U.S. Treasury Secretary John W. Snow will visit Springfield, Missouri on Thursday, August 19 to meet with local business leaders and discuss the President's efforts to strengthen the economy and create jobs.

"As a result of the President's economic leadership, we have overcome a recession and seen 11 straight months of job creation, totaling nearly 1.5 million new U.S. jobs since August 2003," said Secretary Snow.  "So far this year, Missouri has gained nearly 61,000 new jobs and the President's tax reform policies have ensured that more than 2 million Missouri taxpayers will have lower income tax bills in 2004."

During this trip to Missouri, Secretary Snow also will discuss the Administration's efforts to control health care costs, reduce frivolous lawsuits and ensure that America has reliable and affordable sources of energy.

Recent indicators show that President Bush's economic policies continue to move the economy forward.  According to the Labor Department, the national unemployment rate declined to 5.5% in July – down 0.8 percentage point from a peak of 6.3% in June 2003 and the lowest rate since October 2001.  At 5.5%, the unemployment rate is below the average of the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s.  Employment over the last year was up in 46 of the 50 states and the unemployment rate was down in all regions and in 47 of the 50 states. 

The following events are open to the media, which must present media credentials or photo ID:

Thursday, August 19

Tour of Loren Cook Company
10:00 am CDT
2707 North Barnes, Building 5 (updated location)
Springfield, MO
** Media should arrive by 9:15 am

Remarks to Loren Cook Company officials and employees
10:45 am CDT
Loren Cook Company
2015 East Dale Street
Springfield, MO
** A brief press availability will occur immediately following the event

Remarks to Springfield Southeast Rotary
12:00 pm CDT
Mid-America Cancer Center
2055 South Fremont
Springfield, MO 

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