24th Avenue, sources say the defendant is known as CT E Tacoma, Washington, 98445. following your dreams “Gerhard Otto Haleck”. According to court documents, on The criminal count is punishable January 3, 2017 the defendant walked By Leiloa Ese Malala Janet Jackson, Rihanna, Justin Bieber — for between five to ten years in jail and into the post office to claim the package Samoa News writer choreographing routines and starring in or a fine of $5,000 up to $20,000 or and when the defendant was asked if At the end of 2016 Parris Goebel music videos and movies such as “Step both. he was Gabriel he noted that he wasn’t finally relaxed and had down time in UP All-in”. According to the government’s — it was his little brother. The box Beautiful Samoa after a big year of suc- One of her momentous successes case, on January 3, 2017 the Criminal was then inspected by Customs and the cess. She is a 25-year-old, who is an was her work choreographing for the Investigation Division (CID) was con- defendant told the Customs agents, “It award winning New Zealand-born cho- Justin Bieber song “Sorry”, which as of tacted for assistance by the Custom’s was his supplements”. reographer, dancer, singer and actress of December 2016 is the 3rd most viewed K9 Supervisor regarding a young man Court filings further say that the Samoan descent. Her dance crew, The video on YouTube with more than 2 bil- who picked up a package at the post Customs agent opened a bottle, which Royal Family, has won the World Hip lion views and has scored her 3 Video office containing a green leafy sub- contained powder and the Custom Hop Dance Championship three times. Music Award nominations and has stance that tested positive for THC or agent saw a clear plastic baggie inside Goebel has worked with artists won Video of the Year at the America including Jennifer Lopez, Nicki Minaj, marijuana. (Continued on page 6) (Continued on page 6) Page 2 samoa news, Wednesday, January 11, 2016
Part of the ceremony welcoming the newly built MV Manu’atele vessel on Wednesday, January 4, 2016, to it’s home port — Pago Pago, American Samoa — included the two fautasi — God Is Great and the Sinapioa — as well as 4 canoes, and the two government tugboats. The blare of horns added to the fanfare of the arrival. The vessel sailed from Washington State where it was built, with a brief stopover in Honolulu, Hawai’i, for crew rest, refueling and cargo before coming home. [Photo: AF] Gov. Lolo: Admin highly committed to improve rela- tions with private sector by Fili Sagapolutele of FY 2016, only 2,619 busi- Development Administration Samoa News Correspondent nesses licenses were issued, said Revolving Loan Fund (EDA- Through various loan pro- Lolo adding that the administra- RLF) were also dispersed in the grams offered by the Develop- tion continues to remain hopeful last three years. ment Bank of American Samoa as 3rd and 4th quarter figures Furthermore, about 51% of for local businesses, Gov. Lolo recently show a respective the EDA-RLF was awarded Matalasi Moliga said more than increase of 2,775 and 2,990 in for business startups and 49% FELETI BARSTOW LIBRARY $9 million has been injected business licenses issued. towards industrial activities, thus FREE Registration is now open for: back into the local economy over Additionally, as of November injecting about $679,750 back to Basic Computer Course for adults ages 18 and up! the last four years. 2016, DOC claimed an increase the territory’s economy. January 17 - 27, 2017, Monday - Friday, 0930am - 1130am The governor made the com- in its revenue collections as ASG also continued pro- ments in his Comprehensive business licenses issued (2,995) viding financial programs to Registration must be done in person at the Feleti Barstow Report of the State of the Terri- improved by 3.28%. And based assist entrepreneurs and small Public Library and will be on a first come first serve basis. tory Address, which is in English on DOC and Treasury’s Rev- businesses through the Small Availability is limited! only, and was distributed to law- enue Division records, as of Technical Assistance Program makers and others during Mon- November 2016, a total of under DOC’s Economic Devel- day’s opening of the joint Fono $491,469 has been collected in opment Division (EDD). session. Part of the Address license fees from the 2,995 busi- This program assists appli- deals with the private sector, and ness licenses issued, indicating cants towards processing their AUTO NATION Lolo points out that his admin- an increase of $337,219 or 219% business licenses in order to NU’UULI: (684) 699-7168 FAGATOGO: (684) 633-2239 FAX: (684) 699-7175 istration has been highly com- in revenue collection compared qualify for other financial assis- mitted to improving government to FY 2014 total license fee rev- tance programs offered by enti- services and relations with the enues of only $154,250. ties such as the ASCC Small 2 Ton Jack $99.00 Boombotix private sector. For example, the LOAN PROGRAMS Business Development Center; Speaker (Bluetooth) process of new business licenses According to the governor, Bank of Hawaii Grant Assis- has been streamlined to a one- business start-ups have also tance Program; Department $50.00 day process, compared to the increased tremendously in the of Human and Social Services previous method, which took last four years due to the vari- Vocational Rehabilitation Pro- about six months. eties of loan programs offered gram; and EDA-RLP. Under the new expedited by the Development Bank of The governor said that since process, Lolo says nearly 3,740 American Samoa for local busi- 2016, about 2,415 clients visited business licenses were issued in nesses. For example, in the last EDD for various items of tech- Battery 2015 since the policy was imple- three years, 294 loans from 10 nical assistance such as manage- $109.00 $119.00 mented by Commerce Depart- different loan programs were ment counseling, financial coun- ment in 2013. awarded for business start-ups seling, business verification, However, the number of and home loans. business licenses process and business licenses issued has “This injected $9.3 million loan package, and information Ball Joint dropped since 2016 when busi- back to the local economy,” the on investment guides to Amer- $40 + Up ness licenses fees were recently governor said and noted that ican Samoa. hiked. During the 2nd quarter nine loans through the Economic (Continued on page 9) samoa news, Wednesday, January 11, 2016 Page 3
