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SYFY Channel's ‘The Expanse’ Casts Samoan Actress Frankie Adams As Bobbie Draper

PictureThe gorgeous Actress Frankie Adams
New Zealand actress Frankie Adams (Shortland Street) has landed the series regular role of Bobbie Draper in Season 2 of Syfy’s space drama series The Expanse.

Powerful in both stature and personality, Bobbie Draper followed in her father’s footsteps, enlisting in the Martian Marine Corps at an early age. A born solider, she quickly rose to the rank of Gunnery Sargent, commanding a group of elite troops. When a surprise attack on her squad puts in her in the middle of the growing conflict between Earth and Mars, Bobbie, a fierce nationalist, is forced to question her loyalties and make new, surprising alliances.
Set 200 years in the future, The Expanse, based on the bestselling book series, follows the case of a missing young woman that brings a hardened detective (Thomas Jane) and a rogue ship’s captain (Steven Strait) together in a race across the solar system that will expose the greatest conspiracy in human history.

Adams’ breakout role came at the age of 16 in New Zealand’s top medical seriesShortland Street. Her most recent credits include Australian TV seriesWentworth, and New Zealand Film Commission feature 1000 Ropes. She’s repped by Silver Lining Entertainment and Johnson and Laird Management in New Zealand.

The Olo Letuli Lifetime Achievement Award's first ever recipient is Faanana Jerome Grey 

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Long Beach, CA -  Samoan songwriter and entertainer Fa'anana Jerome Grey has been selected to be the first recipient of the "Olo Letuli Lifetime Achievement Award" (OLLAA), to be presented at the Weekend in Polynesia Festival at the Long Beach Recreational Park on Sunday September 11 at 5 pm. There award presentation will be accompanied by tribute performances by Lea Love, Loa Greyson, Shawn Ishimoto, and Taupou Samoa, and will include a special performance by Jerome Grey.
 
The OLLAA is presented to those who have achieved greatness and have been an inspiration with creative contributions of outstanding artistic significance to the preservation and longevity of traditional contemporary Samoan and Polynesian Arts during their lifetime. Recipients have raised the bar by displaying passion that empowers others to live their dreams.
 
Created by the board of the Pacific Talent Academy of the Arts in Los Angeles, the OLLAA is named after the Samoan Paramount Chief, Olo Letuli, who is also known as the "Father of the Fire Knife Dance”. An extraordinary talent and cultural icon, the award's name honors Letuli for his many years of service to his people, family, and culture, perpetuating the arts for generations to come.
 
Tui Letuli, founder of the Pacific Talent Academy of the Arts and the son of Chief Olo Letuli, states: "As we enter our 13th Annual Weekend in Polynesia event, we are thrilled to bestow OLLAA's inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award to a very special individual. This award was a way for our community to show our appreciation for the contributions made by world-renowned Singer/Songwriter and legendary Entertainer Fa'anana Jerome Grey. It's something that had to be done in order to recognize the greatness of someone who has been a beacon of light to our people and the world. Jerome Grey has indeed been a "keeper of the flame" for our culture, so it is fitting that we honor him as our first recipient. This is a well-deserved honor for Jerome and his family, and we are very excited to recognize him in this way––a presentation that is long overdue."

Fa’anana Jerome Grey, the son of a carpenter and composer, and sibling to 20 others, is no stranger to humble beginnings. Yet through all the challenges life has dealt him, he has succeeded in leaving an indelible mark on Samoa, and across the Pacific Islands. Grey has made a profound statement in the island music scene, and is the architect of a style of music that has impacted the hearts of his countrymen and beyond, over the past four decades.

The luscious, tropical island landscapes and crystal clear ocean waters were the backdrop for his childhood, and served as inspiration for Jerome Grey’s music. His great love for his country is reflected in his patriotic compositions such as “Polynesia is Home,” which was written specifically for the 1st Miss South Pacific Pageant. “Manu Samoa” was penned when he toured with the first Manu Samoa rugby team. The popular melody was sung in stadiums all over the Europe during the team’s tournaments. “O Le Olaga O Samoa” and “Fia Va’ai Pea Ia Samoa” were composed during his travels, when he was feeling nostalgic for his native country. He is also credited for writing Samoa’s unofficial national anthem, “We Are Samoa.” Jerome continued being an ambassador of Samoa, when he traveled with other performers to the Festival of Pacific Arts in Rarotonga in 1992.

Grey also wrote songs of social and political importance, effecting widespread change with his music, sometimes infusing comedy into otherwise serious issues, like “Eleni,” “LHD/RHD,” and “Lo’u Tau Au Ete Mapu Ai.”

Well-known hits like “Sau Sau Ia (Jambalaya),” “Lo’u Sei Oriana”, and “Apian Lady,” were born of Jerome’s experiences in his homeland. After relocating to Honolulu in the 1990s, his rendition of “Sweet Lady of Waiahole,” along with “Sau Sau Ia (Jambalaya),” and “Apian Lady” rocked the airwaves in Hawai’i, topping the KCCN charts and getting consistent airplay on radio stations statewide. 

Today, the notion of fusing different styles of music is a popular and common creative practice in the mainstream music industry. But when Grey entered the island music scene in 1979 with his first album AVA, he hit the industry hard as a trailblazer, blending original Samoan music with rock, jazz, and pop. These songs also had deep, underlying messages for his native people. He performed “We Are Samoa” for President Jimmy Carter and Congress in 1980 at the invitation of Congressman Eni Fa’aua’a Hunkin Faleomavaega, Jr., acknowledging American Samoan’s first Samoan Governor Peter Tali Coleman. 

Jerome Grey is considered one of the patriarchs of Samoan music and entertainment. He has inspired generations of new artists, who have remade his songs including Sol3 Mio, The Katinas, Lapi Mariner, Jamoa Jam, and Kapono Beamer. His unique style pushed the boundaries and broke through an invisible barrier of what traditional music composition and entertainment across the Pacific was at that time. Now, with the internet, his music can be heard and felt around the world in an instant; from inside of the four walls of someone’s home, all the way to the largest entertainment venues––including the silver screen––where even Hollywood producers have chosen to use his song "Lo'u Sei Oriana" in blockbuster movies such a "Metro" starring Eddie Murphy. His music continues to create memorable experiences for visitors to the islands through luaus, sporting events, and special celebrations.

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​Having suffered a stroke in January of 2007, Grey proved that major obstacles could be overcome. His witty and easy-going onstage persona has made him one of the most recognized, respected, and sought-after entertainers of his time. Throughout his 40-year span of making music, with over a dozen successful albums released, his best work and his proudest moments have been when he’s made music with his own children and grandchildren. 

In 2016, he co-wrote with his eldest son, Tinifuloa (aka Loa Greyson), a song called, “Nifo Oti,” in honor of legendary Paramount Chief Olo Letuli, godfather of the fire-knife dance. Jerome and Tinifuloa Grey also co-produced a song based on a poem by Tupuola Sione Malifa called, “Malietoa” as a tribute to Jerome’s personal friend––the late Head of State of Samoa, Malietoa Tanumafili II––10 years after the chief’s passing. The song was long overdue because Jerome had a stroke that same year and was, sadly, unable to attend the funeral. 

