[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 148 (Tuesday, October 21, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2122]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO ROBERT AUSTIN

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 21, 2003

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise before this body of Congress and the 
Nation today to pay tribute to an outstanding citizen from my district. 
Robert Austin of Gunnison, Colorado recently announced he will leave 
the Gunnison Valley Hospital after 19 years of dedicated service. As 
Robert embarks on a new phase of his life, I am honored to take this 
opportunity to recognize his accomplishments here today.
  President of the Gunnison Valley Hospital since 1984, Robert has led 
the hospital through many changes. He has overseen the hiring of 
numerous surgeons, four building expansions, the creation of a long-
term business plan, and Gunnison Valley's designation as a Critical 
Access Hospital. Through it all, Robert has worked hard to run the 
hospital fairly and compassionately.
  In addition to his work at the hospital, Robert is very active in his 
community. The Gunnison Rotary Club, the Gunnison Area Foundation, and 
the Western State College Advisory Council all benefit from Robert's 
participation. In addition, he is a member of the Colorado Hospital 
Association, where he served as the association's Chair in 1995, and 
the Governing Council for Small and Rural Hospitals for the American 
Hospital Association.
  Mr. Speaker, Robert Austin has been an effective leader in the health 
care industry and an active member of his community for many years. His 
hard work and dedication have benefited an untold number of Coloradans. 
For his tireless efforts and years of service, I am honored to join 
with my colleagues in paying tribute to Robert here today.

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