[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 124 (Wednesday, September 11, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1560]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     COLUMBIA GOOD GOVERNMENT WEEK

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. BOB CLEMENT

                              of tennessee

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 11, 1996

  Mr. CLEMENT. Mr. Speaker, as we enter the election season, which is 
the true test of our democracy, debates about the future of our country 
echo throughout American communities--from the Alaskan frontier to the 
Florida Keys. Yet in November, when it is time to vote, nearly half of 
Americans stay at home.
  The President and Congress must address the financial and structural 
challenges of our Medicare Program, which faces bankruptcy. Governors 
and State legislators must assure that a healthy Medicaid Program 
continues to provide health care access to the States' most vulnerable 
children and adults. Local leaders must address issues related to 
health care delivery, taxes, education, and jobs.
  Because more American should register to vote and exercise their 
right to vote;
  Because none of the critical issues facing us can be resolved 
effectively and no long-term solutions can be reached without the input 
of informed, concerned voters;
  And because employers must do more in communities to help foster 
enthusiasm for participation in the democratic process,
  I congratulate Columbia/HCA Healthcare Corporation for their 
designation of September 8 through 14 as ``Columbia Good Government 
Week.'' And I encourage Columbia's 285,000 employees and 90,000 
associated physicians in 38 States to register to vote, to share their 
opinions with Federal, State, and local candidates, to encourage others 
in their communities to learn more about the issues facing American, 
and to encourage everyone to exercise their right to vote.

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