When asked what his music legacy will be, Jerome says simply that it is to go out and do exactly what God sent him to do, which is to make people happy through his music. He hopes to pass this heritage on not only to his children, but also to his people. The love affair between Grey, his family, and his country is strong. It is said that if a painter or a poet falls in love with you, you can never die. Because of Jerome Grey’s contributions to Samoan music, he will not only secure his spot in the accounts of history, but Samoa––and the places and people he loves––will indeed last for all eternity, memorialized in the tapestry of his rich and lasting musical career. 


For more information, visit www.weekendinpolynesia.com

MEET THE 23-YEAR-OLD PART SAMOAN CHOREOGRAPHER NICKI MINAJ, JANET JACKSON AND J.LO ALL WANT ON THEIR TEAM.

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Parris Goebel's "polyswagg" is all about empowering women.
BY 
KRISTINA RODULFO, ELLE MAGAZINE

You saw Justin Bieber's "Sorry" music video. You loved it. You tried to learn the dance. You're... still trying to learn the dance. (Just me?) 
Now, it's time to fall in love with the woman behind it, Parris Goebel. 

Goebel, a 23-year-old New Zealand-based choreographer, not only created the mesmerizing moves for the video but also directed and produced it, recruiting dancers from her worldwide award-winning crews ReQuest and The Royal Family. It's given her a lot of attention lately, but even before she was asked to work on Bieber's video, Goebel had been in high demand. She created routines for major tours of Janet Jackson, Nicki Minaj, and Jennifer Lopez, and even choreographed and acted in ​Step Up 5​. You might've also seen her work in a little music video called "Feeling Myself."

Goebel spoke with ELLE.com about the making of "Sorry," the meaning behind her signature choreo style "Polyswagg," and empowering women through dance.

Congrats on the success with the "Sorry" music video! There are 45 million views now, how do you feel about that?
I feel really good about it. I'm really grateful for the opportunity and for all of the love and support that we've been receiving from the video. It's crazy.

When you got the call to do Justin Bieber's music video, what was your reaction?
Just excited really! Excited to take on the challenge. We shot and choreographed the whole thing in two days. I just thought it was a really cool opportunity and went for it. I love to have fun during projects that are given to me, so we had a lot of fun creating it. It was all about having fun, not really overthinking the opportunity or overthinking the fact that it was Justin Bieber. We just did our own thing and hoped and prayed that the world would like it.

​How does it feel to see ladies from ReQuest and The Royal Family also in the spotlight with you?
That's really really cool as well because obviously a lot of the girls are my closest friends so we hang out with each other all the time, we dance with each other all the time so the sheer appreciation for what we love and do, which is dance, is a really cool feeling. We dance with each other all the time. So, this way it didn't take much effort to have fun because we're genuinely having fun with each other.

We loved the colorful '90s costumes which we heard you guys actually brought yourselves–did you plan the looks?
Well, really, a lot of it is just my wardrobe. We were all panicking because a lot of the girls didn't have '90s things or colorful things and we had set that theme already. A lot of the girls were like "Ahhh! I don't have anything." So, I literally just packed two huge suitcases of my clothes and took it to the shoot and just said you wear this, you wear that, you wear that and then that was that.

How do you think dance and fashion intersect? 
I think that they're a huge part in each other's worlds. I think that everything plays a part with each other whether it's music, dance, fashion. Anything artistic goes hand in hand for me and that's why I like to be involved with all areas that are put together when I create my work. I like to be very very involved with every decision that is made as far as it goes

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You call the dance that you've created "Polyswagg" and we love yourdescription of it as "combining sassy woman fire with aggressive inner strength." How did you develop it?
I guess in the dance industry women are, I think, perceived a little bit different you know. I feel like we're always overlooked and underrated, to be honest. But, maybe that's a reflection of how hip-hop has represented women. I've just felt like women in the hip-hop industry and the dance industry that I work in just need to kind of put themselves forward, put themselves first, not be afraid to shine and show what they're made of and what they can offer to the world. 
I've dedicated my whole career, and talent, and life to bringing women especially together, to shine and to create things that inspire other women. It's a lot easier to make a change if I'm living those standards and living confidently. It's a lot easier to show people that you can do it. I'm definitely about being confident in myself and strong, like strong in a sense of "Yeah, it is hard work. What we all go through whether it's in work or life, no one has it easy, but it's always how we come out of it or always how we react to it that makes us a stronger person." I have so much to tell through my dance so I like to portray that through my movement and tell my story, and inspire other women to tell their stories as well.
​What do you think makes your style stand out?
I would say it's what we do with our dance that is empowering, we're making a statement through moves. Obviously there's so many dancers in this world, so you can be just another dancer or you can be somebody that really makes a change and makes a difference or inspires people. So, it's actually about how loud you speak and how empowered you make yourself and others feel. I feel empowered by myself. I'm the one working hard for me to get to where I want to be so it's up to me to empower myself and make my own decisions to be the best that I can be.​

You've also worked with a lot of powerful women like Nicki Minaj, J.Lo, and Janet Jackson. How important for you was it to align with stars like those?
Oh so important! They're so inspiring you know? I'm just grateful that I share really special relationships with each and every one of them and it just made so much sense when you work with celebrities like that, that are dominating their category of art whether it be music or dance or film…when you work with them you just understand, it makes so much sense. You get it. You know why they are where they are and it's because they work hard, they're not afraid to speak their mind, they know what they want, and they don't settle for anything less. So for me it's just inspiring to work with them. It inspires me to be the best that I can be too.
I'VE DEDICATED MY WHOLE CAREER, AND TALENT, AND LIFE TO BRINGING WOMEN ESPECIALLY TOGETHER, TO SHINE AND TO CREATE THINGS THAT INSPIRE OTHER WOMEN.

Who are some dance idols who have inspired you?
I don't really have any dance idols, but growing up I really really watched Justin Timberlake, Usher, Michael and Janet Jackson. All the artists that really ​danced​. They were all my inspiration.
What advice would you give aspiring dancers wanting to build a career?
My advice isn't always the best because I really truly believe in doing you own thing and doing what you do best. For me, if I didn't really follow my heart and do me, than people wouldn't have hired me to be me. I've worked hard on my craft to put myself in a position where people are really letting me do me, you know. So, I would just say to not lose yourself and find what's special about you and just magnify it, embrace it, and let it fly. Show it to the world and don't be afraid. I'm not afraid anymore you know. I'm not afraid to put myself out there and to put my work out there. You can hate or love it but at least you can't say that I'm not confident. I'm just saying that this is me, take it or leave it.

Miss Central Oahu Brittne Mahealani Fuimaono is a contestant in the 2015 Miss Hawaii USA competition

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Miss Hawaii USA, pageant has a young Samoan girl from Waipio competing as Miss Central Oahu. Her name is Brittne Mahealani Fuimaono. She is the daughter of Peter Fuimaono and his lovely wife Daphne.  Brittne is actually both Samoan and Tongan as her mother is Tongan. She is a true Polynesian beauty.

