I am hopeful that whatever characteristics are identified will help us in our preparedness efforts.

While the media attention for the H1N1 virus has subsided, this hearing is no less important.

In this country, we are being outspent collectively 100-to-1 when it comes to travel promotion.

We should be about improving kids' education.

I urge members of this panel to work with their colleagues on the Finance Committee to implement a permanent fix so airport private activity bonds are not subject to the AMT penalty.

The system in Washington, and in most other parts of the country, is not working.

Tourism is an indispensable part of our economy and a vital part of our society.

The stimulus to bring people to Las Vegas, to bring people to the United States, to travel between States does equate to jobs.

Travel and tourism is one of America's most successful industries, generating a trade surplus that helps offset the Nation's trade deficit.

We need to get our brand out, but we also need to get the brand of the United States out.

Unemployment is at the highest rate in more than 25 years in the State of Nevada at 10.4 percent.

I think it was irresponsible for the president to -- to be seen kind of laughing and joking with -- with Hugo Chavez.