[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 104 (Wednesday, July 27, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1610]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  SUPPORTING GOALS OF NATURAL MARINA DAY AND URGING MARINAS CONTINUE 
         PROVIDING ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY GATEWAYS TO BOATING

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                         HON. TIMOTHY H. BISHOP

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 25, 2005

  Mr. BISHOP of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H. 
Res. 308, a bill supporting the goals of National Marina Day, and 
urging that marinas continue providing environmentally friendly 
gateways to boating.
  In my district on Eastern Long Island, business associated with local 
marinas is important to vacationers and residents alike. The tourism 
and fishing industries are two of the most important contributing 
elements of the local economy, and marinas help these economic engines 
create much needed revenue throughout Brookhaven and the five East End 
Towns.
  There are more than 12,000 marinas nationally that benefit local 
communities by providing safe and reliable gateways to boating. The 
marinas of the United States serve as stewards of the environment, and 
they actively protect the waterways that surround them for current and 
future enjoyment.
  The Marina Operators Association of America has designated August 13, 
2005, as National Marina Day to increase awareness among citizens and 
elected officials about the many contributions that marinas make to 
communities, and it is important that Congress support this initiative.
  As vacationers throughout the country flock to the coasts for well-
deserved vacations, it is important that we recognize the significance 
of marinas. I'd therefore echo the Marina Operator's support for 
National Marina Day and urge my colleagues to do the same.

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