House Speaker Savali OFFICE OF CATHOLIC EDUCATION Talavou Ale during the Inau- DIOCESE OF SAMOA PAGO PAGO guration Ceremony that took P.O. Box 596, Pago Pago, place on Jan. 03, 2017 at the American Samoa 96799 Fagatogo malae. [photo: AF] Phone: (684) 699-1238/ 699-5023 EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Applications are invited for Teachers, Fa’asao-Marist High School and Marist-St Francis Elementary School. Subject areas: Combinations of English, Math, Science and Social Studies Application forms available at the above office, Fatuoaiga, Ottoville, or online at
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O&O INC. WHOLESALE in Nu’uuli Please contact: Jiin (258-4563) or Tafa Leaupepe Standing Committees Office: (684) 699-4484 • Fax: (684) 699-2307 Email: [email protected] by Joyetter Legal Affairs & Judiciary Feagaimaali’i-Luamanu Committee — Toeaina Faufano Samoa News Reporter Autele (These were previously The House of Represen- separate committees, but are tatives has appointed their now combined) American Samoa Government respective committee members Public Works Committee OFFICE OF PROCUREMENT with each lawmaker as Chair- — Vui Florence Tuaumu Saulo person, with the exception of Port Administrations and newly elected Representative Transportation Committee — Gafatasi Afalava, who was lawmaker Kitara Vaiau not appointed as a Chair, but Commerce & Economic INVITATION FOR BIDS he is a member in seven of the Development — Samuel Ioka standing committees, and is Meleisea IFB 025-2017 vice-chair of two of them. Local Government, TAOA Issuance Date: January 11, 2017 Closing Date: January 25, 2017 There are a total of 21 House and Election Office Committee No later than 2:00 p.m. (local time) members, which includes the — Sataua Dr. Mataese Samuelu Speaker of the House, and there Human Social Services & 1. INVITATION is a total of 19 standing com- Youth and Women’s Affairs Sealed bids are invited from Department of Agriculture Certified Farmers to provide mittees. The Speaker and Vice Committee — Fagoatua Dorian Speaker are the ones that make Salave’a “Supply of Local Produce” for the Department of Education, School Lunch Program. the selection. The Speaker does Homeland Security Com- 2. RECEIPT & OPENING OF BIDS not serve on any of the com- mittee — Veevalu Meauta Sealed bids will be received by the Chief Procurement Officer, American Samoa mittees, as is norm. It should Lauoi Mageo be noted that the same men Parks and Recs Committee Government, Tafuna, American Samoa 96799, until 2:00 p.m. (local time), January 25, are currently holding the same — Matagi David Sialega 2017 at which time and place the sealed bids will be publicly opened and read. House leadership positions Education and Scholarship 3. PRE-BID CONFERENCE from the previous legislature. Committee — Vaetasi Tuumo- According to the list of limoli Moliga A Pre-Bid Meeting for all Department of Agriculture certified farmers will be held on Committees that were dis- Health Committee — Vesi January 19, 2017 at 9:00 a.m. at the Department of Agriculture Conference Room. tributed and approved by the Talalelei Fautanu Jr 4. CONTRACT DOCUMENTS House, the following selections Public Safety Committee — have been made for chairman: Manumaua Wayne Wilson Electronic copies of contract documents, including Plans and Scope of Work can be House Rules Committee Communications Com- examined or obtained from the Office of Procurement during regular business hours free — Vice Speaker, Fetu Fetui Jr. mittee — Pulei’ite Li’amatua of charge. Budget and Appropriations Tufele 5. The American Samoa Government reserves the right not to accept the lowest or any bid. Committee — Vailiuama Steve Vaetasi suggested to the Leasiolagi House Speaker Savali Talavou 6. The American Samoa Government reserves the right to waive any informality in bidding Ways and Means Committee Ale, to add another member as may be in the best interest of American Samoa Government. — Lavea Legae’e Mauga to the Education Committee, Government and Operations however Savali said that the Committee — Faimealelei members that have already Anthony Allen been appointed should remain ASPA & Energy Office as it is; and the request for an DR. ORETA MAPU CRICHTON Committee — Timusa Tini additional member to the Edu- Equal Opportunity Employer / Affirmative Action Acting Chief Procurement Officer Lam Yuen cation Committee was denied. Page 4 samoa news, Wednesday, January 11, 2016
➧ ASG only able to recoup … Continued from page 1 Lolo said NHHC, contracted by ASG, “failed to provide these services” and with the former DHR Director and NHHC represen- tative currently in prison “for fraud, ASG could not recoup $4.9 million paid to the company.” The administration “was able to acquire only $2.5 million of disallowed costs” for the NEG program, the governor said. (Lolo didn’t identify the former DHR director and NHHC representative by name in the report.) This is the same amount — $2.5 million — that ASG is required to pay back to the US Department of Labor, which administered the NEG, but the administration has successful sought to waive the local government’s obligation to pay the money back, and the $2.5Mil is now slated to come directly to ASG. As previously reported by Samoa News, Rudin was sentenced last October by the federal court in San Francisco to serve 84 months in federal prison and pay nearly $40 million in restitution to his victims, which includes the American Samoa Government. Rudin’s case stems from a federal indictment in 2013 in which the federal government accused him of defrauding US companies. However, the NEG program case was included in this federal case, during Rudin’s sentencing. Then Attorney General Talauega Elesalo Ale wrote last year to the federal court, saying that Rudin’s “crimes were not victimless in any sense of the word. His self- ishness and greed has a negative, harmful and long lasting impact on the American Samoa Government and the people of American Samoa, especially given the purpose of the money he stole.” A 7-page judgment document, not only provides details of the defendant’s sentencing but also total restitution which includes $3.13 million (or $3,131,974) to be paid to the “American Samoa Government, Office of the Attorney General, Attn: National Emer- gency Grant.” (Samoa News has been unable to find out specifics of the difference in the dollar amount of the federal ‘total restitu- tion’ and Governor Lolo’s recovery amount.) For Langford, she was sentenced in June 2015 to 22 months in prison and is to pay restitution of $260,000 for convictions of wire fraud and bribery. Federal prosecutors accused Langford of accepting more than $200,000 from a government contractor — referring to Rudin — in exchange for favorable treatment. Of interest is that Langford’s plea agreement with federal pros- ecutors cannot be accessed by the public on federal electronic court records. The agreement was filed in early part of 2015.
