Congressman Faleomavaega Eni today expressed his heart-felt appreciation and sincere fa’afetai tele to the people of American Samoa for the kindness and support they showed during the short visit by Chairman Nick J. Rahall and members of the House Committee on Natural Resources on August 04 to August 05, 2009.

 “In moments like this, it is hard to find the adequate words to fully express how much I appreciate the overwhelming and dignified response Acting Governor Fepulea’i Afa Ripley and the American Samoa Government, Acting Senate President Alo Dr. Paul Stevenson, Acting House Speaker Laolagi Savali Vaeao and the Senators and Representatives of the two chambers of the American Samoa Legislature, displayed to the delegation,” Faleomavaega stated.

 “In particular, I extend my fa’amalo and fa’afetai tele to the traditional leaders, chiefs and orators and the various cultural sectors of the village of Leone, for such a highly structured presentation of cultural diplomacy and hospitality, in hosting a brief worship service, a traditional ava ceremony and an elaborate feast with beautiful entertainment by the Malaeloa Methodist Youth, upon the delegation’s arrival,” Faleomavaega recounted.
 
 “The Honorable Chairman Rahall and members of the delegation: Hon. Jim Costa, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources; Hon. Madeleine Z. Bordallo, Chairwoman of the Subcommittee on Insular Affairs, Oceans & Wildlife; Hon. Henry Brown, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Insular Affairs, Oceans & Wildlife; Hon. Donna M. Christensen, Member of the Committee on Natural Resources, the Committee on Energy & Commerce and 2nd Vice Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, and Hon. Gregorio Kilili Sablan, member of the Committee on Natural Resources as well the Committee on Education and Labor, were all touched and moved by how strong and essential, and how genuine and real our culture is in its practicality and existence,” the Congressman said.

 “While some of these members had been in American Samoa before, all were nevertheless highly impressed and touched by the kindness, generosity, and hospitality for the political and cultural diplomacy given the committee. The chairman and committee members were also enchanted with the love shown through the abundance of traditional gifts they received,” Faleomavaega related.
 
 “Above all, they were convinced, thankful and proud of our dedication and patriotism as true Americans,” Faleomavaega continued.

 “The brief visit has further strengthened our ties with the United States Congress, and Chairman Rahall and all the Members hope that the people of American Samoa take the committee’s visit and presence in our territory as a sign that the U.S. Congress really cares, and will continue to support relevant legislation in Washington for the best interest of American Samoa” Faleomavaega concluded.