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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 1, 2012
Washington, D.C. - Faleomavaega congratulates 2012 National Spelling Bee contestant Rita Shania Jennings from American Samoa
Congressman Faleomavaega today offered his congratulations to American Samoa's 2012 Territorial Spelling Bee winner Rita Shania Jennings who competed in the National Scripps Spelling Bee this week with hundreds of contestants at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland, just outside of Washington, D.C.
Rita made it to Round 3 of the competition, correctly spelling the words qwerty and kirtle. Though she did not advance to the semifinals, she is motivated to continue her pursuit in next year's Territorial and National competitions.
A 7th grader at Lauli'i Elementary School, Rita trained for the contest with the help of her spelling coach, Mrs. Gingerlei Maga-Uili who travelled with her to the national competition. Rita's mother, Epenesa Jennings, and older sister, Rachel Jennings who is a teacher at Samoana High School, also joined in the trip.
Rita is the daughter of Philo Jennings, Jr. and Epenesa Jennings of Lauli'i, American Samoa. Born and raised in American Samoa, she is the third consecutive student from Lauli'i Elementary to win the local competition. Her sponsors were Samoa News and Hawaiian Airlines.
After the competition, the group visited Congressman Faleomavaega's Washington D.C. office where they met with staff and given a tour of the U.S. Capitol.
"I would like to extend my congratulations to Rita for her achievement as our Territorial Spelling Bee winner and I thank her for representing American Samoa with excellence at this year's National Scripps Spelling Bee. While I was unable to congratulate Rita in person due to my participation in the U.S. Presidential Delegation to Samoa's 50th Independence Celebration in Apia, I am proud of her outstanding achievement. As part of this unique experience, Rita has joined an elite group of intelligent and highly motivated students from across the nation and has represented American Samoa well," Congressman Faleomavaega stated.
"The purpose of the National Scripps Spelling Bee is to help students improve their spelling, increase their vocabularies, learn concepts, and develop correct English usage that will help them all their lives and I am thankful that Rita was able to benefit from partaking in this prestigious contest."
"I am proud of Rita's achievement and I also would like to commend and thank her parents, family members, teachers, and spelling bee coach who have supported her path to the National Scripps Spelling Bee. I pray for her continued success and her future educational pursuits," the Congressman concluded.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 29, 2012
Washington, D.C. - American Samoa to continue to receive territorial highway funding
Congressman Faleomavaega today announced that the House, by a vote of 373 Yeas to 52 Nays, approved the final agreement by the Conference Committee on H.R. 4348, the Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2012. The agreement, reached by a Committee made up of members from both the House and Senate, would extend authorizations of several federal highway programs, including the Territorial and Puerto Rico Highway Program, for FY 2013 and FY 2014. Following House approval, it was later passed by the Senate by a vote of 74 Yeas to 19 Nays.
The full text of Faleomavaega's statement submitted during the Floor debate is inserted below.
Mr. Speaker:
The Conference Agreement on H.R. 4348, Surface Transportation Extension Act of 2012 unfairly places the financial burden on the smaller territories - American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Island (USVI). Specifically, the agreement would result in a 20-percent reduction for each of the smaller territories under the Territorial and Puerto Rico Highway Program (Div A, Title 1, Subtitle A, Section 1114) for FY 2013 and FY 2014.
The Territorial Highway Program underscores federal commitments to sustain economic development in the territories as well as to ensure safe highways in our communities. Funding from the territorial highway program has provided for the construction and improvement of highways and roads, critical infrastructure for commerce and transportation in the territories.
Mr. Speaker, any cuts to these critical funding could prove devastating to the economies of the smaller territories, yet we face the same challenges - the high cost of energy and transportation - as everyone else across the country.
Similarly, the initial version of the Highway Reauthorization bill that the House passed earlier this year would have replaced the Highway Trust Fund as the funding source for the Territorial Highway Program, with a less stable source.
For these reasons, the territorial delegates wrote a joint letter to the Conference Committee on April 26, 2012. We specifically highlighted the need to maintain the current funding levels for the territorial program. In addition, we asked that the territories be made eligible for certain discretionary grants and planning grants programs.
I am pleased that the conference agreement would keep the Highway Trust Fund as the funding source for the Territorial Highway Program. While I am disappointed to know that the smaller territories are given the brunt of the budgetary cuts to bear, I am hopeful however that the territories would be made eligible for certain discretionary grants and planning grants programs as we requested. These additional grants could help mitigate some of the financial issues as a result of the proposed reduction.
Faleomavaega later added, "While I am disappointed that our allocation will be reduced 20-percent from $5 million in past years to $4 million each for FY 2013 and FY 2014, I am pleased nevertheless that these programs will continue to be funded from the Highway Trust Fund."
"It is important to be mindful of the fact that the Highway Trust Fund is paid for by a federal excise gasoline tax. The gasoline tax, which is currently about 18.4 cents per gallon, is imposed in all States and not in the Territories. Therefore, while our people do not pay into the Highway Trust Fund, we continue to receive funding under the Territorial Highway Program consistent with the Federal government's commitment to the Territory," Faleomavaega added.
"As the Highway Reauthorization bill is now on its way to the President for final approval, I am hopeful that the Territorial Highway Program will continue to help advance economic development and ensure safe transportation in American Samoa," Faleomavaega concluded.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 28, 2012
Washington, D.C. - U.S. Department of Labor awards $500,000 in supplemental National Emergency Grant funding to American Samoa Department of Human Resources
Congressman Faleomavaega today announced that the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) this week awarded approximately $500,000 in supplemental National Emergency Grant (NEG) funding to the American Samoa Department of Human Resources.
According to DOL, the funding will provide for the continuation of workforce development services to workers who held temporary jobs to assist with the clean-up and recovery efforts following the earthquake and tsunami and subsequent flooding that struck American Samoa in 2009.
The initial NEG award of $24,857,608 was approved on October 19, 2009, with $8,285,870 released initially and a second increment of $16,571,738 was approved and released on April 21, 2010. The supplemental funding of $500,000 announced this week will bring the total NEG funds awarded for this project to $25,357,608. With the supplemental funding, the project’s period of performance is also extended for two quarters, so that all participants have more time to finish their full complement of reemployment services.
"I want again to thank my good friend and former colleague, U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis, for releasing more than $25 million over the past three years in National Emergency Grant funds for American Samoa," Faleomavaega stated.
"Immediately following the devastating earthquake and tsunami that struck our islands on September 29, 2009, the Department of Labor notified my office as well as the offices of Senator Inouye, Senator Akaka, and the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, informing us of the outpouring of millions of dollars of federal funding to help American Samoa with clean-up and recovery efforts. The funding also provided for needed jobs to employ American Samoans and help with our local economy," Faleomavaega added.
"I also want to thank and acknowledge the great work by our local leaders in the American Samoa Department of Human Resources, including Department Director Evelyn Langford and NEG Program Manager Tuimavave Tauapa'i Laupola, for the tremendous job they've done in managing this program as well as their tireless efforts in addressing the multifaceted needs of the Territory in the aftermath of the devastating 2009 tsunami. I have every confidence that this funding will continue to help our Territory rebuild," Congressman Faleomavaega concluded.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 25, 2012
Washington, D.C. - Faleomavaega honors King Kamehameha and Senator Daniel Akaka during Kamehameha Lei draping ceremony at U.S. Capitol
Congressman Faleomavaega today announced that he attended the annual King Kamehameha Lei Draping Ceremony last Sunday in the nation's capital and paid special tribute to King Kamehameha. Organized by the Hawaii State Society, the event took place in front of the King Kamehameha statue inside of the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center Emancipation Hall. Faleomavaega also paid tribute and made a special presentation on behalf of the people of American Samoa to Hawaii Senator Daniel Akaka being that this year's ceremony is his last prior to his retirement at the end of this Congress.
Although he is not an official member of the Hawaii State Congressional Delegation, Faleomavaega for many years has been invited and attended the celebration just about every year since he has been in Congress. This year, Faleomavaega was again a guest speaker along with Hawaii Senator Daniel Inouye, President Pro-Tempore of the U.S. Senate, and Hawaii Congresswoman Colleen Hanabusa.
Standing in the shadow of the statue of King Kamehameha I, Congressman Faleomavaega began by first honoring the life of the late King by sharing his legacy as one of the greatest Polynesian warrior-kings who ever lived.
"So as we gathered here under the shadow of this magnificent statue portraying the legacy of one of the greatest Polynesian warrior-kings who ever lived, His Majesty King Kamehameha I, we are here to honor his life - a prophecy that stood for a thousand years that one day there will be a chief who will be known as the killer of other chiefs - and a belief among the then ruling chiefs of Hawaii that whoever is able to move the Naha Stone, believed to weigh over 4,500 pounds, would rule the Hawaiian Islands," Faleomavaega stated.
