NEWSROOM: 19 August - 25 August 2007

South Pacific Games netball training underway
25 August 2007 - Source: South Pacific Games Netball Committee

Final preparations for the running of the South Pacific Games Netball Tournament will be rounded off this week, once officials from each competing country have arrived in Samoa.

Bench officials and ball girls attended preliminary training with Team Samoa from 4-6pm on Tuesday and Wednesday night at the Apia Park Netball Venue. A training workshop was then conducted by the Oceania Netball Federation on Friday 24th August. Linda Fell and Trina Sheridan were appointed by Netball New Zealand to facilitate the bench official’s workshop, whilst Aaron Waiwai and Fay Meiklejohn (appointed by the International Umpire’s Committee) simultaneously facilitated the umpire’s workshop.

As a practical component of the workshop, a practice game between Team Samoa and the Solomon Islands was scheduled for the same day. The game started at 3pm and gave the bench officials, umpires and organisational staff a chance to prepare for the competition beginning the following Monday. Fell and Sheridan will allocate the Bench Officials to games during the competitions and also provide mentoring to the Samoan Bench Officials, who are officiating at the South Pacific Games.

A Technical Committee Meeting was held on Saturday 25th August, starting at 7.30am in Aggie Grey's Conference Room. This meeting provided the most current sport specific information, to ensure the South Pacific Games Netball competition is conducted in accordance with the technical rules and regulations of the International Netball Federation. The meeting was attended by team managers, bench officials and technical staff, where queries regarding the operation of the competition were addressed.
The final draw for the game was also endorsed on Saturday.

As a further friendly reminder, the SPG Netball Committee promotes a healthy lifestyle and for this reason have implemented a no smoking policy, therefore the Apia Park Netball Venue is strictly non-smoking at all times.
 

Safe Games Kits packed and ready to go!
24 August 2007 - Source: Safe Games Committee Press Release

Over the weekend, delegates from the Safe Games Campaign worked tirelessly to complete the packing of 5,000 Safe Games Kits, for the South Pacific Games. Each bag contains male and female condoms, giving people access to safe sex equipment. The bag also contains information pamphlets that include information on HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections, testing and treatment, and of course prevention of these infections.

Neli Wightman, Secretary for the Safe Games Committee said ‘Packing 5,000 bags has proved to be quite a task, but we have had some great helpers from our campaign to get the packing done in just 2 days’.

The United Nations have come on board to assist the Safe Games Committee with the distribution of the Safe Games Kits to athletes and officials. Thanks to the support of the UN, the bags will be given to the athletes and officials as part of the official athlete’s gift bag from the South Pacific Games Authority. This is another example of different organisations working together to achieve one goal.

This completes two of the three components for the Safe Games. The last component is peer education and outreach, which will take place during the Games. The idea of the peer educators is to provide another access point for information and referral to sexual health services. This supports the distribution of the bags, and the media campaign, for a total campaign strategy.
 

Samoa’s remotest island welcomes SPG torch
23 August 2007 - Source: South Pacific Games Authority Press Release

“I will never forget this moment, it’s the first time we have the opportunity to witness and be part of such a huge event…thank you SPG.”
Apolima-tai Mayor.

Residents of Apolima-tai took time out of their busy schedule to welcome the 13th South Pacific Games torch to their shores. The torch went around part of Upolu before landing at Apolima-tai, and is currently on a journey around Savaii before returning to Apia on Wednesday.

Former Member of Parliament for Aiga I le Tai Leva’a Sauaso led the torch delegation from Apolima-uta to Apolima-tai, and despite bad weather, the delegation were determined to reach the island. Awaiting them was a welcoming committee of 'aualuma" with lei's and food. The welcome was overwhelming for both parties. For the people of the island, the torch was the biggest event that had ever reached their shore. The torch was like a "gift from heaven" and despite the delegations tight schedule, they gave the residents amble time to thoroughly inspect every inch of the torch.

“This is the first major event for us, and I hope it won’t be the last.” said Leva’a

The Torch was passed around so everyone could have a feel of the event ahead. Even the young ones did not miss out on the fun.

"This is an historical day for Apolima-tai.... we will always cherish this moment. May the best team win, and good luck to Team Samoa. As for us, we have witnessed the beginning of our dream when you brought the torch to our shores," said Leva’a.

