Digging Deep for Treasure (and Maybe Stirring Up Trouble?) Off Our Shores

My Amerika Samoa

Digging Deep for Treasure (and Maybe Stirring Up Trouble?) Off Our Shores

So, a company with the rather ambitious name of "Impossible Metals" has apparently decided that the seabed near our very own American Samoa is just brimming with all sorts of goodies. We're talking nickel, cobalt, the whole shebang – the building blocks for those fancy electric cars and gadgets everyone's obsessed with. And guess what? They want to go digging. Deep.

Potato-Shaped Riches Just a Few Nautical Miles Away

Apparently, the waters around our little slice of paradise are estimated to be chock-full of these "polymetallic nodules." Sounds like some sort of futuristic potato harvest, doesn't it? Except instead of fries, these spuds are packed with the stuff that makes your phone buzz and your Tesla go "vroom."

"Impossible" Request Lands on Bureaucrats' Desks

This "Impossible Metals" – a privately held firm, so you know they're serious (or at least have some serious funding) – has actually asked the U.S. Department of the Interior's Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) to hold a commercial auction for the rights to these underwater nuggets. BOEM, for those not in the know, is the agency that oversees mineral deposits in federal waters. You know, the places where the rules get a little… murkier.

Will They Bite? BOEM's Got Until May to Decide

A BOEM spokesperson confirmed they got the memo and said they'll decide by May 23rd "whether to initiate steps that could lead to a lease sale." Now, here's a fun fact: BOEM hasn't held a competitive lease sale since way back in 1991. So, this could be a real blast from the bureaucratic past! And if they do decide to move forward, you know there'll be public comments galore before any actual digging starts. Get ready for some strongly worded opinions about disturbing the deep-sea denizens.

Good for the Land, Bad for the Sea? The Great Mining Debate

The folks in favor of this deep-sea treasure hunt argue it'll mean less of those messy, unpopular land-based mining operations. You know, the ones that tend to upset local communities and, oh, you know, the entire ecosystem. But the naysayers? They're saying we need a tad more research on how this underwater vacuuming might affect the delicate balance of the deep-sea world. What could possibly go wrong with giant robotic claws in the abyss?

Robots vs. Sea Cucumbers: The Underwater Rumble

Speaking of giant robotic claws, Impossible Metals claims they've developed one with artificial intelligence that can tell the difference between a valuable nodule and, say, a cute little sea cucumber. Let's hope that AI is having a good day when it's down there. No accidental sea cucumber smoothies, please!

Dodging International Red Tape? Clever Move, Maybe

Here's a potentially sneaky bit: any country can greenlight deep-sea mining in their own territorial waters, which extends roughly 200 nautical miles from shore. Since American Samoa is, you know, part of the U.S., Impossible Metals doesn't need permission from the International Seabed Authority (ISA) – a UN-created body that the U.S. hasn't even ratified. Looks like someone found a loophole! And apparently, the White House is even considering making it easier for companies to bypass the ISA for international waters. Things are getting spicy in the deep blue.

Our Backyard's About to Get a Whole Lot More Interesting

So, what does this all mean for American Samoa? Well, our quiet little corner of the Pacific might be on the verge of becoming a deep-sea mining hotspot. Will it bring economic prosperity or ecological disaster? Only time (and possibly a few confused AI-powered robots) will tell. One thing's for sure: the neighbors are getting noisy.

© 2025 My Amerika Samoa - Keeping it (mostly) real.

Trump Restores Fishing Rights in Pacific Monument: Good News for American Samoa?

Fishing Rights Restored in Pacific Monument: A Boost for My Amerika Samoa?

From the blog My Amerika Samoa

A Sigh of Relief for Local Fishermen

In a move that has stirred both excitement and concern, the Trump administration has reversed an Obama-era ban on commercial fishing within the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument (PRIMNM). This vast protected area, established to safeguard some of the most pristine coral reef ecosystems on the planet, has been off-limits to fishing since 2014.