"As a young man, Kamehameha was trained by one of the greatest warrior chiefs of his time, Kekuhaupi'o. He was knowledgeable of military tactics and was fearless in armed combat, and he was determined to bring all of the Hawaiian Islands under his rule, a monumental task that took him about ten years to achieve."
While honoring Kamehameha, Faleomavaega then welcomed members of the Washington D.C. Samoan community to join him on the stage to pay tribute and present gifts to Senator Daniel Akaka and his family when they return to Hawai'i upon his retirement. Faleomavaega presented an ie toga or Samoan fine mat, three Samoan war clubs as gifts from the people of American Samoa in recognition of the Senator's tremendous tautua or service to American Samoa. Faleomavaega also presented a large siapo or tapa that was displayed by Caroline Sinafifita on behalf of the Tongan community.
"I believe it is also appropriate that we recognize and honor a son of Hawaii, and truly a son of Kamehameha, who has served with distinction the good people of Hawaii for some 36 years now in the U.S. Congress, our own U.S. Senator Daniel Akaka. If there is one thing I have learned from Senator Akaka, it is that his life is a true example of what it means to be a true Native Hawaiian. He doesn't just talk the talk, he lives it."
"The cultural core values of the Polynesian people are best described as follows by our Hawaiian cousins. Ho'okipa means hospitality, lokomaika'i means generosity, 'olu'olu means courtesy, ha'aha'a means humility, malama means caring, kupono means integrity, na'auao means wisdom or intelligence, ho'omana means spirituality, koa means courage, ma'ema'e means cleanliness, pa'ahana means industrious or diligence, huikala means forgiveness, ho'ohiki means keeping promises, kela means excellence, hanohano means with dignity, alaka'i means having leadership, kupono means honesty, kuha'o means self-sufficient, ho'omanawanui means patience, and you put all these words together and they mean aloha."
"I cannot find any word in the English language to describe how much aloha I have for Kaniela (Daniel) and Auntie Millie, his dear wife. I will always appreciate her advice and guidance in dealing with the atmosphere here in Washington."
Faleomavaega also shared in jest and to the laughter of about 400 people in the audience the story of the "Polynesian Congressional Caucus" as Faleomavaega and Akaka are presently the only Polynesian Members serving in the U.S. Congress. "In all the years that I have lived in Hawaii and here in our nation's capital, no one has exemplified more the character of the Hawaiian people than the gentle and soft-spoken, my elder statesman and chairman of our little Polynesian Congressional Caucus, U.S. Senator Daniel Akaka. The unique thing about our Polynesian Caucus is that Kaniela is the chairman, and I am the Vice-chairman, secretary, treasurer, doorkeeper, and bouncer!"
"American Samoa, like the rest of the U.S. Territories and Washington, D.C., do not have representation in the U.S. Senate, and for all the years since Akaka has been a Senator, he has supported, along with Fofoga o Samoa - Senator Daniel Inouye, the issues and matters of interest to American Samoa and the Samoan people in general. Without doubt, Senators Akaka and Inouye have been most kind and generous with their support to American Samoa and the Samoan community for decades."
Congressman Faleomavaega also honored the presence of Senator Inouye or Fofoga o Samoa and his wife Irene who were present at the Ceremony, highlighting the Senator's leadership on behalf of Native American communities. "Senator Inouye was instrumental in the formation of the Select Committee on Indian Affairs which today is now a full standing Senate Committee, providing Natives from the mainland, as well as from Hawaii and Alaska, a more powerful voice in the U.S. Congress," Faleomavaega said. "The Committee currently addresses the needs of over 6 million Native Americans, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians throughout the Nation. Senator Inouye chaired the Committee from 1987 to 1993, when he championed the legislation to remove "select" from the title of the committee, further solidifying the legitimacy of the Committee."
Congressman Faleomavaega concluded his remarks and gift presentation telling the crowd that, "I normally do not dance except on special occasions. So in honor of my senior matai, Fofoga o Samoa (Senator Inouye) and my retiring friend, Senator Akaka, I will perform the Samoan siva."
At the conclusion of their siva, Faleomavaega and members of the Samoan community sang "Tofa my Feleni" to bid farewell to Senator Daniel Akaka.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 22, 2012
Washington, D.C. - Faleomavaega congratulates Kelekolio Koloi and Denette Samuelu-Koloi - recipients of the University of the West scholarships
Congressman Faleomavaega today congratulated Mr. Kelekolio Soane Koloi and his wife Mrs. Danette Lagimaao Samuelu-Koloi who were both recently awarded scholarships for graduate studies at the University of the West (UWest) located in Rosemead, California, just ten minutes from Los Angeles.
Kelekolio (Kele) and Danette, both graduates of Kanana Fou Theological Seminary in American Samoa, were selected by UWest for two scholarships made available for the first time this year to students from American Samoa. The 1-year scholarships, worth about $10,000 each, cover tuition, books, and housing at the University. Each year, students may re-apply for additional scholarships or for work-study programs.
Congressman Faleomavaega announced the scholarship opportunity through a February 22, 2012 press release after returning from Taiwan where he met with the leadership, including Grand Master Hsing Yun, at the Buddha Memorial Center in Kaohsiung City to thank the Fo Guang Shan organization for offering 2 scholarships for students from American Samoa to attend UWest as part of their global outreach efforts.
"It is with great pleasure that I offer my heartfelt congratulations to Kelekolio and Danette Koloi on being selected by the University of the West as our very first scholarship recipients from American Samoa. Their example of devotion to their calling and willingness to further their education is a source of inspiration for many Samoans. I am very proud of Kele and Danette and I know that Samoans everywhere join me in congratulating them on this outstanding achievement," Faleomavaega stated.
Kelekolio was admitted to the Master of Arts in Religious Studies program for the Fall of 2012 and has been awarded a Lotus Gold Scholarship which includes a $10,000 stipend for the academic year 2012-2013. Danette was admitted to the Ph.D. program in Comparative Religious Studies and has been awarded the IBEF scholarship for the Fall semester, which includes a $4,500 stipend. While full funding for the Ph.D. program was not a part of the scholarship offer initially, UWest was able to accommodate Danette by referring her to apply to an "in house" scholarship for the Ph.D program.
Kelekolio Soane Koloi is the son of Keli Soane Koloi of Tokelau and the late Fetala'i Lefao Muagututi'a Koloi of Faga'itua, American Samoa. Kele is a 1991 graduate of Waipahu High School in Honolulu. Danette Lagimaao Samuelu-Koloi is the daughter of Nick Ma'afala Bohanak of Aua and Souvenir Samuelu Bohanak of Pago Pago, American Samoa. She is a 1991 graduate of Samoana High School.
The couple married in 2005 and entered Kanana Fou Theological Seminary as newlyweds. In the 2006 school year, Danette became the first female student to enter the seminary in its history and in the history of the Congregational Christian Church in American Samoa (CCCAS). Kele and Danette both graduated with a Bachelor of Divinity (BD) in Theological Studies from Kanana Fou in June 2011, where they attended as representatives of the CCCAS of Faga'itua under the spiritual leadership of Reverend Johnny and Pinto Fano.
Upon graduating from Kanana Fou Theological Seminary, Kelekolio attended Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California and he will be continuing his Master's degree at UWest. He plans to graduate in June 2013 and further his education for the Ph.D program. Danette will be graduating on August 14, 2012 with a Master's Degree in Intercultural Studies from the Presbyterian College and Theological Seminary in Seoul, Korea, where she received a full scholarship through the Council of World Mission (CWM). She plans to graduate in June 2015 from her 3 year Ph.D. program which begins in August this year. The couple plans to return to American Samoa after their studies and give back to the Congregational Christian Church in American Samoa as well as the territory as a whole.
"UWest started in just one classroom at Tsi Lai Temple in Hacienda Heights, California and expanded to its Rosemead campus in 1996. One of its primary missions to this day is to facilitate cultural understanding between the East and the West. As it is open to students of all faiths, I have every confidence that both Kele and Danette will contribute their unique experiences and perspectives as representatives of American Samoa at the University," said Congressman Faleomavaega.
"Once again I want to thank Venerable Miaohong, Special Assistant to the President of the University of the West, for visiting my office prior to my departure for Taiwan to discuss the University’s offer to provide two scholarships to students from American Samoa. I am grateful that Kele and Danette will benefit from this scholarship and I wish them great success in their new endeavor as they begin their studies at UWest. I also look forward to seeing more students from American Samoa benefit from this exceptional opportunity in the future," the Congressman concluded.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 25, 2012
Washington, D.C. - Faleomavaega expresses condolences to the children of the late First Lady Susana A.P. Lotali
Congressman Faleomavaega today extended his personal condolences in a letter to the children of the late First Lady Susana A.P. Lutali on the passing of their beloved mother. The full text of Faleomavaega's letter is copied below.
