Community News Briefs

LHS GRAD TAKES COMMAND compiled by Samoa News staf Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Mary J. Tuinei Gneshin, born and raised in American Samoa and a graduate of Leone High School, has been appointed as the Commanding Officer of the 78th Legal Operations Detachment, United States Army Reserve. She will assume command at an official Change of Command Ceremony presided over by Brigadier General Kyson M. Johnson, Commander of the United States Army Reserve Legal Command. Lieutenant Colonel (Promotable) Gneshin's appointment means she has also been selected for promotion to the rank of Colonel — a remarkable achievement that reflects years of dedication, service, and excellence in the United States Army. This is a significant milestone not only for Lieutenant Colonel Gneshin and her family, but for all of American Samoa. She is a shining example of what our islands' sons and daughters can achieve, and a source of great pride for our High Schools and for our entire community. (Press Release) LIONS PARK PLAYGROUND This is to remind everyone that the new playground at Lions Park is designated for CHILDREN AGED 5 TO 12 YEARS ONLY. To ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for our younger children, high school students are prohibited from using the playground during school hours. An official notice has been delivered to the schools nearby. Park security will be on-site during working hours to monitor the area. We kindly ask for the community's assistance in safeguarding our playground. As stewards of our recreational spaces, it is our shared responsibility to maintain and protect this area, ensuring it remains a beautiful and lasting place for our younger children. Thank you for your cooperation! (DPR Management press release) WINNER OF THE GREAT AMERICAN BAKING SHOW Mackenzie Faumuina Rubish, the recent winner of The Great American Baking Show, will be traveling to American Samoa to celebrate Flag Day 2026 and reconnect with her Samoan heritage. Her visit, scheduled from April 9th to April 20th, 2026, marks a homecoming as she honors both her international achievement and her deep cultural roots. Mackenzie captured national attention with her exceptional baking talent, poise, and creativity, ultimately earning the top title in the beloved televised competition. Throughout her journey, she has proudly embraced her heritage and often reflected on the important role family, tradition, and cultural identity have played in shaping her passion for baking. "Returning to American Samoa after 35 years is so much more than a trip; it’s a homecoming. I am traveling back to where my father’s story began to reclaim the flavors and traditions he carried with him to Oceanside. To finally learn our culinary secrets from the elders who still hold them, is the greatest honor of my life. I’m not just going to find recipes; I’m going to find the pieces of my identity that have been waiting for me to come home, so I can bring it back to share with my community." (Press Release) HHS GRANT FOR HIV CARE A grant from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for the American Samoa Department of Health at LBJ Tropical Medical Center, will provide HIV care through $16,800 in national training and technical assistance. More important than the grant amount is the assurance that an essential health service is available as needed at our LBJ Tropical Medical Center. Thank you to Faafouina Sagaga for the work securing this grant so these services are ready, and thank you to all our doctors and nurses for the medical services our people rely on throughout the year. Congratulations to Governor Pulaali’i, Lt. Governor Pulu, Health Director Dr. Saipale Fuimaono and our Department of Health. HHS is led by Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr., and these health funds are through the Health Resources Services Administration (HRSA), led by Administrator Thomas Engels. (ASG Facebook) Section: Local News Tags: community briefs
2026-04-06 17:18:46