With these parting words from Leva'a, the delegation returned to Apolima-uta tired but satisfied with the outcome of the visit.
 

Manu Samoa Rugby World Cup – Tour Report 1
22 August 2007 - Source: Samoa Rugby Union Press Release

The Manu Samoa Rugby World Cup squad has arrived safely in Leicestershire, England. After recovering from more than 24 hours of travel all the way from Auckland through London and right into the heart of Leicestershire, they had their first warm up game against the Harlequins was on Friday the 17th August, followed by Northhampton on the 19th August.

“We’re all here on a mission for our country, so I don’t expect anything less from all the players,” Coach La’auli Michael Jones said, reflecting on the determination in training witnessed thus far. He added: “The focus is now on these warm up games and to get our combinations in order, which is what we seek to achieve in England, before taking on the Springboks in Paris’.

The motivated squad has now settled comfortably at Lougborough University, a world class sporting and academic institution. Having recovered from jetlag the team is in good spirits, much to the delight of Management. According to Team Manager Leota Kenape Tu’uau a sense of anticipation is in the air. “The atmosphere has been tremendous so far, with a feeling of excitement bubbling amidst the team, despite the arduous travel time involved in getting here,” he said.

The squad is thrilled with the training facilities at Loughborough University.
The University boasts world class training facilities including an array of gymnasiums, indoor and outdoor running tracks and various multi purpose pitches, much to the satisfaction of the squad. Loughborough University dates from 1909, today it is world renowned for its excellence in teaching and research, strong links with industry and unrivalled sporting achievement.

The University currently hosts the National Cricket Academy, National British Swimming squad and the English Institute of Sport. SRU High Performance Manager and Tour Logistics Manager Peter Horne said: “The facilities are superb, which will no doubt be used to great effect by the Manu.”

Manu Samoa will be hosted at the Loughborough University until the 31st August, when they will leave for Courtyard Neuilly in Paris to prepare for their first Rugby World Cup pool games against South Africa on the 9th September.

The team will be staging a Press Conference and Media Launch in conjunction with major Sponsor PUMA.

For More information, contact Samoa Rugby Union
Phone: (0685) 24986 - 26792
Email: tours_events@srfu.ws or mailto:sruoffice@srfu.ws
 

The future of Samoa’s power is in the sun
21 August 2007 - Source: Electric Power Corporation Press Release

Last week the Preparatory Phase for the Samoa Photovoltaic (PV) Electrification Program was officially endorsed by the Government of Samoa, the Electric Power Corporation (EPC) and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP).

These parties along with the Secretariat of the Pacific Applied Geoscience Commission (SOPAC) will undertake the preparatory phase for a PV Electrification Program beginning in the third quarter of 2007. This phase of the program is expected to be finished by the beginning of 2008.

Photovoltaic electricity or solar power is a form of renewable energy that is completely free of greenhouse gases, other air pollution emissions and noise. It operates by converting the sun’s energy directly into electricity. Power supply of this type is already in operation for the island of Apolima and given the abundant supply of solar energy, has proven successful for EPC and consumers alike.

The preparatory phase is primarily about collecting information to determine the feasibility of carrying out a Rural Electrification Program based on solar power. Thereafter a Program Document (investment plan) for the program can be prepared which will outline how the remaining 5% of non-electrified households in Samoa can be provided with 24-hours power. Moving forward, implementation of the program would result in 100% of Samoa’s population having access to electricity.

SOPAC, UNDP Samoa and the Government of Denmark’s Pacific Islands Energy Policy and Strategic Action Planning (PIEPSAP) project is co-funding the preparatory phase. Additional funding is made available from UNDP and EPC, SOPAC, and UNDP Samoa will provide significant in-kind contributions.

“On behalf of the EPC Board, Management and Staff I would like to express sincere thanks to all of the parties involved in this preparatory phase. The funding and expertise provided will help EPC to fulfil its mission to provide safe and reliable electricity to all of Samoa,” says EPC General Manager, Mua’ausa Fiu Joseph Walter.

As the implementing party for the preparatory phase, EPC’s Renewable Energy Advisor and GIS Unit will be working closely with the General Manager to ensure data collection is both accurate and within the guidelines of the project. Proficiency during this preparatory phase of the program is essential to the success of the program as a whole. Further information about EPC’s renewable energy projects can be found at www.epc.ws.
 