For the people of American Samoa, this decision could be a significant economic boost. Our islands have a deep cultural and economic connection to the tuna fishing industry. The ability to once again fish in the waters of the PRIMNM, which are relatively close to our shores, could revitalize our canneries and provide much-needed jobs.

Environmental Concerns Loom Large

However, the decision is not without its critics. Environmental groups argue that reopening this area to fishing will jeopardize the delicate marine ecosystems within the monument. They point to the potential for overfishing, habitat destruction, and disruption of the food chain. The long-term consequences for the biodiversity of the region could be devastating.

A Balancing Act

The debate highlights the ongoing tension between economic development and environmental protection. How can we ensure the livelihoods of our people in American Samoa while also safeguarding the incredible natural heritage of the Pacific Ocean? This is a question that our leaders and our community must grapple with.

What Does This Mean for the Future?

It remains to be seen what the long-term impact of this decision will be. Will the restored fishing rights truly provide a sustainable economic benefit for American Samoa? Or will the environmental costs outweigh the gains? Only time will tell.

Tags: #AmericanSamoa #Fishing #MarineMonument #Trump #PRIMNM

© 2025 My Amerika Samoa

Love & Liquor: 18-Year-Old's Boozy Attempt to Woo Girlfriend Goes South

My Amerika Samoa

Love & Liquor: 18-Year-Old's Boozy Attempt to Woo Girlfriend Goes South

In a tale as old as time (or at least as old as high school), an 18-year-old in American Samoa decided that the best way to see his girlfriend was to show up at her school...completely intoxicated. Let's just say, things didn't go according to plan.

Four Cans and a Dream (Deferred)

On February 12, 2025, our lovestruck Romeo, fueled by what he admitted were four cans of alcohol, made his way to one of the local high schools. Sadly for him, and probably everyone else, his grand romantic gesture involved "caus[ing] a disturbance while classes were in session." Smooth move, buddy.

School Staff: Not Impressed

A staff member, clearly not buying the "I'm here for love" story (especially with the strong odor of alcohol), approached our protagonist. After his less-than-convincing explanation about visiting his girlfriend, she escorted him to the school office and called the Tafuna Police Substation (TPS). Because nothing says "romance" like a police escort.

The Aftermath: Arrested and Charged

Our aspiring Casanova was promptly arrested and charged with underage consumption of alcohol, a Class B misdemeanor. This carries a potential sentence of up to six months in jail, a $500 fine, or both. All for love? Ouch.

"I Just Wanted to Have Fun With My Girlfriend"

Upon arriving at the station, the 18-year-old reportedly stated that he "just wanted to have fun with his girlfriend." While his intentions might have been pure (debatable), his execution was...less than stellar. He's now booked at the Tafuna Correctional Facility, awaiting his day in court. Guess that date will have to be rescheduled.

The Moral of the Story?

If you're over 18, it's generally a bad idea to show up intoxicated at a high school. If you're under 18, it's illegal. And if you're trying to impress someone, maybe skip the four cans of whatever it was. Just a thought.

This article is based on the following report:

Young man arrested for just wanting to have fun with his girlfriend. Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — On February 12, 2025, a high school staff member contacted the Tafuna Police Substation (TPS) regarding an 18-year-old who allegedly went on campus at one of the high schools while intoxicated. The suspect was later apprehended and charged with Count 1: Underage... [Read more](https://samoanews.com/local-news)

© 2025 My Amerika Samoa - Keeping it (mostly) real.

Brick by Brick: A Samoan Construction Caper That's Anything But Solid

My Amerika Samoa

Brick by Brick: A Samoan Construction Caper That's Anything But Solid

Well, folks, buckle up for a tale so bizarre, it could only happen in… well, probably a lot of places, but let's focus on American Samoa for now! On February 7th, the tranquility of Happy Valley was shattered (not by falling bricks, surprisingly) when an employee of Nana’s Construction Company reported a rather… *unique* alleged burglary at one of their sites.

