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Community News Briefs

One of the youngest participants in this year's Sanctuary Summer Science in the Village (SSSV) program, learning how to properly use a fishing pole during one of four Tautai Fagota Fishing Derbies  hosted by the NMSAS and local sponsor SOPAC/Aloha Maid.  [photo: BC]NMSAS education and outreach coordinator Isabel Gaoteote presents a fishing rod to one of the winners of this year's Tautai Fagota Fishing Derby in Vaitogi. See story for full details.  [photo: BC]
compiled by Samoa News staff

FUN FILLED FISHING DERBIES —

The National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa (NMSAS) and major sponsor South Pacific (SOPAC) Distributors/Aloha Maid held four Tautai Fagota Fishing Derbies in Ta'u, Leone, Aunu'u and Vaitogi. The derbies were the culmination of the Sanctuary Summer Science in the Village (SSSV) programs in each of the sanctuary villages.

The SSSV offered hands-on science-based activities and learning opportunities for local students from around villages adjacent to sanctuary areas. Students received free Aloha Maid drinks, Tautai Fagota Fishing Derby t-shirts, and a chance to win either a fishing rod, boogie board, or a snorkel set. This is the second year for the series of fishing derbies, to encourage responsible ocean recreation activities and raise awareness about fishing in the sanctuary, particularly allowable non-destructive fishing practices. 

For many, this was their first fishing experience and they absolutely loved it.

The program hosted close to 150 participants.

BOH DONATES TO BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB

For the fifth straight year, Bank of Hawaii has donated to the Boys and Girls Club of American Samoa.

The $10,000 monetary donation was presented by Hobbs Lowson, BOH vice president of the West Hawaii-Kona Market, along with Jon Murakami, vice president and Branch and Community Banking Division Manager; and vice president of BoH American Samoa, EJ Tyler Ozu last week.

Lisa Tuatoo spoke on behalf of the BGCAS and thanked BoH for their continuous support of the BGCAS.

She said one of BoH's goals is to support educational programs and last week's donation was a true testament of that.

The BGCAS has become a favorite spot for young kids - and parents - thanks to the after school programs it offers, that continue to keep kids safe and at the same time, help working families and inspire leaning. The programs provide opportunities to help young people develop into successful adults.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of American Samoa provides the youth of American Samoa ages 6 to 18 development programs focused on Academic Success, Good Character and Citizenship and Healthy Lifestyles. The BGCAS Clubhouse operates during after school hours from 2-6 p.m., Monday to Friday.

"COUPLES FOR CHRIST" HOSTS FAMILY DAY

Couples for Christ, or CFC, is a family-based group that revolves itself around God and His will. The group’s mission is to form bonds amongst each other through means of fellowship and at the same time, evangelize and spread the Gospel.

The group was made for people to grow with each other through God's love.

CFC is the main branch and one of many ministries of a bigger organization which includes: YFC (Youth for Christ); KFC (Kids for Christ): HOL (Handmaids of the Lord): SOL (Servants of the Lord): and SFC (Singles for Christ).

This past Saturday, the group's annual family day was hosted at the South Pacific Academy gymnasium.

The event is conducted every year — and funded by all the ministries — to keep the spirit of family alive within the organization.

The theme for the CFC family fun day was: "A family that prays and plays together, stays together.”

An estimated 150 people showed up for family day, which started off with a worship service, followed by activities and games, and ending with dinner and fellowship.