TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - U.S. Ambassador for Indonesia Robert O Blake, along with his family, visited residents of Using in Kemiren Village, Banyuwangi, East Java on Thursday, November 20. The visit is to celebrate America’s Thanksgiving Day centered in Banyuwangi.

Robert O Blake is accompanied by U.S. Consulate General to Surabaya Joaquin F. Monserrate along with 20 Mayors and Regents from various regions. A warm traditional welcome was given by the village people. Robert and his entourage is presented with Barong dance and enjoyed lunch typical of Kemiren Village, Pecel Pitik.

Blake expect Thanksgiving Day in Banyuwangi will strengthen relationships between Indonesia and the U.S. Blake said that on this Thanksgiving Day, he considers everyone to be part of his family and friends.

During a dialogue session, not few expect Blake would bring President Barack Obama to visit their village. Residents also request Blake would facilitate village youngsters to visit U.S.

Blake said that photos of him visiting Kemiren Village will be uploaded to the Embassy’s website, so many American people would want to visit Banyuwangi. Blake says he will promote so the people of America would come visit Banyuwangi.

Thanksgiving Day in Banyuwangi is held starting November 20 to 23. Thanksgiving Day in America is the day where families and friends gather with various traditional foods and saying grace for the wonderful things given in life.

IKA NINGTYAS