She is quite an impressive young lady with a strong religious background but she is also a Polynesian dancer at the world famous Paradise Cove Luau in Waipio. She has attended Hawaii Pacific University in Honolulu and in 2012 she was a 1st place winner in the OIA Judo championships at the 129 lbs class.  So she is not only beautiful but can do damage if necessary.

The Miss Hawaii USA pageant is a preliminary to the Miss USA pageant. There are 3 categories that determine the winner and those are interview, swimsuit and evening gown. We wish Brittne the best of luck and hope she wins. 

GET TO KNOW DISNEY’S NEW POLYNESIAN PRINCESS ‘MOANA’ AND IT’S SAMOAN ANIMATOR DAVID DERRICK

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Le Malae has received an email from Disney seeking a girl who can be the voice for Moana, the upcoming Animated Full feature movie currently in production. Here is the email in its entirety. The are looking for someone who can sound like a 14-16 year old Polynesian girl (they only need the voice) and who can sing professionally. They need a female who can sound young but doesnt have to be that age. They can be up to 25 years of age, so long as they sound 14-16 when they talk. They need a video of the young girl either posted on Youtube and then link sent to Disney or video sent directly to Disney using the email in here. Please read this email below and respond or let someone you know who can play the part. This is an amazing opportunity for the right young girl.  Please read on...

My name is Cymbre Walk, and I'm the Casting Associate at Disney Animation. 

We are currently seeking an actress to play the character MOANA in an upcoming animated feature. 

Please see the information below regarding our search. Any assistance you can provide about the best way to get this out to the Polynesian-American would be greatly appreciated. 

We are seeking an actress to play the voice of MOANA. She should sound between 14-16 years old, but can actually be up to 25 years old and must have a PROFESSIONAL QUALITY singing voice.

Please see the synopsis of the film below: 

In the ancient South Pacific world of Oceania, Moana, a born navigator, sets sail in search of a fabled island. During her journey, she teams up with her hero, the legendary demi-god Maui, to traverse the open ocean on an action-packed voyage in which they encounter enormous sea creatures, breathtaking underworlds, and ancient folklore.


We would like for these young women to make a video tape of themselves singing up to a minute and a half of a song of their choosing and talk about themselves (hobbies, interests, family life, etc) on camera. This can be submitted via You Tube link or by emailing it directly to me. 

We thank you so much for your help in our search and please let me know if you have any questions. I can be reached via this email.


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Move over Anna and Elsa, there is a new Disney heroine coming that the Polynesian community is ecstatic for. Disney has just announced that its next animated feature, Moana, will be released in 2016. Moana will be featured as Disney’s newest princess, successfully adding into their already cooking melting pot now with a Polynesian darling. Originally planned for release in 2018, Moana already has her own fan base, who are all extremely excited for the bumped up date.

Disney has revealed that Moana will be a CG-animated comedy-adventure that takes place in ancient Oceania in the South Pacific. Like our ancestors, Moana is a teenaged “born navigator” that Disney has said, “sets sail in search of a fabled island”. Accompanying on her journey is her hero, the demigod Maui, and together they face tons of adventure along the way. We are so excited for this groundbreaking move by Disney!

However, our new princess isn’t the only reason we should be excited. Behind-the-scenes is David Derrick, a Samoan animator for Disney who is helping bring Moana to life. We got the opportunity to talk to Derrick, as he discusses being an animator, future projects, and his pride in his Samoan heritage.

TWID: What kind of work do you do and what motivates in your (job, career, work)?

DD: I work as story artist at Disney Feature Animation and also as a children’s book author and illustrator. I love telling stories in any medium on print or the big screen. I especially love to teach and entertain people through the natural world. You can see more of my work at www.davederrick.com

TWID: What are some of the challenges, stereotypes, or barriers that you feel you’ve had to overcome in your line of work?


DD: While my heritage is a melting pot of different ethnicities and cultures the one I’ve always identified the most with is my Samoan Heritage.  My ancestors immigrated to the U.S. from Samoa and faced bigotry and segregation. But despite these setbacks they inculcated pride and excellence in the generations that would follow. I feel that I owe a debt to my Polynesian Ancestors especially Simea Fua. When my eldest daughter was born we made sure to honor her and my ancestor with Simea’s name.

TWID: Who inspires you?


DD: Ancient Polynesian navigators inspire me. They were the greatest navigators. They found the last discoverable land on earth! They did this without the aid of compasses or tools using their uncanny knowledge of the sea and the stars to find islands. For me growing up in Farmington Utah working at Walt Disney Animation Studios seemed like oceans away. But if Polynesian navigators could find new islands then I new I could find my way as a storyteller.

TWID: How do you feel your work contributes to your community? What would you like to do in the near future for your community?


DD: I like to think that through the power of positive storytelling I’m able to have an impact on my community. Whenever I complete a new book I do a modest book tour at the local schools and booksellers. I’ll have a new book coming out this fall entitled “Play with Your Food.”

TWID: Your culture is a big part of who you are. What is a quote or theme you’ve learned from your heritage that you live by and have implemented in your life?


DD: Ancient Polynesians had a close kinship with nature. Their lives depended on their understanding of the natural world around them and their place within it. This relationship is one I am trying to rekindle as I feel that we are too separated from the nature. When I think of my Polynesian ancestors I think of the power of positive perseverance. I believe we all owe a debt to those who have gone before us but, as I previously stated, I feel particularly indebted to Simea Fua, my Samoan ancestor who persevered with elegance and grace in the face of ignorant bigotry.

Keep Moana on your radar, as we will also keep you updated on the new movie.


Seiuli Dwayne "the Rock" Johnson about to explode onto the Big Screen with the Summer of 2014's biggest epic blockbuster movie. HERCULES......JULY 25, 2014

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Seiuli Dwayne Johnson, aka the Rock is smelling the sweet scent of success these days. After a year of almost non-stop movies 2014 has been relatively quiet for the Rock. But he is about to make up for the slow start with the release of his huge Summer Hit, Hercules. The buzz for this movie has been no stop since he was announced as the lead for this rather demanding role. 

For Samoans, the Hercules legend is rather familiar as we have grown up on the feats of Steve Reeves who played Hercules in the 1960s. The feats of the Greek Demi-God were one of the favorite stories of super human strength and courage.

In this movie the Rock fits the role of Hercules to a "T". His muscular physique and bigger than life personality are tailor made for the role which is quite demanding in its physicality and dramatic requirements. 

The plot is very straight forward. Having completed his legendary twelve labors, Hercules (Johnson), the Greek demigod, has his life as a sword-for-hire tested when the King of Thrace and his daughter seek his aid in defeating a tyrannical warlord.

The film is directed by Brett Ratner. The producers are Beau Flynn, Barry Levine, and Brett Ratner, with Peter Berg, Sarah Aubrey, and Jesse Berger serving as executive producers.

To prepare for the role, Dwayne Johnson took on a grueling training routine, stating: "I trained and worked harder than ever for 8 months for this role. Lived alone and locked myself away (like a moody 260-lb. monk) in Budapest for 6 months while filming. Goal was to completely transform into this character. Disappear in the role. 

As Seiuli reported he was asked by a press journalist, "With the mental & physical toll the role had on me, would I do it again? Not only would I do it again.. I'd do it (expletive) twice."