Le Fanau Loto Fa'avauvau:
O 'pu a le atunu'u: "Talofa e, ua motu le 'asoa, ua solo le falute, ua tafea pulu i vai, ua matala le mafutaga fa'amatua ma fanau, ma o ai o le a tu atu e fa'alavefau i le pule fai to'atasi a le Atua?"
O upu o le Tusi i le tala a Paulo ia Timoteo: "Timoteo, 'aua e te fa'avaivai, ona o le malosi'aga o lo'o i ou tua, o le fa'atuatua ma le mamana o tatalo a lou tina... o le Atua e na te 'aumai, o le Atua fo'i e na te toe 'ave 'ese...' Amu'ia e loto fa'anoanoa, 'aua e fa'amafanafanaina i latou."
It is with grave sadness that Hina and I express our deepest condolences in the passing of your mother and grandmother, and wife to one of American Samoa's greatest governors, the late Governor A.P. Lutali - First Lady Susana A.P. Lutali.
The peacefulness of her passing is a reflection of the kind of person that she was in life - always active and strong, yet very humble and full of grace. The modesty and courage she had consistently shown through her support and participation in various local and national women's organizations, despite her difficulty in health lately, made death the furthest from Susana's regular routine. Many have felt that perhaps she had outlived death for now, and it would catch up with her at a different time later on in life.
Susana was a dedicated First Lady committed to doing all sorts of projects to beautify our territory by organizing women's groups to grow plants and trees along the roadsides. Along with it, Hina was always at her side to help Susana, and it was like a mother-daughter relationship, and I know Hina had always appreciated her close friendship with Susana.
Upon learning of Susana's death, Hina said: "I am greatly saddened to learn of my dear friend's passing - and just a tremendous First Lady like Susana whom I love very much, and who was such a great example in my own life. I want to convey my sincere sympathies to her daughter, Josie and all her children at this time of mourning."
I was privileged enough to serve as Governor Lutali's Lieutenant Governor, and he was famous for saying: E le o 'upu ae o galuega, "action, not words." Governor Lutali and I had a very close working relationship, and as everyone knows, he was a man who said just enough to make his point, and behind the silence, one could feel the enormity of a great woman. In retrospect, I can honestly say, First Lady Susana really epitomized what the late Governor said - E le o'upu, ae o galuega.
I think her greatness was in her spiritual faith in God, her religion, and in herself and those she loved. She was a devout Catholic and a sincere Christian. When I was selected as Governor Lutali's running mate in the 1984 election, Susana took my hand and said: "It will be a lot easier if we all believe that God will just allow us to win... but then we've got to work harder at it." It was then that I understood what Governor Lutali meant: E le o upu, ae o galuega.
Fa'afetai ma fa'amalo i lo outou tausi matua. 'Amu'ia Susana ua ulufale i le fiafia o lona Ali'i, ma ua nofo i le saofa'iga e 'atoa iai li'o o le masina. O la ma'ua tatalo ma Hina, ia vave ona liua e le agaga o le Atua Alofa le fa'avauvau ma le fa'anoanoa o lo'o ia te 'outou le fanau, fa'apea le 'aiga atoa.
With deep sympathy,
ENI F.H. FALEOMAVAEGA
Member of Congress
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 14, 2012
Washington, D.C. - Faleomavaega introduces legislation to combat tobacco smuggling in American Samoa and other U.S. Territories
Congressman Faleomavaega today announced that he has introduced the Stop Tobacco Smuggling in the Territories Act of 2012 (H.R. 5934) to add American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas and Guam to the current Contraband Cigarette Trafficking Act which makes it illegal to knowingly ship, transport, receive, possess, sell, distribute, or purchase 10,000 or more contraband cigarettes that do not have a state or territorial tax stamp. Violators of the act will face fines and criminal penalties.
"This legislation will provide law enforcement an additional tool to combat tobacco smuggling in American Samoa. According to a 2011 Feasibility Study commissioned by American Samoa Community Cancer Network on a Cigarette Tax Stamp Program in American Samoa, an estimated 5.8 million cigarettes were smuggled into American Samoa in 2010; this represents an estimated revenue loss of over $724,000 to the American Samoa government." Faleomavaega said.
"Furthermore, the study reported that cigarettes are smuggled into American Samoa by individual travelers, who do not declare cigarettes that are in excess of the amount of tax-free cigarettes allowed for personal use (up to 200 per trip) and also by boats that evade Customs inspections. Contraband cigarettes are also obtained when a purchaser buys them at the Post Exchange (PX) in Tafuna and sold to local merchants who in turn resell them to members of the public. The purchase of cigarettes at a PX is only legal when they are purchased for personal consumption and not for resale."
"Besides depriving American Samoa of much needed tax revenues, cigarette smuggling contributes to a growing health crisis on our island. There are many health risks associated with cigarette smoking. Smoking causes many different types of cancer such lung, pancreatic, bladder, kidney and throat cancer. Smoking also causes coronary heart disease and is a factor in sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)."
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), "The adverse health effects from cigarette smoking cause an estimated 443,000 deaths or nearly one of every five deaths, each year in the United States. Additionally, tobacco related illnesses cost nearly $100 billion in health care costs each year in the United States."
"Currently, on the federal level there are only civil penalties that can be enforced on smugglers in American Samoa pursuant to the Prevent All Cigarette Trafficking Act (the PACT Act). The PACT Act only applies to internet and mail order cigarette smuggling and it only imposes civil penalties while the Contraband Cigarette Trafficking Act imposes criminal penalties."
"As cigarette smuggling continues in American Samoa, the Stop Tobacco Smuggling in the Territories Act of 2012 will help local authorities combat the growing cigarette smuggling in our territory." Faleomavaega concluded.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 14, 2012
Washington, D.C. - Faleomavaega's office hosts Close Up and National History Day students and teachers from American Samoa in Washington, DC
Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that his office on Wednesday, June 13, hosted a total of 25 students and 11 chaperones (teachers, administrators and family members) from American Samoa who were in Washington, D.C. as part of the Close Up and National History Day programs. This year's groups represented the high schools of Tafuna, Faga'itua, Leone, Nu'uuli Polytechnic, Samoana, Manu'a, Manumalo Baptist, Pacific Horizons, South Pacific Academy, and Fa'asao-Marist.
Both groups arrived Wednesday noon for lunch at the Congressman Faleomavaega's office in the Rayburn House Office Building. After lunch, the Congressman's staff led the combined group to the House Committee on Natural Resources Hearing Room in the Longworth Building where the students and chaperones took their places in the committee members' seats and engaged in Q&A with the Congressman's staff covering a wide range of topics including the role of Territorial delegates and American Samoa's political status to name a couple. Faleomavaega is a member of the House Committee on Natural Resources which has jurisdiction over issues involving the insular areas. Faleomavaega is also a member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs where he is the third most senior Democrat in the full committee and the Ranking Democrat in the Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific.
Faleomavaega's staff then took the group on a guided tour of the U.S. Capitol, visiting Emancipation Hall, the Crypt of the U.S. Capitol, the Capitol Rotunda, and Statuary Hall. The group then gathered for a photo opportunity on the steps of the U.S. Capitol. As the Close Up students parted ways for an afternoon meeting at the U.S. Senate, the National History Day group continued to tour the Capitol, visiting the House Floor, with members of the Congressman's staff.
"I would like to extend my congratulations to all of our students who visited our nation's capital for the Close Up and National History Day programs this year. While I was unable to meet with our students in person due to my participation in the 2012 Pacific Debate sponsored by the Pacific Institute of Public Policy held in Vanuatu, I am proud of all of our students' participation in these enriching educational programs in Washington, D.C. and I thank them for representing American Samoa admirably," Congressman Faleomavaega stated.
"I also thank all of our teachers, administrators, and family members who accompanied the students as chaperones and advisors on their trip. The support of educational mentors and family members is crucial to our students' success as they take this experience back to American Samoa," the Congressman added.
"Unfortunately this year, the Close Up Foundation scheduled the American Samoa students' visit to Washington, D.C. while the House was in recess. As I mentioned in a recent letter to the Department of Interior, who funds the Close Up, I believe that every effort should be made to ensure that our students are able to see Congress in action and that can only be achieved when they come to Washington while the House is in session. It is my hope that Close Up Foundation will consider my request and be able to accommodate our students in the future."
"Nevertheless, I want to thank the staff of both the Close Up and National History Day programs for hosting our students and for allowing our office to be a part of their unique experience in Washington," Faleomavaega concluded.
The following is a list of students and chaperones that visited the Congressman's Washington, D.C. office.
