NEWSPAGE 21 May
2010

(Photos: Gil Hanly / John Pule)

SAMOA: Students advised to prepare for Visa Interview Week
Source: Embassy of the United States of America Press Release

The United States Embassy in Apia will hold its quarterly Visa Interview Week from June 14-18, 2010 from 9:00am - 11:00 am. The online calendar for scheduling appointments will open Monday, May 24, 2010 from 3:00pm Apia time. Students wishing to apply for a student visa must make sure they contact their appropriate school to make sure they receive their I-20 form in time to have it with them for the interview. Students are strongly advised to get their paperwork in on a timely manner. The application process had changed, is now automated, and more complicated. This visa week will be the inauguration of this system, and will represent a learning time for all involved. We promise we will try our best, and appreciate your patience during this inaugural period. Also, since this process takes longer there will be fewer appointment slots during the week. We encourage all interested applicants to try to secure one of the slots.

THE NEW DS-160 ELECTRONIC NON IMMIGRANT VISA APPLICATION

• ALL visa applicants for June visa week are required to complete the new DS-160 https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/ Please follow the instructions for completing the form carefully. Before starting the application it will ask you for the location where you will be submitting your application. ALL applicants should choose AUCKLAND as your location. Applicants who have already completed the DS-156 EVAF form prior to this announcement are required to complete the new DS-160. This is because the processing happens in Auckland even if we do the interview on Apia, and the system files the cases by the processing site name.

• The new DS-160 Non Immigrant Visa Electronic Application is a fully integrated online application form that will be used to collect the necessary application information from persons seeking a non immigrant visa. The DS-160 will be submitted electronically. The DS-160 is a very detailed application form and must be completed with the appropriate and correct information. To complete your online visa application, you need a digital photo (from computer, digital camera, flash drive, etc). Please read carefully the requirements for uploading your photo and the photo specifications http://travel.state.gov/visa/guide/guide_3877.html. You must upload a photo in order to submit your application. If the photo you upload is not accepted as suitable (quality of image, or likeness), you will be given the option to continue without a photo. In this instance only, where you have successfully submitted the application, you may bring a photo meeting the above requirements to the Embassy with your confirmation page by Tuesday, June 8. Note: If efforts to enter your photo are unsuccessful, any digital photo entered will allow you to proceed, and the correct printed photo can then be uploaded at the embassy during the interview process, but this will slow the process.

• Most fields on the DS-160 are mandatory. You may leave fields marked “Optional” blank. Some fields may also give you the option to select “Does Not Apply”. If that field does not apply to you, you may mark the box next to “Does Not Apply.” All other fields must be completed: the application will not allow you to submit a form with any mandatory fields left blank. In this instance, an error message will be displayed and you will be required to complete the field before continuing with the application. If you do not answer questions that apply, your form may also be rejected. An incomplete form will not be successfully entered and will not result in the applicant receiving the needed bar code to secure an appointment.

• Once you start, keep going, don’t take a break. The DS-160 will “time out” or turn itself off approximately 20 minutes after the application has been idle. The “time out” is designed to protect your privacy. If the application times out, all the data that has been entered will be lost. In order to guard against possible “time out” issues you should save the application at regular intervals while you are completing the application. To save the application, click the “Save” button at the bottom center of the application.

Clicking save will temporarily save your application. In order to permanently save your application, select the “Save Application to File” button. Then, click the “Save” button on the File Download window. Identify a place on your computer to save the application file, browse to that location, and click the “Save” button on the Save As window. The system will download your application to the specified location. Once the download is complete you can click “Close” to return to the application. You can then use the “Import Application Date” option on the “Getting Started” page to upload the data that you have already entered.

• Once completed, the information in the DS-160 will be electronically transmitted. The applicant must then print the confirmation page that includes some biographical information and a bar code confirmation number. You should not bring your entire application. Your confirmation page is all that is needed to retrieve your application data. You must bring the confirmation page with you during all phases of the application process. Without the confirmation page, it may not be possible to access your application and process your visa case.

• Applicants must submit their DS-160 confirmation page no later than Tuesday, June 8 prior to the interview week. If you were unable to upload a digital photo while you were completing your DS-160 form, you must also submit a printed passport size photo along with the confirmation page.

Consular staff will use the information entered on the DS-160 to process the visa application and, combined with a personal interview, will determine an applicant’s eligibility for a non immigrant visa. The New DS-160 application replaces the DS-156 EVAF application form. It combines the DS-156, DS-157 and the DS-158 forms.

1) Deadline for submission of confirmation page and photo to Embassy:
After appointment confirmation, please SUBMIT application form DS-160 confirmation page with a photograph of yourself that meets the requirements specified to the Embassy Apia no later than , June 8, 2010 at 12:00 noon Apia time. Your failure to submit before or by this deadline will result in the automatic appointment cancellation.

PLEASE note that if someone else helps you complete the application form, it is up to you (the applicant) to ensure that they have all the required information. It is your responsibility to make sure the application reflects the truth, especially regarding prior trips to the United States, any problems at the border, any legal problems, etc. Negatives in these categories will not necessarily prevent your getting a visa. However incorrect information makes it appear you have tried to lie, which may result in a visa refusal this time (no refunds) and possibly again in the future. Do not risk any wrong information. Too often we must turn down someone who may only have accidentally given us incomplete or wrong information. Do not let this happen to you.

