AGP Executive Report

International Cup Softball: U.S. Women’s Elite beat American Samoa 10-3 at Devon Park in Oklahoma City, with Morgan Zerkle walking it off in a run-rule finish. International Cup Softball: The U.S. Women’s National Team topped Canada 10-7, rallying after a 5-0 first inning and closing it out in the seventh. Local Sports & Community: Team American Samoa head coach Samantha Ricketts (Mississippi State) is in OKC with MSU alumni Chole Malau’ulu, Kiarra Sells, and Matalasi Faapito for the International Cup. Deep-Sea Mining & Faith: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa adopted a resolution opposing deep-sea mining in or near territorial waters and the EEZ, citing ecological, cultural, and intergenerational risks. Climate & Voyaging: The Polynesian Voyaging Society added one year to the Moananuiākea Voyage after NOAA forecasts point to heightened El Niño-driven sailing and weather risks. Education & Access: Vivian Ho Ching became the first American Samoa resident to complete the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s MSW online program while staying in the territory. Public Health: The Children’s Healthy Living Center of Excellence marked 15 years of community garden and school food work improving keiki health across American Samoa and the wider Pacific. Local Governance: The Fono is set to review the FY2027 budget proposal totaling about $789.3 million, with lawmakers weighing how revenue figures relate to debt service and what’s actually available for operations. Health Care Update: Queen’s North Hawai‘i Community Hospital welcomed Dr. Jon “Sione” Hathaway to its Women’s Center, with clinical work tied to American Samoa. Telecom Appointments: Governor Pulaali’i appointed Molitogi “Moli” Lemana to the ASTCA board to support expanded digital access and infrastructure.

Deep-Sea Mining & Faith: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa adopted a resolution opposing deep-sea mining in/near the territory’s waters and EEZ, calling the ocean a sacred trust and warning of ecological, cultural, and long-term risks. Voyaging & Climate: The Polynesian Voyaging Society added a year to the Moananuiākea Voyage after NOAA forecasts point to a very high chance of an intense El Niño, raising risks for Western North Pacific sailing. Local Economy & Cost of Living: American Samoa’s inflation rate rose to 2.3% for Q2 (April–June 2026), with transportation costs leading increases while some food items like eggs fell. Public Safety & Accountability: Senators are set to question public safety officials over a spate of fires, including reports of dry hydrants and unpaid overtime at the Territorial Correctional Facility. Education Pathways: Vivian Ho Ching became the first American Samoa resident to finish an MSW online program while staying in the territory. Community Support Grants: DOJ OVW grants totaling $900,000 were awarded to Intersections, Inc. and Empowering Pacific Island Communities, Inc. to expand services for survivors of violence. Sports & Culture Spotlight: MSU softball coach Samantha Ricketts (Team American Samoa) and alumni are headed to the USA Softball International Cup in Oklahoma City. Broadcast Recognition: South Seas Broadcasting Inc.’s Joey Cummings is a finalist for NAB Marconi Radio Awards, with other major radio personalities also nominated. Leadership & Governance: Roy J.D. Hall Jr. was unanimously confirmed as American Samoa’s Administrative Law Judge. Loss: Lewis Wolman, longtime Samoa News publisher/editor and former ASTCA CEO, passed away in Colorado.

Sports & Community: Team USA’s women’s softball team routed Australia 12-0 in a shortened International Cup game in Oklahoma City, with key hits from Janae Jefferson and Maya Brady. Local Governance & Safety: The Fono is set to scrutinize the territory’s fires after reports of dry hydrants and police overtime nonpayment, while the Fagatogo Fire Station has reopened following a health-ordered shutdown. Deep-Sea Mining & Faith Voices: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa passed a resolution opposing deep-sea mining in local waters/EEZ, and the Trump administration’s push for a lease sale off American Samoa is drawing renewed criticism. Politics & Representation: The American Samoa Democratic Party endorsed Sandra King-Young for Delegate to the U.S. House. Education & Youth: American Samoa scholars presented NOAA-linked research in Washington, D.C., and Vivian Ho Ching became the first MSW online graduate while living in American Samoa. Social Services: DOJ OVW grants totaling $900,000 will fund domestic violence survivor support through Intersections and Empowering Pacific Island Communities. Tech & Infrastructure: Governor Pulaali’i appointed Molitogi Lemana to the ASTCA board. Remembering a Leader: Lewis Wolman, longtime Samoa News publisher/editor and telecom leader, has passed away.