The Case of the Missing Bricks (and a Very Chatty Taxi Driver)

Our alleged perpetrator was later apprehended and slapped with a Class C felony for stealing. That could mean up to seven years in the clink, a hefty fine, or the delightful combo of both. All for some bricks, mind you. The bail? A cool $5,000. One has to wonder if the bricks were gold-plated.

Enter the Unlikely Hero: A Taxi Driver with a Story to Tell

The real spice of this story comes from how this alleged brick heist was uncovered. Apparently, our Nana’s Construction reporter got a call from a taxi driver claiming he witnessed a theft "two nights ago." Not only that, but this civic-minded cabbie actually *came to the police station* to give an official statement. Talk about going the extra mile (pun intended)!

A Late-Night Brick-Lifting Operation (Taxi Edition)

According to our witness-slash-taxi driver, on February 5th around 6:30 p.m., he got a pick-up in Fagaima. Two gentlemen hopped in, declaring their destination as the pastor’s house construction site in Happy Valley. Upon arrival, things got… bricky. The witness claims he saw these two load bricks into his taxi. When he mentioned a transport fee (because, you know, bricks aren't passengers), they were apparently fine with it and kept loading.

From Happy Valley to Fagaima (and a Mysterious Second Vehicle)

After the taxi was presumably groaning under the weight of its illicit cargo, they returned to Fagaima. There, the two men allegedly unloaded the bricks onto *another vehicle* parked in front of one of their residences. Our taxi driver got his $40 (for 40 bricks, we later learn) and went back to the taxi stand, where he regaled a colleague with his tale before heading home. What a night!

Tracking Down the Suspects: A Family Affair in Pavaiai

Thanks to our chatty cabbie, the police were able to track down our prime suspects, Mr. Vaiuta Lelea’i and Mr. Ete Aumua, at the residence pointed out by the witness. However, in a delightful twist, they weren't home! Lelea’i’s family informed the officers that the dynamic duo was actually at another family’s house in Pavaiai, helpfully pointing out their location. Small town, big brick mysteries!

Confessions and Contradictions: The Interviews Begin

Upon arrival in Pavaiai, officers spotted a house under construction (surprise!) with a few bricks lying around. They met with Mr. Aumua, who helpfully pointed out Mr. Lelea’i. Both were invited down to the station for a chat. In separate rooms, the interrogation began, and things got… interesting.

Suspect #1 Spills the Beans (Mostly)

Before the officers could even get the full burglary story out, Mr. Aumua allegedly blurted out that he had the stolen bricks and hadn't used them. After the Miranda rights were read (you know, the usual drama), Mr. Aumua gave his version of events. He claimed he went to Happy Valley alone in the taxi (despite the taxi driver's two-man story), loaded the bricks with the driver's help (for a fee, of course), and then unloaded them onto Mr. Lelea’i’s vehicle back in Fagaima. He paid $40 for 40 bricks. So far, so… bricky.

A Detour to Pavaiai and a Discrepancy in Brick Count

Here’s where it gets even more convoluted. Mr. Aumua then claimed he borrowed Mr. Lelea’i’s vehicle (after asking permission from the family) to drop the bricks off at home. Except, he didn't go home. He went to a side job in Pavaiai and dropped off the bricks there. And here's the kicker: he only counted 28 bricks, not the 40 he paid for! Maybe the taxi driver has a side hustle in brick arbitrage?

Suspect #2 Pleads Ignorance (Shocking!)

Mr. Lelea’i, on the other hand, claimed he knew absolutely nothing about where the bricks came from. He supposedly asked Mr. Aumua multiple times, who insisted they were from his own house. Mr. Lelea’i also denied any knowledge of the Pavaiai brick delivery. Color us surprised.

A Plot Twist! The Boyfriend Weighs In

But wait, there’s more! Just when you thought this brick saga couldn't get any more tangled, Mr. Lelea’i’s daughter’s boyfriend strolled into the police station with his own allegations. He claimed he *saw* Mr. Aumua stealing the bricks and transporting them to Pavaiai! He even helpfully recounted a previous incident where Mr. Aumua borrowed Mr. Lelea’i’s truck for some “cement bags” from the same construction site. It’s like a daytime soap opera, but with more concrete evidence (pun absolutely intended).

