[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 65 (Thursday, May 9, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E635]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 HONORING THE AROOSTOOK MEDICAL CENTER

                                  _____
                                 

                        HON. MICHAEL H. MICHAUD

                                of maine

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 9, 2013

  Mr. MICHAUD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor The Aroostook Medical 
Center (TAMC) on becoming the first facility in Maine, and second in 
the Nation, to use compressed natural gas for both heat and cooling.
  For over 100 years, TAMC has played a vital role in providing health 
services to Maine's northern communities. TAMC is one of the area's 
largest economic drivers, employing over 1000 staff members and 60 
physicians. On May 13, 2013, this Maine institution will cement its 
role as an environmental leader as well, kicking-off National Hospital 
Week by officially transitioning from oil fuel to compressed natural 
gas (CNG).
  According to TAMC's Vice President of Diagnostic and Support Services 
James McKenney, CNG produces about 45 percent less carbon dioxide than 
coal, 30 percent less than oil, and 15 percent less than wood. In 
addition to dramatically reducing its environmental footprint, the 
conversion is expected to save the hospital between $400,000 and 
$500,000 each year.
  TAMC's ``valve turning'' ceremony on the 13th is just part of the 
hospital's broader efforts to improve its environmental impact. The 
Food Service Department has eliminated foam cups and trays, while 
incentivizing staff to purchase coffee with mugs rather than paper 
cups. The hospital is also revamping its recycling processes, expanding 
composting activities, and switching to environmentally friendly 
chemicals wherever possible. These efforts have brought TAMC closer to 
local producers, the University of Maine at Presque Isle, and the City 
of Presque Isle itself.
  I am pleased to join countless families across northern Maine in 
helping TAMC celebrate this exciting new chapter.
  Mr. Speaker, please join me again in congratulating TAMC for taking 
this important next step forward.

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