Nixon to float Current River to promote tourism

VAN BUREN, Mo. (AP) -- Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon is kicking off the fall tourism season with a float trip down the Current River.

The governor planned to give a brief speech about the state's outdoor beauty before putting in Friday afternoon at The Landing in the Southeast Missouri town of Van Buren.

Nixon is being joined by his wife, Georganne, and local tourism and community leaders on the float trip.

The governor's office says fall is a great time to enjoy the state's natural attractions.

Nixon scheduled visits earlier Friday to the Southeast Missouri towns of Perryville and New Madrid to announce business expansions and the creation of new jobs.