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Close Up Students: Teachers: |
National History Day Students: Chaperones and Family: |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 14, 2012
Washington, D.C. - Rural Business Opportunity Grants now available from USDA
Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that he has been informed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Rural Development that about $1.2 million in unreserved funds is now available on a competitive basis nationally, through the Rural Business Opportunity Grant Program (RBOG) for FY 2012. Awards are limited to $50,000 or less and all applications must be received by August 6, 2012 for consideration. Cost sharing or matching funds are not required.
The RBOG program is authorized under section 306(a) (11) of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act with the primary purpose to improve the economic conditions of rural areas in the 50 States, DC and the U.S. Territories including American Samoa. Assistance provided under the program includes: rural business incubators; technology-based economic development; feasibility studies and business plans; long-term business strategic planning; and leadership and entrepreneur training. Applications that will support regional economic development are also encouraged.
Eligibility is opened to public entities, nonprofit corporations, institutions of higher education, Indian Tribes on federal or state reservations and other federally recognized Native American Tribes or tribal groups and rural cooperatives may apply.
"In these times of difficult fiscal condition, I am pleased that there are federal grants available for economic development in rural areas, including here in American Samoa," Faleomavaega said. "These grants are available to foster more business opportunities and help fuel economic development in the Territory."
For more information please contact Saulelia Wilson-Sualevai in American Samoa at email saulelia.wilson-sualevai@pb.usda.gov or by telephone at (684) 633-1131.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 1, 2012
Washington, D.C. - Faleomavaega congratulates 2012 National Spelling Bee contestant Rita Shania Jennings of American Samoa
Congressman Faleomavaega today offered his congratulations to American Samoa's 2012 Territorial Spelling Bee winner Rita Shania Jennings who competed in the National Scripps Spelling Bee this week with hundreds of contestants at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland, just outside of Washington, D.C.
Rita made it to Round 3 of the competition, correctly spelling the words querty and kirtle. Though she did not advance to the semifinals, she is motivated to continue her pursuit in next year's Territorial and National competitions.
A 7th grader at Lauli'i Elementary School, Rita trained for the contest with the help of her spelling coach, Mrs. Gingerlei Maga-Uili who travelled with her to the national competition. Rita's mother, Epenesa Jennings, and older sister, Rachel Jennings who is a teacher at Samoana High School, also joined in the trip.
Rita is the daughter of Philo Jennings, Jr. and Epenesa Jennings of Lauli'i, American Samoa. Born and raised in American Samoa, she is the third consecutive student from Lauli'i Elementary to win the local competition. Her sponsors were Samoa News and Hawaiian Airlines.
After the competition, the group visited Congressman Faleomavaega's Washington D.C. office where they met with staff and given a tour of the U.S. Capitol.
"I would like to extend my congratulations to Rita for her achievement as our Territorial Spelling Bee winner and I thank her for representing American Samoa with excellence at this year's National Scripps Spelling Bee. While I was unable to congratulate Rita in person due to my participation in the U.S. Presidential Delegation to Samoa's 50th Independence Celebration in Apia, I am proud of her outstanding achievement. As part of this unique experience, Rita has joined an elite group of intelligent and highly motivated students from across the nation and has represented American Samoa well," Congressman Faleomavaega stated.
"The purpose of the National Scripps Spelling Bee is to help students improve their spelling, increase their vocabularies, learn concepts, and develop correct English usage that will help them all their lives and I am thankful that Rita was able to benefit from partaking in this prestigious contest."
"I am proud of Rita's achievement and I also would like to commend and thank her parents, family members, teachers, and spelling bee coach who have supported her path to the National Scripps Spelling Bee. I pray for her continued success and her future educational pursuits," the Congressman concluded.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 17, 2012
Washington, D.C. - House passed Violence Against Women Reauthorization - Faleomavaega says bill is flawed
Congressman Faleomavaega today announced that the House, by a vote of 222-205, approved the controversial Republican-authored legislation, H.R. 4970, to reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). In a statement submitted for the record, the Congressman noted his support for the reauthorization of VAWA, but preferred instead the Senate Democratic-authored reauthorization bill, S 1925, that was passed earlier by the Senate with wide bipartisan support.
The full text of the Congressman's statement is inserted below.
It is with great pleasure to rise today in support of the Violence Against Women Act. In doing so, I am reminded of an old Samoan belief that the female siblings are the "tama sa" or sacred child in the family. They are to be treated with respect, care and love -- offenders of this ancient taboo often faced extreme consequences. Mr. Speaker, I am in full support of reauthorizing the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA).
While I fully support reauthorization of an Act of Congress that since 1994 has been an essential tool to protect victims of domestic and sexual violence, I do however have some major concerns with H.R. 4970, legislation before us today. Unlike the Senate reauthorization bill, S. 1925, introduced by Senators Patrick Leahy and Mike Crapo and was passed by the Senate last month with strong bipartisan support, H.R. 4970 introduced by my colleague Ms. Sandy Adams, will effectively bring more harm than protect victims of domestic violence.
Mr. Speaker, unlike S. 1925, H.R. 4970 offers no protection for Indian spouses abused on tribal land. Under a 1978 Supreme Court decision, non-Indians cannot be prosecuted by tribal courts for crimes committed on tribal land. Last July, the Justice Department recommended that Congress give tribes local authority to prosecute non-Indians in misdemeanor domestic and dating violence cases.
Mr. Speaker, the Senate reauthorization bill, S. 1925, will do just that. It will recognize certain tribes' concurrent jurisdiction to investigate, prosecute, convict, and sentence persons who assault Indian spouses, intimate partners, or dating partners, or who violate protection orders, in Indian country. It recognizes that tribal nations may be best able to address in their own communities - neither the United States nor any State would lose any criminal jurisdiction as a result. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4970 on the other hand, completely ignores this ongoing injustice against Indian spouses, wives or partners, on tribal lands.
I am also disappointed that certain provisions in H.R. 4970 would strip away some of the existing protection for immigrant victims of abusive relationships. As it stands now, VAWA allows battered immigrants to petition for their own immigrant status, independent of their abusive spouses and thus freeing them from their spouse's abuse and control. If enacted however, H.R. 4970 will allow immigration officers to interview an alleged offender and consider the information obtained in making a determination about the adjudication of a battered immigrant's petition for status. This allows abusers to manipulate the immigration process to cause further harm on the victim. Moreover, it will reveal confidential information necessary to protect the victim and her children from the unwanted advances of an abusive spouse or partner.
Mr. Speaker, in the ancient Samoan culture, it is a great shame to the male sibling if any harm or injury happens to the "sacred child". It is within this cultural context, and also with a deep sense of fairness and justice that I urge my colleagues to pass the Senate reauthorization bill. The house bill H.R. 4970, while it was written with good intention, does not do justice for the women of this country.
I yield back the balance of my time.
The Congressman further added, "Because the Senate and House may not be able to resolve the differences in the two reauthorization bills, existing programs and funding under VAWA face imminent cuts, hence, putting those critical programs in jeopardy."
"However, this is an opportunity for our local leaders to take a hard look at our existing laws and to find ways to improve protection for women. I would specifically like for our Attorney General to render an opinion whether our laws are strong enough to protect women from all kinds of abuse."
"It is sad to see the latest findings in the UNICEF report on violence against women and children. Unfortunately, societal attitudes that convey acceptance or justification of domestic violence still exist in our societies today."
"Protecting women from any form of abuse is an obligation for our leaders, not only in the context of fairness and justice, but also from a cultural perspective," Congressman Faleomavaega concluded.
Eni on U.S. -- Malaysia relations
Washington, D.C. -- U.S.-MALAYSIA RELATIONS
Ranking Member Eni Faleomavaega of the Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific announced today that he visited Malaysia from April 4-11, 2012 where he met with Prime Minister Dato Sri Najib Razak, other government officials and NGOs. Faleomavaega shares his thoughts in the following op-ed about U.S.-Malaysia relations.
In Samoan, we have a saying - Ou te le to'ai fa'a i'a a po - which means I do not come secretly like a fish in the night, but I am here to meet you all, to converse with you, to tell you my wishes.
My wishes for the good people of Malaysia are simple. My wish is that the United States and Malaysia will keep up what we have and expand our partnership in a way that transforms us. Prime Minister Dato Sri Najib Razak said it like this. He said, "As the most ethnically diverse people in the region, Malaysians have always embraced outsiders and, while we may not see eye to eye on every issue or approve of everything each other says or does, as long as I am Prime Minister you will always be welcome in our country."
As a Member of the U.S. Congress and in my official capacity as the Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific, I say the same to the people of Malaysia. You will always be welcome in the U.S., and I thank you for welcoming back young Americans to serve as volunteers.