Deep-Sea Mining Push Meets Church Pushback: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa adopted a resolution opposing deep-sea mining in and near the territory’s waters, calling the ocean a sacred trust and warning of ecological, cultural, and intergenerational harm. U.S.-Samoa Diplomacy: U.S. Ambassador Jared Novelly presented credentials to Samoa’s head of state and said the U.S. will respect Samoa’s seabed-mining decisions while offering expert connections. Voyaging Safety Update: The Polynesian Voyaging Society added one year to the Moananuiākea Voyage after updated El Niño risk forecasts, citing higher chances of dangerous weather and typhoons. Local Governance & Services: The Fono is set to review the FY2027 budget (about $789.3M), while Roy J.D. Hall Jr. was unanimously confirmed as Administrative Law Judge. Public Safety & Fires: Senators called for hearings after a spate of fires, including questions about hydrants and police overtime. Domestic Violence Funding: DOJ grants totaling $900,000 were awarded to Intersections, Inc. and Empowering Pacific Island Communities for survivor services. Education & Community: American Samoa NOAA Hollings and EPP/MSI scholars presented research in Washington, D.C., with one winning an outstanding oral presentation. Tech & Connectivity: Molitogi “Moli” Lemana was appointed to the ASTCA board to support digital access for schools and youth. Sports Spotlight: Guam will host the Oceania Volleyball Championships Aug. 3–9, with American Samoa among the teams. Broadcast Recognition: South Seas Broadcasting Inc.’s Joey Cummings was named a finalist for NAB Marconi Radio Awards.

Deep-Sea Mining Push Meets Church Backlash: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa passed a resolution opposing deep-sea mining in or near American Samoa waters, calling the ocean a sacred trust and warning of ecological, cultural, and scientific uncertainty risks. Climate & Voyaging: The Polynesian Voyaging Society added one year to the Moananuiākea Voyage after updated El Niño risk forecasts, prioritizing safety for the Western Pacific route. U.S. Diplomacy on Mining: U.S. Ambassador Jared Novelly said the U.S. will respect Samoa’s position on seabed mining, framing his role as connecting local leaders with experts rather than imposing policy. Local Governance & Justice: Roy J.D. Hall Jr. was unanimously confirmed as American Samoa’s Administrative Law Judge, while the Fono begins reviewing the FY2027 budget amid questions about revenue ceilings and debt service. Community Support: Two American Samoa nonprofits—Intersections, Inc. and Empowering Pacific Island Communities—received DOJ grants totaling $900,000 to expand services for survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Education & Culture: American Samoa NOAA scholars presented research in Washington, D.C., and a local student, Vivian Ho Ching, became the first MSW online graduate while living in the territory. Sports & Youth: A “Stand with the Moana” youth-led shoreline demonstration drew community members to oppose proposed federal deep-sea mining leases. Remembering a Local Leader: Lewis Wolman, longtime Samoa News publisher/editor and telecom leader, passed away at 68.

Deep-Sea Mining Fight: The Trump administration moves toward a first-ever deep-sea mining lease sale in federal waters off American Samoa, with a proposed Nov. 19, 2026 auction; local and regional voices are pushing back, including the Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa, which adopted a resolution warning of ecological, cultural, and intergenerational harm. Local Governance & Courts: Roy J.D. Hall Jr. was unanimously confirmed as American Samoa’s Administrative Law Judge, while the Fono begins reviewing the FY2027 budget amid questions about how local revenue figures relate to debt service. Budget Priorities: Gov. Pulaalii Nikolao Pula says the FY2027 plan targets a more resilient, self-sustaining economy as pandemic funding winds down. Community Support: DOJ OVW grants totaling $900,000 were awarded to Intersections, Inc. and Empowering Pacific Island Communities, Inc. to expand services for survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Education & Culture: American Samoa scholars presented NOAA research in Washington, D.C., and Vivian Ho Ching became the first student to complete UH’s online MSW while living in American Samoa. Sports & Community Events: A “Chasing Yesterday” endurance team is set to run two marathons across the International Date Line, and youth-led “Stand with the Moana” drew community members to oppose deep-sea mining. Media Recognition: South Seas Broadcasting’s Joey Cummings (Pago Pago) is a finalist for NAB Marconi Radio Awards, alongside other major radio nominees. Public Safety: The Fagatogo Fire Station reopened after DOH ordered closure over unsanitary conditions.

