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Governor signs bill to establish American Samoa Tourism Bureau
Wednesday,
April 30, 2008
Governor Togiola Tulafono has signed the bill establishing the American Samoa Tourism Bureau.
The governor said the Tourism Development Act of 2008 represents a more serious approach to tourism. With the proper mechanisms in place we can realize our full potential in the multi billion dollar tourism industry in a relatively short time. The governor added as the Pacific and the world would turn their attention to American Samoa for the 10th Festival of Pacific Arts, I believe we could not have chosen a better time to launch our efforts. The governor has yet to announce his appointments to the seven member board that will oversee the new bureau. The American Samoa Chamber of Commerce and Pago Pago Visitors Association submitted nominees several weeks ago.
They are Roy J.D. Hall Jr., representing the Chamber of Commerce and Tom Drabble and Derick Webb representing the Pago Pago Visitors Association. Hall, an attorney, is also the proprietor of the Turtle and Shark Lodge in Vaitogi, Tom Drabble owns Sadies Inn and Sadies by the Sea while Derick Webb is the Manager of the Tradewind Hotels. The fourth private sector member of the board according to the law should have five years experience in the cruise ship industry or employee or owns a cruise ship or agency service. The chamber did not make a nomination for that seat though Chamber President David Robinson said a most suitable candidate would be Betty Cavanaugh who operated Pago Tradewind Tours, The remaining board members would be appointed by the governor from the Department of Commerce, Office of Samoan Affairs, and National Park Service.
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