The Head of State, His Highness Tui Atua Tupua Tamasese Efi, welcomed the new Ambassador of Switzerland to Samoa, David Vogelsanger, yesterday.

Mr. Vogelsanger was welcomed during an ava ceremony at Tuaefu before he presented his credentials to the Head of State.

The Ambassador was accompanied by Switzerland’s Consul in Samoa, Sylvie Salanoa.

In addressing the Head of State, Mr. Vogelsanger reminded that some Swiss citizens have made Samoa their home.

“They contribute towards building your nation even though clearly separated by geography,” said the Ambassador.

“Samoa and Switzerland have so much in common, our commitment to democracy but also tour old traditions, the endeavour to render our small nation useful in the search for peace and the respect for human rights, the firm conviction that too much government regulation suffocates private initiative, the only solid base for development and the well being of mankind.”

Mr. Volgelsanger also shared his experience in West Africa where he previously worked.

“Your Highness, I have completed only nine months ago, a term of office in West Africa where I have witnessed civil war, dictatorial abuse of power, shocking poverty and towards the end the surge of a new terrible disease,” he recalled.

“Experiencing now the beauty of your country and the natural friendliness of your people seems almost unreal. I look forward to learn about your nation, your history, your culture, and your people.”

His Highness, Tui Atua welcomed Mr. Vogelsanger.

“Samoa and Switzerland’s relations have been maintained and promoted through cooperation and mutual desire to work closely together in the pursuit of interest that benefit our people,” said the Head of State.

“Over the years our country has received assistance from your government either directly or through the European Commission, to support our development activities in sectors such as water, education, environment, health and many others".

They sang and danced as they displayed their finest ie Samoa (mats) and siapo (tapa cloth) in front of the Government Building, yesterday.

They were women from Savai’i and Upolu who had gathered to exhibit their traditional craft to celebrate the National Women’s Day.

Organized by the Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development, the annual event is to promote the importance of keeping the art of traditional weaving of fine mats and making siapo making alive.

A press release from the Ministry said that women have contributed immensely to the social, cultural and economic development of Samoa.

“They are the backbone of every family and society and continue to play a crucial role in development at all levels.

“The revival of the production of the ie samoa and siapo is not only to revive the cultural significance of these arts and crafts, but also to promote women’s crafting as a source of income to contribute to the economic development of Samoa.”

The sustainability of the art of fine mat weaving and siapo making is being promoted through the work of the Ie Samoa Committee which is chaired by Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi and comprised of representatives of government, private sector, Women in Business Development Incorporated and civil society.

The programme is spearheaded by the women’s committees and includes young women and women with disabilities.

Fouina Mata’afa of Fasito’o said that this year, there is an increase of the ie Samoa and siapo. “As an old woman from my village, I am very glad that Government has revived these traditions. Seeing our old ways of living fade away was just disappointing and but having the art of weaving the ie Samoa and siapo making is a dream come true for all of us.”

Mrs Mata’afa hopes that our children will continue the tradition.

The role of men as weavers and supporters in the promotion of the ie Samoa and siapo production is crucial in the sustainability of this important program.

“I am very proud when mothers from my village of Aufaga increased the production of their ‘ie Samoa,” said Talatonu Tanoa’I of Aumaga.

He is thinking of joining the weaving committee this year, as the programme challenges men, to think that if women can do it, so can they.

In addition, the ie Samoa and siapo is a source of income for women who can either trade these on a gift exchange or sell them locally or overseas.

Seven young men who have been learning to make siapo (traditional tapa) will learn how to sell their products next week.

This is the first such workshop and part of the U.N.E.S.C.O Office for Pacific States plan to promote gender equality. Eight young women are also involved.

There is even one participant each from Manono Tai and Manono Uta.

Known as the Siapo Making Business Training, the workshop, which is also funded by the International Trading Organization (I.L.O.), is one way of addressing youth issues.

The programme comes under U.N.E.S.C.O’s social and human science project that targets marginalised youth such as people with disabilities, those who have dropped out of school and were deported. It’s about making them financially independent and reviving tradition at the same time.

Education Officer with U.N.E.S.C.O, Yusuke Nii said that culturally, it was unheard of to have men making siapo. They were told it was impossible to get men involved but were surprised when more than 100 people applied to participate. Included were male applicants.

“Our project promotes gender equality and an equal opportunity to participate in everything. [the local organizers at the Samoa Cultural Centre] said it’s almost impossible as it was a woman’s job. If advertised, it will be 100 percent women.”

It was decided that the only way to reduce the numbers were to set the age from 17 to 24.

“So really, we got a really good response from the public, it was very surprising. Traditionally, it was a female job".

The each participant is from a different village and it is expected that they will return and continue to this trade and teach others. Next Friday, the siapo making component ends and is followed with three days of business training. The trainer is being brought in by I.L.O. “So, it is not just about making it but to help them with skills and knowledge and confidence to network to sell these kinds of products to the market".

Prior to the workshop, the male participants had no experience at all. They knew nothing of what tree was used or what it looked like.

Based on interviews with the participants, Mr. Nii found that so far, the young men have realised that it is no easy task. They agree that women should not be doing this alone. The mulberry tree needs to be cut and brought to a certain place and the pieces of wood, widened with a shell.

“The boys found it really difficult and was hard work.”

During the workshop, the participants glued the white tapa together with the starch from a cooked cassava, then the red ink made from the clay found in the rivers, was painted over the upeti designs onto the siapo.

Although they may want to keep them, there are plans to sell some of the pieces during the closing on May 20, at the Samoa Cultural Centre.

For Mr. Nii, the siapo workshop is a breakthrough of social inclusion with the intention of putting these youth back into the mainstream.v He found that the youth were more flexible in thinking. They weren’t bothered about gender and their roles in society. Instead, they just got involved and really enjoyed it.

Mr. Nii hopes that this continues to move forward and continue towards achieving a different aspect of gender equality.

Former Member of Parliament and paramount Chief of Mulivai, Safata, Leota Su’atele Manusegi, has spoken out in support of the government in relation to the division of the Safata voting constituency.

