Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — On Dec. 3, government leaders delivered Christmas gifts to the residents of Hope House at Fatu O Aiga.  Gov. Lemanu P. S Mauga and First Lady Ella Mauga; Lt. Governor Talauega E. V Ale and his wife Marian McGuire Ale were in attendance.

According to a gov’t statement, ASG chaplain Rev. Mageo Patolo Mageo led the group in prayer with hymns sung by the Department of Human and Social Services. Others in attendance were Bishop Peter Hugh Brown, Faipule Larry Sanitoa and several cabinet members.

“This is the only facility in American Samoa that provides this service,” Gov. Lemanu said.“We acknowledge the hard work of the enduring heroes who care for the men and women who have been instrumental in the government and the community.

“The residents of Hope House continue to shape our Territory through their guidance and prayers. The gifts we present today are small tokens from the government, and are only a mere fraction of what you all have contributed to the success of our territory.”

Bishop Brown and Rep. Sanitoa also presented appreciation gifts to the governor on behalf of the Diocese Samoa Pago Pago.

TAFUNA CORRECTIONAL FACILITY

On the same day, the government leaders also visited the Tafuna Correctional Facility (TFC), an annual event, which started under the Lolo Administration.

Gov. Lemanu urged the inmates to not let this be their permanent home. “Use this time to reflect on the decisions made, and work towards a better future.

“Just because you are in here, does not mean you cannot be of use.

“You hold the knowledge and wisdom to better our community and our Territory.

“You need to believe in yourself the way we believe that you have a greater purpose in this life.

“You have the gifts from God to serve your family, village, and church, but you cannot fulfill that duty from here.

“Work with your lawyers to access all the aid that can be provided to properly be released and start anew,” said Lemanu.  A luncheon was provided to all TCF inmates to conclude their visit.

The gov’t group’s last stop was at the Juvenile Detention Center where gifts, school bags, and lunch was also provided.

LBJ CHRISTMAS VISIT

“On Thursday, Dec. 8, Gov. Lemanu, First Lady Ella, and Mrs. Ale presented Christmas gifts and meals to all in-patients, patrons, dialysis patients, and staff at the LBJ Hospital.

“May the joy and love of Christmas and the blessings of Christ's infinite grace fill our lives, our families, our community, and our beloved Territory this season and always,” said the governor.

ANNUAL TAOA GIFT GIVING

The Lemanu-Talauega Administration was out in full force at the annual Territorial Administration on Aging (TAOA) gift giving at the Department of Youth and Women’s Affairs Center in Tafuna.

Gov. Lemanu said at the ceremony that it is a day to honor and celebrate the matriarchs and patriarchs of our territory.

“Let today, and everyday, be a lesson to our people to remember the hardships and struggles our elders have gone through to pave the way for us.

“They walked so we could run. The success of this Territory lies on the shoulders of our elders.”

The Lt Governor said the event is a thanksgiving ceremony to ring in the holiday season. “As mentioned by Reverend Kereti in his sermon, the greatest gift that we have received are our parents. Your guidance, prayers, and support are priceless.”

A gov’t statement said that there were hundreds of senior citizens and all received several useful products such as, shampoo and conditioner, cotton swabs, moisturizing lotion, denture tooth paste, tooth paste, mouthwash, soap, hand soap, wash cloths, towels and throw blankets.

“The remaining gifts baskets will be delivered to the senior citizens residing in Manu’a, those in the Hope House, and Dialysis Patients.”

During the program, all senior citizens who have reached the age of 85 and above were acknowledged by TAOA Director Evelyn Lili’o Satele and the eldest also received additional gifts.

Recognized were:

● Iuni Maaeva - 92 years old and was presented with a recliner

● Mereane Tuiolesega - 92 years old and was presented with a recliner

● Mapu Luamalae - 91 years old was presented a gift basket

Senior Citizens who have reached 83 - 89 years old:

● Tinousi Jennings (83 years old)

● Loke Tago (85 years old)

● Tinei Tunoa (85 years old)

● Alaia Filia (87 years old)

● Chienhiung Kuo (87 years old)

● Aloe Pagofie (87 years old)

● Maria Shimasaki (88 years old)

● Pela Godinet (89 years old)