Members of fautasi boats, such as the Aeto, Paepaeulupoo, and God is Great, volunteered to row the God is Great and Sinapioa fautasi to welcome the newly built MV Manu’atele vessel home last week Wednesday. [photo: Ese Malala] “Working with the Community” WRITTEN TENDERS NATIONAL PACIFIC INSURANCE LTD Invites written tenders for 1 only damaged 2010 TOYOTA YARIS LIC#R-202 on “as is, where is” basis. Viewing appointments can be scheduled with Accords Collision & Towing Inc Shop in Tafuna on 699-1633 or 731-3883 by Blue Chen-Fruean wrote, “Huge thank you to everyone who has Samoa News Correspondent supported me on my journey! #FightOnForever” All Tenders sealed in envelope and addressed to: GET READY FOR MORE HOT DAYS Juju played a huge role in USC’s come-from- It’s been sizzling for the past week. Some behind win against Penn State last weekend at Tender - 68221874 drizzle here and there will cool the temperature the Rose Bowl when his 13-yard touchdown Agnes Polu for a few minutes and then it’s back to the swel- reception and a two-point conversion that fol- Country Manager tering heat. The humidity has been unbearable lowed ended a run that had Penn State up 42-27 National Pacific Insurance Ltd and many local residents have been wondering if less than five minutes into the second half. it will get cooler anytime soon. Juju attended Long Beach Polytechnic High P O Box 1386 Local meteorologist Hans Malala, in response School in Long Beach, CA where he played wide Utulei, Centennial Building to Samoa News inquiries earlier this week, said receiver and safety. He has been USC’s leading Pago Pago, American Samoa 96799 that the temperatures for the past week have been receiver for the past two seasons. between 89 and 90 degrees but “this is the norm” In 2015, he was among five finalists for the Highest or any tender will not necessarily be accepted for this time of year. Polynesian Player of the Year Award and one of Tender closes at 4pm on January 18th, 2017 He explained that the record high for this time ten semifinalists for the Biletnikoff Award. period in the territory was set back in 1998, when That same year, he won USC’s Offensive For any further details please contact Elena Talitiga-Felise. temperatures reached a simmering 95 degrees. Perimeter Player of the Year Award and made Phone#: 633-4266 or 699-1267 According to Malala, there is no significant the All-Pac-12 first team, AP All-Pac-12 first change expected in the weather pattern, as the team, and Phil Steele All-Pac-12 first team. territory is in its rainy season and also, this is Of Juju, Jake Davidson of the Daily Trojan © Osini Faleatasi Inc. reserves all rights summer time in American Samoa so it’s going wrote, he “is a physical phenom with the potential dba Samoa News publishes Monday to Friday, except for some to be hot-hot-hot. to go down as the best Trojan receiver ever. His local and federal holidays. - Send correspondences to: OF, dba SAMOAN COLLEGE STANDOUT WILL rare mix of speed and power, combined with a Samoa News, Box 909, Pago Pago, Am. Samoa 96799. ENTER THE 2017 NFL DRAFT penchant for elusive moves, is truly remarkable.” Telephone at (684) 633-5599 • Fax at (684) 633-4864 John “Juju” Smith-Schuster, 20, a wide Speaking of his decision, Juju said, “This was Advertis to [email protected] News at [email protected] receiver for the University of Southern Cali- a very difficult decision to make. I have loved Normal business hours are Mon. thru Fri. 8am to 4pm. fornia Trojans announced this past weekend that my time at USC and wouldn’t trade it for any- Permission to reproduce editorial and/or advertisements, in whole he will forgo his final season of eligibility and thing in the world;” but, “I can’t wait to chase my or in part, is required. Please address such requests to the Pub- enter the 2017 NFL draft, set to be held in April. dreams in the NFL and support my family in the lisher at the address provided above. Juju is the son of Lawrence and Sammy next step of my life. I pray the Trojan family will Please visit samoanews.com for weekend updates. Schuster of American Samoa. always remember me and support me through In a message posted on social media, Juju the rest of my journey! Fight on Forever!” samoa news, Wednesday, January 11, 2016 Page 5 Page 6 samoa news, Wednesday, January 11, 2016 drop out at 15 years old. ➧ Good or bad: It led to her ➧ Success is… having to decide to either do Drug bust… Continued from page 1 nothing or get up and do some- Continued from page 1 Music Awards. Goebel was thing; and with the help of her named female choreographer of parents, she began intensive the bottle. dance coaching and opened a The powder was poured out the year at the World of Dance Industry Awards for 2016. dance studio in 2009, to con- and the agents uncovered four tinue her passion. plastic baggies containing a Late last year Parris walked the white carpet of the Video Parris said, “I remember grean leafy substance which dancing from a young age and was later tested positive as Music Awards in her Pasefika- themed dress by E’vana Cou- have always loved dancing. THC or marijuana. My mum enrolled me into a Questioned by the Customs ture, and told Samoa News then, “I really wanted to wear some- performing arts program and I agent, the defendant admitted quickly discovered the class I that the powder supplement thing different from everyone else and what better than to loved the most was hip-hop. I was his, but he did not know taught myself how to dance and anything about the “weed”. represent my culture. My mum is Samoan so I am proud to be watched a lot of YouTube to see Court filings note that on all the various styles. I started July 29, 2014 the defendant Polynesian and to represent my family and my culture.” ReQuest Dance Crew when I was involved in a similar case was 15 and then opened my where he picked up mail that Dancing has always been her passion and life from a young own studio [The Palace] when I contained the same amount was 17 years old and have never of marijuana from the Post age. Parris is the youngest in her family of four children, and it looked back since.” Office. Samoa News under- Towards the end of last year, C M stands the defendant was not wasn’t until she was 10 years old she released her own debut Y K charged in the similar incident that she had found her calling to dance, she told Samoa News. EP Vicious, including her hit noted in the court filings. singles Friday and Nasty. She The defendant made his Parris attended a European school where she says she was also announced she is teaming initial appearance in the Dis- up with Elton John for her next trict Court last week and he the only Polynesian girl in her year, so she would get bullied project. Away from it all, Parris has since been released on finally found the time to relax and bail. According to the arrest for being brown. The bullying continued for most of her time soak up the sun for the 2016 holi- warrant the initial bail set by days and New Year in Samoa. the District Court was $5,000. at school and she started to feel she didn’t fit