[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 92 (Friday, June 20, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1311]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                            TRIBUTE TO AVRMC

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 19, 2003

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and 
this nation to pay tribute to a hospital with a long history of 
service. The Arkansas Valley Regional Medical Center in La Junta, 
Colorado is celebrating its 75th anniversary, and I am honored today to 
recognize this outstanding facility.
   The hospital began as a treatment clinic for tuberculosis 99 years 
ago, before becoming a full-service hospital in 1928. Although the 
facility was much smaller and operated under a different name then, it 
still gave the best quality care possible, just as it does today.
   Medicine has changed significantly in the 75 years since the 
hospital first opened its doors, with numerous innovations improving 
the manner in which we care for the ill. However, the Arkansas Valley 
Regional Medical Center has always kept up-to-date with the latest 
medical procedures. After 75 years, the Arkansas Valley complex now 
includes a health clinic, veteran's clinic, and doctor's offices in 
addition to the hospital itself.
   Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to pay tribute to the Arkansas 
Valley Regional Medical Center. Its outstanding care and commitment to 
the citizens of the Arkansas Valley deserves the praise and recognition 
of this body of Congress. Congratulations on 75 great years, and thank 
you for your service to the people of Colorado.

                          ____________________