Contained in the Electoral Act 2015, the boundary is the subject of a legal challenge from another part of the Safata district.

Speaking to the Sunday Samoan, Leota said he is ready to speak up to support the law when the matter comes before the Land and Titles Court.

The legal challenge is being led by former Member of Parliament, Tuia Paepae Letoa, who argues that the correct division for Safata should be based on Togamau ma ona tua and Siulepa ma ona tua.

Leota disagrees.

“There are Court rulings on the land and they make it sound like we are living on their land,” he said. “That is not the case.”

Leota also criticised Tuia’s side for creating divisions within the constituency.

“Their claims are stirring up problems and encouraging violence,” said Leota. “Leiataua is still at peace, but what they are doing is contempt of Parliament, going against decisions made by Parliament.”

Tuia, however, maintains that they want to confirm the traditional division and boundaries by seeking the opinion of the Court.

“We do not want what is passed in the Act to mislead the upcoming generations of our constituency,” he explained. “The boundary is wrong, our forefathers set the boundaries and it should stay.”

The matter is expected to be called in August.

Samoa has defeated Japan with a penalty kick in the final minute of the match to win 33-30 in the Oceania Rugby Junior Championship.

The U20’s championship being held at Bond University on the Gold Coast saw Samoa come from behind to claim the match and ensure they claim 3rd place in the tournament.

Samoa will play Australia in the World Rugby U20 Championship in Italy in June.

A disciplined Japan started the match as well as they capitalised on a mistake by Samoa from the kick off to remain deep with the Samoan defensive zone.

Ryuji Noguci took advantage of Japan’s territorial advantage when Samoa were penalised for offside and gave Japan a 0-3 lead.

Samoa were unable to maintain possession as Japan’s forwards allowed for clean ball for the backs.

As Japan maintained early pressure, number eight Tevita Malaefoou Tatafu dived over from the base of the ruck to score the first try of the match.

The successful conversion took the score to 0-10.

Samoa were finally able to gain some possession and pressure the Japanese as Josh Ioane converted a penalty to register Samoa’s first points, bringing the score to 3-10.

Japan continued to dominate their Pacific rivals with the Japanese forwards holding out their larger opposing pack.

An offside infringement by Samoa allowed Ryuji Noguci to increase Japan’s lead to 3-13.

Hirofumi Higashikawa scored what could have been the try of the tournament when flyhalf Taisetsu Kanai placed a well-timed grubber kick in behind the Samoan defence allowing Higashikawa to regather and burn the Samoan defence to score.

A rare missed conversion left the score at 3-18.

A determined Samoa, frustrated by their errors used their larger forward pack to smash their way through the dedicated Japanese defence, scoring a try on the cusp of half time to bring the scores closer to 8-18.

Japan registered the first points of the second half as the Japanese backs moved the ball quickly to expose Samoa outside. Hooker Kosuke Horikoshi was the last to touch the ball as ran into untouched to score in the corner taking the score to 8-23.

Japan’s pressure continued to mount on the tiring Samoan defence as Japan opted for a lineout from a penalty. Samoa’s forwards couldn’t hold out the organised Japanese defence as Tevita Malaefoou Tatafu crossed for his second try.

The successful conversion by Noguci brought the score to 8-30.

An inspired effort from Samoan captain, Josh Dowsing rallied his Samoan side as the young forward used his physicality at the breakdown to force Japan into errors.

A try followed shortly after Samoa lifted their urgency and tempo in attack allowing number eight Jordan Jacket to cross over for the try.

Malu Falaniko converted the try to give Samoa some hope of chasing down Japan with the score at 15-30.

Josh Ioane returned to his kicking roll minutes later for Samoa as the young Pacific team kept the score ticking over with a penalty from 30 metres out taking the score to 18-30.

With a wet sail behind them Samoa found the form they were searching for in the first half as Malu Falaniko and Ben Tuiomanufili crossed for consecutive tries to level the scores at 30-30. The frenetic pace of the match increased as both teams searched for a way through in order to win the game. With two minutes to go Samoa edged in front 33-30 with a successful conversion by Malu Falaniko which brought the Samoan fans to their feet.

When the final whistle sound the Samoans erupted having registered their first win of the tournament.

It was a day of celebration for all the mothers in Samoa on Sunday.

Samoa Observer was able to visit some of the many different churches in Upolu before and after the service.

One of those mothers from the village of Faleula, Tailei Onesemo said that ‘my life has been fully blessed to have my children and my husband around on this day.

“They are amazing, committed, and faithful to me. “I am also thankful to my mother-in-law who is passionate about truth, helpful to our family and loves my children.

“My mother has faithfully prayed for me and my siblings since we were young and now I am a mother I’m still following on good examples that she set for us us when we were young.

“She sacrificed for us, served the churches (C.C.C.S) that she and my dad have attended, remained faithful to my dad even though he passed away a few years ago.” “Today (Sunday) was a very good one for our family.

The Mothers Day national holiday on Monday was meant to be a joyous one.

For the Congregational Christian Church of Samoa at Satapuala, that was the case until mid-morning when a fire ripped through the house of their pastor.

The inferno quickly consumed the top floor of the two-storey building, destroying everything.

The incident occurred at around 11am. According to a member of the Church, the Pastor and his wife were preparing for the Malua Annual Conference when disaster struck.

The Pastor’s wife apparently was on her way to Malua while her husband was at home waiting for her.

“The pastor lost everything,” the church member said. “Their clothes, valuable possessions and everything they had prepared for the Fono at Malua were consumed by the fire.”

It was not possible to get a comment from the Pastor and his wife yesterday.

But a member of the congregation said the church members have quickly come together to help their spiritual parents, to ensure they are well looked after at Malua. He estimated the damage to be about half a million tala.

“The most important part is that no one was injured,” he said. “We suspect that the fire may have been started by an electrical fault.”

Attempts to get a comment from the Fire Commissioner, Fa’afouina Mupo, were unsuccessful yesterday.