Education & Community Service: Vivian Ho Ching becomes the first American Samoa resident to finish UH Mānoa’s online Master of Social Work program while living in the Territory, a milestone praised for keeping students connected to family and Samoan values. Local Culture & Youth: Boys & Girls Clubs of American Samoa wraps up its “Save the Music” DIY ukulele project, with kids building and decorating instruments while learning teamwork and creativity. Deep-Sea Mining Pushback: Churches and community groups are lining up against proposed federal deep-sea mining leases near American Samoa, including a CCCAS resolution calling the ocean a sacred trust and warning of ecological and cultural harm. Public Safety: The Fagatogo Fire Station reopens after a Department of Health shutdown over unsanitary conditions, with officials also pointing to staffing shortages affecting response times. Violence Prevention Funding: DOJ OVW grants totaling $900,000 are awarded to Intersections, Inc. and Empowering Pacific Island Communities, Inc. to expand culturally specific support for survivors. Governance & Oversight: The Fono begins FY2027 budget review as lawmakers weigh proposed spending levels and questions raised by the FY2025 audit. Sports & Pride: American Samoa is set to welcome the “Chasing Yesterday” endurance team for a two-marathon world-record attempt tied to support for children of alcoholics. Arts & Heritage: Manu’atele marks the 122nd Anniversary of Manu’a Cession Day with church service, fa’afiafiaga, and official ceremonies.

Deep-Sea Mining Fight: The Trump administration is moving toward the first-ever deep-sea mining lease sale in federal waters off American Samoa, with a proposed Nov. 19, 2026 auction for 20 years of mining rights—sparking sharp criticism from scientists and Pacific advocates who warn of irreversible harm to the ocean and Samoan livelihoods. Faith & Community Response: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa is calling for a moratorium, saying the issue is cultural, ethical, and spiritual—not just environmental—while local groups like Finafinau staged a peaceful “Stand with the Moana” shoreline demonstration with youth and elders. Local Safety & Services: Fagatogo Fire Station has reopened after a Department of Health shutdown over unsanitary conditions, and officials pointed to human error as a factor behind recent fires. Domestic Violence Funding: Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata announced $900,000 in DOJ grants to two American Samoa nonprofits to expand culturally specific support for survivors. Sports & Culture: American Samoa will welcome the “Chasing Yesterday” endurance team for a two-marathon, date-line challenge tied to children affected by alcohol addiction, and Boys & Girls Clubs wrapped up its DIY ukulele project through the AS Visitors Bureau “Save the Music” program. Governance & Education: Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula shared FY2027 budget priorities as the territory shifts from pandemic recovery to long-term sustainability, and an NGA team visited to plan a student success data dashboard.

Oceania Volleyball on the Move: Guam will host the first-ever Oceania Volleyball Championship Aug. 3–9, with men’s and women’s teams from across the region including American Samoa, plus day-pass pricing and a six-day schedule at UOG Calvo Field House. Domestic Violence Funding: U.S. Rep. Uifa’atali Amata says DOJ’s OVW awarded two American Samoa nonprofits $900,000 total to expand culturally specific survivor services starting Aug. 1, 2026. Fire Safety Update: The Fagatogo Fire Station has reopened after DOH found unsanitary conditions; officials also pointed to human error behind recent fires and noted staffing shortages. Birthright Citizenship Fight: Guam and CNMI leaders are urging Rep. Morgan Griffith to withdraw his bill targeting birthright citizenship in U.S. territories, warning it could create stateless outcomes and arguing the territories’ agreements can’t be changed unilaterally. Deep-Sea Mining Pushback: Pacific voices, church leaders, and groups like Finafinau and Earthjustice are stepping up opposition to a proposed federal deep-sea mining lease sale near American Samoa, including concerns about radioactive risks and cultural harm. Community & Culture: Manu’atele marked Manu’a Cession Day with church-led ceremonies and fa’afiafiaga, while Boys & Girls Clubs wrapped up its DIY ukulele “Save the Music” project. Sports for a Cause: American Samoa will welcome the “Chasing Yesterday” endurance team for a Samoa-to-American Samoa marathon challenge raising awareness for children affected by alcohol addiction.