After a 30-year lapse, I applaud President Barack Obama and Prime Minister Najib for their leadership in fostering closer relations by reviving the spirit of the Peace Corps program through the Fulbright English Teaching Assistant program. Prime Minister Najib requested U.S. support for English-language education in Malaysia, and President Obama responded by providing Fulbright volunteers who will assist Malaysia's next generation with the critical English-language skills necessary to succeed in our globalized economy.
The United States and Malaysia have a long history of people-to-people exchanges. Over 100,000 Malaysians have studied in the United States. More than 1,500 Malaysians are alumni of the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP). Together, we are making lasting memories and promoting mutual understanding and respect.
Since 2009, the U.S.-Malaysia relationship has become stronger than it has ever been. The United States is Malaysia's fourth-largest trading partner and Malaysia is the 22nd largest trading partner of the United States. Two-way trade between our nations amounts to about $40 billion annually. On a cumulative basis, the United States is the largest foreign investor in Malaysia.
In 2010, Malaysia joined negotiations for the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) free trade agreement (FTA). The TPP is a proposed regional free trade agreement between Australia, Brunei, Chile, Malaysia, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, the United States and Vietnam. If implemented, it would be the second largest U.S. free trade agreement after NAFTA, based on trade flows. We also cooperate closely on security.
Since taking office, President Obama has stressed the need for a renewed focus on the Asia and the Pacific. The Asia Pacific region has become a key driver of global politics. No region of the world is more dynamic than Asia. The Asia Pacific region has seven of the ten largest armies in the world. As Senator Inouye said years ago, "for every 747 that flies across the Atlantic Ocean to the United States, four 747s fly between the U.S. and the Asia Pacific region."
The Asia Pacific region is home to more than 60% of the world's population and more than half of the global GDP. The United States is the largest TPP market in GDP and population. In merchandise trade, the United States imports more from Malaysia than any other TPP country.
No doubt the U.S. needs to renew its engagement with the region, and I am pleased that we are doing this in Malaysia. During my visit to Malaysia, I had the opportunity to observe your political process. I met with you on the streets and in your shops. I had breakfast at a Chinese-owned shop that has been run by the same family for more than three generations. I ate your ethnic foods. I saw you at Pasar Batu Bahat.
I attended a rally where more than 70,000 of you gathered, and it was my privilege to meet with PM Najib during my visit. What I saw in PM Najib's character and demeanor is a leader who is committed to the establishment of peace and prosperity for the people of Malaysia. It was also clear to me that, like President Obama, PM Najib wants to establish a closer relationship between our two countries.
I commend both leaders and, as you move forward with your elections, it is my wish that you will remember that Malaysia is an independent and sovereign nation. As such, you should never surrender to any type of foreign interference in your elections, whether it be from another government, an ally or even non-government organizations (NGOs).
Malaysia has a bright future if you hold together. My wish is that you will hold together as one Malaysia, and that we will remain partners and friends for years to come.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 10, 2012
Washington, D.C. - Faleomavaega represents American Samoa and the Pacific Islander Community in Asian Pacific American Heritage Month celebrations in the Nation's Capital
Congressman Faleomavaega, along with fellow members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) and House Democratic Leadership, celebrated Asian Pacific American (APA) Heritage Month and offered remarks to an audience of over 500 APA community leaders during a CAPAC ceremony in the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday, May 8, 2012.
The ceremony featured remarks by over a dozen CAPAC members including Chairwoman Judy Chu (CA), as well as House Democratic Leadership including Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi (CA), Democratic Whip Steny Hoyer (MD), and Democratic Caucus Chairman John Larson (CT).
Chairwoman Chu began the morning with a call to action for the AAPI community, followed by a keynote speech offered by Senator Daniel K. Akaka (HI), who has served in Congress since 1977 and will retire later this year. Senator Akaka was also Secretary of the Executive Board when CAPAC was founded in 1994.
Following remarks by Democratic Caucus Chairman John Larson, Congressman Faleomavaega, who is a member of the CAPAC Executive Board and Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs’ Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific, drew attention to the contributions of the APA community, especially Pacific Islanders. He also highlighted the increasing significance of the Asia-Pacific region in U.S. Foreign Policy and called on leaders to continue to advocate for fair treatment and opportunities for Asian-Pacific Islanders in our nation.
"I am honored to be able to represent American Samoa and especially our Pacific Islander community in the States as well as the U.S. Territories when it comes to these historic discussions regarding the Asia- Pacific American community, including the progress we have made as well as the issues we must still address," Congressman Faleomavaega stated.
Among other attendees and speakers at the Ceremony were CAPAC Vice Chair Madeleine Z. Bordallo (GU), CAPAC Chair Emeritus Mike Honda (CA), CAPAC Education Taskforce Chair Mazie Hirono (HI), CAPAC Civil Rights Taskforce Chair Bobby Scott (VA), CAPAC Health Taskforce Chair Barbara Lee (CA), CAPAC Housing Taskforce Chair Al Green (TX), Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan (CNMI), Congresswoman Jackie Speier (CA), Congressman Joe Crowley (NY), Congresswoman Laura Richardson (CA), Congressman Brad Sherman (CA), and CAPAC founding members former Congressman and Secretary Norman Y. Mineta and former Congressman Robert Underwood of Guam.
Following the CAPAC ceremony, Congressman Faleomavaega hosted a group of 25 Pacific Islander leaders who were visiting Washington to address Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander issues at various meetings with federal government leaders. The Coalition members, who came from California, Michigan, and Washington State, joined Congressman Faleomavaega in his Washington office to discuss some of the prevalent issues affecting the Pacific Islander community.
Later that evening Faleomavaega, along with other CAPAC Members, elected officials and APA community leaders, continued the APA Heritage Month celebration during the 18th Annual Gala Awards Dinner presented by the Asia-Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies (APAICS). The keynote speech was offered by President Barack Obama, the first U.S. President with Pacific ties.
Founded in 1994, CAPAC is comprised of Members of Congress who have Asian or Pacific Islander roots or have a strong dedication to promoting the well-being of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. Originally founded alongside CAPAC in 1994 as the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus Institute, APAICS continues to support CAPAC by serving as a resource to Congress and promoting a politically active and civically engaged Asia-Pacific American community.
"I thank President Barack Obama, my CAPAC colleagues, and the House Democratic leadership in Congress for their efforts on behalf of Asian-Pacific Americans across the United States, and I also thank our Pacific Islander leaders who took part in the APA Heritage Month events in our nation's Capital and who took the time to express the needs of our community in our meeting together."
"No other community in the U.S. represents the diversity of our great nation more than the 18.5 million Americans who make up the Asian-Pacific American community. An inherently diverse population, Asian-Pacific Americans comprise over 45 distinct ethnicities and over 100 languages and dialects," Congressman Faleomavaega added.
"Emerging from a history of severe discrimination, Asian-Pacific Americans have become increasingly represented in the arenas of civic engagement, business, media, arts, and academia, to name a few. As we pay tribute this May to the contributions of generations past and reflect on how far we have come, we must also raise awareness of our ongoing challenges and work towards keeping Asian-Pacific Americans at the table when it comes to major policy decisions that shape the course of our Nation."
"Last but not least, I honor our Asian-Pacific Americans who have dedicated their lives to serving our nation in the U.S. Armed Forces, including those from my district of American Samoa. Let us also pay tribute to their sacrifices as we celebrate our heritage and freedoms," Congressman Faleomavaega concluded.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 10, 2012
Washington, D.C. - Faleomavaega to speak at funeral service for Junior Se'au
Congressman Faleomavaega today announced that by invitation of the Se'au family, he will be speaking during the final funeral service for Junior Se'au this Friday in Oceanside, California. Funeral plans for Junior Se'au, according to the family, include a private viewing and family service this evening, May 10, and final service on Friday, May 11, followed with burial at Eternal Hills in Oceanside. Following the burial, the Chargers organization and the City of San Diego will open Qualcomm Stadium to pay a special tribute to Junior Se'au who played for 20 seasons in the NFL, including 13 for the San Diego Chargers. The event will be open to the public.
"Junior Se'au's sudden death was a tragedy that shocked everyone who knew and admired him. I was very saddened upon hearing news of Junior's passing," Faleomavaega said. "I want to thank Junior's parents, Tiaina and Luisa, and the Se'au family for inviting me to speak at Junior's final service on Friday. I am honored to have been given the opportunity to pay tribute so such a special young man and son of American Samoa."
"As family, friends, teammates, and fans gather to pay respects to Junior this week, and as the country mourns the loss of this truly inspirational young leader and Samoan man, I would like to extend to all, especially to Junior’s parents and children, our heartfelt sympathy on behalf of Samoans everywhere” Faleomavaega continued.