It may have been more than sixty years since her first visit to Samoa but Hollywood star, Roberta Haynes, can still perform the siva and remember a few of the Samoan words.

In fact, after the press conference yesterday, the main actress of the Return to Paradise movie performed a siva, together with the very person who had taught her all those years ago, Su’aFreida Paul.

Since the movie, the 86-year-old who lives in Florida, U.S.A., has returned to Samoa four times.

The last trip being for the movie’s 50th Anniversary.

She has returned with her son and friends this time since her last visit which was with a company interested in tourism.

“It’s always wonderful to be back in Samoa,” she says.“There are so many changes now but it’s still beautiful.”

Ms. Haynes was 25-years-old when she first visited our shores. It was her first time to travel overseas.

For her, travelling to Samoa was a dream come true. She had always known about Samoa as Ms. Haynes loved reading books by Robert Louis Stevenson.

At the time, it took her ten hours to fly from Los Angeles to Hawaii and then onto Fiji, where she stayed for three days.

“And then to come to Samoa and land on a grass field! It was so beautiful ...”

Originally, Ms. Haynes was scheduled to stay for only a few weeks. But as the equipment got stuck on a ship in the Los Angeles Harbour, she ended up being here for three months.

During this time, she got to know the people here such as Sala Mata’afa.

“I got to know Samoa and for me it was wonderful because then it helped me in my role of Maeva to know what it was like to be Polynesian.”

Samoa was really untouched in those days.

Although the New Zealand High Commission had set up office here, there were also Australian boats that would come in.

Ms. Haynes also remembers a German shipwreck in the harbour.

Those days, for her, were a very, very important part in her life and always have been.

Unfortunately,many of the people she had met in those days, have passed away.

Sala Mataafa, she said, was a good friend. Before leaving home on this trip, Ms. Haynes found a letter that Sala had written her in 1953.

“When I knew Sala, she also taught me to dance.

She would pick me up with some of her relatives and we would have a picnic and go off to sliding rocks and spend the day.

“At one point, I was invited out to Lepea to spend the night and have dinner and they made a very special dinner of fish on banana leaves, but we had to wait while Mata’afa ate first. They sang me to sleep.” She remembers swimming with Hans Kruse and being invited by Mata’afa to go out. There were no restaurants at the time. He picked her up in a taxi and took her to Moera’s Ice-cream Parlour, known at the time as the coolest spot in town. “He asked me if I wanted to go back to his village of Lepea and listen to the shortwave radio. Well I did and it was really a very lovely evening.”

So fond are her memories of Samoa, that the welcome she received at Faleolo Airport on Tuesday, reduced her to tears. Ms. Haynes had arrived at her second home.

After Return to Paradise, Ms. Haynes eventually stopped acting and became a writer.

She worked as an executive in Hollywood and ended up working at Twentieth Century Fox as vice president, where she was in charge of movies and mini movies. She also produced a movie for CBS Television.

At the moment, Ms. Haynes is trying to get some people in Hollywood or the television and cable industry, interested in doing a mini-series about the life of Robert Louis Stevenson.

“And that’s what I want to do. He came here, he lived here and he died here and he’s buried at the top of the mountain. And I have been to Vailima many times.”

Should she succeed in her mission, Ms. Haynes will live in Samoa for a year during production.

One of the main problems with the Return to Paradise film on her return to Hollywood was a lot of people in the South of the United States refused to show it. At the time, there was still racial segregation. Ms. Haynes says that if the film had been produced today, it would have received a lot better response. And for it to succeed then, would also have needed more money. She was even sent on tours of radio and TV shows, but it was not enough. Also, a lot of the critics who watched the movie, did not realize that she was the actress and thought it was a Polynesian. “And that for me was wonderful because that’s what I wanted.”

And during the press conference, although her Samoan was limited to “talofa...talofa lava”, Ms. Haynes says she still keeps a book on learning the Samoan language.

Over the years, the beauty of her memories in Samoa will never fade. For Ms. Haynes, they were beautiful, with friendships and a culture, in a country she had only read and dreamed about.

In her own words during yesterday’s press conference, “I had fun! I had such fun here. As long as I can, I will keep coming back.”

Ms. Haynes was flown to Samoa by Fiji Airways which connects directly to Hawaii and Los Angeles via Nadi. “We are happy to fly over Roberta Haynes to celebrate ‘Return to Paradise’. A statement said that “this is a symbolic event for Samoa, not just because the movie was based here, but also because of a new resort, which means more room inventory for Samoa.”

The fundraiser held at the Return to Paradise Resort at Lefaga this weekend is sponsored by Pure Sama. The movie marked a change in the history of Hollywood wherein local actors were given the opportunity to have speaking roles.

“This means a lot to the Samoa Beverage Company, as our corporate philosophy is to provide employment to locals and support the economy,” said a company statement.

Terry Dunleavy is singing Samoan songs with the string band at the back of the Samoa Tourism Authority fale.

He was actually there for a press conference with leading actress, Roberta Haynes, in the movie, Return to Paradise, filmed at Lefaga in 1953.

But soon after, Mr. Dunleavy was requesting certain songs as he sang with vigour along with the string band. One of them was Return to Paradise, a song he wrote during the filming of the movie and made famous by the Yandall Sisters.

Today, the song is referred to as “I Lost My Heart in Samoa” or “I Left My Heart in Samoa".

The song was written while sitting at Lefaga and waiting for one of the scenes in which he appears as one of four airmen.

“You’d be out there and you wouldn’t have to be there till about 2 o’clock in the afternoon, so you just sat around and went for a swim or did something".

After writing it, Mr. Dunleavy who had been taught how to play the ukulele by a person he refers to as Mamea, started strumming a tune, while his wife, Margaret, who had studied music, worked on the notes. Soon after, Mr. Dunleavy taught the song to Shirley and Vivian Hovell, who worked at the hospital and were also very good singers.