and so decided to She managed to keep it on a low profile and has just been posting photos of herself in loving Paradise and visiting her mother’s home in Pesega. People have come to recognize who she is and were able to meet and take photos with her — such as one of our locals, Siulepa Uiagalelei, a teacher at Samoana High School, who is a fan of Parris’ work, espe- cially her dancing, and saw her in Samoa. “I wanted to scream when I met her, I was star-struck and wanted her to just teach me some dance moves — she’s like our celebrity in the Polyne- sian community,” Siulepa told Samoa News. Right now — Parris is back in New Zealand, because it’s January, and her dance studio — The Palace — holds its annual auditions for a chance for a position in the studio’s dance crews. It usually brings hundreds of hip-hop dancers from across New Zealand — and an increasing number from overseas — to perform. The very best get the oppor- tunity to compete at world championships, dance with Parris, possibly even perform with her big-name clients and carve out international dancing careers for themselves. An 18-year-old graduate C M from Samoana High School, Y K who participated in her dance workshop in Las Vegas and has a passion for dancing, said he’s looking forward to auditioning for Parris soon. “Having to be a part of her Master class has helped me perfect my dance skills, she is one of my main role models in dance and I cannot wait to audi- tion for her team when I return back from a two-year LDS mission,” said Okesene Jr. to Samoa News. “Follow your dreams, I’m a just a girl from South Auckland and am now working all around the world doing what I love. If I can do it — then anyone can do it if they are willing to work hard,” says Parris Goebel to the youth of American Samoa. samoa news, Wednesday, January 11, 2016 Page 7 Hawaiian Air Meet A Spelling Champ! changes in fees BIOGRAPHY OF A 2017 The student at the SPELLING BEE FINALIST right will represent What is your name? Manulele Tausala Elem Sharon Jeannie Lavea and penalties in the American Samoa What is your school name? Laulii Elementary School Spelling Bee to be held What grade are you in? February 22nd. Grade 8 The winner of that Bee Who is your English Teacher? once again of will represent American Talau’u Utuone&Valasi Tagovailoa Samoa in the 89th Who are your parents? Michael and Elisapeta Lavea annual Scripps Howard What village are you from? Spelling Bee to be held Laulii Senate concern in Washington, D.C. What was your winning word? C M by Fili Sagapolutele PATEL Y K Samoa News Correspondent Concerns over fees and penalties imposed by Hawaiian Air- Spelling Bee Winners, if you’ve not filled out your biography and had your picture taken, please come in to Samoa News. lines as well as other restrictions by the Honolulu-based carrier was the first issue raised in the Senate yesterday, which is also the first working day of the First Regular Session of the 35th Legislature. During yesterday’s Senate session Sen. Alo Fa’au’uga told his colleagues that something has to be done about Hawaiian Air’s Territorial Spelling Bee high fares as well as the many restrictions on tickets and fares. For example, he said the penalties have increased dramatically Major Sponsor up to $400 and when a local family member pays for a relative, who ends up not traveling, no changes can be made for another McDonald’s family member to travel using the same ticket. in conjunction with Alo called for the Senate to look into this serious issue that should be addressed. While the senator didn’t elaborate further on the up to $400 penalty fees, Hawaiian Air website dealing with fees, shows, for example, it’s $200 per change fee, per ticket, for Paradise pizza North America travel, while the change fee — between $50 to $300 per ticket plus fare differences — for international travel, which includes American Samoa. Department of EDUCATION SSAB American Samoa Senate President Gaoteote Tofau Palaie responded that these PAGO Inc. same concerns regarding Hawaiian Air have come up in the SIMPLY THE BEST Senate in the past sessions and reminded senators that the airline is not a government entity. However, Gaoteote acknowledged that this is an impor- tant issue to review, but as of yesterday, the make-up of Senate standing committees for the 35th Legislature have not yet been formally confirmed. He said the list of standing committees will be provided today to senators for approval and at that time, the Hawaiian Air matter can then be assigned to the appropriate committee, either airport or transportation. Alo’s concerns come just days after the American Samoa Vis- itors Bureau released last Friday details of the official holiday travel packages for American Samoa through Hawaiian Airlines, which is working in conjunction with its trade partner — All About Tours — an Oregon-based wholesale tour operator. The travel package, which includes airfare and seven-nights accommodation deals starts from $1,990 from Honolulu and $2,299 from the nine US mainland cities from which Hawaiian Air flies directly to and from — staying at Sadie’s by the Sea, Tradewinds Hotel, Moana O Sina or Tisa’s Barefoot Bar. (See Samoa News edition Jan. 9th for details). Meanwhile, Hawaiian Air has been named the world’s most punctual airline in 2016, according to results released last Thursday by air travel intelligence company OAG in its annual ranking of on-time performance (OTP) for all airlines and airports. C M The OAG Punctuality League, covering 200 airlines from Y K every corner of the globe, revealed that 89.9% of Hawaiian Air’s flights arrived on time in 2016. See details of the report on www. oag.com. Hawaiian Air is the only airline connecting American Samoa to the US via Honolulu and currently operates two flights a week. Page 8 samoa news, Wednesday, January 11, 2016
Le Vasa Outrigger paddlers joined in to welcome the newly built MV Manu’atele vessel home last week Wednesday morning with the two traditional canoes that were beautifully built by Su’a Wilson Fitiao and team. [photo: Ese Malala]
