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 Proclamations Proc. 8187 As we look back on the contributions of the great explorer from Genoa, we also celebrate the many contributions that generations of Italian Americans have made to our Nation. Their service to America and ties to family, faith, and community have strengthened our country and enriched our culture. In commemoration of Columbus' iourney, the Congress, by ioint resolution of April 30, 1934, and modified in 1968 (36 U.S.C. \17707), as amended, has requested that the President proclaim the second Monday of October of each year as "Columbus Day." NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim October 8, 2007, as Columbus Day. I call upon the people of the United States to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies and activities. I also direct that the flag of the United States be displayed on all public buildings on the appointed day in honor of Chris- topher Columbus. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fourth day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand seven, and of the Independ- ence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-second. GEORGE W. BUSH Proclamation 8187 of October 4, 2007 Leif Erikson Day, 2007 By the President of the United States of Arnerica A Proclamation On Leif Erikson Day, we commemorate the enduring legacy of a brave ex- plorer and honor the significant contributions of Nordic Americans who continue to enrich our culture and our way of life. Leif Erikson, a son of Iceland and grandson of Norway, led a determined crew across the Atlantic more than 1,000 years ago and became one of the first Europeans known to reach North America. The courage of these pio- neers helped open the world to new exploration and important discoveries. Today, Nordic Americans help strengthen our country, and their deter- mination and optimism make America a more hopeful land. Our Nation continues to benefit from strong ties with Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Nor- way, and Sweden, and we are grateful for their continued friendship. To honor Leif Erikson and to celebrate our citizens of Nordic-American heritage, the Congress, by joint resolution (Public Law 88-566) approved on September 2, 1964, has authorized the President to proclaim October 9 of each year as "Leif Erikson Day." NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim October 9, 2007, as Leif Erikson Day. I call upon all Americans to observe this day with appropriate ceremonies, ac- tivities, and programs to honor our rich Nordic-American heritage. 111

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