During this time, Mr. Dunleavy worked as the Editor of a privately owned weekly newspaper, The Samoa Bulletin. He and his family lived in the flat above the printing office where the Samoa Housing Corporation is now. Up the road, was the Post Office of which Charlie Rivers was Post Master.

One day, Mr. River’s niece Mavis called out to him and showed him an album.

“Terry, Terry look! Look! Your song is recorded.

It was the first thing I knew about it”.

Mr. Dunleavy has the recordings of the versions sung by the Hovell girls and Yandall sisters on his mobile phone. He remembers that in an earlier edition of the Samoa Observer, is an article on him presenting a letter to the Head of State at the time, MalietoaTanumafili II. The letter states that the song was Mr. Dunleavy’s gift to people of Samoa.

Mr. Dunleavy regards the film Return to Paradise as a minor page in telling the history of Samoa.

He mentions Ms. Hayne’s friend who is working to modernize a film made in 1923 called Moana, by Robert Flaherty. Going back before then, in telling the story of Samoa, was Robert Louis Stevenson, who wrote A Footnote to History. Samoa has a vibrant history that could be captured through research.

Back in the fifties, Mr. Dunleavy remembers listening into debates at the Legislative Assembly. The question of tourism would come up and the majority of the House agreed that it would influence the faa-Samoa. During that time, the economy relied on banana exports to New Zealand, along with copper and cocoa.

Remittances, then, were in the dribble. Today the biggest sources of revenue are tourism and remittances.

Mr. Dunleavy regrets that the export of Samoa’s cocoa has dwindled. It pains him to see cocoa trees over grown with weeds.

Back then, Samoa’s cocoa was regarded as the best in the world. It was sold at the highest price and was used for blending.

Cocoa from Ghana provided the volume and Samoa’s cocoa was blended to add quality.

In 1954, after picking some local teams to play visiting warships, Mr. Dunleavy says he suggested to Egon Paul and Angus MacDonald, that they reintroduce rugby.

This was no longer played due to fights in the past.

Soon the Apia Rugby Union was reformed.

President was Mr. Paul and Mr. Dunleavy was made secretary. In either 1955 or 56, a Fijian team came for a test series match. It was left to Mr. Dunleavy to pick the colour of the jerseys. He chose the Royal Blue, such as that on Samoa’s flag.

The colour has since become Samoa’s national colours.

While working at the Samoa Bulletin until he returned with his family in 1958, the film producer and Director dropped by to tell him they were there to produce.

They asked Mr. Dunleavy whether he knew any young ladies who could be in the film. They went to the Bank of New Zealand and saw Moera MacDonald.

Mr. Dunleavy was asked to help rehearse Moera into a poolside scene.

He was later told by the director that they had to have him in the film.

During the first independence celebration at Mulinu’u in 1962, Mata’afa and the NZ Prime Minister were expected to raise the flags. Early that morning, it was clouded over and looked as if it was going to rain heavily.

That morning, people went to Mata’afa as they wanted to put up tarpaulins to shelter guests.

“Mata’afa said no,” Mr. Dunleavy recalled.“God will not let it rain on our celebrations. I’ll tell you what! As true as I’m standing here, at the time the flags came down and up, you could look at Apia and it was pissing with rain. It was hosing down on Vaiusu Bay. Not a drop fell on Mulinu’u.

It was really miraculous and not a drop fell all day. It was quite something!”

Mr. Dunleavy is very proud of his association with Samoa and regards the Paul and MacDonald families as his aiga. He is also Godfather of Su’a Frieda Paul.

“It’s become part of me. Seven years doesn’t sound long but it was a very formative period of my life. I came here with one child and went home with six”.

In all, the Dunleavy family had 11 children.

One has since passed away. There is also a great grandchild. In all, for Mr. Dunleavy is back. He has returned to paradise.

Song: “Return to Paradise”
Original English words by Terry Dunleavy (1952)
I lost my heart in Samoa,
Under the swaying palms.
Beautiful island maidens,
With soft welcoming arms.

Calling me back to my dreamland,
Neath tropical skies.
I must return to Samoa,
Return to paradise.

I have wandered o’er the sea,
Seen such wondrous places.
Now again I want to see
Those smiling friendly faces.

I’m going back to Samoa,
Island of melody.
There I met my first love,
There she’s waiting for me.

Calling me back to my dreamland,
Neath tropical skies.
I must return to Samoa,
Return to paradise,
Return to paradise.

RETURN TO PARADISE (SAMOAN LYRICS)
Written by Nova Shirley Yandall

V1 Uaso’ouma vasa I a’uta’amilosaga
O va’aigauigaese le manaia
Ae le mafai lava, onafa’agaloina
Le atunu’ufa’apelepeleina

CH O le a ou fo’i i Samoa
Motu o pesePesega
O inasafeiloa’iai
Ma ia lava o lo’ofa’atalimai
Pesemaiaoela’upele
E le pine ua e mautinoa
Parataiso e sili I le lalolagi
Suafainatasi lava Samoa.

A Samoa Friendship Award was presented to Return to Paradise actress, Roberta Haynes last night by the government of Samoa.

The award was presented by the Deputy Prime Minister, Fonotoe Pierre Lauofo, for her role in the movie and the relationship she has shared with Samoa.

On the award, it reads: "On this Friday, the 15th of May, in the year of our Lord 2015, in recognition of her spectacular performance in the movie Return to Paradise and for her outstanding friendship with the people of Samoa."

The award is signed by the Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi.

Fonotoe said that last night’s occasion where people gathered to watch the premiere of the digitalised version the movie, was all about welcoming Ms Haynes back to Samoa.

On behalf of the Prime Minister of Samoa, the government and the people, I would like to present to you, Roberta Haynes, this award in recognition of your part in the film, Return To Paradise. Your good service to the government in promoting Samoa overseas and making Samoa known in America in particular.” He encouraged her to continue to promote Samoa.

Ms. Haynes assured him, she would. “Always... I love Samoa. I truly love Samoa. It’s my home!”