So, there you have it, folks. A tale of alleged brick theft, a helpful taxi driver, conflicting stories, and a boyfriend with some serious accusations. What will happen next in this gripping saga? Will the missing 12 bricks ever be found? Stay tuned for more updates on this truly *groundbreaking* case!

© 2025 My Amerika Samoa - Keeping it (mostly) real.

Ahoy, Samoa! The Navy's Finally Dropped Anchor (For a Week)

My Amerika Samoa

Ahoy, Samoa! The Navy's Finally Dropped Anchor (For a Week)

Well, shiver me timbers! In a move that's approximately 250 years in the making, the U.S. Navy has finally decided to grace American Samoa with its presence for the very first-ever "Navy Week," running from April 14th to 17th. Yes, you heard that right. They actually crossed the equator! We must be doing something right (or maybe they just got a really good map).

"Outreach": Because Apparently We Needed More Sailors

This isn't just a casual visit, mind you. It's all part of a grand "global outreach effort." Apparently, we Samoans have been missing out on vital sailor interaction, so the Navy has kindly sent over a contingent for "performances, educational events, and service projects." One can only imagine the riveting sea shanty singalongs and knot-tying demonstrations in store.

Celebrating a Cool 250 Years (and Our Tiny 125!)

The timing is impeccable, naturally. This naval extravaganza just happens to coincide with the U.S. Navy's big 250th birthday bash! A quarter of a millennium of maritime dominance – you go, Navy! And, in a delightful bit of synergy, it also overlaps with our own humble 125th Flag Day celebration. Talk about a party!

Who Showed Up? Prepare for Some Brass and Some Big Hats

Among the distinguished guests was Rear Adm. Richard Meyer, who, we're told, is a pretty big deal. His presence supposedly "solidifies the Navy's connection with American Samoa." We're picturing some sort of official handshake and maybe a shared plate of palusami.

Over 50 sailors have been deployed for this crucial mission, participating in such vital community engagements as:

• Helping out our veterans (always a good thing, even if sailors are doing it)
• Immersing themselves in our *fascinating* culture (hopefully they brought sunscreen)
• Hanging with the Toa a Samoa (strong guys meeting other strong guys – makes sense)
• Attending a "Cultural Night with The Arts and Museums" (expect some serious ukulele action)
• And, of course, joining in the Flag Day festivities (because who doesn't love a parade?)

Local Boy Makes Good (and Brings the Navy With Him!)

Adding a touch of heartwarming local flavor, Personnel Specialist Seaman Apprentice Ailini Pone, a proud son of Pago Pago, is part of the Navy Week crew. "Being able to connect with people where I grew up and give back to the place that shaped me is incredibly meaningful," he said. See? It's not all about battleships and submarines; sometimes it's about hometown pride.

Spreading the Naval Love (One Territory at a Time)

Apparently, American Samoa is just one stop on the Navy's "15 Navy Weeks" tour this year, designed to bring America's Navy "closer to the people it protects." Which begs the question: were we feeling particularly unprotected before? Either way, we're now officially part of the 140 million people who get this annual dose of naval exposure. Lucky us!

© 2025 My Amerika Samoa - Keeping it (mostly) real.

Hold the Fireworks: The AP Lutali Building's "Grand" Makeover - My Amerika Samoa

My Amerika Samoa

Hold the Fireworks (Maybe Just a Sparkler): The AP Lutali Executive Office Building's "Grand" Makeover

Well, folks, prepare yourselves for some earth-shattering news coming out of Utulei! Our very own AP Lutali Executive Office Building (you know, that one?) is apparently on the cusp of a major transformation. Yes, you heard that right. A *renovation*. Try to contain your excitement.

Finally Fixing Those "Minor" Inconveniences (Like Rain Indoors)

For what feels like eons (and probably has been for the poor souls working there), the EOB has apparently been battling a rogue's gallery of structural… quirks. We're talking charming water features *inside* the building, a delightful touch of permanent green thanks to the mildew, and the always-thrilling possibility of impromptu concrete showers. You know, just the kind of stimulating environment you'd expect for important government work.

