Sam Gibbons: “today on behalf of the great State of Nevada, I would like to personally thank the travel and tourism industry because…”

“today on behalf of the great State of Nevada, I would like to personally thank the travel and tourism industry because of its lasting partnership and patronage. Nevada ranks sixth in both direct domestic and international travel spending among all 50 States. Total travel expenditures in Nevada exceed $17 billion, travel payroll climbed well over $5 billion, and it employed more than 307,000 people. To this effect I would like to specifically recognize the Grand Canyon Air Tour Industry which has served southern Nevada and the Grand Canyon for more than 70 years. This service provides enjoyment to over 800,000 passengers annually, of which 30 percent are over the age of 50, to the outstanding air tours of the Grand Canyon, truly one of America's most treasured sites. Without the Grand Canyon tour industry, many handicapped would never be able to enjoy the deep, colored canyons or the magnificent raging Colorado River. Again on behalf of my constituents and the many tourists who visit southern Nevada, thank you for your economic contributions and your continued steadfast service.”