Along with Ms Haynes, Terry Dunleavy and Unasa Felise Va’a were the only actors who could make it. Others had either passed away or migrated overseas.

Chairperson of the Return to Paradise Resort Board, Hinauri Petana, is the granddaughter of Le Mamea Matatumua Ata, who was a chief of Lefaga at the time and is one of the locals with the biggest speaking role in the movie.

Ms Petana asked her grandmother about the time when the movie was shot.

“And she was very clear. She said that the movie was shot from the 1st April till the 30th September, 1952.”

And when Ms Petana asked why her grandmother remembered the dates so well, her grandmother replied, she remembers because that was when Le Mamea had asked “my Dad for my hand [in marriage], my Dad said to wait until the film is over then you can get married in November”.

The event last night was attended by descendants of the actors and actresses who had played a role in the movie.

V.I.P. guests got the ‘red carpet’ treatment, where the pathway leading to the main entrance was covered with teuila, hibiscus flowers and lauti.

On Ms Hayne’s arrival, she was welcomed by the resort staff along the pathway and who gave her a real Samoan welcome, with a lei garland and welcome chants.

Ms Petana on behalf of the resorts board, thanked the Prime Minister and the Samoa Tourism Authority for their support, and also Fiji Airways and Taula and Sama Beers for their sponsorship of the event.

Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi, has downplayed a call for his government to defer its plan for Polynesian Airlines to fly to New Zealand and other Pacific countries.

A document obtained by the Sunday Samoan shows that a senior government official has cautioned the Prime Minister.

The plan, announced by Cabinet last month, apparently involves Polynesian Airlines (PAL) entering into an agreement with Solomon Airlines to lease a Solomon Airlines Airbus to allow Polynesian Airlines to fly the “Nadi – Apia - Auckland and any other requested route.”

But in a letter to the Prime Minister last month, leaked to the Sunday Samoan, the government was told that the deal is far too risky.

“What PAL is embarking on represents a huge undertaking with enormous financial implications not only to PAL but also to Government,” the letter reads.

“The Government is still paying the debts incurred by the previous PAL outfit and PAL cannot commit to another transaction without a thorough analysis to determine its financial viability.”

In the end, Prime Minister Tuilaepa is asked that the “proposal by PAL be deferred or delayed” until “the government has been provided with quantitative evidence of the most cost effective air access options to support tourism development.”

Asked for a comment on Thursday, Tuilaepa said the Polynesian Airline plan is still being carefully considered. He rejected claims that the plan is not financially viable.

“That is not the case,” he said. “What is happening is that the plan is being put aside while a thorough analysis is underway.”

According to the Prime Minister, part of the analysis is taking into account the review of the joint venture between the government and Virgin Australia.

The review of the Samoa/Virgin Australia deal is due in September.

The joint venture has been the subject of much criticism, especially from Members of Parliament who have accused the airline of making friends with Air New Zealand.

Part of the criticisms included the call to revive Polynesian Airlines as an international airline to service Samoa and New Zealand.

Asked about the progress of leasing a plane from the Solomon Airlines, Tuilaepa is optimistic.

“There are two ways,” he said, “we can lease a plane or buy one.”

“We can also work together with another airline like a joint venture on one plane.”

“We have been doing this for a long time where in the past we worked with Air New Zealand.”

According to the Prime Minister, the option of a lease is cheaper.

“Leasing is good in a way because if an engine breaks down, it can be replaced with a new engine,” explained Tuilaepa.

“It is also good in a business sense because if we want to use a new aircraft, we can do that based on the lease. But if we buy a new aircraft and then it breaks down, that is the end of you and the aircraft.”

The Prime Minister said the plan is being carefully looked at by the new Polynesian Chief Executive Officer, Seiuli Alvin Tuala.

“So that is your answer to that small issue,” he said.

As it stands, the joint venture between the government and Virgin Samoa manages the jet operations while the turbo prop feeder operations are managed by Polynesian Airlines.

According to an official, the Polynesian Airline plan compromises the government’s aspirations in Virgin Samoa.

Further, the official is concerned about the apparent absence of a “proper business case provided by PAL” on the plan.

At the beginning of last month, Cabinet announce the plan for Polynesian Airlines to fly to New Zealand and other Pacific countries.

In a statement, Cabinet said “the initiative is to enhance flight services and provide cheaper airfare options for the people of Samoa. A meeting was held between the heads of Polynesian Airlines and Solomon Airlines to negotiate the Heads of Agreement for the proposed lease of Solomon Airlines Airbus 320/319 aircraft to Polynesian Airlines, particularly for the Nadi – Apia - Auckland and vice versa route, and any other requested route.

Chartered flights are expected to resume June 2015.

“The agreement also includes the assistance by Solomon Airlines in conducting trainings for the Polynesian Airline staff.”

“Scheduled flights for Polynesian Airlines are expected to start in November, with the expectation of the local carrier to operate direct flights on its own aircraft next year.”

Being a church Minister is not a job. It is a calling.

That’s what 22 Reverends of the Congregational Christian Church of Samoa were encouraged to think about yesterday during their ordination ceremony.

The service was held at the Malua Theological College.

It was witnessed by many Reverend Elders, Reverends, church members, relatives and friends of the ordained Ministers. Reverend Elder Tavita Taule’alo, of Manukau New Zealand, encouraged the Reverends to be good leaders and exercise their faith in God.

The Secretary of the Elders Committee, Revered Elder Kerisiano Soti then presented the 22 Lay preachers before the General Assembly to be ordained.

The Ordination ceremony was carried out by Reverend Toese Peleti To’ailoa, Chairman of the Elders Committee, Reverend Elder Tavita Taule’alo, Reverend Elder Tavita Roma, Reverend Elder Liki Tiatia, Reverend Elder Asotasi Gu Time and Reverend Elder Eti Tamati.

One the ordained Reverends, Fa’asoi Maua, from Eastside Queensland, was extremely grateful that they have been able to reach this milestone in their lives of service to God.

He acknowledged the hand of the Almighty and everyone who has supported them through their journey.