Trump news spreads faster than reporters can verify Human Resource Department, Tafuna PO Box PPB, Pago Pago AMERICAN SAMOA POWER AUTHORITY American Samoa 96799 Phone No: (684) 699-3033 Fax No: (684) 699-3046 President-elect Donald Trump speaks with reporters after [email protected] meeting French businessman Bernard Arnault at Trump Tower PUBLIC JOB POSTING in New York, Monday, Jan. 9, 2017. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) Information Systems Specialist Posting Date January 9, 2017 Position Title DAVID BAUDER, allegations, and said BuzzFeed Department ICT Deadline January 20, 2017 4:00 PM Associated Press had tried and will continue Division Support Services Pay Rate $11.87 to $13.79 per hour PASADENA, Calif. (AP) trying to verify them. — The spread of a report about “People of good will may Job Grade/Status H/1/A-H/4/D, Non-Exempt Position Type Career Service – 12 months probation supposed damaging infor- disagree with our choice,” he Reports To ICT Manager mation about President-elect wrote. “But publishing this dos- Donald Trump collected by sier reflects how we see the job Major Duties & Responsibilities Russia became a public test of of reporters in 2017.” Highly responsible, professional, technical, and administrative work of considerable difficulty involving coordination of short journalistic standards Tuesday It’s the latest, and a vitally and long range planning, analysis, report design, implementation and maintenance of mission-critical business process solutions but burst into public conscious- important, example of how the for ASPA’s ICT department. Incumbent is responsible for maintaining the department’s information technology database and ness even as those standards internet has changed the flow of reporting needs using networked and distributed computing architectures and applications. Work is performed under the general supervision of the ICT Supervisor. Serves as administrator for the on-going maintenance of ASPA’s Information Communication were being debated. news and information, said vet- Technology Departments’ information technology systems, applications and databases, as applicable. Coordinates the research, Hours after news reports eran media ethicist Bob Steele. analysis, installation, maintenance and management for the department’s operating and application system software and hardware. circulated that Trump had been “It’s a very, very difficult Provides technical support to system users. Manages, monitors and analyzes system and application performance, documents briefed by intelligence officials time for editors of mainstream problems and explores, evaluates, and recommends solutions. Coordinates the design of database structures and develops docu- about the existence of the dos- news organizations,” he said. mentation standards for the effective use, control, updating, maintenance and back-up of databases. Assures integrity of database sier on him, BuzzFeed News BuzzFeed is taking a big risk design and complimentary report software - Showcase, including database reports. Assures proper and balanced interface between published a summary of those by publishing the information, specific business applications/systems and ASPA’s primary systems, as applicable. Researches, plans, develops, coordinates and allegations. It published despite he said. It’s important if such performs the implementation of system/application changes, including upgrades, updates, modifications and customizations its editor noting that there is allegations are spread that orga- and maintains documentation for changes implemented. Researches, previews, and tests application/systems new releases, fixes, reason to doubt the truth of nizations are clear about what updates and expanded functional uses. Provides training and support to system users. Serves as liaison between functional users, department management and ISS technical staff. Performs related work as required. Other Important Duties keeps informed and them. has or hasn’t been substanti- abreast of major trends and developments in the computer field. May perform selected duties of the administrative supervisor, as Most news organizations, ated, and whether an effort is necessary. Performs related work as required. including The Associated Press, being made to do so, he said. held back on the specific allega- The president-elect’s reac- Minimum Requirements tions because they had not been tion on Twitter: “Fake news! A Education Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or Information System Management substantiated. “Even Donald total political witch hunt!” Trump deserves journalistic Kelly McBride, a media eth- Experience Three (3) years related work experience in information technology. fairness,” tweeted David Corn, icist for the Poynter Institute, Knowledge, Considerable knowledge of computer technology and current technical industry capabilities, standards and Washington bureau chief of compared BuzzFeed’s action to Skills & Abilities trends. Ability to work with both SQL (Structured Query Language) and AS400 query. Ability to conduct Mother Jones. document dumps by websites independent research and define results. Ability to furnish competent technical advice and recommendations Yet the news spread so like WikiLeaks. on hardware capabilities, system reporting, and development, and related matters. Ability to analyze facts quickly that by Tuesday night, Smith “says that this is the job and exercise sound judgment in arriving at conclusions. Ability to interact effectively with functional one specific, salacious allega- of reporters in 2017,” McBride representatives and technical co-workers one-on-one and/or in team environments. Ability to organize time tion was a top trending topic on said. “What I want to ask back and resources for maximum benefit. Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, orally, and in writing. Twitter. Ben Smith, editor of is, ‘Where’s the reporting?’ The Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships as necessitated by the work. Ability to work irregular and/or additional hours. Skills to include, but not be limited to, use of the following tool sets BuzzFeed, explained in a note job of reporting is to actually or equivalent products: Microsoft Office 2013 desktop toolset, (Access, Word, Excel, etc), system support to his staff that was published report. They didn’t put anything and/or development in client/server environment, working knowledge of an Open Database Connectivity on Twitter that the news orga- out there about what they’re (ODBC), database (AS400, Linux, etc.), Structured Query Language/Structured Query Reports (SQL/SQR), nization published the informa- doing to verify or debunk the Windows7, and a basic understanding of networks and network design. Minimum Training and Experience tion so Americans could make claims or even if they’re going Possession of a bachelor’s degree in computer science, management information systems, business up their own minds about alle- to verify or debunk the claims.” administration or a related field and three years of professional and technical experience that includes gations that have been circu- It doesn’t mean journalists experience with application systems in a client/server environment; or an equivalent combination of training lating at the highest levels of the should be above asking the and experience. United States government. public for help in getting to the “Our presumption is to be bottom of stories; one example Qualified applicants: Please submit a completed ASPA Employment Application with a copy of your resume to transparent in our journalism is stories about sexual abuse by 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 and to share what we have with religious officials, she said. pre-employment drug test. our readers,” Smith wrote. “We “I’m struggling with whether No phone inquiries accepted. have always erred on the side of this is an act of journalism,” she publishing.” said. “I don’t think it’s jour- An Equal Opportunity Employer * A Drug Free Workplace He noted the doubt about the nalism. It’s something else.” samoa news, Wednesday, January 11, 2016 Page 9
