Ads by Google Ads by Google

Community Briefs

reporters@samoanews.com

JANUARY SIREN TESTING SET FOR 12NOON TODAY

The local Department of Homeland Security reminds the public that the monthly territory-wide emergency siren test for the month of January will be conducted at 12noon today, Jan. 6. And this is the monthly siren test, which is held on the first Friday of every month.

ASDHS asked the public not to be alarmed if they hear the emergency sirens, as this is only a test.

The public is encouraged to call 699-0411 or 699-3800 and report any issues with respect to today’s siren testing. ASDHS We reminds government offices, schools, private sectors and village mayors (Pulenu’u) to please call 699-0411 or 699-3800 to advise and report results of siren testing in their respective villages, and sectors.

FAGATOGO PLAYGROUND CLOSED FOR TWO WEEKS

Former Fagatogo faipule Maugaoali’i Tusipa Anoa’i has explained why the playground in Fagatogo was closed for two weeks last month that prompted complaints to Samoa News, as families with young children were unable to use the government park.

Based on the complaints to Samoa News, and after visiting the park for verification, Samoa News found the playground was closed during the morning hours and was open late afternoon. Families have asked whether the facility is a government one or belongs to Fagatogo village.

Maugaoali’i said early this week that to his understanding the playground park was to open from 6a.m. to 6p.m. Monday to Saturday. He explained the main goal was to have this facility available all day for children to play along with their families.

The Fagatogo matai said he has since learned that the village pulenu’u, who has the responsibility of opening the gated park, is off island and the deputy pulenu’u was given the task to open the park. However, the deputy pulenu’u thought the park was to open starting at 3p.m.

Maugaoali’i, who pushed for the park during his tenure as a Fagatogo faipule, said the facility is now open on a daily basis for the community. And he apologizes to the community for the past problem, when the park was closed in the morning hours.

Samoa News visited the part on Monday and found it was packed with children accompanied by parents or an adult. The park is open to all children and families, not just those living in Fagatogo village.