[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 134 (Wednesday, September 25, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1681]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             RISE 'N' STRIDE WALKING CLUB 10TH ANNIVERSARY

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                          HON. JOHN P. MURTHA

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 24, 1996

  Mr. MURTHA. Mr. Speaker, it's a pleasure for me to congratulate the 
Richland Mall Rise 'n' Stride Walking Club on its 10th anniversary.
  Americans are living longer, healthier, more active lives and much of 
it can be traced to these types of clubs. Gathering early each morning, 
the group, some of whose members are in their nineties, sets a brisk 
pace. The club stresses the benefits of walking in reducing the risks 
of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and 
osteoporosis.
  The Rise 'n' Stride Club also has started a Walker of the Month 
Program with plaques on display at the Richland Mall. I believe this 
kind of recognition of personal achievement will encourage more 
Americans to get out and walk for their health.
  In addition, the club serves the community by organizing fund drives 
that have donated over $3,000 in support of various community 
activities.
  Maybe I feel so strongly about this club because my wife, Joyce, and 
I are regular walkers who have benefited from this low-stress form of 
exercise. It is clubs like Rise 'n' Stride that are helping to change 
attitudes toward fitness and provide incentive for people of all ages 
to get out and do something positive for their health.
  I congratulate the Rise 'n' Stride Club on its 10th anniversary, its 
community involvement, and its dedication to improving its members' 
health and well-being.

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