OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
PRESS RELEASE
(for immediate release – Wednesday, June 13, 2007)
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Sec. Kempthorne tours Bay Area, National Park and StarKist Samoa

(UTULEI) – Lieutenant Governor Ipulasi Aitofele Sunia joined Secretary Kempthorne on a tour of the Bay Area, National Park of American Samoa in Vatia and StarKist Samoa cannery in Atu’u.

Secretary Kemphtorne took in the breathtaking views of Pago Pago harbor and the north shore of Tutuila from the top of the road to Afono.

While at the National Park, Secretary Kempthorne was presented with a plaque from staff of the National Park Service –which is under the jurisdiction of the Department of the Interior– and had his NPS passport stamped to commemorate his visit to the only U.S. national park south of the equator.

Secretary Kempthorne enjoyed the refreshing taste of a fresh coconut that was provided by the NPS staff and marveled at the wonderful craftsmanship and intricate handicraft work of the senior citizens that were on display at the National Park fale overlooking Pola Island.

Mr. Kempthorne expressed his thanks to NPS staff for the great work that they continue to do to preserve and protect the tropical forest and archeological and cultural resources of American Samoa.

Lieutenant Governor Ipulasi recalled for Secretary Kempthorne how Samoan village leaders selected and set aside some of the best property in the Territory for the national park.

“What you see are some of the finest samples of our land and we’re proud that it is being preserved to maintain natural habitat and ecological balance of our tropical forest,” said Lieutenant Governor Ipulasi. “As well as provide enjoyment for all. It truly is a unique experience.”

After leaving the National Park for a tour of StarKist Samoa plant, the Secretary’s motorcade passed S&S Store in Aua where he saw a huge sign: “Talofa and Welcome Mr. Secretary.” Mr. Kempthorne requested a stop at the store where he met and thanked Mr. Si’uleo “Chico” Pouesi for making him feel at home.

“I made the sign to say thank you to you Mr. Secretary for coming to the place we call home so that you can see that we need lots of help,”said Chico. “I’m very happy that you are here. Thank you for visiting us.”

Secretary Kempthorne, in appreciation, autographed the billboard on the wall in front of the store.

At StarKist Samoa, General Manager Brett Butler guided the tour of the plant that followed the process of unloading of the frozen fish from fishing vessels to gutting and cleaning to baking, canning and labeling.