"For a Samoan boy with roots in a small place called American Samoa to become an NFL superstar and national icon is a remarkable feat that I felt it important for me to also pay a special tribute to Junior in the House Chamber - to acknowledge some of his outstanding achievements and major contributions to society and people of Samoa," Faleomavaega said.
On Wednesday, May 9, 2012, one week after Se'au's death, Congressman Faleomavaega delivered a speech on the House Floor, paying a special tribute to Junior Se'au. Next, on his right and displayed prominently on an easel on the House Floor, was a poster-sized photo of Junior Se'au with Faleomavaega and Paramount Chief, Afioga i le Maoputasi Mauga of Pago Pago, American Samoa. The photo was taken in 2006 during the annual celebration marking the relationship between Pago Pago, American Samoa and Oceanside, California as sister-cities that was attended by both Afioga Mauga and Faleomavaega.
Following is the complete text of Faleomavaega's speech on the House Floor.
Mr. Speaker:
I rise today with deep sympathy in order to offer my condolences to the family and friends of a beloved, son, father, brother, uncle, leader, a dear friend, an NFL Great and a son of American Samoa, Junior Seau, whose life ended tragically on the morning of May 2nd, 2012 in Oceanside, California.
It is a very sad time for not only the national sports world but also for our Polynesian community. We have lost a Samoan brother who was an icon in football and a pioneer for many of our Polynesian sons who are in the National Football League today. A beautiful life has come to a tragic end, yet we remember Junior as a young man full of life, a charismatic leader able to light up any room, a devoted son and father and community leader. We remember the strength of this unique individual, a true Samoan warrior.
Junior Seau was born Tiaina Baul Seau Jr. on January 19, 1969 in San Diego, California to American Samoan parents, Mr. Tiaina Seau, Sr. of the village of Aunu’u, and Mrs. Luisa Mauga Seau of the village of Aoa. After Junior was born, the family returned to American Samoa where Junior would grow up for several years before returning to the San Diego area.
Junior attended Oceanside High School where he lettered in football, basketball, as well as track and field for the Oceanside Pirates. In football, he was a starter at linebacker and tight end and received numerous awards for his achievements as a student-athlete. In 1987, the year he graduated, Parade Magazine selected Seau to its high school All-American team. He was also named California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) San Diego Section Defensive Player of the Year, All-North County, Avocado League Offensive Player of the Year, as well as being named to California's all-academic team with a 3.6 grade-point average.
After graduating high school, Seau played for the University of Southern California Trojans from 1987 to 1990, and in 2009 would be inducted into the USC Hall of Fame.
In the 1990 NFL Draft, Junior was drafted in the First Round and 5th Overall Pick by the San Diego Chargers. Seau immediately became the heart and soul of the Chargers defense, earning the nickname "Tasmanian Devil" for his passion and explosive athletic skill on the field. In the locker room and on the field, Seau had an innate ability to motivate his teammates. He was named the NFL's Defensive Player of the Year in 1998 and 1999 and was voted the Chargers' Most Inspirational Player in 1997 and 2002.
Junior played in 12 consecutive Pro Bowls from 1991 to 2002, the most of any player in Chargers history and tied for the third-longest streak ever in the NFL. He was also selected All-Pro six times in his career and he led the Chargers to their first ever Super Bowl appearance in 1995.
After 13 years in San Diego, he played three years for the Miami Dolphins where he received the Miami Dolphins' Don Shula Leadership Award for two consecutive years. After only one day of retirement in 2006, he answered the call by the New England Patriots and became Defensive Co-Captain during the Patriots' 18-0 season that took the team to the Super Bowl in 2008. Junior finally retired in 2010, having played 20 seasons in the NFL and finishing with a career 1,849 tackles, 56.5 sacks, 18 interceptions, three forced fumbles, and 21 pass deflections.
Junior Seau is widely acknowledged as one of the best linebackers in NFL history, but his passion and success in football was paralleled in his community involvement and in his work off the field.
In 1992, Junior established the Junior Seau Foundation, giving San Diego-area youth ongoing support for programs that inspire them to face life's challenges with enthusiasm, hope, and dignity. Since its inception, the Foundation has distributed nearly $4 million to organizations providing services to children and young adults, including over $800,000 in scholarships through the Scholars of Excellence program and over $330,000 in Junior's "Shop with A Jock" program, which provides for underprivileged youth to shop alongside a professional or college athlete for Christmas gifts for their families. In April 2007, the Wall Street Journal ranked the Junior Seau Foundation as the 13th largest Professional Athlete Foundation based on assets.
As much as he was an outstanding football player, Junior will also be remembered as a humanitarian, as a supporter for those who needed help the most, as a dear friend, and as a motivational figure. He was a charismatic leader who could not walk into a room without having an effect on those around him. He was loved by everyone who knew him, and his magnetism both on and off the field impacted people nationwide and any individual he encountered.
When one speaks of Samoans in the NFL, Mr. Speaker, Junior Seau is one of the first names that come to mind. Junior was an ambassador for Asian and Pacific American, and through his success he was able to broaden the public’s understanding and appreciation of our Polynesian people. Reaching the NFL is a dream of many young men, but Junior Seau gave young Samoan men an image of success in the league – something that they could aspire to.
In closing today, I would like to offer words of comfort to the Seau family, especially Mr. Tiaina Seau Sr. and Mrs. Luisa Seau, Junior's parents, as well as Junior's children, his siblings, and his extended family, or as we say in Samoan, his aiga.
In the Book of Romans, Chapter 12, Verse 15 we are called to "rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep." In all of Junior's amazing accomplishments throughout his life, we have rejoiced with the Seau family, sharing your joy. And now in this time of great sorrow, we stand with you, though with heavy hearts, sharing in your grief.
Ia manuia lau faigamalaga Junior.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 3, 2012
Washington, D.C. - FEMA approves close to $3 million in Federal Funding for Futiga and Leone road-projects
Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that he has been informed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that the American Samoa Government will receive close to $3 million in federal funding for two road projects in Futiga and Leone.
Federal funding for the Futiga-Road Communication Mitigation Undergrounding (Futiga Road Mitigation Project) and the Leone-Road Communications Mitigation Undergrounding (Leone Road Mitigation Project) are provided by FEMA’s Hazarad Mitigation Grant Program.
For the Futiga Road Mitigation Project, the total project will cost a little over $1.9 million with 90-percent federal share, which means the federal government will fund more than $1.7 million of the total cost. The work to be done, which covers part of the road from Ili'ili up to the Taputimu turnoff, includes replacing utility timber poles and overhead copper and fiber cable, with underground construction of conduits and vaults.
For the Leone Road Mitigation Project, the total cost is a little over $1.1 million with the federal government funding $1.02 million or 90-percent of the total amount. The proposed work will start at the intersection of Taputimu and Lepuapua among Route 1 main road towards the Leone Digital Central Office and will also include replacing utility timber poles and overhead copper and fiber cable with underground construction of conduits and vaults.
"FEMA's approval of these grants underscore the federal government's commitment to help strengthen our roads and infrastructure in light of the devastation of the 2009 Tsunami, and I thank Administrator Fugate and Secretary Napolitano for continuing to see the need for mitigation in American Samoa," Faleomavaega said.
"I also want to commend Governor Togiola and his administration for their efforts in pursuing these federal grants, which are intended to develop hazard mitigation measures that are vital to reduce losses from future disasters in the Territory," Faleomavaega concluded.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 30, 2012
Washington, D.C. - Faleomavaega stands with Democratic colleagues to fight for Territory's Medicaid funding
Congressman Faleomavaega today announced that he will continue to work with his Democratic colleagues in Congress to ensure that critical funding for American Samoa's Medicaid program is not affected by Republican proposals to significantly reduce federal healthcare funding for the five U.S. Territories.
The Republican proposed cuts to American Samoa's Medicaid program originated in the House Committee on Energy and Commerce which oversees healthcare issues. The legislation, put forward by Republican Chairman Fred Upton, seeks to repeal a provision of Affordable Care Act (ACA) that provided $6.3 billion in additional funding for Medicaid in the territories from FY 2011 to FY 2019, and increased the territories’ Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) from 50% to 55%. The proposal follows the Republican's own directive in the FY 2013 budget approved by the House last month that required the Energy and Commerce Committee to submit legislation to reduce the deficit by $96.76 billion over the next decade.
In a letter to Chairman Fred Upton, dated April 20, 2012, Congressman Faleomavaega, along with his colleagues from the U.S. Territories, Pedro Pierluisi (Puerto Rico), Donna Christensen (U.S. Virgin Islands), Madeleine Bordallo (Guam), and Gregorio “Kilili” Camacho Sablan (Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands), voiced their strong opposition to the proposed cuts. Another letter to Chairman Upton, dated April 25, 2012, from all Democratic members of the House Natural Resources Committee, led by Ranking Member Edward Markey and including Congressman Faleomavaega, denounced the Republican proposed legislation.
