"The Mississippi River has given those along its banks a difficult few weeks. This week, I'll be sending a letter asking President Bush to honor the Governor's request for federal assistance. I'll continue to do everything I can to assist the communities that have once again been devastated by the mighty Mississippi River.
"I also want to commend the many volunteers who have put in long hours of sandbagging to help keep the flood damage at a minimum. The number of people involved shows how communities can come together in the face of adversity."