• To Access the form and to book an appointment on May 24 at 3:00pm. Please visit our website http://samoa.usembassy.gov Click on Visas to the U.S. followed by Non Immigrant Visas followed by “How to Apply” or use http://samoa.usembassy.gov/how_to_apply.html
which will take you directly to the “How to Apply” page.

For frequently asked questions regarding the DS-160 form please visit: http://travel.state.gov/visa/frvi/forms/forms_4401.html
 

(Photos: Riamoana Pasifika)

AUSTRALIA: Celebration of Pasifika music concert
Source: Riamoana Pasifika Press Release

Having never been to a live concert like this before, I was excited! Expecting a fantastic line up of Pasifika entertainers, who wouldn't be pumped to be there. Last Thursday (May 13, 2010) night at the hi-fi bar, West End, Brisbane a continuous colour of music burst from the electrified stage and had over 1000 people applauding the event. Guaranteed, nobody was disappointed.

The live bands were expecting a promised appearance from legendary artist 'Fiji aka George Veikoso' but because of unexpected circumstances Veikoso was unable to be there on the night. By the time you read this article though 'Fiji' would have already ripped up the stage at the hi-fi bar 17th May 2010. It was announced on Thursday night that all who had tickets would be welcomed back on the following Monday to pound the dance floor yet again with another ultimate 'Live event by no other - Fiji aka George Veikoso'.

Organiser and creator of the event, Rolando Pisia of Global Kool was overwhelmed with the amount of people that showed up to support our Pasifika talent on the night, " the turnout was absolutely beyond my expectations, this was a real example of the community coming together to support and push local talent". He continues with, " Global Kool is here to create a platform for all talent to showcase their work and also to provide a wider fan-base for beginner and established artists both locally and internationally".

More photos of the event can be located at: http://www.riamoanapasifika.com

Photo Captions: Performers on the night; SSC, One Sound group, Spacifix & Nesian Mystic.
 

USA: Nine Samoan cadets to be newly commissioned officers from Wentworth
Source: Office of Congressman Faleomavaega Press Release

Congressman Faleomavaega recently announced that he has received word from Wentworth Military Academy and College that nine Samoan cadets will be receiving their commission as Second Lieutenant in this year’s graduating class. Eight of the cadets will commission this Saturday at Wentworth’s commencement ceremony to be held on campus in Lexington, Missouri. One cadet will commission upon successful completion of the Leader Development and Assessment Course (LDAC) this summer.

One of five military junior colleges in the United States, Wentworth offers cadets a program through which they can earn a commission as a Second Lieutenant after two years of college and then complete their bachelor’s degree at a university of their choice while serving in the National Guard.

“I want to take this opportunity to congratulate all of our graduates not only for their hard work and determination, but also for their pursuit of higher education and commitment to serving our country,” Faleomavaega said.

“I also extend my deep gratitude to Colonel Michael Lierman, Superintendent at the Academy. Colonel Lierman has been a source of continuous support for our Samoan cadets and I thank him and his staff for providing our young cadets with a high quality and challenging learning environment to prepare them to achieve their fullest potential.”

“I also thank the Honorable Congressman Ike Skelton, Chairman of the House Committee on Armed Services and representative of Missouri’s 4th district, for his continued support. Almost two years ago, I was honored to have been invited by Chairman Skelton to accompany him on a visit to Wentworth. During that trip I had the privilege to meet and talk with our Samoan cadets, many of whom will be graduating this year. Chairman Skelton, a graduate of Wentworth, will be this year’s commencement speaker.”

“I would also like to especially acknowledge and commend retired First Sergeant Ben Lausen who, while teaching in Leone High School after retiring from the U.S. Army after 22 years of service, reached out to schools like Wentworth for opportunities for his students. I thank him for his initiative in helping establish what has now become a very successful and mutually beneficial relationship between American Samoa’s JROTC and the Academy.”

“Above all, I would like to share how proud I am of all our cadets for their determination in furthering their education and achieving their military commissions. I also congratulate all of their parents and families for their strong support. As each Second Lieutenant goes forth to continue their education and serve in their respective fields, I am certain that they will represent our people and serve our country well. I wish them all the best in their future,” Faleomavaega concluded.

This year’s graduates are as follows:

• Silivelio Iosefo, Field Artillery Officer - Missouri National Guard, University of Central Missouri, son of Silivelio and Juliana Iosefo.
• Tulifau Mauga, Signal Officer - Missouri National Guard, University of Central Missouri, son of Sosefina Nancy Mauga.
• Talishabeth McMoore, Signal Officer - Missouri National Guard, University of Central Missouri, daughter of Sipunu and Julia Talitiga McMoore.
• Sonny Saleutogi, Field Artillery Officer - Missouri National Guard, University of Central Missouri, son of Kalifa and Ana Saleutogi.
• Andrew Tiapula, Air Defense Artillery Officer - Missouri National Guard, University of Central Missouri, son of Tilepi Pati and Peka Leuta.
• Jason Togi, Chemical Corps Officer - Missouri National Guard, University of Central Missouri, son of Faleono Alipapa and Jean Togi.
• Benjamin Luki Tuitasi, Miltary Police Officer - Arizona National Guard, University of Arizona South, son of Luki Tuitasi and Annette Zodiacal.
• Mose Wilson, Jr., Field Artillery Officer - Missouri National Guard, University of Central Missouri, son of Mose and Tuleifetalaiga Wilson.
• Esaias Fa’aita, Infantry Corps - Arizona National Guard, University of Arizona South, son of Joseph and Margie Fa’aita.
 

