Grand River Excursion ltr Nussl JIM NUSSLE
CHAIRMAN
COMMITTEE ON THE BUDGET
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COMMITTEE ON
WAYS AND MEANS
The Honorable Roy Buol
Mayor Pro-Tem
City of Dubuque
50 West 13th Street
Dubuque, Iowa 52001-4864
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Dear Mr. Buol:
Thank you for inviting me to share a few words about the commemorating the 150th
anniversary of the 1854 Grand Excursion. I regret that my schedule does not allow me to join you
today in person, but I appreciate this opporttmity to share some of my thoughts with you.
As a member of both the Mississippi River Caucus and the Upper Mississippi River Task
Force, I understand the multiple functions and the importance of the Mississippi River. The river
serves our nation as a valuable asset to commerce, recreation, and the environment. It is a living
reminder of our cherished history and the role the Mississippi played in the exploration and the
evolution of the United States. The 2004 Grand Excursion helps to remind Americans and the rest of
the world of the Mississippi River's importance in all of these roles.
Celebrations of the Mississippi River, like the Grand Excursion, are very important to the
communities of eastern Iowa. The Mississippi is recognized throughout the United States and
abroad as "America's River". The Quad Cities area is a popular destination of international travelers
who want to see and touch the water. The City of Dubuque boasts over one million visitors thanks to
the Mississippi. These communities like many on Upper Mississippi River have chosen to make the
story of the river the cornerstone of their urban renewal efforts.
Because I believe in that the Grand Excursion greatly benefits the river cities in my district, I
am a proud sponsor of federal legislation to promote this effort. On February 13, Representative
Leach and I, along with 10 other Upper Mississippi legislators, introduced a resolution to aid river
communities in getting ready for the Grand Excursion and cleanup efforts on the river. Please be
assured that we will work with our fellow Members of Congress to get this resolution approved.
Again, thank you for inviting me to express my support for the 150th anniversary celebration
of the Grand Excursion.
Sincerely
Jim Nussle
Member of Congress
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