America’s Got Talent singer in Samoa By Diedre Fanene , 04 January 2016

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America’s Got Talent semi finalist Paul Ieti had a lot to share while back in Samoa and visiting his father’s family in Sapini, Faga, Savai'i.
Mr. Ieti said the last time he was here was in 1998 when he was  justfive years old
Now at the age of 22 he came back because he said he has forgotten what Samoa looks like.
“So far it’s been great and I don’t want to leave. When we left Savaii I was really sad and I still want to go back there,” he said.
He also spoke about his journey in the America’s Got Talent show, the support he has received from other Samoan’s and the money-driven life in the United States of America. 
“As far as America’s Got Talent goes there has been a lot of support for me in Samoa too, so it’s always great to see that and it was the same thing back in American Samoa.
“I’m always thankful to those people who supported me while I was on the show.
“America’s Got Talent was something different in my life, just out of nowhere I was on TV.”
Mr. Ieti said that the two most important things in his life while on the show were his people and his family.
“That made me really happy was that I got to represent our people and how talented we are and also my family,” he said.
“Many of the people who were on the show would ask me where Samoa was on the map and what a Samoan person looks like.
“[And] so being on the show I was able to answer the people’s questions.”
He made it to the semi finals and his journey ended there but as a singer, Mr. Ieti has continued with what he loves the most.
“That's where it stopped for me but through the whole experience, who would have ever thought that would happen to me?
”It’s always a blessing to thank God for and ever since then my life has changed,” he said.
“I went from just singing in my shower to singing for the world.
“It’s always good to see my family and I am happy to be here with them and it’s also a proud feeling to see that my family is rooting for me or when we go out to places they are proud to call me their cousin.
“Samoa is such a beautiful place and there is no place like home and I’m definitely going to come back real soon.”
Mr. Ieti said he can remember little from his visit 17 years ago; however he can remember his favourite food.
“I honestly cannot remember what it looked like back in the days because I was just five then but the only thing that I can remember is my favourite food which is supo esi,” he said.
“So every time I come back to American Samoa I would always go to the market to look for supo esi.
“Right now I didn’t expect Upolu to be this nice. 
American Samoa does not have traffic lights and then coming to Upolu there are traffic lights everywhere and then we went to Savaii there’s one lot there too.
Mr. Ieti also spoke about the difference between life in American and in Samoa.
“Life in Samoa is completely different but I’m used to it now. It’s similar to the life that I had in American Samoa, because while  I was raised in Alaska most of my life I came back to American Samoa and went to school there.
“The difference between the life in the United States, American Samoa and here is that when you live in America there’s endless amount of opportunities you have there as far as technology, jobs the latest trends of things.
“But you have to work for every single thing that you have, you have to pay for the water you drink, the gas that you use for cooking, for the house that you live in and the food.
“But in Samoa I think the only thing that you have to worry about is the Cash Power and the water but with food it’s all around us and then everything is free, the resources are endless.
“If Samoan people think they are poor, okay they can say that they are not wealthy in material things but when you think about it, we are the most blessed people to have all these resources around.
“There’s never nothing to feed your family with, you have the plantations and everything. I’m comfortable now where I live in America and to just use the things around but if it were up to me I would rather have all of this.
“I would rather have Samoa. In America we don’t get this everyday like during the evening time, there’s volleyball here, rugby there and always staying active.
“I have been to a lot of places especially after the show and I still haven’t found a place that I could say that reminds me of Samoa.
"Samoa is the place where we can actually say as Samoans that saying, “There is no place like home,” because there really is no place like Samoa.
"So those are the differences and everything in America, if you look at while watching TV and say you wish you were in America, I tell you it’s different. You make money but it always goes to something.
“Even the phones, Digicel here you can put 3 tala or 5 tala credit but in America you have a hundred dollar phone bill in a month. It’s just everything is money and if you don’t have a job then you will have to live on the street with nothing.
“But that doesn’t mean that will stop you from striving to look for a good future.
“To all the young people of Samoa keep fighting for your future I’m not saying all of this to scare anybody, but as long as you have a good head on your shoulders and you know what you are doing and you are not giving in to the bad temptations of the world, then you will be fine.”
Mr. Ieti was born in American Samoa but raised in Alaska

A COMIC BOOK series targeting Young Samoans and Polynesians is released in Brisbane, Australia

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By Helen Lauaki,

Artists Envision Health Inc. has released the first in a series of Comic Books, PATHWAYS: Our Choices are what Separate Us. “Pathways” is the creation of freelance journalist Helen Lauaki and produced by the non-profit organisation, Artists Envision Health Inc. With the collaboration of AEHI Arts members, Ieti Lauaki and Leon Jones the book was written to promote awareness of the effects of drugs amongst teenagers. It’s an entertaining and informative comic which follows the lives of four Queenslanders - how they are affected by Drugs and alcohol and their resilience to triumph over their challenges – for 12yrs to 25yr olds. The rising Rugby League (NRL) footy Star. The recovering Indigenous 20-Something-Male. The High School misfit and the beautiful University Student. Separately, their lives are touched for bad or ill by the effects of drugs and together they make the choices that change their lives forever. Ieti Lauaki, Illustrator/Artist/Writer has already published other eBooks online. Leon Jones is a Cartoonist/Illustrator/Graphic Designer. Together they have managed to design a colourful and artful comic. Based on research with many community and drug addiction organisations around Queensland, they have created characters relevant to 12 to 25yr olds world-wide. Whether you live in San Diego, China, South Africa or Germany these stories will resonate with them and parents. Within this book, parents are able to tell the signs of whether children are doing drugs or not. This book is PG-Rated.  Price is $5 AUS.

To purchase this comic book please go to this link:
http://www.aehiqld.com/#!store/usih0


SAMOAN ACTOR TO LEAD IN AWARD-WINNING BROADWAY MUSICAL.

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Disney’s global blockbuster, The Lion King, has tallied an impressive 6.2 billions dollars in gross net worth since its historical 1997 premiere. For any child, watching the Lion King for the first time is easily comparable to learning how to walk or enjoying their first McDonald’s Happy Meal.
Singing along to the Grammy-award winning soundtrack and adopting ‘hakuna matata’ as life’s mantra are the few great gifts given to this world by Simba, Timon, Pumba and the rest of the animal kingdom. The Lion King remains one of Disney’s greatest stories of love, family and friendship told to a wide audience across the globe.
Luckily for us, The Lion King has transitioned into the industry of live musical theater for families to experience together! Disney’s The Lion King Musical brings together an ensemble of personalities to portray the life and passion of some of our favorite characters in eccentric costumes and beautiful choreography!
To play Simba, the light-hearted young cub who seeks redemption after the death of his father, is Auckland born Samoan, Nick Afoa! Afoa is a former rugby player who grew up in New Zealand before moving to Australia for the musical production! Afoa and the rest of his acting cohort have been putting on the Broadway production for crowds all across Australia, sharing the story that we all have come to love and admire. You may remember a video of the theater bunch, singing ‘The Circle of Life’ on a plane that went viral a couple years ago (Afoa sits front row in the gray hat, singing in perfect harmony).