$39.5 Million! Enough to Maybe Buy a Decent Umbrella (or Fix the Roof)

But hold onto your hats, because the cavalry has arrived in the form of a whopping $39.5 million grant, courtesy of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). That's right, folks. Enough moolah to probably solve a small nation's problems, but hey, who are we to judge how it's spent? Apparently, the priority is making sure the ceiling doesn't fall on anyone's head. A noble cause, we suppose.

So, What Exactly Does This Truckload of Cash Get Us?

Glad you asked! Prepare for a laundry list of improvements that might just bring the EOB into the… well, at least the late 20th century:

• Goodbye Shoddy Interiors: They're promising brand new flooring, ceilings, and all those mysterious "mechanical systems." Fingers crossed this means the end of the office fan's dramatic death rattles.
• Safety Dance (Finally!): A "state-of-the-art" sprinkler and alarm system will be installed. Because, you know, fire safety is kind of important. Who knew?
• Breathing Without Fear: Modern air conditioning and ventilation systems are on the way. Say goodbye to that lingering feeling of being trapped in a humid sauna.
• No More Electrical Surprises: The electrical and plumbing systems are also getting a much-needed overhaul. Let's hope this translates to fewer unexpected power outages and… well, let's not dwell on the plumbing situation.

The Great Office Exodus of Mid-Summer: Prepare for the Shuffle!

Of course, all this glorious progress comes with a slight… logistical challenge. Apparently, they need to actually *empty* the building to perform this miracle of renovation. So, get ready for the bureaucratic version of musical chairs as everyone gets shuffled around by mid-summer. Should be a sight to behold (from a safe distance, preferably).

Wait, There's More? The Roof is *Already* Being Fixed!

In a truly shocking display of proactive planning (or maybe just really obvious necessity), the roof is *already* being addressed under a separate project. Funded by different pots of money, naturally. So, at least they're tackling the whole "potential head injury from falling debris" issue from both above and below. Impressive.

Will This "Transformative Project" Actually Transform Anything? Stay Tuned!

So, there you have it. The AP Lutali Executive Office Building is getting a facelift. Will it be on time? On budget? Will it actually solve the persistent issues? Only time will tell. But hey, at least they're talking about it. Let's all cross our fingers (and maybe wear hard hats just in case) and hope for the best. After all, a functioning government building is a truly revolutionary concept, isn't it?

What are your thoughts on this monumental undertaking? Share your (mildly sarcastic) opinions in the comments below!

© 2025 My Amerika Samoa - Keeping it (mostly) real.

US Virgin Islands Here We Come!!

 Ok, I know this is a government trip, but it is really hard to understand why the governor needs to go.

Here in this report, it is and I quote:

Its main function is to coordinate efforts to preserve and protect coral reef ecosystems.

Really?!! WTF!!  I understand that we need some sort of represenation at this event, but the governor is the only one available...

Ok, perhaps there were some availability but I see this as a political elbow rubbing. All in all I am so confused about this trip. We have the DMWR director or someone from that department can go but the "Governor"?!

Well, the question is still with the Amerika Samoa Government court of public opinions...

WELLS Thats a FIASCO!!!

 

Talofa All!!

I am happy to back! Was on a long absence here but the local atmosphere has still not changed in a long while. Anyhow, This report from the 'The Rock', still has head shaking and how.

Can you believe that the ASG is still taking from Peter to pay Paul type of thing?!! In this report, I am just going off of the report people, that the Wells Fargo mess up, was not fully ironed out. So they take funds from 'Other' sources to fufill the needed ones? WTF!

Now heres my 2 cents, or maybe 1 cent inflation mind you, the LBJ has got the needed funds, but they forgot to mention what other government departments are in the proverbial hole. This is still not resolved. While one is taking from the left hand, and the right hand has the loot, where oh where is the left hand going to get the rest of the funding?

