Congresswoman Dina Titus of Nevada’s First District spoke on the House floor today to recognize World Tourism Day and celebrate this year’s theme, “Tourism and Water.” Below are her remarks:

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize World Tourism Day. This year’s theme is ‘Tourism and Water: Protecting our Common Future’ and I join with the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority in celebrating this theme.

“For Southern Nevada, this combines two of our most prized resources – tourism and water. Last year, nearly 40 million visitors came to Las Vegas. We also hosted over 21,000 conventions and meetings which brought some 5 million national and international visitors, most of whom spent time in District One.  

“To continue successfully attracting and serving tourists and residents in the middle of the desert, Southern Nevada has learned to be especially conscientious about water usage.

“In Las Vegas, we have found efficient ways to maximize our water usage to enhance the experience for visitors while safeguarding this critical resource for the long-term. Every day, tens of thousands of tourists pass by to take in the majestic beauty of the fountains at the Bellagio, not realizing that they come from recycled water. 

“There’s also CityCenter, a resort destination located on the Strip, which is the world's largest environmentally sustainable, mixed-use new construction development to receive LEED certification. Every year, CityCenter saves nearly 50 million gallons of water and as a tribute to its commitment to sustainability proudly displays an art exhibit of the Colorado River.

“Tourism and water—it’s a great theme. Come and experience it for yourself. Only in District One.

“I yield back.”