MARINE SANCTUARY SEEKS ADVISORY COUNCIL APPLICANTS

NOAA's National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa is seeking to fill seats on its advisory council, which represents the public's interests in sanctuary matters and provides advice to the sanctuary superintendent.

The sanctuary is accepting applications for the following seats:

The advisory council is composed of 17 voting members and 8 non-voting members, who serve on a volunteer basis and represent a variety of local user groups, the public, and territorial and federal governmental jurisdictions.

Applications will be accepted through June 5, 2026. Applications not received or postmarked by June 5, 2026 will not be considered. For more information, including a copy of the application, please visit the National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa advisory council recruitment webpage: https://americansamoa.noaa.gov/council/recruitment/ or contact Gene Brighouse or email gene.brighouse@noaa.gov with questions.

The National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa advisory council actively recruits for new members when positions are available. Check our website americansamoa.noaa.gov for updates on how you can help manage your underwater treasures!

(Source: National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa)

OLIVET NAZARENE UNIVERSITY DEAN'S LIST

Leka Ioramo of American Samoa was named to the dean's list at Olivet Nazarene University during the recently completed spring 2026 semester. To qualify for inclusion on the dean's list, a student must have been enrolled as a full-time undergraduate student and must have attained a semester grade point average of 3.50 or higher on a 4.00 grading scale.

Olivet Nazarene University is an accredited Christian, liberal arts university offering more than 200 areas of undergraduate and graduate study, including the Doctor of Education in ethical leadership. Olivet's 275-acre park-like main campus is in Bourbonnais, Illinois, 45 miles south of Chicago. Additionally, Olivet offers Graduate and Continuing Studies via online education. From Oxford to Tokyo, hundreds of Olivet students also experience the global classroom each year through study abroad opportunities, internships and worldwide mission trips.

NATIONAL BOATING WEEK AND EMS WEEK

On Sunday, May 17, 2026, the Department of Search and Rescue (DSAR) hosted a church service at the Amaua CCCAS to honor two significant observances: National Boating Week and National Emergency Medical Services week.

The service brought together community members, DSAR personnel, and local leaders to reflect on the importance of safety in both boating and emergency medical response.

The DSAR is composed of three essential divisions: the Emergency Responders, which includes both the Marine Patrol and Emergency Medical Services, as well as the Fire Fighters. Each division plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of our community.

The Department is led by Director Utumoe Alefosio, who emphasized the importance of collaboration and preparedness in emergency situations.

National Safe Boating Week will run from May 16 to May 22, 2026. This national campaign encourages boaters to prioritize safety while enjoying water activities. The initiative aims to raise awareness about safe boating practices, such as wearing life jackets, understanding navigational rules, and being prepared for emergencies on the water.

In addition, EMS Week will take place from May 17 to May 23, highlighting the vital role of emergency medical services and the heroic efforts of EMS personnel in saving lives and providing care during critical moments. Together, these observances remind us of the importance of safety and preparedness in both recreational activities and emergency response.