➧Admin highly… ‘Yes we did’: Barack Obama bids Continued from page 2 INVESTMENT & VENTURES Lolo cited investments and ven- tures achieved by the administration farewell in nostalgic last speech in the last four years. For example, the small business incubator located at the CHICAGO (AP) — President Barack Fagatogo Market place and currently Obama bid farewell to the nation Tuesday occupied by four small businesses. in an emotional speech that sought to The incubator’s goal is to promote the comfort a country on edge over rapid establishment and startups of small economic changes, persistent security businesses. threats and the election of Donald Trump. Another venture cited in the report, Forceful at times and tearful at others, is the ground breaking last year of Obama’s valedictory speech in his home- the Philippines-based AVM Bernado town of Chicago was a public medita- Engineer Company, to start construc- tion on the many trials the U.S. faces tion of a new multi food processing as Obama takes his exit. For the chal- facility. Lolo said the company has lenges that are new, Obama offered his “invested about $106 million” to build vision for how to surmount them, and for the new plant, which will create more the persistent problems he was unable than 500 new jobs and the facility is to overcome, he offered optimism that projected to take a year to complete. others, eventually, will. According to the governor, ASG “Yes, our progress has been uneven,” have also negotiated with Datamatics Obama told a crowd of some 18,000. President Barack Obama waves as he is joined by First Lady Michelle Obama to set up a pending call center by the “The work of democracy has always been and daughter Malia Obama after giving his presidential farewell address at McCor- end of the year. And if successful, the hard, contentious and sometimes bloody. mick Place in Chicago, Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2017. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh) call center will provide a minimum of For every two steps forward, it often feels 100 to 200 new jobs. we take one step back.” deceptive fake “news” and a growing is in good hands,” he said. Samoa News notes that officials Yet Obama argued his faith in America tendency of Americans to listen only Steeped in nostalgia, Obama’s of Datamatics in the last part of 2015 had only been strengthened by what he’s to information that confirms what they return to Chicago was less a trium- held a recruiting session with local witnessed the past eight years, and he already believe. phant homecoming than a bittersweet residents as well as meetings with declared: “The future should be ours.” Get out of your “bubbles,” said the reunion bringing together loyalists and local officials about its plans to set Brushing away tears with a handker- politician who rose to a prominence with staffers, many of whom have long since up in the territory a business process chief, Obama paid tribute to the sacrifices a message of unity, challenging divisions left Obama’s service, moved on to new outsourcing — similar to a call center made by his wife — and by his daugh- of red states and blue states. Obama also careers and started families. They came operation. However, there have been ters, who were young girls when they revived a call to activism that marked his from across the country — some on Air no new updates in 2016. entered the big white home on Penn- first presidential campaign, telling Amer- Force One, others on their own — to Other investment and ventures sylvania Avenue and leave as young icans to stay engaged in politics. be present for the last major moment of cited in the governor’s address: women. He praised first lady Michelle “If you’re tired of arguing with Obama’s presidency. • Re-development of the old Rain- Obama for taking on her role “with grace strangers on the internet,” Obama said Unexpectedly absent was Obama’s maker Hotel property to construct a and grit and style and good humor” and pointedly, “try to talk with one in real younger daughter, Sasha, who had new 150 room multi purpose hotel for making the White House “a place that life. “ been expected to join sister Malia at the with an interested developer from belongs to everybody.” With Democrats still straining to make speech. The White House said Sasha New York; Soon Obama and his family will sense of their devastating election losses, stayed in Washington due to a school • Tramway Revitalization Project exit the national stage, to be replaced Obama tried to offer a path forward. He exam Wednesday morning. in Utulei is currently on going with by Trump, a man Obama had stridently called for empathy for the struggles of all After returning to Washington, he the assistance of the original designer argued poses a dire threat to the nation’s Americans — from minorities, refugees will have less than two weeks before he and builder of the former tramway, future. His near-apocalyptic warnings and transgender people to middle-aged accompanies Trump in the presidential Interstate Equipment Corp., which has throughout the campaign have cast a white men whose sense of economic limousine to the Capitol for the new pres- completed a preliminary engineering continuing shadow over his post-election security has been upended in recent years. ident’s swearing-in. After nearly a decade assessment for a new tramway system. efforts to reassure Americans anxious Paying tribute to his place as Amer- in the spotlight, Obama will become a DOC has sought and received pre- about the future. ica’s first black president, Obama private citizen, an elder statesman at 55. liminary project eligibility approval Indeed, much of what Obama accom- acknowledged there were hopes after his He plans to take some time off, write a through the US Department of Agri- plished during his two terms — from 2008 election for a post-racial America. book — and immerse himself in a Demo- culture Community Facilities Direct health care overhaul and environmental “Such a vision, however well- cratic redistricting campaign. Loan Program. regulations to his nuclear deal with intended, was never Iran — could potentially be upended by realistic,” Obama Trump. So even as Obama seeks to define said, though he what his presidency meant for America, insisted race relations his legacy remains in question. are better now than a Even as Obama said farewell — in a few decades ago. televised speech of just under an hour — The former com- the anxiety felt by many Americans about munity organizer When it comes to being helpful, Ace is the place! the future was palpable, and not only in closed out his speech the Chicago convention center where by reviving his cam- he stood in front of a giant presidential paign chant, “Yes We are a locally owned company, serving American Samoa for over 32 years. seal. The political world was reeling from we can.” To that, he We are now hiring for an I.T. ASSISTANT new revelations about an unsubstantiated added for the first report that Russia had compromising time, “Yes