Seiuli Dwayne Johnson is the number one International Star of 2015 

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Do you see what The Rock is making? Apparently, the answer is a resounding yes! It has been revealed by Deadline.com that The Rock was named the world's No. 1 international box office star for 2015, generating an astounding $1.488 billion with his leading roles in films such as "Furious 7" and "San Andreas."
The Rock took to social media to thank his fans and supporters:  On Twitter he wrote: "Only way to start this post is with THANK YOU. WORLD'S #1 INTERNATIONAL BOX OFFICE STAR."

Congratulations Seiuli Dwayne Johnson.

Atoa Ripley and Verona Parker headline the Taeao Fou Church's Fundraiser in Carson, CA., April 4, 2015. 

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"O oe ma lau Taulaga " is a special once a year event where the membership of the Taeao Fou EFKS Church in Los Angeles, CA. hold a special night of entertainment and excellent food, for those who attend and this will raise money for the annual functions for their church. The tickets are $30 each but are very limited so purchase them now to secure a seat. 

It is also where each family of the Church prepare their Taulaga or Offering of Thanksgiving, which is a commemoration of all the blessings the family receives throughout the year and they convert this into money which is donated to the Church. Taupous will present each family's Taulaga. The presentation of Taulagas will be contextualized in all instances by using cultural heritage such as Ifoga, Talomua, Si'i alofa, Suata'i and Afiafi o Aiga so this will be a very dramatic and culturally enhanced evening.  But more importantly this is a heart felt offering given with free will and happy heart.   

This year the entertainment is provided by Atoa Ripley, a versatile entertainer who has performed for over 40 years starting in Pago Pago, American Samoa. he has since moved to the East Coast of the USA where he has performed for over 20 years.  He will be joined by the prolific Original Band. The host for the event is the one and only Verona Parker who is the star of the Samoan Movie, Silamanino. 

The Church expects a large turnout and have 500 tables available for those who will be coming. But those tables will be sold out very quickly so purchase your tickets now. 

Ole fa'afiafiaga lenei oloo saunia atu iai le Ekalesia ole Taeao Fou EFKS, ua fa'aigoaina "O oe ma lau taulaga", ole a faia lea ile Carson Civic Center ile aso 4 o Aperila, 2015. Ose tasi lenei o gaoioiga o le ekalesia lenei ua masani ai ma o se avanoa lenei mo e oloo auai i lenei ekalesia e mafai ai ona foa'i le taulaga faafetai i le Atua e ala lea i le fa'atasiga lenei.  Sa saunoa mai le Afioga ia Tuilaepa Fa'afetai Su'a "Ia faia ma le lotomalie ma le agaga fa'afetai i le Atua ona o ana fa'amanuiaga i le Tausaga atoa." 

Ose fa'afiafiaga tele ua sauni atu iai le au lotu ma ua latou fa'afeso'ota'ia le susuga ia Atoa Ripley, o ia o se tasi o alii pese lauiloa i Samoa ae maise foi i inei Amerika ina ia fa'afiafia i lea po. O le a fa'apea fo'i ona fa'afiafia ai le fa'aili ole Original Band mai Los Angeles. A'o le ole a fa'afoea lea afiafi poo le MC o le tama'ita'i o Verona Parker mai le ata tifaga ole Silamanino mai Samoa. O Verona sa avea ma Ms Samoa ile tausaga 1996 ma sa ia ausia le Ms South Pacific ile tausaga lava lea.

Ia vave nei loa ona fa'atau pepa mo lea fa'afiafiaga aua o le a mautinoa le tumutumu o le atunu'u ilea po. Ose afiafi taua lenei ole a faia ai le tele o tu ma aganu'u ole tatou atunu'u. Ae le gata i lea o le a faafiafiaina ai oe ile matagofie o fa'afiafiaga ae le gata i lea o mea tausami ua saunia e le ekalesia mo e ole a fa'atasi atu iai.

Late businessman unites Samoan overseas artists in concert. By Talamua News

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By Tulifau Auvaa

APIA: THURSDAY 28TH AUGUST 2014: Raymond Fruean may be gone from this world but his spirit lives in the hearts of the people he used to bring together in past concerts and will again sing in his memory tomorrow night at the “Ray Of Hope Concert”.

Talents such as Aaradhna, Scribe, Savage, Monsta, Pieter T, Sammy Johnson, Vince Harder and MZJ (Julie Ta’ale) will be performing not only in memory of Ray but for the establishment of the maternity wing at the Samoa Victim Support Group (SVSG) House of Hope at Tuanaimato.

Ray played a key role in promoting pacific talents in the entertainment industry and tomorrow they want to pay tribute to him.

In a press conference this morning, the artists told the media how much they miss Ray.

Funds collected from the concert will be allocated to the building of a maternity wing for those seeking refuge at the Samoa Victim Support Group.

Digicel the major sponsor of the concert has already succeeded in including the concert in the Teuila festival programme.

The artists who have Samoan blood connection are from Australia, New Zealand and the United States of America.

“Digicel identified the SVSG maternity shelter as a suitable and fitting project to direct the Ray of Hope funds to,” said Pepe Christian Fruean, Chief Executive Officer of Digicel.

“The event focused on bringing hope to the lives of one of the most devastated segments of the local community, the young women and children who are victims of sexual violence,” said Pepe.

“We are here to contribute the “ray of hope” gift as part of Ray’s vision to the development of young talents” said Bro. D.

Ray was a strong advocate for Pacific island artists and music.

The Ray of Hope Concert will be held tomorrow 29th August 2014 at the Funway Park, Matautu, Apia.

Hollywood comes out to the Premiere of Hercules, Seiuli Dwayne Johnson's new movie. Stars on Red Carpet.

PictureSeiuli Dwayne Johnson posing with his 12 year old daughter Simone at his red carpet premiere for the movie HERCULES.
Giana Mucci July 24, 2014

Actor and ex-pro wrestler Dwayne Johnson knows a thing or two about making a splashy entrance. And he certainly didn’t disappoint when he showed up at last night’s Los Angeles premiere of 'Hercules,' which took place at the TLC Chinese Theater in Hollywood. Though the event featured several big-name guests — including Mariah Carey, Eddie Murphy and girlfriend Paige Butcher, and Kylie Minogue — all eyes were on the 42-year old Johnson as he stepped out on the red carpet with his girlfriend, Lauren Hashian. The two have been dating for several years, reportedly after the then-married actor met the Massachusetts native while filming his 2007 sports-comedy 'The Game Plan.' That relationship, some speculate, led to Johnson’s 2008 divorce from wife Dany Garcia, with whom Johnson has a 12-year-old daughter, Simone. 

That divorce, Johnson told 'The Hollywood Reporter' earlier this year, sent the actor into a deep depression: “Once I manned up and became accountable for the mess I was in, that’s when it all hit me,” he told THR. “What kind of dad does this make me? What kind of man will I now become? Failing at marriage and as a husband was a heavy thing, and divorce had that special way of knocking me on my ass.” 

At last night’s premiere, though, Johnson and Hashian — whose only other red-carpet appearance was at the opening for last year's 'G.I. Joe: Retaliation' — were all smiles. Maybe the next step for the Rock and his girlfriend is…a rock?

