[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 146 (Monday, September 15, 2008)]
[Senate]
[Page S8527]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  MISSISSIPPI RIVER PARKWAY COMMISSION

 Mr. HARKIN. Mr. President, when I visit eastern Iowa, I often 
drive along the Mississippi River. And there, on any given day, one can 
visit this area and marvel at the sight of the mighty Mississippi River 
winding its way south from Lake Itaska in Minnesota toward the Gulf of 
Mexico--a total distance of over 2,500 miles. From this vantage point, 
high above the river, you see pleasure boaters and fishermen spending 
the day on the water. You can see river barges carrying Iowa corn and 
soybeans to far away markets. And most importantly, you see that this 
is a national treasure that needs to be protected and preserved for all 
generations to come.
  The Mississippi Parkway Commission was created in 1938 in order to 
develop and oversee what was at that time called the Mississippi River 
Parkway. The Parkway Commission is the only organization connecting all 
10 States bordering the Mississippi River, with a mission devoted to 
promoting, preserving, and enhancing the resources of the Mississippi 
River Valley, and to developing the amenities of the Great River Road.
  This year, 10 States, including my home State of Iowa, will celebrate 
the 70th anniversary of the Mississippi River Parkway Commission and 
the Great River Road. Among the many accomplishments of the commision 
of the past 70 years are the development of a Great River Road 
Interpretive Center Network, a consumer Web site, and National Scenic 
Byway designation for the majority of the Great River Road. In carrying 
out its duties, the commission has partnered with a number of Federal 
agencies, including the National Forest Service, the National Park 
Service, the Federal Highway Administration, the U.S. Army Corps of 
Engineers, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Environmental 
Protection Agency.
  On the occasion of its anniversary, I wish to congratulate the 
Mississippi River Parkway Commission, as well as the commission's new 
national Pilot, Patsi Ramicitti from Bettendorf, IA. I am pleased that 
Patsi's energy and dedication to advancing one of the region's most 
vital assets are being recognized. May her efforts and those of all 
past, present and future members of the commission continue to 
strengthen the knowledge of and access to the incredible natural 
resources offered by the mighty Mississippi.

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