Business of the Week: Sinalei Reef Resort
20 August 2007 - Source: Sinalei Reef Resort

Sinalei Reef Resort is surrounded by lush vibrant tropical gardens with the ocean lapping on the white sandy beach.

Enjoy nature’s beauty and be absorbed in the peace and tranquility. Feel the warmth of the tropical sun and breathe in the aromas that fill the air. Immerse yourself and be pampered in Sinalei Samoan hospitality and enjoy their fine cuisine, fabulous sporting facilities and famous bars. At the end of each day, retire to your fale to the sun setting on the horizon and the starlit sky high above.

Sinalei prides itself on its wedding and honeymoon arrangements, to make your day memorable. They also have a Conference house that is conveniently located at the centre of the resort, with easy access to all facilities, which seats up to 50 people comfortably theatre-style. Their surrounding veranda can also be utilised for morning and afternoon teas, or cocktails, as well as their main restaurant. At your fingertips is a fully functional and equipped business centre and all the services of the resort.

Sinalei Beach Resort can create any theme or atmosphere you require and organise activities to suit. From the fine cuisine and beverage service to the sporting facilities, their conference staff will make your occasion a memorable and successful one.

Rise to the soft sounds of birds and the aromas of floral scents as blooms open to the morning sun. Feel its warmth embrace your soul, soak in the atmosphere and then pinch yourself, for this is not a dream.

Overlooking the vast blue Pacific Ocean with crimson sunsets on the horizon, Sinalei offers a romantic setting for your wedding and honeymoon. Surrounded by family and friends, picture yourself in this magical place.

As a Samoan warrior blows a conch shell to start your ceremony, with serenaders playing, or a church choir softly singing; your wedding day will be magical.

There are several wedding options to choose from, ranging from a "Traditional Church Ceremony" to a "Sunset Beach Wedding".

They also have a beautifully appointed, intimate and secluded honeymoon villa where you can celebrate your marriage.
 

Person of the Week: Demetrius Fogaseuga Taofiga
19 August 2007 - Source: eventpolynesia.com

Demetrius Fogaseuga Taofiga, owner of DAT Car Rentals has recently been bestowed the Peseta title from Fogaseuga, Pu’apu’a, Savaii.

On Saturday, 18th of August, 2007 at 6:30am, Fogaseuga (Maota), the traditional land of the Peseta title of Pu’apu’a was packed because of the bestowal of the chiefly title Peseta to Demetrius Fogaseuga Taofiga, owner of a well known up-and-coming car rental business DAT Car Rentals, located in town at Betty Moors place at Matautu-uta, Apia.

The bestowal ceremony started with a church service conducted by Reverend Tupuse Tupuola Titi, assisted by Reverend Poasa Leaupepe and Reverend Iosefo, which was followed by a traditional ceremony, carried out by the village council (le mamalu i le aiga Satuala, le Pule a Sealiimalietoa ma Salemuliaga taigage le usoga i le itumalo,ma malo ga afe mai).

Tiaua Mafa Talamaivao Masoe Niko was the sufiava while Samoata Tulaga Samoata Vaaua blessed the nofo with a traditional speech (lauga). Tautu Tuala Ioane Peseta Taofiga Sealiimalietoa acknowledged the ava brought in by the chiefs and orators (i.e folafola-ava mo ava o le alii taeao ma le usu faalaoalo mai ai le paia i le aiga Satuala, le Pule a Sealiimalietoa ma Salemuliaga taigage le usoga i le itumalo,ma malo ga afe mai), while Lualua Tautu Lualua Vaea’i did so for the ava brought in by the newly bestowed chief (nofo).

The bestowal of the Peseta title to Demetrius Fogaseuga Taofiga was a decision reached by his family. Also attending from New Zealand was his uncle Reverend Taofiga Peseta Sealiimalietoa and his parents Peseta Lepanona Taofiga Sealiimalietoa-Sa and Mulipola Simanu Sa. Peseta Luteru Taofiga Sealiimalietoa presented the nofo to the village council on behalf of the family.

The ceremony took place last Saturday because Peseta wanted to dedicate it to his Grandpa whose 82nd birthday was last Saturday but who passed away on 24th of May, 1999. Peseta was brought up by his grandparents Peseta Tauti Taofiga Sealiimalietoa and Mualavau Fuimaono-Taofiga Sealiimalietoa.
 

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