Slideshow of Stars posing on Red Carpet including the Rock and his girlfriend.

Paul Ieti goes through to the Live Rounds on America's Got Talent

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By Albert Ainuu

Paul Ieti goes through to the live rounds of America's Got Talent. He performed tonight during Judgement Week and was the only vocalist they brought back after he sang and unanimously approved his path into the next phase of AGT which will be recorded in NYC at the world famous Radio City Hall.

The emotional Ieti was unsure of his ability to make the cut because he was all alone without any family to provide support. But as the young man stepped on the stage he was able to perform the song with quiet confidence and even smiled during the opening stanza of the song. His voice was clear and consistent. It was accentuated by a run at the end of the song reminiscent of another Poly singer, Fiji. 

Paul Ieti ended the night with a call home to American Samoa and as the young man told his mother that he had made it through to the Live Rounds you could hear the screams of joy coming through from the other side. His mother's voice was loud and clear. "I am so proud of you son."  It was a powerful moment that echoed how all Samoans watching this young man's journey felt at that moment. 

Moana, the Disney blockbuster, is an amazing cultural achievement. 

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December 5, 2016
By Albert Ainuu

A major event in the Disney universe has brought undeniable consequences and ramifications to the shores of small Polynesian islands and communities everywhere. The release of the full length feature animated film, Moana, has become the hit film of this 2016 Holiday season and in the process brought the Polynesian culture, its fashions, history, lifestyle, mythology and humor; front and center in the world of bright lights and entertainment. The film was released to much fanfare and anticipation Thanksgiving weekend and in 2 weeks has accumulated $120 million in the US alone. The movie has not only reached financial success but has also exposed the somewhat mysterious Polynesian Culture to the world. Ready or Not!

As the Disney film became a topic of discussion prior to the release, there were many different opinions and criticisms from the global Polynesian community. It was ridiculed by some for failure to present a truthful depiction of the Polynesians. There were those who felt the blatant commercialization of the culture was detrimental and insulting to our people. There were voices who made a mockery of the rather stocky girth of Maui, the demi-god character played by Dwayne "the Rock" Johnson as a stereotypical portrayal of Polynesians known to be rather large. There were those who found fault with an attempt to market Maui costumes for Halloween.  The tattoos being placed or presented so culturally inaccurate were another bone to pick for others.  I too had participated in some verbal sparring on facebook about the appropriateness of the movie's purpose and potential for good or bad as it related to the Polynesians as a group. As a result it was with hesitation and a little trepidation that I ambled up to my local movie theater, plopped down $25 for my wife and I, and walked into the movie complex to finally see what all the controversy was about.

After we had secured our popcorn and drinks we went into the dark theater and sat down. I was surprised to see those seated. I saw Arabs, white folk, black folks and Mexicans all seated ready to watch this movie about a young Polynesian girl. Surprisingly no Samoans or other Polynesians were there. I felt rather conspicuous wearing my Le Malae Sweater with a Samoan Fale on the front as I walked in. We were late as is normal for a Polynesian but I would say at this stage the focus was on the screen not the late-comers. 

The previews were done quickly and then the Disney introduction came in. I felt a little overwhelmed by the magnitude of what Disney was about to unleash. This was Disney, the number one entertainment company in the world about to take a leap of faith that a story based on a culture so foreign and obscure by global standards that it was not a given that Moana was going to reap huge profits. I was very aware of the financial risk involved, the possibility that such a story would have no frame of reference for the audiences which as I observed were nowhere near Polynesian. As the Disney castle began to sparkle with fireworks, I felt a feeling of great humility that a company of this magnitude was about to tell the story of my people. 

From the first drum beat accompanied by the singing voices singing in a language I could understand and a rhythm that beat deep inside my soul, this familiar spirit swept over me and occupied the theater with a warmth and comfort that I felt when I was back in Safotulafai, Savaii, circa 1972. I couldnt help but feel pride and awe as the big screen unveiled the beauty of the islands we grew up in. This was animation at its best and the story they were telling was my story. I felt as I sat there watching the huge screen that any Polynesian child or adult sitting in my place should see themselves in a different light once they watched this movie and those who were not Polynesian would come away from this experience with a better appreciation of who we as Polynesians are. 

I imagined in my mind the hundreds of thousands of Samoan or perhaps millions of polynesian children growing up in lands where they are not the dominant culture. They have been subject to many unfair and racist labels by those other cultures we are forced to assimilate. These are the kids I imagine walking out of the theater a few inches taller as they can define themselves through an icon of pop culture taking the liberty of presenting them and their culture on the big screen. Very few cultures have shared this stage in a positive manner and this is why I am humbly appreciative of Disney and their decision to feature Moana.

Granted it didnt hurt that one of the biggest stars in Hollywood today is a Samoan and he played a major role in the movie, because the Rock playing Maui is a rare phenomenon in this industry where race usually isnt a consideration when casting actors especially for animated features. The effort Disney put into appeasing the critics whether by design or by pure luck was definitely worth mentioning. I was watching for some inaccurate or offensive depictions of our culture and never saw anything that stood out. It was made with what seemed a great deal of sensitivity for our culture and our heritage. It was a job well done.

However the movie was not perfect, it had a weak ending and the back story might have been better, but for the most part I loved it. The Maui character definitely was well portrayed by Seiuli Dwayne Johnson. It was a playful and unpredictable character that the Rock portrayed, however, he was more human than God. The part of Moana actually was very well done by the newcomer Aulii Cravalho. Her voice was superb as she sang in true Disney fashion, with purpose and emotion. Her voice as the young girl destined for great things was well defined and combined strength and potential as she defined the coming of age heroine in a manner different from other rather overly feminine and helpless Disney "princesses". 

Most of the reviews were positive and in many instances quite effusive like this one by Peter Debruge of Variety who stated: More than "Tangled," more than "Frozen," "Moana" keeps with the tradition that made Disney the leader in animated fairy and folk tales.  

As the movie ended I reluctantly stood up to leave, but then we noticed some of the names on the credits as they rolled and realized how many Polynesians were involved in this project. What I was so impressed by was that the best of the best animators were employed in making this movie and this was why it looked so amazing. As a student of 3 D animation I could appreciate the detail that Disney Studios went to to make the various effects like the water which came alive or the tattooed chief and the dance moves of the Grandmother which were almost human. The baby Moana's features were so Polynesian at times I thought I recognized her. The texturing and art work were superb.

The visions of her past with the Vakas of her ancestors voyaging on the sea brought back memories of the Vakas that sailed to the USA a number of years back and brought the realization to me what magnificient explorers we had been before when our people sailed over the entire planet and settled in many places from the Pacific, to Asia, North, Central and South America, Madagascar, Africa and even perhpas Europe and the Middle East.

This movie was such a confirmation process for me and I believe that it was for any Polynesian who went there with an open mind. I left the theater smiling and hoping more movies of our people would emerge as this film had opened the door to our people to share their culture with the world. The financial goals of Disney may have been achieved with our story, and therein lies one of the main complaints, but I believe we as a people benefitted more as we and our children have received a gift that we could never have enjoyed in a thousand years without Disney's decision to create this movie.