Another ordained Minister, Reverend Tanoalei’a Tunupopo, was equally excited. “The glory belongs to God,” he said. “Without him, we wouldn’t be here. I also want to thank all our families and church members for their support and prayers.”

The ordination ceremony was part of the church’s annual conference.

While acting in movies may seem as a career that’s full of glitz and glamour, Samoa’s Robbie Magasiva will readily tell you that it’s not.

It takes passion. A passion that will accept all the no’s to one’s auditions, yet keep going.

Mr. Magasiva is in the country with his partner, Natalie Medlock, as part of the 60th anniversary of the movie, Return to Paradise, that was shot in Lefaga.

It was his first time to watch the Return to Paradise movie on Friday night at the resort of the same name. In New Zealand, Mr. Magasiva took part in a play called My Name is Gary Cooper, which was centred around the film, Return To Paradise.

The late Mr. Cooper was the main actor in the movie.

When he did the play, Mr. Magasiva said there was a lot of reference to Lefaga and to Roberta Haynes.

Last Wednesday, Mr. Magasiva had lunch with Ms. Haynes. There he gained insight on her history, the film and being part of it.

Mr. Magasiva is no stranger when it comes to acting. For three years, he played Dr. Maxwell Avia on the soap, Shortland Street.

He was also one of the main actors in Sione’s Wedding and played stripper on a TV series called The Strip.

He was a co-presenter on Tagata Pasifika with famous athlete, Beatrice Faumuina.

Mr. Magasiva also played Mauhur on Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings: The Twin Towers.

In July, the shooting of the series Wentworth starts till the end of the year. Mr Magasiva plays the role of a prison officer, Will Jackson.

But in the 1990’s, when Mr Magasiva started in the industry, there were hardly any Samoans or brown faces on New Zealand TV.

“I was fortunate I came in at the right time.”

Today there are a lot more Polynesians who are coming out of school, but whether they want to take their acting skills to another level, is for them to decide.

“Its’ whether they want to do it, whether they are passionate about going up because its’ going to be hard.

Its’ up to the individual!”

“For me this was my passion and there was nothing else that I could do. I enjoy my passion and my drive is just to go as far as I can. For anyone who wants to be an actor, it is going to be a hard slot and there’s going to be more doors closed in your face and more no’s than a yes.”

Mr Magasiva said that one Hollywood actor had auditioned about 600 times before he actually got his first job.

“You’ve just got to be really, really passionate about it otherwise you’ll never survive.”

But at the end of the day, for Mr Magasiva, it’s a job with which he can put bread and butter on the table and pay his children’s school fees.

“The important thing for me is to just put food on the table for my kids, like anyone else.

For me acting is a passion and it’s my job. “

And there is also another motivation factor. His parents are still alive and he wants to look after them.

“I dream... to be able to look after them before they go, because they’re getting on a bit. That’s my motivation at the moment is to make sure my parents have a good life because they gave me the life that I have now and I want to pay them back.”

His father works here now and his mother plans to return to settle. It’s Mr Magasiva’s first trip back to Samoa, since his brother’s wedding at the hotel now known as Sheraton Aggie Grey’s Hotel. That was about four years ago.

Till he starts back with Wentworth, he’s enjoying playing Dad to his children, Austin, age 18 and Sophie, age 15.

Asked if he wanted to comment on anything else, “go Manu Samoa when the All Blacks are here!”

Friday night at the Return to Paradise screening at Lefaga took Su’a Frieda Paul down memory lane.

Sixty three years ago, she had taught actress, Roberta Haynes to do the siva. During the filming of Return to Paradise, Su’a helped out with the logistics and worked in their office.

She would also make the calls for everyone to be on deck as the busses were coming and she had a lot to do with the crew.

Su’a has the greatest memories of those days. Strong friendships were formed and the experience was a lot of fun.

“We were all young and in [our late teens] and coming here to be in the movie. What a big thing!”

When the shooting wasn’t until late evening, Su’a and the girls would lie around on the beach or they would be singing and dancing to kill time. Then they would be woken up at about 4am, to perform dances for the movie.

“I can’t say anything bad about them because they were wonderful and were good to all of us.

All the young girls, we had fun and it was just nice.”

Many other movies may have been made since, but for Samoa, “this is our film”, she said. Also to have leading actress Roberta Haynes to celebrate the movie’s anniversary is special.

“It’s really wonderful to see each other again. We were all good friends. And to see her again is really a pleasure. We’ve all changed.

We all have our aches and pains and thank God we are still alive and well.”

Asked how she felt to be at the anniversary celebrations, Su’a laughed.

“I feel old! That’s the first thing and I’m amazed at how beautiful this resort is.”

During the movie shoot, the surroundings were just natural. It was just beach, rocks and coconut trees. A lot of the beach scenes were shot further up from where the resort is actually located.

Su’a was looking to watch the digitalized version of the movie that night.

For her, it was a chance to see everyone.

She gasps. “Va’ai ia lale! Va’ai ia lale!”

Albums containing photos of the girls and the different scenes during the making of the movie, were given to resort owner, Jim Gilchrist, by Su’a and her godfather, Terry Dunleavy. Mr. Dunleavy who was living here in Samoa at the time, played an airman in the movie. But back to Friday, Su’a is excited and talks about how lucky they were to be alive and to witness the occasion.

“We’re very happy to be together. Probably, just one more time!”

1. Tolofuaivalelei Falemoe Lei’ataua 2. Sherma, Sianiu and Lemalu Shirley 3. Joan and Velmar 4. Maeva and Mareva Betham 5. Roberta Haynes and Malu 6. Viopapa Annandale Atherton 7. Milema, David, Michael and Vena-Liz

A $14million project by Renewable Energy Solutions had its groundbreaking ceremony at Falelauniu on Friday evening.

Chaired by businessman, Afamasaga Rico Tupa’i, the bio-fuel company is owned by several local shareholders and one foreign partner.

Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi, who was the keynote speaker, said the company is a welcomed addition to Samoa’s renewable energy efforts.

