Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Town Hall for Wind Project Tutuila Wind Energy LLC of American Samoa ("TWE") will explain details of the project, the progress of recent environmental and wind data studies as well as the new timeline and upcoming studies for the project so that you can be informed.

Location: American Samoa Community College Multipurpose Center. Date: Saturday, August 2nd 2025 Time: 10:00 am to 11:30 am.

30TH POLICE ACADEMY GRADUATION

Governor Pulaali'i N. Pula attended the Commencement Ceremony for the 30th Police Academy. In a ceremony marked by pride and promise, Governor Pulaali'i and First Lady Lois Phillips-Pula joined the Department of Public Safety (DPS) in commemorating the commencement on July 07, 2025. The event was also attended by Senate President Tuaolo Manaia Fruean, Fono members, and government officials. The ceremony held at the Department of Public Works compound in Tafuna, highlighted the beginning of a critical chapter for 72 individuals entering the academy: 60 new recruits and 12 participants representing the Department of Public Safety, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Treasury (Customs), and the Department of Corrections.

In his special remarks, Governor Pulaali'i extended his heartfelt congratulations to all the recruits and participants. He expressed his deep gratitude for their commitment to serve and protect the people of American Samoa. "Choosing to serve through public safety is no small task, it requires courage, discipline, and sacrifice," said Governor Pulaali'i. "Your dedication is a beacon of hope for our community, and I thank each of you for answering the call." The Governor reaffirmed that public safety remains a top priority for his administration, alongside Lieutenant Governor Pulumataala Ae Ae Jr. "We are doing all we can to support our law enforcement agencies and ensure the safety of our people," he added

SEARCH AND RESCUE WEEK

A Special church service held in Honor of the opening of the Department of Search and Rescue Week was convened on Sunday, July 6, at the EFKAS "O le Ki O le Malo o le Lagi" Church in Fagatogo. The gathering served as an expression of reverence, gratitude, and solidarity among public servants, faith leaders, and members of the community.

The service was led by Reverend lasepi Ulu, whose spiritual reflections offered inspiration and uplifted attendees with prayers for those who serve with courage and dedication in safeguarding lives across the territory. His words affirmed the vital intersection of service and faith, anchoring the week's proceedings in solemn reflection.

Governor Pulaali'i delivered official remarks on behalf of the American Samoa Government, extending profound appreciation to the men and women of the Department of Search and Rescue. "We honor your commitment to protecting our people" the Governor affirmed, emphasizing the integral role of the department in ensuring the wellbeing of the territory.

The church service was the beginning to Search and Rescue Week — July 6-12, 2025 — dedicated to recognizing the Department's mission, the resilience of its personnel, and its vital role in safeguarding lives across the territory.

The Department of Search and Rescue, officially established on December 8, 2022, is proud to celebrate SAR Week for the first time. This inaugural observance marks an important milestone for one of American Samoa's newest departments and highlights the critical efforts of its team in responding to emergencies and protecting the community.

ASG OFFICIALS MET WITH U.S. SEC. OF EDUCATION

On July 7th, Governor Pulaali'i, Director of Education Maefau Dr. Mary Taufetee along with her team, and Attorney General Gwen Tauiliili-Langkilde met with U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon to provide an in-depth overview of the unique challenges and opportunities facing American Samoa's education system.

It was also the same day that Congresswoman Uifaatali Amata said she had “a good conversation with the Secretary requesting this action, and supporting our Governor’s efforts with her, as well as thanking her for allowing our ARPA funds to be used in a recent separate decision.”

According to Uifa’atali, this week’s updated decision ensures that all 14 of those projects that were disqualified “may also move forward without penalty, securing valuable resources for students and educators.

“Congratulations again to our American Samoa Department of Education, with thanks to Director Maefau Dr. Mary Lauagaia Taufete’e, and all our wonderful teachers,” said the Congresswoman. “This is a great outcome for education in the Territory, and I want to specially highlight the efforts of Tish Peau and Lisa Tuatoo and express my gratitude.”

The delegation, according to the Governor’s Office, used this opportunity to ensure the Secretary gained a comprehensive understanding of the island's educational landscape and its specific needs.

During the discussion, the Governor expressed sincere appreciation for the restoration of ARPA funds and conveyed gratitude for the Department of Education's continued support of the territory. The discussion focused on American Samoa's current economic outlook, strategies for sustainable development, and the vital role federal funding plays in supporting and advancing the territory's education system.

According to the Governor, Secretary McMahon was engaged in the dialogue, demonstrating a sincere interest in understanding the unique challenges and opportunities within American Samoa's educational landscape. She encouraged her team to actively participate by asking thoughtful questions aimed at identifying the barriers that hinder educational progress in the territory. Their level of engagement reflected a strong commitment to listening and learning.

The ASDOE team further raised the importance of improving reimbursement timelines for both ARPA funding and consolidated grants, noting that delays would affect program implementation and school operations.

AUNU'U ISLAND COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER

On July 3rd, in a brief ceremony, the island of Aunu'u in partnership with the Department of Health (DOH), held a groundbreaking event for the new Aunu'u Island Community Health Center. This milestone marks the beginning of expanded access to healthcare services for the residents of Aunu'u.

Governor Pulaali'i Nikolao Pula and First Lady Lois Phillips-Pula, joined by members of the Fono and Cabinet officials, made the journey across the waters to the island to participate in this occasion. In his special remarks, Governor Pulaalii extended heartfelt congratulations to the Department of Health and especially to the people of Aunuu.

"This is the beginning of something special for your island," he said. "This new facility will bring essential and accessible healthcare to the people of Aunuu, ensuring that every person receives medical treatment when needed" Governor Pulaalii also noted the significance of this day, as it coincided with the christening of the DOH emergency medical vessel, further symbolizing the collective effort to deliver quality healthcare services to every part of American Samoa. "It is truly a blessing from God that we are here today. With this center and the new medical vessel, the resources needed to strengthen our healthcare system are coming together, and we are seeing the vision unfold, he added.