Wrestling legend urges support of Driftless Center

To the Editor:

Almost any chance I get, I go to Lansing. My parents started the tradition years ago and my family of 21 goes there for getaways as often possible.  We enjoy fishing, boating, the restaurants, the scenery and the wildlife. This area is very special to me and my family.

There is also a hill called “Wrestler’s Hill.” It’s a road that many champion wrestlers have used for training. It’s also a reminder of the rewards realized through the investment of persistence.
These are reasons why I agreed to serve as one of the Honorary Campaign Chairs for the Beyond the Plateau capital campaign to build the Driftless Area Education and Visitor Center. Every time I visit, I look forward to seeing the progress of this facility.

The Driftless Center will provide unique educational opportunities for all. I look forward to taking my grandchildren to experience the many unique displays. We look forward to standing on one of the viewing decks with a kiosk and spotting scope to learn about and view the area wildlife and habitat.

I know that the Driftless Center will increase the number of visitors to the area, strengthening the local economy. Tourism generates over $40 million into Allamakee County annually and supports 200 jobs. It is sometimes easy to forget about the impact that tourism has on everyone who lives and works here.

I realize how important it is to create a legacy for future generations. We have that rare opportunity to create something special, by making a gift to the Driftless Area Education and Visitor Center. Please join me in supporting this most worthwhile project.

For more information or to make a gift, please contact the Allamakee County Conservation Board at 563-586-2996.

Dan Gable
Iowa City