Aloha in Action: Jesse Sapolu, longtime 49ers alumni coordinator and co-founder of the Polynesian Hall of Fame and Polynesian Bowl, is described as an “ambassador of aloha,” recently running football camps and goodwill missions that connect Samoa, Independent Samoa, and the wider Pacific. Deep-Sea Mining Pushback: Youth, elders, educators, fishermen, and families gathered at Utulei for “Stand with the Moana,” a peaceful, Pacific-values protest against proposed federal deep-sea mining leases near American Samoa; the Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa also urged a decisive stand and a moratorium, while Earthjustice and local advocates warned of fast-tracked impacts and new concerns about possible radioactive risks. Citizenship Fight in U.S. Territories: Guam and CNMI leaders urged Rep. Morgan Griffith to withdraw his bill targeting birthright citizenship in territories, arguing it could create statelessness and violate territorial agreements—while the debate continues to ripple across the region. Community & Culture: American Samoa welcomed the “Chasing Yesterday” endurance team for a two-marathon, International Date Line challenge supporting children affected by alcohol addiction, and Boys & Girls Clubs wrapped up its DIY ukulele “Save the Music” project with hands-on creativity and Pacific cultural pride. Local Governance & Safety: Faipule raised concerns to the Port Director over ramp safety and immigration form distribution timing, and police reports highlighted disturbances handled through arrests and misdemeanor charges. Heritage: Manu’atele marked the 122nd Anniversary of Manu’a Cession Day with church services, choirs, ‘ava ceremony, and cultural festivities.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: Pacific leaders, church voices, and environmental groups are rallying against a U.S. plan to auction deep-sea mining leases in federal waters off American Samoa, with fresh concerns raised about possible radioactive materials and irreversible harm to ocean life and culture. Local Response: Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula says the government is reviewing BOEM’s proposed lease notice and has already submitted stipulations, while urging public input during the 60-day comment period. Community Mobilization: A “Stand with the Moana” shoreline demonstration drew youth, elders, educators, fishermen, and families to oppose the leases in a peaceful, Pacific-values style. Religious Stand: At the Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa general assembly, Rev. Dr. Upolu Luma Vaai called for a moratorium, saying the issue is cultural, ethical, and spiritual—not just environmental. Birthright Citizenship Fight: Guam and CNMI leaders urged Rep. Morgan Griffith to withdraw his bill targeting birthright citizenship in U.S. territories, warning it could create stateless outcomes and arguing the territories’ citizenship framework can’t be changed unilaterally. Culture & Youth: American Samoa welcomed the “Chasing Yesterday” endurance team with island hospitality plans, while Boys & Girls Clubs wrapped up a DIY ukulele project through the “Save the Music” program.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: Pacific leaders, church voices, and environmental groups are sharply condemning the U.S. plan to move toward a first-ever deep-sea mining lease sale in federal waters off American Samoa, warning of cultural, ecological, and even radioactive risk concerns as BOEM advances a proposed leasing notice and the governor urges public input. Local Leadership Response: Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula says the administration has kept communication with BOEM/DOI, submitted stipulations, and will use the 60-day comment period to press for protections—while attorneys with Earthjustice and Faasao Amerika Samoa outline options to engage the federal process. Community Protest: “Stand with the Moana” brought youth, elders, educators, fishermen, and families to the Utulei shoreline for a peaceful, values-based demonstration against the leases. Birthright Citizenship Fight: Guam and CNMI leaders are urging Rep. Morgan Griffith to withdraw his bill targeting birthright citizenship in U.S. territories, arguing it could create stateless outcomes and misreads territorial citizenship protections. Culture & Youth: American Samoa welcomed the “Chasing Yesterday” endurance team with island hospitality tied to support for children affected by alcohol addiction, while Boys & Girls Clubs wrapped up a DIY ukulele project through the “Save the Music” program. Heritage & Faith: Manu’atele marked the 122nd Anniversary of Manu’a Cession Day with church services, ‘ava ceremony, and cultural performances. Education & Care: ASCC psychology students donated household goods to families displaced by a Fagaima fire, and DOH staff attended a pediatric behavioral summit in Las Vegas. Sports & Safety: A welcome dinner kicked off the WBSC Oceania U15 Women’s Softball World Cup qualifier, and local leaders raised port and immigration-form concerns after ramp and form-distribution issues.