Part of this is a dream for Samoa to be self-sufficient in supply of renewable energy by 2017.

“That means we no longer rely on imported fossil fuel,” he said.

According to Tuilaepa, the government has more producers of renewable energy than required for Samoa.

“We are accounting for the possibility that some of the approved companies will not be able to take off the ground because the funding has not been able to be negotiated,” said Tuilaepa.

“Already we have cancelled two projects because of that problem.

With the launching this project we are all excited and we have come to realise that the goal is approachable for 2017 to be self sufficient.”

The ground breaking was witnessed by some of the local shareholders and government officials.

Chairman Afamasaga said the project is an exciting initiative.

“It is owned by number of people in Samoa and the finance is from West Indies,” he said.v Asked who the local shareholders are, he said: “I won’t be able to give you those names but you have seen a few people around today (at the ground breaking.”

The project aims to produce electricity by using grass and trees.

Afamasaga said the bio-fuel will be setup on eight acres of land.

“It’s a 24/7 operation,” he said.

“We produce electricity non-stop and feed into the electricity grids and there will be no disruption. We are producing 4Megawatts of electricity for the country.”

The Chairman said the project would generate much-needed jobs for locals.

He estimated that about 60 people would be employed, not including the companies that will be involved in the set up.

Financing the project is a company called the Emunite Fiscal Solutions from St. Lucia, West Indies. The company specializes in bio-fuel and gives financial security for renewable energy projects.

Emunite Chief Executive Officer, Glenrick White, said Samoa’s renewable energy target is to be admired.

“It’s interesting that Samoa wanted to be so far ahead of everybody else as a Small Island Developing State,” said Mr. White.

“The environment (here) is good and the government is behind the big push of renewable energy and people here remind me of Barbados (my home country).”

The C.E.O. was also optimistic about the project and its future.

“We put in necessary security in place if there is a problem in the project we can actually step in and help to keep the project going rather than letting it die.”

“The experience of seeing a project through is we give help, it benefits no one if the company fails.”

A new playground will be constructed and opened soon on the government land located to the west of the bus transit stop at Sogi.

In the next few weeks in May 2015, site preparation works will be undertaken by a local contractor, with playground equipment to be installed on site in June.

The play area will consist of a playground and a half-court basketball, offering a recreational facility for children of all ages as well as an open space for families to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings of Apia.

The playground is one of the many expected outputs of the Apia Waterfront Development Project.

In recognition of the significant potential to stimulate community, commercial and tourism opportunities for Samoa, the Apia Waterfront Development Project will seek to transform the Apia Waterfront into an exciting urban recreational attraction providing better facilities for the public and more opportunities for the private sector and government.

While many of the public exercise along the seawall in the mornings and evenings, the Apia Waterfront itself, from Vaiala to Mulinuu, currently provides little else for the local community and visitors to enjoy.

To realize the potential of the Apia Waterfront, Cabinet in 2014 endorsed the establishment of the Apia Waterfront Development Project with financial and technical support from New Zealand.

The Project is being developed by Government Agencies, led by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment’s PUMA Division and the Samoa Tourism Authority, who will partner with local communities and private sector businesses.

It will develop a comprehensive ‘Apia Waterfront Plan’ to guide the development and growth of the Waterfront based on public and stakeholder consensus, and agreed guiding principles. Waterfront development specialists and coastal scientists from Local Government New Zealand, Auckland and Wellington are assisting the Project.

To ensure that a wide range of stakeholders are consulted in the development of the proposed Waterfront Plan, a public information campaign and stakeholder consultation process will begin in September 2015 after a number of technical studies have been carried out along the waterfront.

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (PUMA) (ph. 67200) and the Samoa Tourism Authority (ph. 63500) can be contacted for further information on the Project.

Iosefa Iupeli 28 years of age from Levi ,Saleimoa was fined by the District Court yesterday for causing injury and failing to report an accident to police.

Iupeli was fined $500 for causing injury and $100 for failing to report this accident and he was told to pay the full amount before 4pm yesterday.

If not , he would be jailed for six months.

According to the police Summary of Facts, on the 30th March 2015, the victim Sene Saunoa 16 years from Vailele was waiting for a bus with her mother in front of the Taito Store at Vailele.

The victim’s mother saw the Lufilufi bus, and asked her daughter to cross the road and stop the bus.

The victim stopped the bus and she hopped on it and asked the driver to wait for her mother.

However the bus driver refused to stop and told the victim that the bus would not stop for anyone.

The victim was scared because she didn’t have any fare so she jumped off the bus while it was still moving and was injured.

The defendant Iupeli only stopped the bus for a few minutes and continued on his journey to town without helping the victim.

Furthermore, he didn’t report the matter to the police. Judge Vaepule Vaemoa Va’ai told the defendant that his actions in this matter were unacceptable and it was a serious offense and he should be jailed for such actions.

Judge Va’ai advised the defendant not to indulge in this kind of behaviour again.

Spoon feeding voters by taking them to and from the Electoral Office and then to the voting booths is shameful, says the Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi.

He also had some harsh words for those who do not bother to exercise their right to vote at election time.

With the general election not far off, there are already candidates working behind the scenes on their campaigns.

Part of their time is devoted to making sure that their voters get to the registry in readiness to cast their votes.

For someone who has been in the political arena for quite some time, there are certain things that the Prime Minister, who is the longest-serving politician in Samoa and in the Pacific, would like considered.

He offered this advice to candidates out there thinking of running and also to voters casting their votes.

During a talkback show with the 2AP, the Prime Minister spoke about the shameful practice that he said was common in recent elections.

“What’s happening today, is the voter is being treated like a king,” noted Tuilaepa.

“He sits there waiting for someone (the candidate or their supporters) to pick him up and carry him to the car to go to the registry. After that he gets carried back to the car and given a ‘milk bottle’ before he’s dropped off home.”

“It’s embarrassing to carry a 21 year old who is a grownup to get registered (at the Electoral Office) and carry them back to their home,” the Prime Minister pointed out.

