[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 68 (Wednesday, May 12, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E942]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


             RECOGNIZING WASHINGTON REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER

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                          HON. ASA HUTCHINSON

                              of arkansas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 12, 1999

  Mr. HUTCHINSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of National 
Hospital Week and applaud the efforts of our nation's hospitals. In 
particular, I want to call attention to the Washington Regional Medical 
Center, and its efforts to serve the community.
  Washington Regional--located in Fayetteville, Arkansas--has recently 
been awarded the 1999 NOVA award by the American Hospital Association. 
This award recognizes hospitals for their initiatives for and 
interaction with the local community. This year, Washington Regional is 
a recipient of the NOVA award for its commitment to the children of 
Washington County.
  Many community ills occur due to circumstances that are beyond an 
individual's control. Unfortunately, many of these problems result in 
chronic disease, disability and often death. Washington Regional is 
working to reverse that trend through the Kids for Health program. 
Through this program, the medical center partners with the Washington 
County school system to teach more than 8,000 children about self-
esteem, general health, nutrition, fitness, hygiene, and safety.
  The Kids for Health program is so successful that it received a five-
year grant from the Harvey and Beatrice Jones Charitable Foundation. 
This critical program is proving that an ounce of prevention is worth a 
pound of cure. Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased and proud to recognize 
the Washington Regional Medical Center for its achievements. It is a 
stellar example of a hospital that makes a difference in its community.

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