Paul is getting peters half while Peter is getting squat zilch. This is the story different time, same MO. Man oh man, My Amerika Samoa is still in a viscous loop!

Rising Grocery Prices in American Samoa

Rising Grocery Prices in American Samoa

Introduction In August 2023, the Basic Food Index (BFI) for American Samoa experienced a 1.1% increase, following a 1.9% rise in July 2023¹. This blog post aims to shed light on the factors contributing to this upward trend and highlight the impact on various food commodities.

Imported Taro Leads the Hike Among the contributing factors to the BFI increase, imported taro from Samoa played a significant role, with a price surge of 9.0% in August¹. This was followed by milk, soda, chicken legs, and other items. The spike in taro prices indicates its importance in the local food market and its influence on overall food costs.

Decrease in Some Food Items While several food commodities experienced an increase in price, there were notable exceptions. Eggs, bread, bananas, turkey tails, fish, ice cream, and mayonnaise were among the food items that decreased in price during August¹. This demonstrates that not all products were affected by the rising grocery prices.

BFI vs CPI It’s important to note that the Basic Food Index (BFI) is distinct from the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures inflation and the cost of living in American Samoa². While the CPI provides a comprehensive overview of price changes across various goods and services, the BFI focuses specifically on basic food costs on Tutuila island.

Conclusion The increase in grocery prices in American Samoa has been driven by various factors, including imported taro and other essential food items. While some products experienced a decrease in price, it’s crucial to monitor these trends to understand their long-term implications for consumers.

“And remember, if all else fails, you can always eat your worries away with a tub of ice cream. Just make sure it’s on sale!”

¹: Source ²: Source

$5000 Stipend!! You Got To Be Kidding Me?!!

ASG Seal

 You have got to be kidding me about this Constitutional Convention people. Now they were suppose to discuss the future of the Amerika Samoa Constitution, now they are discussing how much money they should be paid to do the job?! This is super sick and demented. I can only imagine what these leaders are doing with that kind of money. 

For one I am happily unemployed, and Still I cannot find a local job in the private sector. While these so called leaders are getting 4 paychecks(SSN, Retirement, local government, stipends) a month? Huh, I feel for the future of my Amerika Samoa.

Read Talanei

American Samoa Volcano Update; Possible Tsunami, Earthquake Swarm Ongoing

DUMP TALOFAPASS Petition?!!, Gains Support

Online petitions to dump TALOFAPASS gain support: Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Frustrated and disappointed with the ASG’s TALOFAPASS websystem, which screens entry into American Samoa, people have signed on to two separate petition.

As the story goes, not one but two petitions were done. I am not sure that Talofa Pass was not a success, I think it was a success!

I am not a conspiracy theorist, but the people who made off with the data from 'Talofa Pass', are the ones holding the main prize.

We live in a digital age and the people who has data on anything and everything have control. So who wins? They that hold the 'DATA'!!

Forget the 8 Million, that's a whole different story.... UGH!!!

Governor Goes to Manu'a.... Sounds interesting?!

 

Sounds Like the governor is being Pro-active here. I am not sure why the residents of Manu 'a are scared?! Well I would be too. I know the Volcanologist explained it all, but you know sometimes that the unknown is much more scarier than it seems.

All in all, I pray and hope that the Manu'a residents are safe and hopefully less stressed out from mother nature. Hey you never know what could happen?! 

All righty people laters...

“Nu’u fou” New Problems with Land with Registrars Office

SSIC takes up the issue of “Nu’u fou” land with Registrar as first witness: Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The Senate Select Investigative Committee (SSIC) on Monday afternoon started its investigation into the “Nu’u fou” land encompassing 400.

So this is still an ongoing thing here. We here on the rock are still in the dark. Trapped in our own echo chamber we the locals are still not informed on the whole truth. What are the truths, and to what extent does this rabbit hole go?

Only time will show, but you know the saying goes, "Dead men Tell no Tales...." Leave a comment below:

Hire a Veteran Day 2022

SOURCE: Samoanews.com

National Hire a Veteran Day — it benefits the nation: Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is highlighting National Hire a Veteran Day 2022. 