Citizenship Fight: Guam and CNMI leaders urged U.S. Rep. Morgan Griffith to withdraw his “End Birthright Citizenship for Territories Act,” warning it could create stateless children and that territorial citizenship rights can’t be changed unilaterally. Deep-Sea Mining Backlash: Pacific voices and American Samoa groups condemned BOEM’s proposed deep-sea mining lease sale near the territory, with fresh concerns about possible radioactive materials and calls for a moratorium; Governor Pulaali’i says ASG will review and comment during the 60-day period. Ocean Values Protest: “Stand with the Moana” brought youth, elders, educators, fishermen, and families to the Utulei shoreline for a peaceful, blue-dressed demonstration—flowers, silence, and respect for the moana. Community & Culture: Manu’atele marked the 122nd Anniversary of Manu’a Cession Day with church services, choirs, ‘ava, and cultural entertainment. Youth Programs: Boys & Girls Clubs wrapped up its DIY Ukulele Project through the AS Visitors Bureau “Save the Music” program, building creativity and teamwork. Sports & Service: American Samoa hosted a welcome dinner for the WBSC Oceania U15 Women’s Softball World Cup qualifier teams, while ASCC psychology students donated household goods to Fagaima fire victims. Health & Safety: DOH staff attended a pediatric behavioral summit in Las Vegas, and local reports highlighted ongoing community safety and behavioral support needs. Human Stories: A Tonga-linked marriage scheme in China is under investigation after women say they were effectively “bought and sold.” Endurance Event: The “Chasing Yesterday” team is set to arrive for a two-marathon, date-line challenge supporting children affected by alcohol addiction.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: Pacific voices are ramping up opposition to a U.S. plan to auction deep-sea mining leases in federal waters off American Samoa, with fresh concerns about possible radioactive materials and irreversible harm to the ocean, culture, and livelihoods; Faith & Community Response: the Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa’s General Assembly heard a call for a moratorium, while Earthjustice and local advocates say they’re working through federal processes to protect the territory; Local Governance: Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula says ASG has been in ongoing talks with BOEM/DOI, is submitting stipulations, and will use the 60-day comment period to press for transparency and safeguards; Citizenship Politics: Guam and CNMI leaders urged Rep. Morgan Griffith to withdraw his bill targeting birthright citizenship in U.S. territories, warning it could create stateless outcomes and arguing the Covenant can’t be changed unilaterally; Sports & Culture: American Samoa welcomed news of the “Chasing Yesterday” endurance team bringing island hospitality to a world-record-style double marathon, and a “Stand with the Moana” shoreline demonstration drew youth and elders to protect the moana; Youth & Learning: Boys & Girls Clubs finished a DIY ukulele project through the “Save the Music” program, and ASCC psychology students donated goods to families displaced by a Fagaima fire; Public Safety: Fagaima faipule raised port ramp and immigration-form distribution concerns after safety and convenience issues were reported.

Deep-Sea Mining Fight: American Samoa’s leaders and church voices are pushing back hard after the U.S. moved toward a first-ever deep-sea mining lease sale off the territory, with fresh concerns raised about possible radioactive risks and fast-tracked federal steps. Local Governance: Gov. Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula says the administration is reviewing BOEM’s proposed lease notice during a 60-day comment period, while urging public input and stressing transparency. Community Activism: “Stand with the Moana” brought youth, elders, educators, fishermen, and families to the Utulei shoreline for a peaceful, Pacific-values protest against the leases. Culture & Faith: Manu’atele marked the 122nd Anniversary of Manu’a Cession Day with church services, ‘ava ceremonies, and cultural performances. Youth & Arts: Boys & Girls Clubs of American Samoa wrapped up its “Save the Music” DIY ukulele project, building instruments and confidence through hands-on creativity. Sports & Welcome: American Samoa is set to host the “Chasing Yesterday” endurance team, and officials also welcomed delegates for the WBSC Oceania U15 Women’s Softball World Cup Qualifier. Education & Health: DOH staff attended a pediatric behavioral summit in Las Vegas, while ASCC psychology students donated household goods to families displaced by a Fagaima fire. Citizenship Debate: Across the region, Guam and CNMI leaders joined criticism of a new U.S. bill targeting birthright citizenship in territories, arguing it could create unequal treatment for people born under the American flag.

Citizenship Fight in U.S. Territories: Rep. Morgan Griffith’s “End Birthright Citizenship for the Territories Act” is back in the spotlight after the Supreme Court’s birthright ruling on the mainland, with Guam and CNMI leaders warning it could create a “stateless” scenario and treat territory-born children differently. Ocean Protection & Deep-Sea Mining: A “Stand with the Moana” shoreline demonstration in Utulei drew youth, elders, educators, fishermen, and government staff to oppose federal deep-sea mining lease plans; meanwhile, the Congregational Christian Church General Assembly heard calls for a moratorium, and Earthjustice is urging American Samoa to push back through the federal process. Community, Culture & Youth: The Manu’atele community marked the 122nd Anniversary of Manu’a Cession Day with church services, ‘ava ceremonies, and cultural performances; Boys & Girls Clubs wrapped up its “Save the Music” DIY ukulele project, building instruments and confidence for local kids. Sports & Service: American Samoa is set to welcome the “Chasing Yesterday” endurance team for a marathon challenge supporting children of alcoholics, and ASCC psychology students delivered donations to Fagaima fire victims. Public Safety & Local Governance: A Faipule raised concerns to the Port Director about ramp safety and immigration form distribution timing, while police reports covered alleged disturbances involving family members.