And the gift is this, we know who we are.

Faafetai Walt Disney. O lau pule lea.

The Rock confirms there will be a Fast & Furious 8 and he may be getting his own Hobbs spin off.

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Yesterday, Warner Brothers hosted a press conference for San Andreas, the film where Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson will play a heroic first responder making amends with his family.

Of course, Johnson is known for several of his blockbuster action films - one of those being theFast & Furious franchise. Having appeared in the previous three installments but playing a much smaller part in the latest, fans of the adrenaline pumping franchise are wondering if Johnson's Luke Hobbs character will be returning for the eighth installment, which Vin Diesel recently confirmed at CinemaCon.

During the conference, Johnson addressed the possibility of a Hobbs spinoff for Fast & Furious. "We all are interested in it," Johnson said. “I just had a big conversation with the studio, so we’ll see. I still think for me personally, we create a little bit of space from seven and gauge what the audience will want and go from there. That’s my take on it. Now a lot of other people have their own say."

After the San Andreas press conference, Johnson was asked directly by NerdReport whether he'll be returning. "Of course," Johnson said, adding, "Can't go on without Hobbs."

There you have it. Not only will The Rock return for the eighth edition of Fast & Furious, but there's also the possibility his Hobbs character becomes a franchise itself. Is Hobbs the franchise character Johnson has been waiting for? To date, he has never played the same character more than three times, but Luke Hobbs may be his best known role yet. 

Do you want to see a Hobbs spinoff movie in the Fast & Furious universe? After all, he is the cavalry.


The Rock’s San Andreas Promotional Tour Is the Best Thing About Summer 2015 So Far

By Mark Davis/Getty
Who cares if the movie is good? The promo efforts have already been worth it.

BY KATEY RICH

San Andreas may wind up being a gloomy, dreadful disaster movie, the kind of pessimistic apocalypse porn that this weekend’s would-be blockbuster Tomorrowland specifically called out for ruining, well, everything. But no matter what the movie itself holds, it’s hard to imagine any film this summer being promoted with the kind of cheerful, anything-for-a-headline verve that The Rock has been bringing these last few weeks.

A wrestler turned movie star who can make virtually anything seem like a good time, The Rock has jumped into promotional duties for San Andreas with the kind of energy that might seem exhausting, or grating, from anyone else. He teamed up with a YouTube video interview series to conduct a surprise wedding (and got licensed by the State of California to make it legal and everything):

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He’s fended off marriage proposals of his own:

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Sure, some of this is just your typical works of promotion in the social-media age—why do a regular talk-show appearance when you can do a sketch that goes viral? Why have an Instagram if not to stroke the egos of your fervent fans? (#FromMyHeart). But The Rock, who has basically been ever present since theFurious 7 promotional duties started up in March, is just better at it than everyone else. No one else deserves the Guinness World Record for selfies because no one else would seem to enjoy it as much as this guy does. No one else deserves to have become a star thanks to a lot of ridiculous movies because no one else could make it seem like a wonderful reward after a lot of hard work. San Andreas may not do the world any good as a movie, but The Rock is enough of a gift to humanity to make up for it.

Pacific Island soul singer and contestant on NBC’s The Voice Season 7, hosts an Island Style Christmas Concert in Orange County, CA set for Dec. 20, 2014.

PictureTini Grey, Contestant of The Voice season 7
 Family man and working artist, Tini Grey, who was recently featured on Season 7 of the popular NBC TV show, “The Voice,” is bringing an Island Style Christmas to you.  He and his musical family and friends are putting together an unforgettable show that will surely get you and your families in the holiday spirit.

“I grew up in a very musical family that was rich in Island and family traditions, AND celebrating Christmas was one of my favorites ones,” Tini shares.  “Now that we are older and have our own families, it’s very rare that we get together to do a show like this.  So, I’m really looking forward to reliving some of those great memories and sharing them with a whole new generation of music lovers.”  

Island contemporary music and old Christmas classics will collide for an unforgettable evening of harmony and festive celebration. The pre-show and concert begins at 6:30pm and promises to be fun-filled celebration of music, faith, family and aloha – which is what the holiday season is all about.  A nightcap of milk and cookies will also be available following the event to round out the evening in good ‘ole Saint Nick fashion. 

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Tini Grey and his wife Angela, Miss America 2001 will be hosting the Christmas Concert by the Grey Family.
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TINI GREY and his wife, Angela Perez Baraquio, Miss America 2001, will co-host the island-style Christmas concert together featuring their talented family members in Orange County, CA. on Saturday, December 20th, 2014 at 7PM at the Ebell Club Theater, 625 French Street, Santa Ana, CA 92701.

Included in the program with Tini Grey is his father, the musical icon, Jerome with his Jerome Grey Trio (Polynesian Family Band) and his younger brother, the ever popular Taumata Grey. He is the lead guitarist/vocalist from the up coming Pacific Island Pop band, The Common Kings, (currently on the 20/20 tour with Justin Timberlake). Also featured will be Na Hoku Hanohano Award Winner (Hawaiian Grammys) Shawn Ishimoto and more. 

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to charity and the family will be hosting a toy drive benefiting Toys For Tots. Bring an unwrapped toy and enjoy the concert with milk and cookies afterward. Brand new CDs, merchandise, and apparel will be available––first come, first served!

General Admission price is $25, and the VIP Platinum is $40.  Platinum Access includes exclusive Pre-Show Entry and Meet & Greet (5pm), Preferred Seating, Early Merchandise Access and Wine Reception.  General Admission entry begins at 6:30pm.  Brand new CD's and apparel will be available in limited quantities - first come, first served! 
To Purchase Tickets go to the website: www.agreyfamilychristmas.com 

Music Available on:  Itunes.com and www.agreyfamilychristmas.com

For More Information:Contact: Tini Grey

Tel: (808) 224-4882

Email: tini@tinigreymusic.com

Or visit www.agreyfamilychristmas.com

PAUL IETI SPECIAL GUEST AT ASBDC FINALE — ROCK SOLID 2 VICTORIOUS 

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By B. Chen, Samoa News

Fans got a treat this past Thursday during the grand finale of the first ever American Samoa’s Best Dance Crew (ASBDC) competition, when world famous singing sensation Paul Ieti took the stage for a special performance.
 
Paul, of Aoa, arrived in the territory on Monday and is here for three weeks. His mother and biggest fan, Akenese Ieti, accompanied him to the ASBDC finale.
 
After all the performances that night, and before the official standings were announced, Paul was given the chance to perform two songs.
 
Paul made headlines several weeks ago when he became the first Samoan to ever make it to the semi-final round of the popular NBC hit show, “America’s Got Talent”.
 
On Thursday, Paul sang “God Bless the Broken Road,” the song that landed him in the AGT semi-finals. He followed up with a John Legend hit, “All of Me”.
 
While Paul was singing, some of the female audience members just couldn’t resist, as they ran up on stage to strike a pose behind him and snap photos.
 
At the end of the night, Dept. of Youth and Women’s Affairs (DYWA) Deputy Director Pa’u Roy Ausage thanked Paul for his performance and told the audience and those watching from home that Paul is living proof of the talent that is abundant in the territory. Pa’u said, “If Paul can do it, so can you”.
 