Furthermore, Representative Donna Christensen of the U.S Virgin Islands, a member of the Energy and Commerce Committee, offered an amendment to block the Republican proposal in the Committee. But the amendment was defeated on a party-line vote of 30 to 21. The bill passed in Committee on April 25, 2012 and is expected to be considered by the full House in the coming weeks.
"While I understand the need for fiscal reform and the important work we must do in Congress to reduce the deficit, I do not believe that any budget alternative should be taken out on America’s most vulnerable populations," Congressman Faleomavaega stated.
"The residents of the five U.S. Territories, numbering more than 4 million, have historically received unequal treatment under the Medicaid program in comparison to the States. For example, some of the country's poorest states receive upwards of 80 percent in their federal matching requirement (FMAP) for Medicaid and do not have a mandated funding cap on their Medicaid program. The Affordable Care Act, passed in 2010 without a single Republican vote, sought to address some of these disparities. While it did not fully close the inequality gap, it did provide a major step forward for the Territories. Out of the $6.3 billion in additional funding to the Territories, the ACA increased American Samoa's Medicaid funding to a total of $285.5 million over the nine year period from FY 2011-FY 2019, compared to $105 million without the legislation."
"The Affordable Care Act was a major step forward for American Samoa and the U.S. Territories, but this Republican bill only seeks to reverse our progress towards equality under the Medicaid program. If this bill were to be enacted, American Samoa's FY 2012 funding cap of approximately $28 million will revert back to a pre-ACA ceiling of approximately $10.6 million next year," said Congressman Faleomavaega.
"At this time, I, along with my fellow Territorial delegates will continue to work hard to ensure that this bill does not become law. It is highly unlikely that the Senate will pass or the President will sign into law such a bill that would repeal such important funding for our Territories."
"As stated in our joint Territorial letter to Chairman Upton, this proposal has sent 'a terrible message of exclusion to our constituents' by proposing to cut every single dollar of our new funding under the Affordable Care Act. The President's Administration has offered several alternatives to deficit reduction, and like my Democratic colleagues from the Territories as well as our Territorial governors, I do not believe that taking important funding away from our needy healthcare systems in the Territories is a good solution to the deficit."
"I thank my colleagues for their tireless advocacy on behalf of more than 4 million residents in the U.S. Territories, and I ensure the people of American Samoa that we will continue to fight hard to protect the Territory's Medicaid funding," Faleomavaega concluded.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 4, 2011
Washington, D.C. - Faleomavaega contratulates CSM Isaia T. Vimoto on his selection as Command Sergeant Major of the XVIII Airborne Corps
Congressman Faleomavaega today offered his congratulations to CSM Isaia T. Vimoto on his recent selection as the next Command Sergeant Major of the XVIII Airborne Corps. Previously, CSM Vimoto was Command Sergeant Major of the 1st Cavalry Division which had just returned home last month to Fort Hood, Texas after a one year deployment to Afghanistan.
According to its website, the XVIII Airborne Corps, with headquarters at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, is designed for rapid deployment anywhere in the world. Referred to as "America's Contingency Corps" it is the Army's largest war fighting organization. As of 2009, it consists of approximately 45,000 soldiers in one division and five separate brigades.
CSM Isaia "Ace" Vimoto is the son of Vimoto Tauanu'u of Ta'u, Manu'a, American Samoa and Soosootuliaigamalietoa of Malie, Samoa. Isaia is married to Misimua Aiono of Pago Pago, American Samoa and they have five children - daughters Sabrina and Ariel, and sons Isaia Jr., Nephi, and the late PFC Timothy Ray Vimoto who was killed on June 5, 2007 while serving in Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
"Command Sergeant Major Isaia "Ace" Vimoto is an outstanding soldier and a proven leader with the many successive leadership positions he has held during his 30 years in the military, thus far, and I am pleased the Army recognizes his leadership with his selection to this new position as Command Sergeant Major of the XVIII Airborne Corps," Faleomavaega said.
"I appreciate CSM Vimoto's commitment and service to our nation, especially, after he lost a son who was just beginning to follow his father's footsteps in the Army. His son, PFC Timothy Ray Vimoto, was only 19 years of age when he died, June 2007, from gunshot injuries sustained while serving in Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Like retired Command Sergeant Major Ioakimo Falaniko who also lost a son, Private Jonathan Falaniko, while serving together in Iraq, CSM Vimoto remained strong and kept his commitment and service to our country."
Command Sergeant Major Isaia T. Vimoto joined the military under the COHORT program from American Samoa in 1981. He has served in many leadership positions to include Team Leader, Squad Leader, Scout Team Leader, Scout Platoon Sergeant, Airborne Infantry Platoon Sergeant, First Sergeant, Assistant Commandant of The Sabalauski Air Assault School (1SG), Operations Sergeant Major, BN Command Sergeant Major, Brigade Command Sergeant Major; and Division Command Sergeant Major.
His military education includes Primary Leadership Development Course, Basic Noncommissioned Officer Course, Army Advanced Noncommissioned Officer Course, the United States Army Sergeants Major Academy and the Keystone Course. He also completed the following courses: Basic Airborne, Jump Master Course, Ranger School, Air Assault School, Drill Sergeant School, Rappel Master Course, Special Operations Training Course, and Master Fitness Course.
CSM Vimoto's assignments include several overseas and many on Continental United States. His awards and decorations include numerous medals and ribbons. He is the recipient of the prestigious Sergeant Audie Murphy Club and Sergeant Morales Club awards, as well as the Infantry Order of Saint Maurice, the Field Artillery Order of Saint Barbara, and the Combat Spurs.
"I commend CSM Vimoto for his many accomplishments and his tremendous service to our country. I also want to acknowledge the great support by his wife Misimua and their children. I wish Vimoto well in his new assignment and responsibilities at the XVIII Airborne Corps," Faleomavaega concluded.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 2, 2012
Washington, D.C. - Faleomavaega offers deepest condolences to the family and friends of the late Junior Seau
Congressman Faleomavaega today offered his personal condolences to family and friends who are mourning the passing of Junior Seau earlier this morning. Junior Seau played in the National Football League (NFL) for almost 20 years.
Junior was raised in American Samoa as a child until his family returned to California. He attended Oceanside High School and after graduation played for the University of Southern California. In the 1990 NFL Draft, Junior was drafted in the First Round and 5th Overall Pick by the San Diego Chargers.
Junior played in 12 consecutive Pro Bowls from 1991-2002 and was selected All-Pro 6 times in his career. He led the Chargers to their first ever Super Bowl appearance in 1995 and he was a member of the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLII. In his NFL career, Junior played for the San Diego Chargers, Miami Dolphins, and the New England Patriots.
Junior Seau is the son of Tiaina Seau, Sr. of the village of Aunu'u and Luisa Mauga of the village of Aoa.
"It is a very sad time for not only the national sports world but also for our Polynesian community," said Faleomavaega. "We have lost a Samoan brother who was an icon in football and a pioneer for many of our Polynesian sons who are in the National Football League today."
"Junior was not only recognized as an athlete and an entertainer but a humanitarian and supporter for those who needed help the most. Even as he continued to succeed in football, Junior worked tirelessly to help troubled youth and those in need. I recall attending a White House ceremony in 2005 when President George W. Bush awarded Junior with the President's Volunteer of the Year Award for his work in helping the youth through the Junior Seau Foundation."
"He supported and contributed to our Samoan community in Southern California. Junior was so popular that he even had a television show on a national network channel. Junior was an ambassador for Asian and Pacific Americans and through his success he was able to broaden the public's understanding and appreciation of our Polynesian cultures."
"I pray that God comforts those who are mourning the passing of a great Samoan warrior. Our thoughts and prayers are with Junior's parents and family during this tragic
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 3, 2012
Washington, D.C. - FEMA approves close to $3 million in Federal Funding for Futiga and Leone road-projects
Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that he has been informed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that the American Samoa Government will receive close to $3 million in federal funding for two road projects in Futiga and Leone.
Federal funding for the Futiga-Road Communication Mitigation Undergrounding (Futiga Road Mitigation Project) and the Leone-Road Communications Mitigation Undergrounding (Leone Road Mitigation Project) are provided by FEMA's Hazarad Mitigation Grant Program.
For the Futiga Road Mitigation Project, the total project will cost a little over $1.9 million with 90-percent federal share, which means the federal government will fund more than $1.7 million of the total cost. The work to be done, which covers part of the road from Ili'ili up to the Taputimu turnoff, includes replacing utility timber poles and overhead copper and fiber cable, with underground construction of conduits and vaults.
