| Skelton says Missouri families should consider Show-Me State vacation plans |
By: U.S. Rep. Ike Skelton
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Congressman Ike Skelton
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WASHINGTON, D.C. (June 7, 2009) — June marks the beginning of the traditional summer travel and vacation season — something most of us no doubt look forward to. However, with families worried about the health of the economy and the impact of rising gas prices on their pocketbooks, many will find that staying close to home can stretch their travel budget while treating them to the world-class attractions we have in our own backyard.
Regardless of which corner of the Show-Me State a family visits, a Missouri vacation is an exciting destination with countless opportunities. From the stunning views in the Ozarks, to the scenic Katy Trail and the historic home of President Harry S. Truman, Missouri has much to offer. Even in Missouri’s Fourth Congressional District, there are tourist opportunities abound — historic cities and towns, state parks, and recreational lakes, including the Lake of the Ozarks, Pomme de Terre Lake, Stockton Lake, and Truman Lake.
As a lifelong student of history, visiting Civil War battlefields in the Show-Me state has always been one of my favorite vacation activities. In my hometown of Lexington, families can visit the battlefield of the Battle of Lexington, where General Sterling Price and the pro-Confederate Missouri State Guard defeated the Union troops led by Col. James A. Mulligan. Guests may explore the 100-acre site of the Battle of Lexington and may tour the Anderson House, a fiercely contested prize in this Civil War battle.
Missouri residents can enjoy these opportunities and affordable getaways while also helping the tourism industry and the thousands of jobs it supports throughout the state. In Missouri, the tourism industry generates more than $8 billion in sales, putting valuable money into Missouri’s economy each year, and supports more than 290,000 employees throughout the Show-Me State.
Tourism dollars also play an important part in the life and economy of rural Missouri. For instance, outdoor tourism activities, from hiking to boating and fishing to bird-watching, provide a vital financial resource for rural areas and support more than 22,000 jobs throughout our state.
This summer, I encourage families to stay close to home and explore the wonderful opportunities that Missouri has to offer. To plan a family vacation in the Show-Me State visit www.mo.gov/mo/traveling.htm or call the Missouri Division of Tourism’s toll-free number at (800) 519-2100. For information on vacation ideas in Missouri’s Fourth District visit a section of my website on that topic at www.house.gov/skelton/district.shtml.
Congressman Ike Skelton (D-Mo.) serves as chairman of the House Armed Services Committee. Congressman Skelton’s website is at http://www.house.gov/skelton.
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