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is highlighting National Hire a Veteran Day 2022. 

 “Our nation benefits from millions of Veterans who learned teamwork, strength, discipline, leadership, work ethic, and often technical skills in the Armed Forces, and have much to offer employers and their communities,” said Aumua Amata.

“I appreciate the federal agencies that prioritize National Hire A Veteran Day and many companies in the U.S. that participate, and especially all that our local Veterans in American Samoa mean to us. Our Veterans experience a big transition when they leave the Armed Forces, and deserve every consideration and opportunity to prove themselves, find great second careers, and put their knowledge to work in new ways.”

VA is a resource for Veteran career services: 

https://www.va.gov/vetsinworkplace/veteranresources.asp.

In addition, the Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (VR&E) program works with employers who hire and retain service members and Veterans with disabilities, to increase the employment of Veterans, and enable Veterans with disabilities to reach their full potential. Visit https://www.va.gov/vre.

Congressional Delegation to Taiwan - US Relations Amata on Site

Congresswoman Uifaatali

 The Congressional delegation led by Senate Foreign Relations East Asia Chair Ed Markey was to meet with Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen as well as the Legislature’s Foreign and National Defense Committee on a range of issues including security and trade.

China accuses the US of boosting Taiwan independence forces with military sales and meetings with Taiwan officials.

The US Taiwan Relations Act renounces Taiwan independence and calls for peaceful resolution of cross Strait differences, but China’s military escalation even before the Pelosi visit has set off new confrontation.

Biden Deputy Assistant Kurt Campbell says the US will send warships and planes through the Taiwan Strait in the next few weeks and announce in coming days a roadmap for trade talks with Taiwan.

Even as Congresswoman Uifaatali touched down in Taiwan, Chinese warplanes and naval ships continued crossing the midpoint of the Taiwan Strait, upending the decades’ long status quo, keeping the peace.

Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit two-weeks ago, set off days of PRC live-fire exercises around Taiwan, but she defended her cause.. (Read More.....)

Flag Day 2016

Happy Flag Day Amerika Samoa! That's until April 17th, well just want to wish people of American Samoa a Happy Flag Day! the biggest event at Flag Day in American Samoa is the Fautasi Race (Long Boat Race). There are several different villages competing this 2016 Flag Day Celebration. I cannot remember the total but it should be a great race this year.

Long Time No See??

Shaka Pic from Shaka House

Sorry for be absent so long. Just been through some rough times here on the rock. That's another story. I was trying to see what great things I can write about on the islands. I was trying to the brighter side of things. Guess what? There is! So just sit back and let me take you for a spin around the island once more....

ASPA are you serious??!!....

Ok ASPA... with all you are doing for the island, lets see here, my bill for last month was, HOLY #@$&^%!!! 378 BUCKS!!! I just have a poor little laptop, refrigerator, fan, and 6 lights( I counted..) on... I can do the math, but seems like I am running a reactor here... OK you say its because of the fuel cost, wait a minute our fuel comes from where? Singa-where? Last time I checked Singapore don't have oil wells, or do they? All this time I thought our oil came from the US reserves, gotta check this out.
Wait a minute... Why am getting charged for a sewage fee here? (Last time I checked I had a septic tank.) Oh ok you explained it to me last time can you explain to be in plain non lawyer technical mumbo jumbo....(PLEASE!!)
Am I the only one here that have the same issue with the great ASPA (American Samoa Power Authority) Barron?

Welcome All Polys and Samoans alike...

Well this will be my first post. Just had an idea and was wanting to do it right now and right here. I have been looking around the net to see what kind of news I could get from home and come to find out not much. Man oh man the banana-tel must be really limited these days. Samoa News is the only news I could get from "My Amerika Samoa" these days. I just want to see some local comments or outside comments even, about the daily happening on My Amerika Samoa... So all you out there here is a side note to our local news and other great tid-bits on "The Rock"...