VANUATU: Sunday School Convention petitions government
Source: Vanuatu Daily Post

Over 600 Sunday school students and teachers from Presbyterian Churches throughout Vanuatu including 47 Anglican Sunday school teachers and students and members of the Melanesian Brotherhood are currently attending a first ever Sunday school National Convention at Mele village on Efate.

Mele village, the largest in Vanuatu, honoured their young guests in a special colourful community welcome ceremony last Saturday afternoon.

The students and teachers paraded from Mele Bay into the village led by the Vanuatu popular VMF Band and the Minister for Justice Bakoa Kaltonga, Presbyterian Church leaders from Mele, Efate and from around Vanuatu.

At the Mele village main entrance the young guests, their teachers along with the Minister of Justice and Presbyterian Church and Village leaders were greeted with salusalu by Mele women with songs and dancing to a specially constructed stage next to the Farea Pacifika.

Moderator of the Imere Session Pastor Berry Uruvao said in his welcome speech: “The foundation of this nation begins with the Word of God that is embedded in every child through Sunday school teachings.

“The results we harvest are clear whether or not we have reached God’s standard.

“Of course there are always challenges but we can overcome this through upbringing of our children through the only best way and that is through home teachings by parents and the Sunday school classes,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of over 600 Sunday school students, a Sunday school student read out a petition to the Minister of Justice.

“This petition is presented on behalf of all Sunday school students attending this convention. Today marks the history that Imere can host this Sunday school convention as it coincides with the 30th anniversary of Vanuatu’s Independence.

“This convention is important to us children because we will learn things that are right to build our Christian faith upon despite daily challenges in our young lives but we will never give up.

“I wish to assure every child out there that God has a purpose in all our lives and a plan for each and all of us for our tomorrow and the tomorrow for this nation.

“At the same time I am calling on all parents not to dump their children on the wayside -because many parents out there that don’t care for their children that eventually become the unfortunate victim of our society in the way that are not in line with Christian principles.

“Today we witness so many bad things happening in our country that do not portray a good picture of this country.

“The recent death of a young mother and her daughter is the classic case of what Vanuatu is today.

“ With this remarks I am calling on behalf of the Sunday School Children attending this convention and other children out there for the Government to bring about an appropriate legislation to protect the rights and the life of every child in our nation,” the statement concluded.

In response Minister for Justice Bakoa Kalotonga said Vanuatu has reached 30 years of Independence in humanity it is considered that the nation has reached maturity.

“The leadership of such a country must be mature. I am pleased to state that Vanuatu has also signed a convention on the right of children with other 150 other countries around the world to respect the right of the children.

“It means Vanuatu has the responsibility to ensure that the welfare and the interest of all the children on Vanuatu no matter what church they belong to must comply withy the articles of the convention.

The Minister called on all parents to ensure that the future welfare of the children of Vanuatu is secure.

“I take this opportunity to thank all Sunday Schools Teachers because of their dedication to caring of the Sunday school children.

Kaltonga thanked the Sunday school children and students for the petition presented to him and assured them that he will take it up with the government.
 

(Photo: Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme)

WORLDWIDE: Successful strategic plan consultative meeting held in Guam
Source: Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme Press Release

Ten representatives from Member countries and territories of the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) met in Tumon Bay, Guam, on 17-18 May, to discuss Pacific environmental priorities for the next five years.

Delegates from Guam, the Marshall Islands, Palau and the Micronesian Challenge joined senior SPREP staff to review progress to date on conservation and sustainable development, and to look to the future.

The consultative meeting was part of a series of exercises to gather information and ensure that SPREP’s next Strategic Plan will set a valid and ambitious blueprint for its work with member countries and territories from 2011 to 2015.

SPREP aims to work with all its member countries to preserve healthy island environments that can sustain their peoples. The Pacific region is vast, and while some of the challenges are specific to individual circumstances, others are shared.

The participants identified the most pressing emerging environmental concerns and opportunities facing their islands and the Pacific region. They highlighted a number of shared priorities, including the impacts of the growing military presence, pressure on islands’ water supplies and solid waste management facilities, a lack of environmental monitoring, the spread of invasive species and the multiple impacts of climate change.

SPREP’s next Strategic Plan, to be developed in light of these challenges and the priorities other SPREP Members identify, will be presented to the annual SPREP Meeting in September.

The next consultative meeting, for all other SPREP members and territories, will be held in Nadi, Fiji on 24-25 May.

Photo Caption: Delegates attending the strategic plan consultative meeting held in Guam.