we did.” This person will be expected to work independently with little or no supervision; be well organized and able to interact personal and financial information about He staunchly with staff at all levels, in a fast paced environment. Must be proactive, resourceful and efficient with a high level of Trump. defended the power professionalism. . Obama made only passing reference of activists to make MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS include the following: to the next president. When he noted he a difference — the would soon be replaced by the Repub- driving factor behind • Have working knowledge of how to troubleshoot and fix hardware or software issues lican, his crowd began to boo. Obama’s optimism • Keep inventory of computer goods and computer necessities “No, no, no, no, no,” Obama said. One in the face of so • Honest and detail oriented. of the nation’s great strengths, he said, “is much anxiety, he • Ability and willingness to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends and holidays to meet the needs of the the peaceful transfer of power from one said. Though the president to the next.” coalition of young business. Earlier, as the crowd of thousands Americans and Reports to: I.T Manager chanted, “Four more years,” he simply minorities who twice smiled and said, “I can’t do that.” got Obama elected Consider joining our Ace team where our friendly atmosphere, competitive wages, and a positive team are just a few Still, Obama offered what seemed wasn’t enough to of the advantages we offer. This is an excellent opportunity for an organized individual who is interested in Retail and like a point-by-point rebuttal of Trump’s elect Democrat Business Administration. vision for America. Hillary Clinton to Please pick up an application TODAY from our Customer Service Counter and be part of a captivating team! Or visit our He pushed back on the isolationist replace him, Obama sentiments inherent in Trump’s trade pol- suggested their day website http://www.neilshomecenter.comand download an application. For this position, please include a cover letter icies. He decried discrimination against was still ahead. and full resume. Muslim Americans and lamented politi- “You’ll soon out- Tel 699-2482, email [email protected] cians who question climate change. And number any of us, he warned about the pernicious threat and I believe as a ACE HARDWARE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER to U.S. democracy posed by purposely result that the future Page 10 samoa news, Wednesday, January 11, 2016 Girl gets back spe- cial teddy bear lost in airport shooting FORT LAUDERDALE, to have him back,” the bashful Fla. (AP) Yards from where girl said as she pressed against workers finished the cleanup her mother’s legs. from the Fort Lauderdale airport The airport has returned shooting, a girl was reunited a “substantial” portion of the Tuesday with the teddy bear she 25,000 stranded items left left behind while fleeing. behind by fleeing passengers, Courtney Gelinas, 10, including luggage, cellphones, smiled as Fort Lauderdale- baby strollers and “lots of Hello Hollywood International Air- Kitty backpacks,” Meyer said. port spokesman Greg Meyer The airport was nearly opened the trunk of his SUV to back to normal Tuesday. The reveal Rufus, the teddy bear the long lines from the weekend Windsor, Ontario, fifth grader caused by delayed flights are had received from her dying gone. Only the area around the grandfather a decade ago. When baggage carousel where the Meyer handed her Rufus, she shooting happened remained held the bear tight. sealed off as workers replaced Courtney was with her par- carpeting, Meyer said. ents and siblings and about Santiago, a 26-year-old Iraq to board a plane home when war veteran with the Puerto officials say Esteban Santiago Rico National Guard, remains Jason Williams, left, is rescued by Calfire rescue swimmer Danny Ciecek after Williams got fatally shot five people one jailed without bond on federal snagged on trees while trying to kayak the Carmel River with a friend near Paso Hondo Road in floor below them Friday. Rufus, charges. Santiago, who had Carmel Valley on Monday, Jan. 9, 2017, after a large storm passed through Monterey County. a brown bear dressed in a red been living in Alaska, could (David Royal/The Monterey County Herald via AP) devil costume, was left behind face the death penalty if con- as the family fled onto the victed. Officials say he had tarmac with hundreds of others. arrived on a connecting flight Her mother, Kim Lariviere, from Anchorage, retrieved said Courtney has not slept well his gun from its checked car- Dangerous blizzard, since. rying case and began randomly “It is exciting and I am happy shooting people. flooding as new storm hits California GUERNEVILLE, Calif. last time state workers needed Monday — that have brought (AP) — About 2,000 people in to open the gates was December the heaviest rain in a decade to a rural California community 2005. parts of Northern California and near Sacramento were asked to North of San Francisco, Nevada. leave their homes Tuesday as a people were evacuated from The storms are part of an river swollen by days of heavy businesses and homes in down- “atmospheric river” weather rain threatened to flood, while town San Anselmo after a rain- phenomenon that draws precip- north of San Francisco thou- swollen creek broke its banks. itation from the Pacific Ocean sands more were urged to seek The Corte Madera Creek was as far west as Hawaii. Its impact higher ground. flowing 1 foot over flood stage can be catastrophic. Emergency crews and offi- Tuesday evening, the Marin A blizzard warning was in cials worked through Tuesday County Sheriff’s Office said. effect for parts of the Sierra to try to bolster the levee in Some 3,000 Sonoma County Nevada, the first issued in Sacramento County along residents were under an evacu- the past nine years, said Scott CLOSED FOR the Cosumnes River, before ation advisory as the Russian McGuire, a forecaster for the deciding to ask 2,000 residents River rose again under pounding National Weather Service based of Wilton to voluntarily evac- rain. Officials red-tagged seven in Reno, Nevada. uate before dark. homes, ordering residents out, “This is definitely a dan- STOCKTAKE Sacramento County emer- when a rain-soaked embank- gerous, life-threatening situa- gency services official Mary Jo ment came crashing down. tion going on up there,” he said. Flynn said water was expected Johna Peterson was one of “People should not attempt to HALECK MOTORS to spill over the levee before few residents who ventured out travel at all.” midnight, flooding low-lying in the remote Sonoma County Forecasters warned of up to roads and buildings with up to 1 town of Monte Rio. Walking 10 feet of snow in the highest WILL BE CLOSED foot of water. on the bridge across the Russian mountains, with up to 7 feet of An evacuation center will River, Peterson worried about snow around the resorts of Lake ON FRIDAY 01/13/2017 & be opened Tuesday evening what the coming hours and days