A new stamp highlighting the state of Iowa was unveiled today at the visitor’s center of Living History Farms in Urbandale. The new “Greetings from Iowa” stamp features a red barn, a silo and ducks on a pond in front of a green field of crops. Des Moines Postmaster Norm Griese says the Iowa stamp is one of the 50 “Greetings from America” stamps introduced today as part of a joint promotion with the travel industry to spur people to travel. National tourism has been hurt by the September 11th terrorist attacks.He says the stamps send a message that America’s diversity is among its strengths and that though we are many, we are also one. Griese says the 50 stamps show what America means to its people. Griese says it means opportunity, a living heritage, natural wonders and a passion for freedom. The “Greetings from America” stamp promotion includes a contest giving away a free one-week trip to each of the 50 states. Iowa Lieutenant Governor Sally Pederson was at the ceremony and says tourism is important for the nation and the state.Pederson says tourism in Iowa is a four billion dollar industry. She encourages you to use the Iowa stamps.She says the stamps will remind people across the state, the nation and the world to come to Iowa and see what our state has to offer.You can enter the free trip contest by registering at www.seeamerica.org.
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