ROCK SOLID 2 WINS BEST DANCE CREW COMPETITION
 
The small western village of Afao had something to celebrate this past Thursday evening, after their pride and joy — Rock Solid 2 — garnered a total of 888 points to win the first American Samoa’s Best Dance Crew (ASBDC) competition.
 
The finale was held in front of huge crowd at the Governor H. Rex Lee Auditorium as well as the hundreds who tuned in from home on KVZK-TV channel 2.
 
Major sponsor of the competition is McDonald’s American Samoa, whose CEO Tautolo Charlie Tautolo spoke on behalf of his company and presented a sponsorship check of $13,000 to DYWA Deputy Director Pa’u Roy Ausage.
 
Tautolo said he is satisfied with the preparations that went into the ASBDC program and said regardless what he has heard and what people have been saying, “We are very organized.”
 
All of the top six groups that made the cut last week were given the chance to perform again during Thursday’s finale, and the final standings were based on the combination of scores for both nights.
 
The evening started off with a performance by Mount Zion of Leone, a group of 5 boys and one girl who came ready to entertain. Dressed in black pants, white shirts, and suspenders, the group featured the youngest performers of the night.
 
Their routine included the infamous “Twist”, “Footloose”, and the “Tootsie Roll”. They even incorporated a little Latin flavor through music and dance moves. Judge Ursula commented, “you guys did old skool justice”. Judge Princess added,  saying that the performance was very animated and brought a lot of smiles to everyone.
 
“Whatever happens tonight, you guys are the best,” she said.
 
The second act of the night was Flower Power, a group of eight fa’afafine who Judge Ammon described as “very entertaining”, before commending them on the “acrobatic risks” they incorporated into a routine that fused contemporary and old skool moves.
 
The stage lit up as the girls, dressed in hot pink and florescent green leggings and tops with matching umbrellas, showed off their agility with flips, tosses, and even the splits.
 
The girls took “Vogue” by Madonna to a whole ‘nother level and transitioned to classic old skool with Mc Hammer’s “Can’t Touch This”. In the end, Judge Princess said, “You girls did me proud.” She described the girls are “true performers” and their routine as “seductive”.
 
She said their costumes added a lot to the routine and told Flower Power that they were “definitely coming for the gold.”
 
Air Gear Studio, representing the Bay Area and trying to make up for a very poor performance last week, came ready to battle.
 
The group of five guys who donned green satin shirts, black ties, and white facemasks wowed the crowd with a lot of robotics and illusions. This is the same group that performed a levitating act two weeks ago and had everyone picking them as a favorite to win. But their lackluster performance last week contributed highly to them falling short of winning it all.
 
Following their performance at the finale, Judge Ursula said the group “rocked it” and she used words like “slick”, “mesmerizing”, and “awesome dynamics” to describe their final routine. Judge Ernest told Air Gear Studio that he is their biggest fan and although he was disappointed with last week’s showing, the group stayed true to their form and proved themselves in the end.
 
Judge Princess said the group made a strong comeback and their techno-infused style made her the “happiest girl in the room” that night.
 
But it was Rock Solid 2 of Afao that was definitely the crowd favorite.
 
The group of nine guys who incorporated every genre from old skool to modern age in their final performance didn’t disappoint. Not only was their choreography on point, the group members had everything going in their favor. From the high energy level to the attitude, the music selection, and even the use of black light, it was no secret that Rock Solid 2 was gunning for the title.
 
Judge Ammon told the group that they “deserve good results”, while Judge Ursula commented, “this is what a dance group is all about!”
 
Judge Princess said it best when she said Rock Solid 2 wasn’t “awesome”, they were “Afaosome”.
 
The three guys and one gal calling themselves ‘Humble’ took the stage next, giving it their all by moving around the stage with confidence and what Judge Ernest called “raw power”.
 
The night concluded with a performance by Petesa’s very own New Boys, representing the youth of Ierusalema Fou. The group of five guys who sported biker gloves, blue and black flannel shirts with white ties and black hats had the crowd - even the judges - from the beginning of their routine to the end.
 
The group’s performance two weeks ago landed them in sixth place — on the verge of elimination — but they came back last week and showed everyone that they were true contenders, and they had what it takes to be in the finale.
 
The New Boys started off with a silhouette, depicting the King of Pop, Michael Jackson and one of his popular hits “The Way You Make Me Feel”. Samoan songs were also incorporated into a routine that featured hit tunes by Gloria Estefan and Ariana Grande.
 
The guys even threw in a little audience participation when they formed a group tree and picked a flower off the top, a flower that was presented to Judge Ursula who called that little segment their “most impressive move of the night.” Judge Princess said “Michael Jackson is rolling in his grave, happy with this performance.” She added that the ‘versatility’ of the group and their consistency in maintaining eye contact with both the audience and the judges was ‘awesome’.
 
Judge Ernest, who is a local artist, told the New Boys crew that he would love to have them perform in a music video with him. He said the ASBDC program is all about the youth and talent, and the New Boys have definitely showcased that, through their growth in climbing up the rankings as the program progressed.
 
When it was time to announce the winners, OPI Director Fagafaga Daniel Langkilde, and Rev. Alapi Eti joined Tautolo and Pa’u on stage to present the awards.
 
Tapumanaia informed the crowd that the groups who place fifth and sixth, along with the four that were eliminated two weeks earlier, are allowed to enter next year’s ASBDC competition.
 
Those in the Top Four, all of whom received cash prizes, will not be eligible to compete again next year.
 
In sixth place with 721 points was Mount Zion, followed by Air Gear Studio who came in fifth place with 732 points. Both groups received consolation prizes, including gift bags from the DYWA.
 
In fourth place, with 749 points was Humble, who received $500 cash from McDonald’s and gift certificates from DYWA.
 
With 790 points, Flower Power came in third place and went home with $1,000 cash, in addition to other goodies provided by DYWA.
 
New Boys came in second place and received $1,500 while Rock Solid 2 took home the title, bragging rights, and the grand prize of $2,000.
 
The ASBDC was hosted by DYWA’s youth representative DJ J-Smooth Iosua who was assisted by DJ “Z”, a movie producer, filmmaker, and director of the popular “Seki A Oe” movie.
 
The evening started with Dept. of Youth and Women’s Affairs (DYWA) Deputy Director Tapumanaia Galu Satele Jr. thanking all the ASBDC supporters and sponsors. Rev. Alapi Eti of the Ierusalema Fou Church offered both the opening and closing prayers for the evening.
 
Special guests included American Samoa’s singing soldier Paul Ieti, who was a recent semifinalist in America’s Got Talent (AGT), Director of the Office of Public Information Fagafaga Daniel Langkilde, and CEO of McDonald’s American Samoa Tautolo Charlie Tautolo (the major sponsor of the event).
 
DYWA Director Jonathan Fanene was not able to make it.
 
The panel of judges included Ernest “Ice Cream Man” Seva’aetasi, Ursula Martin, Princess Ariana Auva’a, Lologa Olo, and Ammon Johnson.

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