Tahoe, high risk of avalanches, in neighboring Elk Grove but would bring. and wind gusts to 60 mph. The SATURDAY 01/14/2017 some residents said they plan to “I think it’s going to go Sierra ridge had gusts of more stay put. higher,” Peterson said. “There’s than 100 mph. FOR STOCKTAKE “We have no concerns,” Lill nowhere for this water to go.” Many ski resorts shut down Nichols, who with her husband In nearby Forestville, Kathy Tuesday because of the storm. NORMAL BUSINESS RESUME runs a horse farm near the river, Granados huddled with two A number of main roads in the told the Sacramento Bee. “We other people under an awning Sierra were closed, including TUESDAY 01/17/2017 have animals and can’t evacuate at the River Bend RV Park, Interstate 80, or required chains. anyway.” watching the downpour. Nearly 3 feet of new snow In the city of Sacramento, “We’re waiting it out,” she already was reported Tuesday workers wrenched open more said. “Yesterday the water morning at the top of the Mount than a half-dozen century-old dropped, but it’s going to get Rose ski resort between Reno HALECK MOTORS spill gates on the state’s biggest higher. We’re just sitting here. and Lake Tahoe. A series of river, the Sacramento, to ease We have no electricity, no heat.” storms already has added 33 pressure on the swollen river Tuesday’s storm was the billion gallons of water to Lake and on levees there. California latest of back-to-back systems Tahoe since Jan. 1. is in a six-year drought, and the — buffered by a brief respite samoa news, Wednesday, January 11, 2016 Page 11 A worker walks past bags of seized cocaine at a police base in Lima, Peru, Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2016. Police say they will burn more than 7 tons of drugs on Tuesday, including cocaine, marijuana, opium and heroin that was seized over the last two months. (AP Photo/Martin Mejia) Junk in trunk: Flier charged in gift-wrapped heroin bust LOS ANGELES (AP) — recent years against airport and A passenger flying from Los airline employees caught trying Angeles International Airport to to smuggle contraband through Ohio last month wasn’t toying LAX. around when he checked a bag His arrest came about a with packages gift wrapped in week after a former JetBlue Christmas paper, authorities flight attendant pleaded guilty said. to trying to smuggle a suit- The Yuletide bundle case loaded with 60 pounds included 13 pounds of heroin of cocaine on a cross-country with a street value of more than flight from LA. $2 million, federal prosecutors said Tuesday as the man was charged with drug trafficking. James Mitchell, 25, who worked for a private contractor at the airport, checked a duffel bag Dec. 10 for a Frontier Air- lines flight to Cincinnati, but neither he nor the bag made the trip, according to court records. The bag was intercepted by a Transportation Security Admin- istration officer who detected dense material during a scan and found the gift-wrapped cache of heroin inside. The incident shut down a section of Terminal 3 when the officer detected a vinegar-like odor and hazardous materials team had to assess it for a chem- ical threat. When airport police tried to track down Mitchell, they found he had not caught the flight. An airlines representative then called him to collect his bag and Mitchell said he was in a rest- room and feeling ill, according to federal prosecutors. Surveillance cameras later showed Mitchell walking out of the terminal around that time. He removed a Raiders football beanie from his head and exchanged a black and gray sweater with the letters “RCKLSS” on it for a green top and left the airport on foot. Mitchell was arrested more than a week later at his home and remains in custody. He could face a mandatory min- imum of 10 years in prison if convicted. Defense lawyer Walter Urban wouldn’t comment on the case, but he said Mitchell would plead not guilty. Mitchell had worked for Aero Port Services Inc., a company that provides porter, wheelchair and security ser- vices at LAX, according to its website. He was terminated, said Iliana Thomas, a company rep- resentative who wouldn’t say what job he held. The case is one of several in Page 12 samoa news, Wednesday, January 11, 2016 In subtle rebuke to Trump, Clinton extols diplomacy WASHINGTON (AP) — ment museum was a rebuke Hillary Clinton, making a of the president-elect, who’s rare public appearance after already broken decades of her presidential election loss, diplomatic protocol through C M offered an impassioned tribute his interactions with foreign to the power of diplomacy on leaders during his transition. Y K Tuesday evening, saying the “Diplomacy is one of the United States will “weather greatest forces for peace, pros- every storm on the horizon” perity and progress the world by staying true to its “universal has ever known,” Clinton told values.” dignitaries and donors gathered While she never mentioned at the new U.S. Diplomacy Secretary of State John Kerry, left, and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton talk at a recep- Donald Trump by name, Clin- Center pavilion. tion celebrating the completion of the U.S. Diplomacy Center Pavilion at the State Department in ton’s short address at the “And today the lessons of Washington, Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2017. (AP Photo/Sait Serkan Gurbuz) opening of a new State Depart- this museum are more vital and urgent than ever. Democratic freedom and the rule of law are under attack across the world.” The museum and education center are aimed at promoting American diplomacy, with a 14-foot section of the Berlin Wall as the star attraction. One of the halls will be named after Clinton, another after former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger. The bulk of the money raised to support the project came during Clinton’s time at the agency. Clinton sat on stage along- side former secretaries of state Madeleine Albright and Colin Powell. Though Powell sup- ported Clinton in the election, the two have had, at times, a difficult relationship. Over the summer, he repeat- edly pushed back against reports that he suggested Clinton use a private email account as secre- tary of state. She warned that the “long- standing bipartisan goal of a Europe that is whole, free and at peace is under enormous pressure,” a subtle reference to heightened Russian aggression in the region. Trump has been a fierce defender of Russian President Vladimir Putin. C M Clinton has kept a low pro- file since the election, popping Y K up at a Broadway shows and in selfies snapped by supporters who run into her at bookstores and hiking near her Chappaqua, New York home. In her last public appear- ance, an event last month thanking campaign donors, Clinton blamed Russian inter- ference for her defeat in the presidential race, casting her loss as part of a long-running strategy by Putin to discredit the fundamental tenets of American government. Trump’s choice to head the State Department, Exxon Mobil chief Rex Tillerson, is scheduled to face the Senate in his confirmation hearing on Wednesday.