How important are the Iowa House races this year?  Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour is coming in to help raise funds for state house candidates.

For Immediate Release Contact: SARAH SAUBER
TUESDAY, AUGUST 1, 2006 515-282-xxxx

Haley Barbour plans Iowa visit in August

Mississippi's governor comes to thank Iowans for their assistance in Katrina's aftermath

(DES MOINES) – Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour will visit Iowa this month, marking his first visit since Hurricane Katrina ravaged his home state nearly one year ago.

Barbour will hold a press conference with Reps. Danny Carroll, R-Grinnell, Mike May, R-Spirit Lake. Both legislators assisted in the Mississippi rebuilding efforts during the storm's aftermath.

The press conference will be held at the Des Moines airport on Wednesday, Aug. 16. Details will be forthcoming. Following the press conference, Barbour will keynote a luncheon to benefit House Republican campaign efforts.

“Haley Barbour was a strong leader in the aftermath of Katrina's fury,” said Carroll. “I will proudly stand beside him as he recounts the efforts of the thousands of Iowans who unflinchingly donated their time and resources to help those in need.”

Carroll led a team from Iowa Telecom, where he serves as director of community relations, to provide support and communications services for relief workers.

An Iowa Telecom trailer that was used in the rebuilding efforts will be present for Barbour to tour.

May is a Mississippi City native, and says he felt compelled to help his home state.

“I, along with everyone who watched the devastation that occurred, felt compelled to act,” said May. “Haley's visit underscores his appreciation for Iowa's help with the rebuilding efforts.”

Anyone interested in attending the luncheon should call the Republican Party of Iowa headquarters.