For the Leone Road Mitigation Project, the total cost is a little over $1.1 million with the federal government funding $1.02 million or 90-percent of the total amount. The proposed work will start at the intersection of Taputimu and Lepuapua among Route 1 main road towards the Leone Digital Central Office and will also include replacing utility timber poles and overhead copper and fiber cable with underground construction of conduits and vaults.
"FEMA's approval of these grants underscore the federal government's commitment to help strengthen our roads and infrastructure in light of the devastation of the 2009 Tsunami, and I thank Administrator Fugate and Secretary Napolitano for continuing to see the need for mitigation in American Samoa," Faleomavaega said.
"I also want to commend Governor Togiola and his administration for their efforts in pursuing these federal grants, which are intended to develop hazard mitigation measures that are vital to reduce losses from future disasters in the Territory," Faleomavaega concluded.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 2, 2012
Washington, D.C. - American Samoa to receive $299,200 for American Samoa Council on Arts, Culture & Humanities
Congressman Faleomavaega today announced that the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) recently awarded $299,200 in federal funding to the American Samoa Council on Arts, Culture & Humanities (Arts Council) through a Partnership Agreement grant.
American Samoa's Partnership Agreement award will extend the NEA's reach and impact by providing support to the Arts Council in developing long-range strategic plans that help to position the arts as an integral part of cultural tourism, community revitalization, economic development, education, and health and human services.
The National Endowment for the Arts was established by Congress in 1965 as an independent agency of the federal government. To date, the NEA has awarded more than $4 billion to support artistic excellence, creativity, and innovation for the benefit of individuals and communities. This year, Partnership Agreement awards were given to 49 state arts agencies, including the territories, and to the country's 6 regional arts organizations, amounting to more than $48.8 million through this category for fiscal year 2012.
In a recent announcement from the NEA, Chairman Rocco Landesman announced that the NEA will award a grant total of 928 grants totaling $77.17 million this year to not-for-profit organizations nationwide. These grants support exemplary projects that will give the public increasing opportunities to engage with the arts. In his statement, Chairman Landesman said, "The arts should be a part of everyday life. Whether it's seeing a performance, visiting a gallery, participating in an art class, or simply taking a walk around a neighborhood enhanced by public art, these grants are ensuring that across the nation, the public is able to experience how art works."
"I thank Chairman Rocco Landesman and his team at the National Endowment for the Arts for their consistent efforts in making sure that the arts remain a vital aspect of our communities nationwide. Specifically for American Samoa, the arts are an integral aspect of our unique cultural contribution to the American family and to our Pacific neighbors. I am thankful that this important federal funding is being dedicated to supporting projects with this critical goal in mind," Congressman Faleomavaega stated.
"I also commend American Samoa Council on Arts, Cultural, and Humanities Executive Director Le'ala Pili and her staff at the Arts Council for their tireless commitment to ensuring that American Samoa benefits from this important grant funding," Faleomavaega added.
"I look forward to the projects and activities that the Arts Council will continue to implement for the benefit of our Territory, preserving our cultural arts for future generations to come," the Congressman concluded.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 30, 2012
Washington, D.C. -- Faleomavaega stands with Democratic colleagues to fight for Territory's Medicaid Funding
Congressman Faleomavaega today announced that he will continue to work with his Democratic colleagues in Congress to ensure that critical funding for American Samoa's Medicaid program is not affected by Republican proposals to significantly reduce federal healthcare funding for the five U.S. Territories.
The Republican proposed cuts to American Samoa's Medicaid program originated in the House Committee on Energy and Commerce which oversees healthcare issues. The legislation, put forward by Republican Chairman Fred Upton, seeks to repeal a provision of Affordable Care Act (ACA) that provided $6.3 billion in additional funding for Medicaid in the territories from FY 2011 to FY 2019, and increased the territories' Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) from 50% to 55%. The proposal follows the Republican's own directive in the FY 2013 budget approved by the House last month that required the Energy and Commerce Committee to submit legislation to reduce the deficit by $96.76 billion over the next decade.
In a letter to Chairman Fred Upton, dated April 20, 2012, Congressman Faleomavaega, along with his colleagues from the U.S. Territories, Pedro Pierluisi (Puerto Rico), Donna Christensen (U.S. Virgin Islands), Madeleine Bordallo (Guam), and Gregorio "Kilili" Camacho Sablan (Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands), voiced their strong opposition to the proposed cuts. Another letter to Chairman Upton, dated April 25, 2012, from all Democratic members of the House Natural Resources Committee, led by Ranking Member Edward Markey and including Congressman Faleomavaega, denounced the Republican proposed legislation.
Furthermore, Representative Donna Christensen of the U.S Virgin Islands, a member of the Energy and Commerce Committee, offered an amendment to block the Republican proposal in the Committee. But the amendment was defeated on a party-line vote of 30 to 21. The bill passed in Committee on April 25, 2012 and is expected to be considered by the full House in the coming weeks.
"While I understand the need for fiscal reform and the important work we must do in Congress to reduce the deficit, I do not believe that any budget alternative should be taken out on America's most vulnerable populations," Congressman Faleomavaega stated.
"The residents of the five U.S. Territories, numbering more than 4 million, have historically received unequal treatment under the Medicaid program in comparison to the States. For example, some of the country's poorest states receive upwards of 80 percent in their federal matching requirement (FMAP) for Medicaid and do not have a mandated funding cap on their Medicaid program. The Affordable Care Act, passed in 2010 without a single Republican vote, sought to address some of these disparities. While it did not fully close the inequality gap, it did provide a major step forward for the Territories. Out of the $6.3 billion in additional funding to the Territories, the ACA increased American Samoa's Medicaid funding to a total of $285.5 million over the nine year period from FY 2011-FY 2019, compared to $105 million without the legislation."
"The Affordable Care Act was a major step forward for American Samoa and the U.S. Territories, but this Republican bill only seeks to reverse our progress towards equality under the Medicaid program. If this bill were to be enacted, American Samoa's FY 2012 funding cap of approximately $28 million will revert back to a pre-ACA ceiling of approximately $10.6 million next year," said Congressman Faleomavaega.
"At this time, I, along with my fellow Territorial delegates will continue to work hard to ensure that this bill does not become law. It is highly unlikely that the Senate will pass or the President will sign into law such a bill that would repeal such important funding for our Territories."
"As stated in our joint Territorial letter to Chairman Upton, this proposal has sent 'a terrible message of exclusion to our constituents' by proposing to cut every single dollar of our new funding under the Affordable Care Act. The President's Administration has offered several alternatives to deficit reduction, and like my Democratic colleagues from the Territories as well as our Territorial governors, I do not believe that taking important funding away from our needy healthcare systems in the Territories is a good solution to the deficit."
"I thank my colleagues for their tireless advocacy on behalf of more than 4 million residents in the U.S. Territories, and I ensure the people of American Samoa that we will continue to fight hard to protect the Territory's Medicaid funding," Faleomavaega concluded.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 5, 2012
Washington, D.C. - U.S. Department of Health and Human Services makes available $39,645 in HIV care grants to American Samoa Department of Health
Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has made available $39,645 to the American Samoa Department of Health and (DOH) through the Ryan White Title II Formula Grants Program.
The program is funded through Sections 2611-22 of Title XXVI of the Public Health Service Act, as amended by the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Extension Act of 2009, which was passed by Congress (Public Law 111-87) and signed by President Barack Obama on October 30, 2009.
The Ryan White Program is the largest federal program specifically dedicated to providing HIV care and treatment and it assists States and Territories in developing and/or enhancing access to a comprehensive continuum of high quality, community-based care for low-income individuals and families living with HIV.
In July 2010, the White House released the National HIV/AIDS Strategy (NHAS) which has three primary goals: 1) reducing the number of people who become infected with HIV, 2) increasing access to care and optimizing health outcomes for people living with HIV and 3) reducing HIV-related health disparities. This grant supports the NHAS goals of increasing access to care, optimizing health outcomes, and reducing HIV-related health disparities.
The yearly grant which is renewed through competing continuation each year will fund one-year of services in American Samoa starting April 1, 2012. The overall funding for the Ryan White Program is $1.2 billion dollars annually with an estimated number of 59 awards nationally.
"I am pleased that the American Samoa Department of Health has continued to apply for and be awarded this grant and I am thankful that it will be a significant building block in our local efforts to improve community-based care and optimize health outcomes in American Samoa," Faleomavaega stated.
"This program will assist the American Samoa Department of Health in supporting individuals and families living with HIV/AIDS, and I am proud that the Democrats pushed for this kind of funding and commitment."
"I especially thank Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and her team at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, as well as the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), for making available these funds to assist the people of American Samoa in our community health efforts," the Congressman concluded.
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