“Come the day of the election, the voter waits for you to carry him back to cast his vote as if you’re his father.”

Tuilaepa blamed this practice on the candidates who do it just to score votes for the election.

He urged voters to value the opportunity to cast their votes.

“The only reason why the law would try to impose a taboo on those who do not vote, is to remind them that their future is important through their votes,” explained Tuilaepa.

“Because if you sit on it and people who are not right come in to power and make decisions what happens then? The wrong people will be in government. That is the importance of your registration and the casting of your vote.”

Tuilaepa said the way it should be, is for the voter to take advantage of their right to vote.”

“You’re 21 years old and you have a brain of a 21 year old so you go and do that rather than waiting for someone to take you as if you’re still a child?”

Speaking of rights, Tuilaepa said those who chose not to vote, are stupid.

He reiterated that any voter who values their future and their children’s future, should make time to register and cast their vote.

O le po o le Aso Faraile ina ua faaali le Return to Paradise i Lefaga na toe manatua ai e Su’a Frieda Paul mea uma.

O le Onosefulu ma le tolu tausaga talu ai, na ia aoaoina ai le siva a le tamaitai pu’eata tifaga o Roberta Haynes.

I le faagasologa o le pu’eina o le Ata Return to Paradise, sa fesoasoani Su’a i faiga faatulagaina o lea faamoemoe ma sa galue i totonu o lo latou ofisa. Sa na valaauina foi tagata uma ina ia o ane ua o mai pasi ma e tele ana galuega sa fai mo le ‘au-pu’eata.

E anoano mea o loo manatua e Su‘a e uiga i ia aso. O fefaauoaiga mautu na fai ma le tomai o le itu lea e sili ona fiafia ai.

“Sa matou laiti uma ma ua faasolo ina matutua ma o mai iinei ina ia itotonu o le ata.

O se mea uiga ese!”

Ina ua le pu’eina le ata se’ia o’o i le afiafi po, o le a ta’oto’oto faataamilo Su’a ma teine i luga o le matafaga poo le pepese ma sisiva e faaalu ai le taimi. Ona latou feala lea pe o le itulaga e 4 i le vaveao e fai a latou siva mo le ata tifaga.

“E leai se upu leaga ou te faia ia i latou ona o latou uiga lelei ma le lelei ia i matou uma. O teine laiti uma matou te fiafia faatasi ma o se mea lelei lea.” O le tele o isi ata tifaga atonu na o’o mai iinei, ae mo Samoa lava ia, “o la matou ata tifaga lenei,” o lana faaaliga lea. Aemaise ai foi o le i ai iinei o le tamaitai pu’e ata tifaga autu o Roberta Haynes e faamanatu le aso fanau o lea ata tifaga, o se itu faapitoa lea.

“O se mea uiga ese le toe fevaaia’i o le tasi ma le isi. O I tatou uma o uo lelei. Ma o le toe vaaia o ia o se itu lea e sili ona fiafia ai.Ua tatou sui uma lava.E tofu tatou uma ma mea faatiga ma e faafetaia le Atua o loo tatou ola pea ma maloloina.”

Ina ua fesiligia sona lagona ina ua auai i le sauniga faamanatu, sa ‘ata Su’a.

“Ua ‘ou lagona ua ‘ou matua. O le mea muamua lea ma ua ‘ou ofo i le manaia o lenei fale talimalo.”

I le faagasologa o le pu’eina o le ata, o le siosiomaga o loo tumau pea. Sa na o se matafaga lava, papa ma niu. E tele vaaia o le matafaga na pu’e i tala atu o le mea o loo tu ai nei le fale talimalo.

Sa faamoemoe Su’a e matamata i se faiga tau telefoni o lea ata tifaga i lea po.

Mo ia lava, o se avanoa lea e toe vaai ai i tagata uma lava.

The National Pacific Insurance (NPI) Cross Country contest at the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum estate on Saturday was a hot and hairy affair. And the racing was sizzling too in the men’s 6km race, for second place. 

Hairy in that it was slippery in parts of the course, and there was real danger of someone losing their hair in a tumble fall.

There was at least one of those falls and several near misses in the race.

The nicely planned course around the estate with a dog’s tail extension 230 m up the RLS trail was made rather slippery from the 20cm downpour of much needed rainfall overnight.

An alternate course was available too but in the end the decision was made to race the original course.

The rain too having dampened the spirit of some from racing but that did not deter the serious runners from making an attack on the three loop course. At the sound of the air horn, nicely blown by NPI General Manager Dennis Wellborn, it was all on – in the race for second.

Let me get the race winner out of the way for the real racing that went on.

Steve Nimarota for the second time in consecutive races took control of this one too.

He led from the start and was not challenged for the lead. He is beautiful to watch, big long strides and balanced motion and a tall straight back with his head in the right place. All that comes from having loads of energy and not being challenged. And he was not to the finish – a slow time for the 19 year old at 32mins 39secs for hm.

Now, the real racing – for second. It was a bunch of three, the usual order of two and three with Sam Nimarota and Shane Taivai Paulo of Fagali’i in previous races was disturbed with the insertion of new runner Aaron Stone.

Stone, at 37yrs has 16yrs up on the two locals, and though new to us, he is not new to running.

He ran a good tactical race and stayed close in the hunt with the two youngsters. The three stayed close, toe-to-toe in the first two laps and by the third and final lap, if not long before, Stone had the measure of the two runners who are not used to being pushed, for second.

Finishing third behind Stone was Sam Nimarota and Paulo fell way back to finish fourth.

The rest of the field fell in behind the top four in usual order although with one surprising finisher in an unusual placing.

Darren Young, who usually cuts the tape in our running events finished fifth today. There is a good reason for that – Young had only just finished a 120km bike ride to Lalomanu and back to Apia minutes before taking his place in the starting line. His fellow-rider, Daniel Afoa, also ran but did not complete the run.

The next race in the National Pacific Insurance Series is the Run-Swim event at Saoluafata Village next Saturday.